A guide to getting the right motorcycle helmet fit

Buying a motorcycle helmet can be an investment. Next to purchasing your motorcycle, it could be the second most costly investment.
Here are some tips to help you find the perfect motorcycle helmet fit for you.
If you are in the market for a new helmet go to www.MCrider.co... and I will forward you directly to Revzilla to find the perfect helmet for your next ride.
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[@ryangoodwin5195]

My helmet saved my life. Almost a year ago I was in a motorcycle accident with a car that pulled out in front of me and I had to be airlifted. No doubt God kept me safe. But without a helmet my head would’ve been smashed. Everyone please wear a helmet.

[@Tunenine]

My helmet was really pressuring my forehead where I even had a small indent that was no fun, I couldn't figure how to buy one, like any newbie I would see a helmet I like and buy it, but before long I had headaches. I saw this $400 helmet I wanted and went to Revzilla who measured me, boy was I surprised after measurements. My head of oblong but it was more than that, it was how I have worn my hair too. My head is thick under the helmet so when I have worn it out the helmet fits tight when I braid it down the helmet fits differently which was explained to me in detail. So my head was measured and now I know exactly what to buy. I have two sizes now, hair out, hair braided down which is so much better for me.

[@DrTHC]

I agree on the in-helmet hairstyle being discussed with the buyer. I have long, thin hair and I had to figure out how to put it up so that it is safe, comfortable, and still looks nice when I remove my helmet. In my case, I figured out that a simple scrunchie works perfect for my hair, helmet, and safety needs. A lot of people don't consider that metal earrings (especially studs) and metal hair clips/pins can become a hazard in an accident, even under your helmet.

[@durbinaa]

Yes! The hair is very important, I have jut realized that, since the virus I left my hair grown, and suddenly my helmets began to hurt… it was may hair. So, if you can discuss that with the seller before buying, it will help a lot.

[@fernandoventurachavez4060]

I use a Buff for riding, helps a lot fitting the helmet

[@boatman222345]

Five thumbs up for the helmet advice! Many years ago while riding cross country on a BMW R 60 I was saved from serious injury by my helmet. I was pulling out of a parking lot at about 2 mph when a motorist sped through a top sign and was aimed right at me. In the 1/4" I had to react I pulled on the front brake, came to a complete stop, and before I could get a foot down crashed over to my left side. That was in the summer of 1970 and I can still feel the impact of my head hitting the pavement! Even with a good helmet on I had a headache for three days and if I hadn't been wearing a helmet....

[@JeffMartinez648]

Good to know on the medium oval,,, I sold western wear for years and only had two shapes of hats, round oval and long oval and whenever someone came in wearing the wrong hat I always knew I had a sale when I presented them with a hat whose shape wouldn’t distort when they put it on & mainly it was round oval people wearing a long oval hat. Nothing beats the satisfaction of wearing something that fits like it was made for you. Great subject Kevin 👍🏼

[@MCrider]

Interesting, I did not know that about western hats but it makes sense they would have to be shaped also.

[@holybutterfly8495]

@@MCrider Hey bro , may you make videos about the tire pressure as well ?!!! Which tire pressure is suit to the race track ?!!! Or which tire pressure is suit for someone who wants to kneel down on motorcycles ?!!! Can you please make some videos to talk about it ?!!!

[@johnnylightning1491]

Last I knew 50% of motorcycle fatalities were caused by head injuries, why would you not want to reduce that percentage. That said I'm still trying to figure out why Shoei put a seam in the lining of my helmet right in the middle of my forehead. After a few hours it starts to hurt. Maybe their new helmets are better, I don't know. Keep the good stuff coming Kevin.

[@chrismoody1342]

Shoei helmets for me. I got a great deal a few years back on a RF1200 from Revzilla, it was on close out for $300. It was regularly priced at $650.

[@ElSancho311]

This is an excellent video! A trained salesman at my local motorCycle Gear acted like he knew all about helmets, “didn’t need to measure, just try them all on, go with the one that feels comfy”. After trying on too many helmets, he sold me an XL intermediate oval Bell. Felt fine in the store, but after 20 min at home, gave me an unbearably painful hotspot on forehead. I spent that night watching helmet videos and searching the net to find out about Shape, size and fitment! Returned helmet and bought an Arai Signet X size L. I am long oval with 59.5cm head. My head never hurts and still fits perfect 1 year later. I wish the salesman would watch this video, their website says they are trained, but I guess they get lazy.

