Seven Traits of a Safe Riding Helmet

January 03, 2013

Seven Traits of a Safe Riding Helmet
Every rider knows the hazards of riding without a helmet. Those who chose to ride without one (in states where that is legal), know the risk they are taking with their lives. We at Eagle Leather encourage safe riding, and that includes riding with a helmet—but not just any helmet. 

The recent recall of 30,000 Vega helmets (Eagle Leather does not carry these helmets) reminds us of the importance of selectivity when purchasing a motorcycle helmet. If you have one of Vega’s recalled helmets, you need to get a new one. The helmets were produced between May 2011 and October 2012.

Some helmets don’t need a recall to be deemed unsafe for the ride. Novelty helmets might look cool, but they won’t protect your brain in a crash, and they are illegal in states that require helmet use. In fact, any helmet that does meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218 is illegal to wear when riding. To help you make the right decision when buying your next helmet, we have compiled Seven Traits of a Safe Riding Helmet.

Look for these traits to know your helmet is a safe bet.

1. A thick inner liner.

1. A sturdy chin strap with solid rivets.

1. Weighs about three pounds and feels substantial, as opposed to a flimsy and lightweight helmet.

1. No decorative elements that extend more than two tenths of an inch from the surface of the helmet—that means no spikes or studs.

1. A DOT sticker.

1. Snell or ANSI label.

1. Manufacturer’s label—reputable ones include: Bell, Scorpion, and Arai.

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