A helmet is any form of protective equipment worn for the protection of the head. More specifically, a helmet protects the brain from damage caused by an accident. Symbolic or ceremonial helmets without added protective functionality may be worn by many soldiers. In war, soldiers often wear combat helmets, which are typically made of Kevlar or another light-weight synthetic fiber. Helmets may also be used during racing events.
Riders wear helmets that cover the entire skull. This is different than a full face helmet, which covers only the top half of the head and face. Full face helmets have many additional features, such as snap-on cheek guards. Snaps on the cheek guards prevent the rider’s lips from becoming injured in a crash. Some riders, however, prefer the safety features of a full face helmet.
Snug fitting motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of heat and windburn to the wearer. Heat can build up in the scalp due to flying debris, and the heat can transfer from the snout to the scalp causing painful burns. The tendency to snore while wearing a chin strap causes many riders to quit or reduce use of the chin strap. In addition, full face motorcycle helmets prevent the driver and passengers from being crushed by the narrow front face. Most motorcycles sold today come with a chin bar.
Helmets are available in two forms: either a hard shell or a soft shell. Both types have padding built into the inner surface for comfort and protection. Soft shells protect the rider’s head and face from the impact and trauma while at the same time reducing the possibility of injury to the padding. They are more comfortable for bikers than drivers, who do not spend as much time riding on their helmets. They offer a bit less protection than hard shells, but offer much more protection than the inner shell. Some hard shell helmets include an outer shell that slides to accommodate the contours of the user’s face.
Since open face helmets offer a lower face shield, they have a higher crash protection factor. Many motorcycle accessories manufacturers have seen a trend toward these helmets and have begun to produce them. One type of open face helmet is the Trijicon CPX-S model, which offers interchangeable parts such as an open face mask, chin straps, and a removable cheek guard. Other open face helmet models include the Bell & Ross Company Intrex. These helmets do not feature a chin strap.
Motorcycle helmets are designed for several different uses, but the main function is to keep the rider safe. These protective headgear to protect the rider’s skull, jaw, ears, teeth, and scalp from traumatic impacts. Helmets are made from several different materials including fiberglass, carbon fiber, molded plastic, fiberglass reinforced nylon, and Kevlar. Helmets vary in price depending on the materials they are made of and the features they come with. Some motorcycle helmets are designed to meet the DOT (Department of Transportation) standard, but they may also be required by some jurisdictions to meet another government standard called BSA (bicycling safety standards). It is always important to make sure the helmet purchased is certified. It is also give the best standard safety certifications.