[@mikeairbiscuit]

I wear a Shark Evo-One modular. My department’s Motor Unit switched to them a few years ago because it is DOT certified with the chin bar locked or stowed back. It is a different design from the Shoei flip up modular. There is an internal sun visor, which makes keeping the shield up at freeway speeds very enjoyable.

[@owdpotter7597]

You may find FortNine's recent video "Uncovered - Dangerous Secrets of the DOT Helmet Standard" interesting

[@WhackBytch256]

You like a low bar. 3/4 and 1/2 helmets are DOT certified, too, but won’t save your chin, either 💁🏻‍♀️

[@billtroester]

Hi Kevin! First of all, let me thank you for sharing your vast knowledge with those of us who want to learn the safest ways to enjoy the wonderful world of riding. Your videos are literal life savers. My question concerns the modular helmets. I spend quite a bit of time watching motorcycle crash videos on KZbin in order to sharpen my skills on what to look out for in any given situation. In all the videos where the rider is wearing a modular helmet, when he or she finally comes to rest, the front of the helmet is in the raised position. Among those I've watched, only a few show the rider before the crash. At that time the front of the helmet is down. In your experience, have you seen this very often? Seeing this almost leads me to believe that the locking mechanism on the helmet's facepiece failed on impact. I guess that would be okay if there were only one impact, but most high speed crashes involve more than one impact to the facial area before the rider finally comes to rest. A modular style helmet would be great for things like quick purchases at a convenience store or something like that. If you wear glasses like I do and sunglasses over those, taking your helmet off and putting it back on again can be a hassle. But if the facepiece is prone to popping open on a single impact, the danger factor outweighs the convenience factor by far. What's your opinion on this?

[@movingforward6099]

I have an HJC modular helmet. I'll add ,modular helmets are good for glasses, talking to a friend at a light and getting a drink. I will add that if your sensitive to heat and live in a hot area dont get a dark color helmet, they will cook your head and give you headackes. My first one was a black helmet cause it looked cool but i stick with light colored ones. Also do your research and check if the vents actually work, some manufacturers use vents as a gimmick. I know that this has nothing to do with fitment but important to me. hope it helps. Another great video an cheers !!

[@williamwhite7703]

The only real long oval helmet I could fine that really fits is the ARAI Signet not cheap but worth it to get the fit

[@themurraysan]

Thanks so much for the advise. I have been to 2 "professional" stores, and all they told me is to keep trying them on, and that the helmet shouldn't move. No refund either.

[@wflentge]

About 2 years ago I went from a open face to a modular. Got a great fit but it took me a while to actually pull the fromt down when riding. I am more in the habit now especially once on rural roads or highways, but will open it up in residential areas here in PHX area. One positive of riding with the front/chin bar down is that the sound quality of my helmet speakers are enhanced.

[@roadglide]

100%. Initially Snug fit is correct. The inner foam will reduce resistance about 10% over time from use. As for helmets. Only a Shoei RF1400 or an Arai Defiant X for me. “Quality” is also seen and felt in the fit and fitment, materials used and in these helmets, not an safety feature, but it’s paint/graphics quality is outstanding. Good video. Thank you.

[@clay1883]

Good info Kevin. My experience with size charts and head measurements has not been very helpful. The charts vary a lot from one manufacturer to another, (as do helmet sizes) but a place to start I guess. Helmet shops ALWAYS try to sell you a helmet that feels like a ratchet strap tightened around my head. They don't wear their's like that, but they insist yours should fit that way. No way you can ride 10 or 12 hours with that fit. As you said, the head shape is all important. I wear a Nolan N44, Wife wears a Shoei Geotec II. We can ride 700 miles a day with no discomfort. I have an 85 year old cousin that has ridden more than 65 years. He has some very good advice on this subject.. "If you have a cheap head, buy a cheap helmet!" I really enjoy your videos and I learn and use many of your riding tactics. Thanks!

[@DrTHC]

I love that advice!

[@felreaverguy]

I'd only buy a cheap helmet if I didn't like being alive

[@clifficus]

I’ve had Arai and Shoei helmets for over 30 years, presently an Arai RX7, a Shoei X spirit, and a Shoei Neotec flip up, which is tested to be used in either Flipped up or down, there will be a code on the L/H strap to stat whether it’s legal for that. Famous 70’s billboard in South Africa stated, “10$ brain = 10$ helmet” so if you want to be a vegetable after an accident, buy a crap helmet.

