Question:

What makes one motorcycle helmet safer than another one?

Educate Yourself

Some people will tell you a Snell approved helmet is best, some will tell you a DOT approved helmet is best and others will simply say it doesn't matter that any helmet will do.

The fact is it does matter.

DOT approved helmets are able to soak up a large amount of impact energy.

They are also known to prevent most types of penetration as well as have a fastening system that will hold up to significant force according to the standards for DOT certification. A DOT approved helmet will have a sticker on the back stating that it is approved. However, do not just take the sticker at face value, do your homework and make sure the manufacturer of the helmet is DOT approved.

Snell approved helmets are tested for roll-off capability, dynamic strength and penetration in addition to impact, anvil and shield testing.

Ultimately it is your decision which helmet to purchase.

Do your homework, understand what each test means and figure out which helmet is right for you. The helmet that will do the most for the rider in the event of an accident will protect the head, face and neck which is what they are expected to do.

Educate Yourself

Some people will tell you a Snell approved helmet is best, some will tell you a DOT approved helmet is best and others will simply say it doesn't matter that any helmet will do.

The fact is it does matter.

DOT approved helmets are able to soak up a large amount of impact energy.

They are also known to prevent most types of penetration as well as have a fastening system that will hold up to significant force according to the standards for DOT certification. A DOT approved helmet will have a sticker on the back stating that it is approved. However, do not just take the sticker at face value, do your homework and make sure the manufacturer of the helmet is DOT approved.

Snell approved helmets are tested for roll-off capability, dynamic strength and penetration in addition to impact, anvil and shield testing.

Ultimately it is your decision which helmet to purchase.

Do your homework, understand what each test means and figure out which helmet is right for you. The helmet that will do the most for the rider in the event of an accident will protect the head, face and neck which is what they are expected to do.

Motorcycle Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to know about tires?

What are the safest gloves to use?

What is the purpose of a biker club?

Where are motorcycle club meetings held?

How do you find a biker club?

What is proper biker club etiquette?

What are harness boots?

What are some common motorcycle accessories?

What are saddle bags?

What is some common Harley Davidson motorcycle gear?

How can you best ride a motorcycle in the rain?

What are biker rallies?

How do I find biker rallies close by?

What typically happens on biker rallies?

Where is the best place to meet a new date?

Should I ride on the back of his bike on a first date?

How do I know if an online biker site is reputable?

How much information should I divulge about myself online?

Should I pay attention to my gut feelings?

Should I give out my cell phone number or home phone number?

How do I know if a motorcycle helmet fits me correctly?

What is the proper way to store a motorcycle helmet?

What makes one motorcycle helmet safer than another one?

With so many styles to choose from, how do I decide which motorcycle helmet is best?

What face coverage choices are there in motorcycle helmets?

What should a comfortable motorcycle helmit feel like?

How can motorcycle jackets help protect you?

What kinds of motorcycle jackets are there?

Are leather bomber jackets appropriate for wearing while riding a motorcycle?

What is the safest motorcycle jacket to wear while riding?

What kind of motorcycle dealer should I go to?

What kind of motorcycle is best for long trips?

What kind of motorcycle should I get if I want speed?

What kind of motorcycle should I get if I want to stand out?

Why are Snell certified helmets better than other certifications?

What is the Snell Foundation?

How do I know if a helmet is Snell approved?

Where can I buy a Snell approved helmet?

What standards do Snell approved helmets meet?

Can a helmet lose their Snell certification?

How important is it to buy a properly fitting helmet?

How do I decide on which sports bike is right for me?

What kind of protective clothing should I buy for riding a sports bike?

What kinds of conditions should I be prepared to ride my sports bike under?

Is mental preparation really needed before beginning to ride a sports bike?

How do I safely pick up my sport bike if it is on the ground?

How can I avoid an accident on my new sports bike?

How can I make my motorcycle more visible?

When and how did choppers originate?

What is a "chopper" motorcycle?

What types of materials go into choppers and chopper frames?

What are some common and popular places to buy pre-built choppers?

What are some popular features on custom choppers?

Can I build my own chopper?

Why should a helmet be DOT approved?

What kinds of helmets are available that are DOT approved?

Can I make my own custom helmets?

What can happen if I choose not to wear a helmet?

Do all motorcycle helmets provide the same level of protection?

What are leather chaps, and why should they be worn during riding?

Why is leather important to wear while riding?

What popular leather clothing is typically worn while riding?

Besides leather, what other types of motorcycle apparel are worn?

What is a modular helmet?

What is the best type of modular helmet?

Are modular helmets safe?

Are modular helmets the only types available?

What types of boots are worn when riding?

What are some popular styles of boots?

Why is it good to wear boots when riding?

What kinds of mens boots are popular?

What kinds of women's boots are popular?

Where can I buy leather riding boots?





Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Motorcycle Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Sherril Steele-Carlin