How to choose the best fitting helmet

Standardised sizing for motorcycle helmets is worked out in increments of two centimetres. Small, for example is size 56 and relates to the diameter of the wearer’s head when measured 2.5 centimetres, or one inch, above the eyebrows.

Use a flexible measuring tape that can be wrapped around the head in order to get the most accurate reading, and make sure the tape stays on the same horizontal plane as you wrap it around your head. If it slips down lower at the rear, you’ll get a false reading.

Once measured, you can determine your size based on the centimetre measurement being closest to one of the measurements in the table below. If you’re halfway between the two, opt for the smaller size, as helmets stretch with wear over time.

Of course, not all brands will have exactly the same sizing templates or fits, and the only way to be sure a helmet fits is to try it on, but it’s a good starting point for determining your helmet size.

It’s important to remember that a helmet’s fit will be the tightest during its life when it’s brand new. As good as comfort liners and chin pads are these days, repeated use, sweat and other factors will begin breaking the foam structures down, so you’re looking for a fit firm enough that means your teeth catch on the inside of your cheeks when you open and close your mouth.

Another good test is to see if you can slide an open hand in between your cheeks and the helmet’s cheek pads. If it slides in easily, it’s probably too big. Remember there’s a big difference between firm and too tight. If the helmet is too tight, it’ll form uncomfortable pressure points which become distracting and dangerous when riding.

The last test to perform when the helmet is on your head is to wobble your head quickly from side to side and make sure your head isn’t moving within the helmet. Even if the strap isn’t done up, you’ll know the fit is firm enough when your head and helmet move as one.

Once you’re happy with the fit, make sure the eye-port is large enough to offer you good peripheral vision. This will become easier to determine with the more helmets you try on, but you’re looking for a helmet that hinders your vision the least.

Move the visor into the closed position and make sure it’s far enough away from your nose not to be distracting, and become conscious of your ears and make sure the lining allows them to sit comfortably and unhindered.