[@kenwittlief255]

One thing to consider is the weight of a helmet. A carbon fiber helmet can be one pound lighter than a fiber glass helmet. Once you ride with a carbon fiber helmet you will never want to go back to putting that extra pound on your head. If you are stepping up from a partial helmet to a full faced helmet, a light carbon fiber helmet will make the switch more tolerable. HJC RPHA is a good place to start for carbon fiber.

[@chevyon37s]

I went from a half helmet to a fiberglass full face, and I think the full face is more tolerable than a half helmet as the half helmet has leverage only on the top of your head. And while weighing more the full face evenly distributes the weight around the head better. IMO, unless somebody is wearing like a non-DOT approved brain bucket half helmet

[@5280Roadrunner]

I like Shoei as well. They fit me well and are comfortable.

[@MCrider]

I have tested a few other helmet for reviews, etc. But, if I am spending my money on a helmet it is almost always on a Shoei.

[@5280Roadrunner]

@@MCrider no doubt.

[@SMKreitzer1968]

Thanks Kevin.

[@thomaslenzmeier183]

Great stuff. Yet I see many riders who have a helmet on, but are in their shorts and short sleeved shirt, wearing sneakers. Their head may survive, but the rest of their body will be a mess. I am often tempted to “feel the wind,” but it only takes one accident.

[@iallso1]

Some modular helmets are dual-homologated, meaning they are designed to be riden in with the chin bar in the raised position. The New Zealand Police ride in built up areas with the helmets open and lock them shut when travelling at higher speeds. For other modular helmets the chin bar goes completely to the rear of the helmet ensuring that it is completely out of the way, not catching wind.

[@jamescruz7460]

Thank you Kevin, very informative and timely for me as I am in the market for a new helmet and had questions that you answered.

[@MCrider]

Glad it was helpful! If you buy at Revzilla use this link and MCrider will get a commission. www.MCrider.com/NewHelmet. ;)

[@burtonparsons7717]

Much better on the cut over to side camera, looks good.

[@charleetho]

I bought a new helmet this week. I lost a lot of weight and believe it or not my helmet got loose. Nice thing about Arai and Shoei is you can get different thickness of cheek pads and skull padding. Did that and was able to size down. But I wanted to try a modular. Got an HJC RPHA 90S sized just as Kevin recommended. It is snug! Good advise as always Kevin. See you next summer at Lemon Rock?

[@eddcurry1245]

I prefer modular, and have a LS2 Valiant II. After measuring and ordering, once I received it then I wore it around the house for 2-3 hours at a time for several days to break it in before I rode with it.

[@MCrider]

Good advice. Getting the right fit can be tough. Sometimes you try a helmet on and it feels good for a few minutes but after an hour it can be very painful to wear. This is usually due to having the wrong internal shape.

[@dabike]

For my head, whatever shape it is, an Arai helmet fits the best. I do prefer full face.

[@MCrider]

They make a quality helmet.

[@amirnovini8386]

I like Shoei also. Thanks for all that you do for us!

[@craigleidigjr4170]

Modular are Great

[@DennisJPolson]

Great info as always, Kevin. Thank you.

[@MCrider]

My pleasure!

[@cG-es8mb]

Hjc helmets fit me pretty good. I have one with internal visor which I like so I don’t have to carry a visor with me.

[@VRide2017]

Great advice as always Kevin! 👍

[@stanyog]

So simple and descriptive. 👍😊

[@gregc6661]

Good advice thanks for sharing

[@harryhowell5644]

Good information to know, as I will be getting a new helmet. I like to try them on so I don't know about ordering one online.

[@brettcreech3490]

Great video Kevin very helpful.

[@petervautmans199]

shoei, bmw and schubert modulars are homologized to be ridden open or closed, maybe others to. Shoei is comfy for my up ntil 60mph

[@motoryzen]

4:34 to 4:50 it's simple. Take an accurate measurement of your head using soft tape measure..,as in not the hard tape measure that construction workers use...but the kind that sewing people use that you can literally roll up like flat Ethernet cord).. Lime it up to where it is just barely above your eyebrows and ensure the back end half of it goes around the part of your head that seems to stick out the longest. *Ensure that sucker is very snug when you get your reading. Example of me...I'm 5 foot 9 and mine is 22 inches circumference. Aka 55 to 56 cm. If you find the upper 2 or 3 inches Of your forehead actually sticks out away from you more than measuring right at barely above your eyebrow line...then measure from that top forehead part instead

[@tomm7096]

Would have been helpful if you would show how to take measurements to determine head shape and the other relevant measurements.

