A Guide to the Proper Selection of Helmets

By Jon L. Martin

The following are certain items that should be checked out for when buying a motorcycle and motor scooter helmets.

Helmets Inner Lining

A Helmet should have an inner liner about one-inch thick that consists of of polystyrene foam. The inner liner should not be visible. However, its thickness should be felt. Unsafe helmets contain usually contain only soft foam padding or bare plastic shell with little or no padding.

Chin Straps

The chin straps, on a motor scooter helmet, should be sturdy and solid rivets should be used.

Helmet Weight

Unsafe helmets generally weigh a pound or less. Safe motor scooter helmets generally weigh around three pounds.

Helmet Design

scooter safety helmet

Any item, on a helmet should not extend further than 2 tenths of an inch from the surface of a helmet. For example, a spike or deer horns, on a motor scooter helmet, are not safe. German army style helmets or skullcaps are example of a helmet not meeting the proper standards.

Stickers

Helmets meeting federal requirements must have a sticker, on the outside of the helmet. The sticker must be labeled “DOT”. The “DOT” sticker certifies that the helmet meets or exceeds federal regulations. Some unsafe helmet sellers may provide DOT sticker separately. So, buyer be aware.

Private Safety Standards

Private, non-profit organizations such as SNELL or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) have safety stickers. So, it is a good indicator that the helmet, with a ANSI sticker will meet the Federal safety standard.

Manufacturers Labeling

Manufacturers are required, to place a label on or inside a helmet that states the manufacturer’s name, model, size, month and manufacture year, materials, and owner’s information. A helmet not meeting federal safety standard usually will not have such labeling.

Read also article about learning to better ride a motorcycle and other scooter accessories which are necessary to buy.