Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet with Double Visors

How To Choose Helmet Size 

Helmet Shape

Even before you check for the correct size of the helmet you must consider its shape. The shape of the rider’s head is an important factor in selecting an appropriate helmet.  All helmet manufacturers design their nutcase to fit a particular head shape.

There are three primary head shapes – long oval, intermediate oval, and round oval.

• Long oval: This shape is longer from front to back than side to side.
• Intermediate oval: This shape is slightly longer front-to-back than it is side-to-side. Most helmets fall in this category as it is the most common head shape.
• Round oval: This helmet has almost identical front-to-back and side-to-side measurements.

Next, it’s time to find the correct size of helmet for you.

Sizing A Helmet

Measuring for the best-fitted helmet is pretty straightforward. The best tool for measuring your head size is the seamstress or tailor’s tape measure. It is flexible enough to wrap around your head for taking accurate measurements.

How to measure your head:

• Wrap the measuring tape around your head – from just above the ears to about an inch above the eyebrows – take the measurements at the forehead.
• Now compare the measurement to the manufacturers sizing chart and select one that will best fit you.

Here is an example helmet sizing chart for adults:

Helmet Fit

When a motorcycle helmet is worn first it should fit snugly to your head, but no so restrictive that it hurts you. The helmet shouldn’t put any pressure on your head or face, but it should not move around freely too. With time, the helmet will adjust with your head shape and loosen up. However, it should not become loose enough to turn side to side as you shake your head.

Trying on a helmet:

• Put on the helmet; it should be a little tight initially.
• The helmet should sit evenly on your head. If anyone twists the helmet from the top your head should move along. If the helmet moves freely it’s too loose.
• Some helmet models provide adjustable cheek pads for a better fit. Check this for proper sizing.

Lastly, decide on the color and pattern you want for your helmet. Choose a brighter shield to increase your visibility. The face shield should not obscure your vision and the tinted visors should be used for sunny days.