Choosing the right motorbike helmet is paramount for your safety and comfort on the road. While measuring your head circumference at home is a helpful starting point, it’s only the first step in ensuring your helmet fits correctly. This guide will walk you through how to measure your head for a motorbike helmet and, more importantly, understand why size charts are just the beginning of the helmet fitting journey.
Measuring Your Head for a Motorcycle Helmet: A Step-by-Step Guide
To get an initial idea of your helmet size, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape. Here’s how to measure your head:
- Position the Tape: Place the measuring tape about two centimeters (approximately an inch) above your eyebrows.
- Wrap Around: Run the tape around your head, ensuring it passes just above the top of your ears and over the most prominent part of the back of your head.
- Get the Circumference: Bring the tape around to the starting point above your eyebrows, ensuring it’s snug but not too tight.
- Record the Measurement: Note the measurement in centimeters (cm), as most helmet size charts use this unit.
Measuring head circumference for motorbike helmet sizing. Wrap measuring tape around head, above eyebrows and ears for accurate size.
This measurement provides a general size, but it’s crucial to understand that head circumference is only one factor in achieving a proper helmet fit.
Why a Simple Head Measurement Isn’t Enough for Motorbike Helmets
While a head measurement gives you a starting point, it doesn’t account for the nuances of head shape and helmet construction. Think of it like shoe sizing – a size 9 in one brand might feel different from a size 9 in another. The same principle applies to motorbike helmets.
Here’s why relying solely on head measurement can be misleading:
- Variations in Head Shape: Heads come in different shapes – round, oval, and intermediate-oval. A circumference measurement doesn’t tell you about your head shape, which significantly impacts how a helmet will fit and feel.
- Helmet Brand and Model Differences: Just like clothing brands, motorcycle helmet manufacturers design their helmets with slightly different internal shapes and sizing. A “Medium” in one brand might not fit the same as a “Medium” in another. Even within the same brand, different models can have varying fits.
- Comfort vs. Safety: A helmet that technically “fits” based on circumference might still be uncomfortable or, more importantly, unsafe if it doesn’t match your head shape or is too loose in certain areas.
Understanding Motorbike Helmet Size Charts: Brands and Variations
Motorcycle helmet size charts are useful for converting your head circumference into a general size category (XS, S, M, L, XL, etc.). However, remember these are still general guides. Here are size charts for some popular helmet brands:
Shoei, Arai, Shark, Klim, and Scorpion Helmet Size Chart
| SIZE | HAT SIZE | CM |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 6 5/8 – 6 3/4 | 53-54 |
| S | 6 7/8 – 7 | 55-56 |
| M | 7 1/8 – 7 1/4 | 57-58 |
| L | 7 3/8 – 7 1/2 | 59-60 |
| XL | 7 5/8 – 7 3/4 | 61-62 |
| 2XL | 7 7/8 – 8 | 63-64 |
| 3XL | 8 1/8 – 8 1/4 | 65-66 |
Schuberth Helmet Size Chart
| SIZE | CM |
|---|---|
| XS | 52-53 |
| S | 54-55 |
| M | 56-57 |
| L | 58-59 |
| XL | 60-61 |
| 2XL | 62-63 |
| 3XL | 64-65 |
Notice that even for similar measurements, size designations can vary slightly between brands. Always consult the specific size chart for the brand and model you are considering, but don’t rely on it as the final word on fit.
The Crucial Role of Professional Motorbike Helmet Fitting
The best way to ensure a properly fitting motorcycle helmet is to visit a reputable motorcycle gear shop with knowledgeable staff. These experts understand that head measurement is just the beginning and can assess your head shape and the helmet’s fit in person.
Here’s why professional fitting is invaluable:
- Expert Assessment: Trained staff can observe how the helmet sits on your head, identify pressure points, and assess overall fit beyond just circumference.
- Adjustments and Customization: Many reputable helmet brands, like Shoei, offer adjustable cheek pads and headliners in various thicknesses. A good shop will stock these and be willing to customize the helmet’s internal fit to your specific head shape.
- Debunking Helmet Fit Myths: Forget the idea of having an “Arai head” or a “Shoei head.” Head shapes are unique, and helmet fit varies. Professional fitters focus on the actual fit, not brand loyalty or outdated notions.
Professional motorcycle helmet fitting device. Accurate head measurement tool used by experts to determine initial helmet size.
Simple Motorbike Helmet Fitting Tests You Can Do
Even after professional fitting, it’s helpful to understand basic fit checks you can perform yourself:
- The Finger Test: With the helmet securely fastened, try to push the helmet upwards from the back. If you can easily slide a finger between your forehead and the helmet’s brow, it might be too loose.
- Lateral Movement Test: While wearing the helmet and looking straight ahead, try to rotate the helmet side to side. Ideally, your head should move with the helmet, not slide independently inside it. Excessive lateral movement indicates a loose fit.
- Vertical Friction Test: Try to move the helmet up and down. Minimal movement is desired. If the helmet slides excessively over your skin, it’s likely too loose.
Motorcycle helmet fitting tests. Visual demonstration of checks for proper helmet fit and security on rider’s head.
These tests, combined with professional advice, help ensure a snug and secure fit without being uncomfortably tight.
Choosing a Retailer for Motorbike Helmet Fitting Expertise
Not all retailers are created equal when it comes to motorcycle helmet fitting. Seek out shops that prioritize proper fit and offer:
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff trained in helmet fitting and willing to spend time ensuring a correct fit.
- Inventory of Adjustable Parts: Retailers who stock various sizes of cheek pads and headliners for customization.
- Commitment to Fit over Sales: A focus on getting you into the right helmet, even if it means adjustments or trying different brands.
Avoid retailers who seem solely focused on making a quick sale or who don’t offer fitting expertise and customization options.
Conclusion: Fit, Fit, and Fit – The Golden Rule of Motorbike Helmets
In conclusion, while this Motorbike Helmet Size Guide provides a starting point with head measurement and size charts, remember that achieving the perfect fit is crucial. Don’t rely solely on a tape measure or general size categories. Invest time in visiting a reputable retailer, seek professional fitting advice, and prioritize fit above all else – even aesthetics. A properly fitted motorcycle helmet is the most important piece of safety gear you will own, ensuring both comfort and maximum protection on every ride.
