Anatomy Of a Motorcycle Helmet

Motorcycle helmets work. They prevent injuries and save lives. Countless studies and testimonials have proven this over several decades. This guide will help you make an informed buying decision by outlining the roles of specific helmet designs and features.

Outer shell

The outer shell of motorcycle helmets are usually crafted from a fiber-reinforced composite or thermoplastic such as polycarbonate. This material is highly durable though not especially rigid. It is designed to compress and sometimes even crack upon impact. This action disperses energy over a larger area and over a longer period of time, thus reducing the force that reaches your head.

Impact-absorbing liner

This liner is typically made from polystyrene and, like the shell, designed to compress upon impact to distribute and absorb shock. In tandem with the outer shell, these densely layered cushions reduce the impact energy that reaches the head.

Comfort-fit padding

Without this layer of padding, motorcycle helmets would be in serious want of comfort. This padding is comprised of cloth and soft foam to provide a snug, comfortable fit. It is often removable for easy cleaning and replaceable for a finely tuned fit.

Face shield

Motorcycle helmets must have a face opening that allows peripheral vision of up to 105 degrees on each side, which leaves a good portion of your face exposed. This is where face shields come in. A face shield protects your eyes and face against wind, insects, precipitation, and debris. Even if you use an open-face motorcycle helmet, it's wise to use a snap-on face shield that protects you from the elements. Full-face helmets provide additional protection for the mouth, chin, jaw, and neck.

Retention system

The retention system is more commonly know as the chin strap, but it deserves its more important-sounding name. This strap is fastened to both sides of the helmet and specially engineered to keep your motorcycle helmet on in the event of a crash. Your helmet can't help you if you don't use it.

Ventilation system

Ventilation systems are standard features on the majority of today's motorcycle helmets. These channel fresh air from outside into the helmet and vent exhaled air and humidity. This airflow keeps the temperature inside the helmet comfortable and prevents fogging of the face shield.