[@FlatBrokeAdventures]

Here in Australia helmets are compulsory and they MUST meet Australian standards. My first 2 helmets met the standards but only cost me $100 or less brand new. My current helmet is a $700 unit and much more comfortable, how ever t does fog up a lot more than both my cheap helmets.

[@FlatBrokeAdventures]

@@Andrew-bn6oc Yes I have a friend who said they are great . I should get myself one. Thanks

[@saulruizcr]

Love your videos and in this particular, I just want to mention that we also have to keep in mind if we use a cap on. In my case and use it and I recently buy an AGV K5 but is very snug, yes I know the helmet is new and my size is MS (57 cm) however I think it is probably better to use one size up because of the cap. In the others brands HJC, SHOEI, and LS2 my size is M. I want an advice if there is something I can use to "break" the cheats of the new one more easily. Thanks in advance and cheers from Costa Rica.

[@thomasleonard1521]

Awesome information thank you.

[@MCrider]

Glad it was helpful!

[@patches0121]

my full-face helmet fits perfectly except for one thing, after wearing it for about 20 min my jaw on one side hurts so bad, I haven't heard anyone else complain about this but I hate wearing it because of this.

[@MarkNKent]

Great video Kevin! Do you have a custom windscreen on your Goldwing? Or is that just the lighting? I have a 21

[@RuledByMars]

All good stuff, BUT, when I add speakers I'm in AGONY and my ears feel bent. PLEASE HELP ME What do you suggest? I can afford up to $700 on a helmet. Thank you, my riding brother 😊

[@williamjames24]

My western hats are 7 1/4 LO. My trouble with helmets is finding the color (white).

[@sidevalve337]

What a good time for this video to come out as I'm in the market for a new one. And seeing as I've been wearing a helmet that's too big for the last 7 years

[@randywallace2018]

Don't forget the 5 gallon bucket head. I wear a 4x and its a little to tight. I have never found one at a store had to always order and there far and few between. LOL

[@tracybrown8385]

I’m really struggling trying to find a helmet that fits. I’ve got a large oval head and finding almost no one makes a helmet to accommodate. Even Shoei and Aria don’t fit. Ugh.

[@ccooper8785]

HJC may still do a couple helmets up to 5XL. One of their offerings was a "large oval", the other was more "round". Unfortunately if you are outwith the USA then they will probably not be offered as the manufacturer has to have them tested separately.

[@tracybrown8385]

@@ccooper8785 I’m in Texas. I haven’t been able to find a really large oval in any brand. Maybe it best to just call HJC direct?

[@MCrider]

If you are near Dallas it would be worth a trip to Moto Liberty and see if they have suggestions. They have a very knowledgable staff.

[@liammorris6354]

I too had a VERY hard search. My mirror and barber often confuse my head with that of Herman Munster. I found the HJC i10 3XXXL Long Oval as a perfect for my crock pot shape. Been wearing it with no issues since day 1. My better half got identical XL for her, and we’ve been comfortable for miles. Shopped at the local store with a wide selection.

[@ccooper8785]

Being "blessed" with a 5XL noggin any helmet I can get into has to do. Unfortunately the european safety rules require that each shell size be tested separately and manufacturers do not want the expense for so few customers.

[@MCrider]

Wow, I bet that does limit your choices.

[@phillenz6593]

​@@MCrider yeah...there like two choices. I have a cl-max2 from HJC. When I bought it only black was available. Would like a white on after watching your video but cant find one.

[@stevegordon2644]

I have a bell full face and it fits well but the cheek pads are pushing on my face dude at the store tells me they will break in.. hopefully

[@ksneia]

Local companies in my country are too lazy to make various size. I have difficulty to find proper size in shop.

[@space5482]

You should add videos on helmet for reference

[@stackus_maximus1]

Thank you. How can I sign up for MSF COURSE THAT YOU TEACH?

[@MCrider]

I am not teaching in person classes anymore...all online.

[@kenwittlief255]

google MSF beginners riding course all the MSF instructors are experienced and excellent

[@vangoodwin7335]

I haven't always worn a helmet but when I do it's a half dome. I recently purchased a good fitting modular helmet that vents well. I've been riding since I was 14 when I picked up my uncles 47 Indian Chief. For the first time in my 855 years of life, I've begun two-up riding. My previous relationships didn't include those woman riding with me. Yes, I've taken to a parking lot to practice slow speed maneuvers with her. I do this every spring for myself even though I ride year round. Now I'm trying to find a good intercom systems for us as we enjoy our conversations even going down the road. Any recommendations will be greatly appreciated. I don't plan on buying two systems so i will need it to work with both helmets. Maybe I'm asking too much but I live on my motorcycles. Thank You all! Hoka Hey

[@peterhunsinger5608]

Cardo Packtalk Bold. Bought mine in 2018; absolutely no regrets. I do not even mind conversing with the spouse on rides now. Beats yelling over the wind! It is also very weather resistant, pairs easily to two bluetooth devices, and has good range.

