Choosing the Best Dirt Bike Helmet is crucial for safety and comfort on the trails. Just like shoes, helmets are not one-size-fits-all. Understanding your head shape is the first step in finding a helmet that provides optimal protection without discomfort. Many riders, especially those with oval-shaped heads, encounter challenges finding the perfect fit. This guide explores key considerations to help you find the best dirt bike helmet for your individual needs.
One of the primary challenges in helmet selection is head shape. Helmet brands often design their helmets catering to either round or oval head shapes. Riders with oval-shaped heads may experience pressure points, particularly on the forehead, when wearing helmets designed for rounder heads. Personal experience highlights this issue: searching for an XL size helmet for an oval head proved difficult. Trying different models and brands is essential to identify what works best.
Brand variations significantly impact fit. For instance, exploring helmets from Bell, a brand known for accommodating various head shapes, including oval ones with models like the Moto-9 series, is a good starting point. The Moto-9 Mips and Moto-9 Flex offer different features and fits. Retailers like RMATV, which offer try-on and return policies, are invaluable for online helmet shopping, allowing you to test fit at home. Experimenting with sizes is also necessary; an XL in one model might be too tight, while an XXL could be too loose, as experienced with the Moto-9 Mips.
Exploring other brands like Shoei also reveals fit differences. A Shoei in XL might be too large, while a size L could create uncomfortable pressure points, as was the case in personal testing. This underscores that size designations aren’t universal across brands. The Bell Moto-9 Flex, known for its form-fitting design, ultimately provided a comfortable, pressure-point-free fit, proving to be a successful choice in this search. The ventilation of the Moto-9 Flex was also a significant benefit, enhancing comfort during rides. The price point, around $399 at RMATV, was considered reasonable for the features and fit provided.
While online resources and recommendations are helpful starting points, trying helmets on in person is ideal. Local shops allow you to physically assess fit and comfort. However, finding a wide selection of dirt bike helmets, especially in larger sizes like XL or XXL, in brick-and-mortar stores can be challenging. Stock limitations often mean fewer options to try. Furthermore, most local shops have strict no-return policies on helmets once purchased, making in-person trials crucial but potentially limited by selection.
In conclusion, finding the best dirt bike helmet involves understanding your head shape, considering brand variations, and ideally trying helmets on. Online retailers with return policies offer a valuable alternative when local options are limited. Prioritizing fit and comfort is paramount for safety and an enjoyable riding experience.
