How to Choose the Best Helmet for Men: A Complete Buying Guide

Choosing the best helmet for men is not just about style and aesthetics; it’s also about safety, comfort, and durability. A good helmet can make a significant difference in protecting you from severe injuries during an accident. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right one that suits your needs.

The first thing to consider when buying a helmet is its safety rating. In many countries, helmets are required to meet specific safety standards before they can be sold. The two most common certifications are the Department of Transportation (DOT) standard and the Snell Memorial Foundation standard. Helmets that meet these standards have undergone rigorous testing for impact absorption, penetration resistance, strap strength, and peripheral vision.

Next on the list is size and fit. A well-fitted helmet should feel snug but not too tight on your head. It shouldn’t move or rotate freely when you shake your head side-to-side or up-and-down. To find your perfect fit, measure around your forehead at its widest point using a flexible tape measure then compare this measurement with the manufacturer’s sizing chart.

Comfort features should also be considered in choosing a helmet. Look for ventilation systems that allow airflow inside the helmet to keep you cool during hot weather rides. Consider helmets with removable liners so you can wash them regularly to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.

Another important factor is visibility; opt helmets for men with clear visors or face shields that offer wide peripheral vision without distortion or glare even under bright sunlight or at night time riding conditions.

When considering design and style of helmets there are three main types: full-face, open-face (or 3/4), and half-shell (or shorty). Full-face helmets offer maximum protection as they cover whole head including chin area which often impacts first in case of crash but might feel claustrophobic for some riders due to limited air circulation while open-face ones provide more air flow but less protection especially around jawline area whereas half-shell ones are most comfortable but offer least protection.

Lastly, the helmet’s material is also a significant factor. Most helmets are made of polycarbonate, fiberglass composite, or carbon fiber. Polycarbonate is affordable and absorbs energy well but tends to be heavier. Fiberglass composite is lighter and disperses energy better than polycarbonate but can be more expensive. Carbon fiber offers the best of both worlds – it’s light, absorbs energy well, and is very durable – but comes with a higher price tag.

Remember that while cost can be a deciding factor in your purchase decision, your safety should never be compromised for savings. A good helmet might seem like an investment at first glance; however, its value becomes priceless when it protects you from potentially life-threatening injuries during accidents.