[@usalaxgoalie1549]

With proper care and maintenance, how long does a helmet last before purchasing a new one? Does it depend on the make as well? Thank you...

[@reup4023]

Check with the manufacturer, helmets should have a production date posted and are good for usually 5 years from that date, it may vary.

[@Juror63]

How many years are helmets good for? What is the better safety standards for helmets, DOT, SNELL, ECE, etc. Thanks in advance! 😁👍

[@chevyon37s]

Every 5 years is suggested by most manufacturers. And sooner if you ride More as the foam and padding breaks down.

[@kenwittlief255]

5 years or one drop onto pavement whichever comes first

[@leonidfro8302]

DOT is not really a standard and SNELL is more PR than purpose. Only European standards actually test helmets in meaningful way

[@matseriksson8347]

I use a modular helmet, Schuberth C3 pro. Schuberth fits my head just fine. I thought modular helmets would be noisier then regular full face helmets. I was so wrong. They are so more quiet.

[@khr1960]

I also find different company's have different sizing HJC I'm a large ARAI I'm a medium

[@NoFrictionZone]

Modulars freak me out lol - that thing could break if you go face down.

[@danielloftus9875]

If you are at or really close to being between sizes, should you go up or down?

[@MCrider]

I would choose the smaller. If the fit is right it will break in after some use.

[@joeriley3721]

Years ago. After Riding .I took off my helmet. Upon doing so.i Dropped it.and it literally broke in half like a egg.i got it at a yard sale for 5 dollars. Iam 70 now. And never forget it hopping. It was a Bell. But back then you didn't have to have a helmet.

[@motoryzen]

2:33 to 2:41 intermediate oval is what properly fits most USA citizens by the way

[@ZydrateVr4]

If you listen for 11 more seconds. Thats what he said

[@ryanengle8919]

Had by a thumbnail again

[@WhackBytch256]

That looks like Jess (HTW) in the thumbnail

[@ReQuiem_2099]

Feelings on wearing sunglasses versus tinted visor?

[@chevyon37s]

Personal preference really. I find it More comfortable not having a full face helmet squeeze the glasses against the side of your head. Plus a tinted visor has a little more coverage than glasses. No need for sunscreen on face with a tinted screen for me. Only problem is night riding so if you plan to be out after dark you have to find a place to store your clear visor if your helmet doesn’t have a built in secondary tinted visor.

[@My_internet_persona33]

Internal shaded visor is really awesome

[@kenwittlief255]

Polarized glasses reduce reflected glare allow you to see thru the windshield of on-coming cars and to SEE what the driver is doing and where they are looking (often down at the phone on their lap) allow you to see thru the reflection on the surface of water and they make a cloudy / sunny sky look incredible I dont know of anyone that makes polarized visors, but polarized sunglasses are not expensive and if you wear prescription glasses you can get a pair made with polarized lenses, and wear them all the time in daylight no going back to tinted anything.....

[@DrTHC]

I have light sensitive vision, and the tinted visor doesn't offer enough light protection for me. I have an antique pair of WWI US military issued hooked-ear motorcycle pilot glasses made by American Optics (pre rayban). Even though they are 100 years old, they are crystal clear and offer the best sunlight eye protection I've ever had. I have several pair of modern raybans, and they are awful in comparison. The ability to both see clearly and have really good sun protection is vital for me. As for helmets, I've only had two HD modulars thus far, and they've felt to me like they fit well. Full face makes me feel claustrophobic, though, so being able to stop and just put the chin guard up for a few minutes helps. I don't ride with it up, though. Seems like that would defeat the purpose.

[@kenwittlief255]

@@DrTHC 100 year old glasses are made of glass they provide NO protection for your eyes from being hit - it wont take long for a rock to shatter them leaving you blind for life, if you survive the resulting crash when it happens dont mistake fashion for eye protection - get something that will save your eyes

[@Deathknight249]

Click bait cute blonde girl not found.

[@leonidfro8302]

Video about helmets and no word about safety rating?