Choosing Between Novelty and DOT Rated Helmets

Motorcycle helmets, due to new and/or existing laws inGoing with a full face helmet is considered to carry the
most states, have become a necessity for anhighest safety measures in terms of total protection
increasing number of riders across the country.due to its total coverage of the head of the rider.
Whether getting geared up for the first time or abidingVega Motorcycle Helmets offers a complete line of full
to new motorcycle helmet laws, many riders are beingface helmets as well as a host of other selections
faced with a vexing question; "What is the right helmetincluding open and half face models. The full face
for me?" Answering this question to come up with thehelmet is also able to block wind, debris, and dirt which
best overall solution requires accounting for thecan minimize distractions. Whether going with an open
following factors:or full face motorcycle helmet, off-road and "need for
* Safety requirements- The requirement for a safespeed" riders should also consider DOT certified
helmet can be the result of a host of factors includinghelmets due to the dangers inherent in each type of
riding experience, types of riding, and the "need forride. While many consider the mandatory helmet laws
speed". When considering riding experience, defaultinga nuisance, it's an undisputed fact that numerous lives
to a safer motorcycle helmet for new riders is a logicalhave been saved by DOT certified helmets
choice, regardless of anticipated riding activities. In* Cruising and low risk riding - While DOT certified
these situations, go with helmets carrying amotorcycle helmets can come in a variety of shapes
Department of Transportation (DOT) rating. In fact,and sizes, novelty helmets due to minimal safety
helmets that do not meet the minimal DOT certificationrequirements, can come in just about any shape
standards may not be sold as "motorcycle helmets" atimaginable including German, Classic USA, and Polo
all. DOT certified helmet versions are made with anstyles. Novelty helmets, made essentially for
inner liner that provides critical head protection in theappearance, are usually made without an inner lining,
event of a crash. The Snell Memorial Foundation is anbut still have some padding. The lack of inner lining
additional certification source intended on providingmeans that there really is no protective value to the
testing standards and "Snell" certification to a differenthelmet other than the outer shell, which is totally
standard than the DOT specifications. It should beacceptable when cruising or engaging in cruising or
noted that the Snell standards do not replace the DOTother low risk rides.
standards; meeting Snell standards is completelyChoosing the right motorcycle helmet can provide both
voluntary.safety and the ability to make a statement, depending
* Off road and "need for speed" riders - These higheron the type of riding to be done. The most important
risk activities necessitate wearing sportbike helmetsfactor in deciding on the appropriate helmet, as always,
which can provide safety in the event of a crash.is the risk involved in the anticipated ride.