How to Properly Fit a Motorcycle Helmet

Courtesy of Ms. Motorcycle, Sheboygan Falls WI

1. MEASURE YOUR HEAD! Wrap a tape measure around your head about 1 inch above your eyebrows.
 

2. USE THE SIZING CHART.  A good helmet manufacturer will have a sizing chart in their catalog, on their website, or in the retail stores where their helmets are sold.  Select the helmet size that corresponds most closely to your head measurement.  If your head size falls between 2 helmet sizes, try on the larger helmet first and then the smaller size.
 

3.  TRY ON THE HELMET.  Grasp both chin straps to pull the helmet completely onto your head, ensuring that the top of your head is in contact with the top of the helmet interior.
 

4. CHECK FOR A PROPER FIT. To make sure your helmet is the right size, check that a) the helmet inner lining fits snugly around your head, b) the top pad presses firmly on your head, c) the cheek pads contact your cheeks, and  d) there is no space around your brow under the inner lining (test this by trying to insert your fingers).  If the helmet does not fit snugly, try on a smaller size.
 

5.  CHECK YOUR FIELD OF VISION.  Some helmets obstruct or block your vision when looking left, right, up, or down.
 

6. TEST THE FIT BY PLACING YOUR HANDS ON EACH SIDE OF THE HELMET. While holding your head as motionless as possible, try rotating your helmet from left to right then up and down.  If you can feel the helmet padding sliding on your head, it is too big, try a size smaller.  You should feel the helmet move the skin on your head and face as you try to move the helmet.
 

7. FASTEN THE RETENTION SYSTEM (CHIN STRAP). Pull chin strap as tight as possible under your jaw without causing pain.  There must be no slack in the strap, and the strap must be tight up against your jaw.
 

8. TEST THE RETENTION SYSTEM (CHIN STRAP). Put your hands on the back of the helmet and try to push the helmet off by rotating it forward.  Put your hands on the front of the helmet above your forehead (or the chin guard) and try to push the helmet off by rotating backward.

Check out the great selection of helmets and other riding essentials for women available from Ms. Motorcycle via their website or by stopping in to the wonderful store to speak with the friendly and helpful staff!! Map. Women On Wheels® members receive a 10% discount on their already great prices!