Importance of Wearing a Perfectly Fitting Helmet
A helmet of the right fit secures you with maximum protection in case of an impact. However, when the helmet is extremely loose it’s likely to rotate and block your view. Further, in the event of an impact, the loose-fitting helmet may come off suddenly and thus not play its protective role. On the other hand, very tight motorcycle helmets induce discomfort, hinder the smooth flow of blood, or even cause headaches. So, to avoid all those inconveniences, know how to measure head circumference for helmet to fit perfectly.Steps on How to Measure Head for Helmet
Besides knowing how to measure head for a bike helmet, you must have the right tools and follow the correct steps.Step One: Choose the Helmet of the Right Shape that Blends with your Head
Take note of the shape of your head and then choose the helmet shape that resonates with it. Not everyone’s head has a perfect round shape. Thus, people need different helmet sizes. Helmets generally fall into three shape categories:- Round oval: The helmet has its side-to-side and front-to-back measurements identical.
- Long oval helmet: its front-to-back measurement is slightly longer than the side-to-side dimension.
- Intermediate oval helmet: one of the widespread helmet-shape and has the width less than the length from front to back.
Step Two: Wrap the Measuring Tape Around Your Head
The next step on how to measure your head for a motorcycle helmet is wrapping the measuring tape around your head. A measuring tape is ideal for two reasons:- It’s flexible and thus takes the shape of your head
- It doesn’t stretch like a rubber band
Step Three: Take Note of the Measurement
Before taking the measurement, ensure you hold the tape correctly and that it doesn’t move about on your head. Identify the area where the tape overlaps to form a full circle over your head. Note down the measurement on that part to get an accurate head size.Step Four: Shopping for the Right Helmet
The noted head circumference measure should guide you in picking the right helmet. Remember helmet size differs from company to company. Shop around and take note of what different brands offer on their size charts. If possible, try on the helmets till you get the snug fitting size.Mistakes to Avoid When Learning How to Measure Your Head for a Motorcycle Helmet
It’s vital to know the correct way to measure head size for a helmet. Specifically, keep off the following mistakes:Overtightening the Tape Measure
Do not over-tighten the tape measure around your head. Otherwise, it will give you a false circumference of your head. Instead, ensure the measuring tape makes a snug and comfortable fit around your head.Using an Inappropriate Measuring tool
Ensure you secure the right measuring tape. It should be flexible to go around your head and have clear graduation marks.Note your Hair Thickness
When measuring the head to fit a bike helmet, take note of the thickness of your hair. Let the measuring tape go around your head. That way it will simulate how a helmet fits over your head.How to Achieve a Snug-Fitting Helmet
Knowing how to measure head circumference for helmet isn’t enough. Below are additional steps that can help you secure the comfortable and snug-fitting helmet:Sample Different Helmet Models
After knowing your head circumference, use the measurement to sample helmets from various brands. Try them on to know the particular helmet that gives you the most comfortable fit over your head.Adjust the Straps
Put on the helmet that you want to try out and ensure it sits level over your head. After that adjust the straps such that they aren’t overly tight or very loose.Get Additional Padding if Necessary
If the helmet has a slightly loose fit over your head, invest in additional padding. Fortunately, many helmets employ removable padding. Also, an additional padding allows you to wash one when it gets dirty.Consult a Professional
If you are still in doubt about the fit of the bike helmet, then consult a professional. The professionals know how to measure your head correctly since they size and fit helmets daily. For instance, you can visit the local store outlet and get help on how to measure head for helmet.How Do You Know that you have the Right-Fitting Motorcycle Helmet?
Head Size Measurement Chart for Helmets
You have learned how to measure head for a motorcycle helmet, choosing one, and adjusting its fit. Carryout the following tests to confirm that you have chosen the correctly fitting helmet:Squeeze Test
Padding on a helmet cushions you against hard impacts. The cushioning material however has to fit snugly such that it leaves no space between the padding and your head.Rock and Twist Test
Wear the helmet and adjust the straps. Try the rock and twist test by pushing it from back to front. Alternatively, try shaking your head. If it moves excessively or changes its position to block your view, then it is ill-fitting.Wear it for About 30 Minutes
Put on the helmet and leave it on your head for approximately 30 minutes. If it feels so uncomfortable to the extent that you feel like removing it to relieve some pain, then the helmet isn’t the right size for your head. In such a case, you have probably not mastered helmet sizing and should recheck your process.Factors That Affect Helmet Sizing and Fitting
If you want to know how to size a motorcycle helmet, you should also know the factors that affect helmet fit and comfort. Otherwise, you might go through the whole process and still end up with an ill-fitting helmet. The following are the top factors you should know about.Accuracy of Helmet Size Chart
Helmet manufacturers have measurement charts you can use to choose the correct helmet for your head. A good helmet sizing chart should be accurate. For example, if a chart shows that a helmet fits someone with a head circumference of 22 inches, the helmet should fit you if you have such a head size. Reputable helmet manufacturers make such accurate charts.Head Size and Shape
Apart from your head measurement, your head’s shape also matters when it comes to helmet fit and comfort. Say your head’s circumference is 22, and your friend also has a head of the same circumference. If your friend’s head is oval and your head is round, you are likely to need different helmet sizes.Helmet Retention System
Even if you know how to measure motorcycle helmet size, your helmet might not fit you properly if its retention system is bogus. A helmet’s retention system comprises different things like:- The chin straps that go under your chin
- The rear dial adjustments that you tighten or loosen for a snug helmet fit
- The padding that fills gaps between your head and helmet
- The optional occipital locks that provide additional stability
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