Motorcycle helmet technology is on the cutting edge
By Astrid Bidanec

Not all states in the U.S. require riders to wear motorcycle helmets. Most countries in Europe, however, do so for more than mere aesthetic reasons. Motorcycle helmet technology is anything but simple; it's designed to significantly reduce fatalities and head injuries without impeding the wearer. So, how do you choose the right one for you?

Starting with the color, you should keep in mind that the drivers of motor vehicles have an easier time seeing you from a distance as well as at night, if your helmet is white or brightly colored. Granted, while black is more popular and slick looking, it is nevertheless the worst choice when it comes to visibility and safety.

Another important aspect, if not the most important one, is the basic model of your helmet. You can choose from full face, open face, half helmets, and novelty helmets also known as 'beanies.' Of course, these do not all offer the same level of protection or benefits.

The U.S. Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) recommends the full face helmet since it offers the most protection in the event of an impact. Several studies prove the chin bar area receives the major impact during at least 35 percent of all motorcycle accidents. Therefore, the full face model is the only one that significantly reduces the impact on the rider's skull. The helmet shell absorbs energy when it breaks into several pieces on impact, thus reducing skull and brain damage.

The half face helmet on the other hand, would not offer any protection to the chin or the eye area. An impact could directly affect the chin and result in either fractures or even brain damage through the shifting of the brain and possible tearing of blood vessels and nerves. Depending on the severity of the impact, the victim can be permanently affected. Moreover, this model is likely to be knocked off the rider's head in the event of a crash instead of diffusing the shock by breaking apart. Even without the occurrence of an accident, airborne objects like rocks and bugs can enter and damage the eyes. Goggles should be worn instead of sun glasses to prevent this from happening.

Half shell helmets as well as novelty helmets offer virtually no protection at all since they would not stay on the rider's head in the event of an accident. Unfortunately, many bikers prefer these models because they are not as hot and heavy, especially in warmer climates and during the hot summer months.

In addition to the various models, you should also pay attention to helmet safety standards, which are marked by a SNELL or DOT label on the helmet. While DOT is issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, SNELL is the brain child of the Snell Memorial Foundation, which was founded in 1957 as a not-for-profit organization dedicated to research, education, testing and development of helmet safety standards. Both organizations perform rigorous safety tests and update their standards as new technology becomes available. Tests analyze four main attributes: impact, penetration, retention, and peripheral vision. All helmets sold in the U.S. must have the DOT label attached. The SNELL label is optional for manufacturers and can be regarded as the icing on the cake, since it signifies highest standards have been met. The price of the helmet is not necessarily an indicator of quality, however. Choosing a safe model with at least the DOT label should be a priority, rather than buying a certain brand.

Last but not least, the helmet must fit properly. It cannot be too tight, or too loose. Just like when buying shoes, the best way is to just try it on. Most helmets come in sizes S, M, L, XL. Slight variations are possible just like with hats or shoes. It is worth it to spend the extra time looking for the perfect fit and keep in mind protection and safety rather than image. You choose right, or you lose.