Motocross is an exciting sport. Even the idea of riding a dirt bike on a rocky track can boost your adrenaline. Motocross riders are daredevils living on the edge. Though thrilling, this sport is filled with risks at every turn, and no rider is immune to crashes. During a crash, you can prevent serious head injuries by wearing a high-quality helmet.
A helmet is an integral part of your MX gear. Around 60% of deaths on Supercross and Motocross tracks occur due to not wearing a helmet. To make sure your head is protected while riding, look for the following qualities in your helmet.
Durability and sturdiness
A motocross helmet should be able to stand the test of time. It should be able to endure high impacts and provide optimum protection to your head without breaking down.
The durability and sturdiness of a helmet are determined by the material it is made of. Helmets with carbon fibre shells are very durable and robust. Polycarbonate helmets also provide great durability. Another advantage of these helmets is that they are lightweight.
Certifications
While buying a motocross helmet, check its certifications. Check the shell or the inside of the helmet for certification details. If the label reads Snell M-2005 / M-2010, CMS/CMR 20073 / DOT FMVSS 218, it is safe for use.
SHARP rating
Once you know that your potential choice meets all the regulatory requirements, the next thing you should check is its SHARP (the Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme) rating.
A helmet’s SHARP rating denotes how safe it is for use on different surfaces and at different speeds. Look for helmets with higher ratings.
Visibility
Many bikers overlook this factor, but this is important to ensure your safety. Always go for helmets with light and fluorescent colors with added reflective strips. A bright-colored helmet provides better visibility during the day, as well as night.
ODS technology and V-Foam
Helmet manufacturers always come up with innovative ways to improve the rider’s safety and provide them with a comfortable riding experience. ODS technology or Omni-Directional Suspension is their attempt to enhance your comfort and safety while riding.
This is an in-helmet system that works with suspension and kinetic energy. When you crash, ODS helmets absorb the impact to protect your head.
The V-Foam lining further minimises the effect of impact by absorbing all the energy. Helmets with V-Foam are lightweight as well.
Ventilation
A well-ventilated helmet promotes optimum airflow, keeping you comfortable throughout your ride. You must buy a helmet that has vents at the front and back, along with intake scoops and exhaust vents.
Moisture-wicking technology
The warm weather and the high adrenaline rushing through your blood is surely going to make you sweat. To make sure you stay dry and comfortable, you must look for a helmet that has moisture-wicking technology.
These helmets come with a lining that absorbs all the moisture and can also be removed for cleaning and washing.
The right fit
Never purchase an ill-fitted helmet. A helmet can protect you from impact and injuries only when it fits your head well. Even if you have to test a hundred helmets before finding the one that fits you, do it.
To select the perfectly sized helmet, wear it, and then take it off. If it’s causing pain or discomfort, you need a bigger size. If the helmet is a little loose, adjust the chin strap. Then move your head in all directions vigorously. The helmet should be snug and shouldn’t slide. If it slides, you need a smaller one.
Insert a finger between your forehead and the padding of the helmet. If you can easily slide your finger, try a smaller size.
Once you finally find a helmet that’s neither too loose nor too tight, wear it for a few minutes for a final check before buying it.
Final thoughts
Not wearing a good helmet while riding the tricky Motocross tracks can lead to fatal injuries. While buying a motocross helmet, pay extra attention to all the factors mentioned in this article, and buy nothing but the best.
Featured image: Hean Prinsloo/Unsplash
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