What your motorcycle helmet says about you

A motorcycle helmet can say a lot about you. Whether you prefer a bikie-style half helmet, or you love the mystery of a black helmet and dark visor combo, your choice of lid is often a reflection of your personality.

The primary purpose of a brain bucket of course is to protect your noggin in the event of a crash. But that doesn’t mean you can have a little fun with it. 

So, if your standing in a shop staring at a sea of shelves and can’t decide which lid suits you best, then read our quickfire guide on the different styles and what they may or may not say about you. 

And don’t get your knickers in a twist if you disagree. We’re just joking… mostly. 

Related: How to choose the best fitting helmet

The go-to lid for most riders, and for good reason. It offers the most protection and coverage, but don’t assume that all wearers are responsible. 

Full face helmets are generally worn by three types of people:

Your choice of brand says a lot. An affordable lesser-known brand like LS2 screams beginner or tightars… budget conscious, while a top-shelf Japanese brand like Shoei or Arai shows you know bikes, even if you don’t. If you have a Simpson, you’re probably a Dyna Bro and wear Vans, while an AGV means you actually do think you’re Rossi. 

Colour is important too. Bold colourways and graphics will paint you as outgoing and a little unhinged, while a plain black lid will cast you as a brooding, mysterious anti-hero. Although a clear visor immediately removes the mystery. 

And carbon fibre? You’ve got too much money. Or you want people to think you do. 

At the other end of the safety scale is the half helmet. These military-style noodle bowls don’t offer a whole lot of coverage, with your face and neck exposed to a potential meet-and-greet with the tarmac. 

These lids are a little old-school and have vintage appeal. They are popular with cruiser riders, as well as the occasional Uber Eats pilot, but only look “cool” if you have the colours or tattoos to match… if you know what I mean. 

These offer a little more coverage than a half helmet but perhaps aren’t quite as TUFF. But they still have their place, particularly with hipsters (are they still a thing?) and vintage enthusiasts. Being able to speak, breathe, and see clearly is a bonus, but your face will probably look like it’s in a potato peeler at highway speeds. 

If you’re wearing one of these off-road, then play-on. But if you’re wearing one on the tarmac, then you probably fall into one of two camps. 

A kind of hybrid between a motocross helmet and a full face, adventure lids are like a Swiss army knife. They offer great full-face protection, great vision, and enhanced airflow. That means that the wearer is a sensible and practical kind of person, who appreciates function over form. You’re a planner. You’ve read the reviews. And you almost certainly have a first aid or survival kit stashed in your panniers. 

Admit it. You’re a nerd. But that’s okay, because these are clever and super practical. Being able to flip the front so it becomes an open face is great for entering petrol stations without looking like you’re about to rob the joint.  

Confession – I wish I could ride without a helmet. There is something quite romantic about simply jumping on and riding, feeling the wind in your hair, and not having a care in the world. But as good as it sounds, I’d prefer not to die. Besides, helmets are mandatory in most places around the world. And if don’t wear one, you’re not cool, you’re just dumb. 

I’m not sure where this trend come from, but I’m convinced it’s a sign of the decline of the human race. Having an Elmo or Pikachu carcass on your head offers no real benefits and means you probably fall into one of three groups:

Okay, maybe I’m being harsh. There’s nothing wrong with being unique – just make sure you’ve got the skills and actual motorcycle safety gear to back it up. A fluffy dead rabbit on your head won’t save you. 

Don’t listen to us. Wear a lid that is comfortable, safe, and suits your riding goals. It’s important to choose the best helmet for the job and one that matches your budget. 

But if you tick all those boxes, then there’s no harm in getting creative and finding a lid that reflects your personality. Riding motorcycles is about having fun, after all.