1. Helmet Certification
Before you choose any motocross helmet, make absolutely certain that it has the proper safety certifications. The two main certification types are the DOT and Snell. Most every helmet has the Department of Transportation or DOT certification but not all have the Snell stamp of approval. For the best helmet safety possible, you need to choose motocross helmets that have both certifications.
2. Size Does Matter
Aside from a properly constructed helmet, you need the helmet to fit properly to ensure the best protection from injury. If the helmet is too big, the head will move too much in the helmet and in big crashes, the helmet can fly off leaving your head exposed to serious cranial injury. If the helmet is too small, it will provide the necessary protection but will not allow for a comfortable ride. Before you choose a motocross helmet, use a cloth ruler or caliper to measure the size of your head to make certain you purchase the correct helmet size for your head.
3. Shell Construction
Check the construction of the helmet shell before purchasing a motocross helmet. Look at the helmet label for the information and if there is any confusion ask the salesperson at the store to verify the shell construction. You want a one piece shell because the main purpose of the helmet is to disperse and diffuse the impact of a collision. A helmet shell cast in multiple pieces does not accomplish this because there is a higher probability of cracking or breaking on impact leaving your head exposed to the impact of the crash.
4. Liner Notes
Any motocross helmet you choose should have a safety liner for an additional layer of protection against a crash. Most liners contain Expanded Polystyrene or EPS, which is the same stuff they use to make foam cups, but several chemical grades better for impact protection. Not all helmets have this lining but it is important that the helmet you select includes the liner for proper safety. You can also select a helmet that contains a comfort liner in addition to the safety liner.
5. Coolness Factor
The final and probably most important factor to some in choosing a motocross helmet is just how cool it looks. This is unfortunately an ever-changing and unquantifiable aspect to motocross helmet selection but you will know it when you see it. The more stylish the motocross helmet, the more you will pay for it. If money is no object, you can pay for a custom design on the helmet.
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