Introduction
Motorcycle helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment that every rider should invest in. They protect your head and brain from serious injury or death during a crash, impact, or collision. Motorcycle helmet manufacturers are continuously improving their designs to provide better protection, comfort, style, and convenience for riders.
In 2015, the motorcycle industry saw some significant advancements in helmet technology and design. Many new models were introduced with innovative features such as advanced ventilation systems, noise reduction technology, Bluetooth connectivity options, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced visibility.
Choosing the best motorcycle helmet can be overwhelming due to the wide variety of options available on the market today. To help you make an informed decision when purchasing a new motorcycle helmet in 2015 or beyond we have reviewed some of the best-rated helmets based on their safety ratings (such as DOT and Snell), comfort level (including padding materials), durability (construction quality), style (visually appealing designs) among others.
Importance of wearing a motorcycle helmet
Wearing a motorcycle helmet is one of the most important safety measures any rider can take. It significantly reduces the risk of head injury and can even save lives in case of an accident. According to studies, helmets are about 37% effective at preventing fatal injuries to motorcyclists and 67% effective in preventing brain injuries.
Helmets work by absorbing the impact of a crash and spreading it out over a larger area, thus reducing the force that is transmitted to your head. They also protect your face from debris, wind, insects and other hazards that could cause distraction or injury while riding.
Many countries have laws that mandate helmet use for all riders, regardless of age or experience. In some states in the US, for instance, failure to wear a helmet while riding can result in hefty fines or even jail time.
Aside from legal requirements, there are many good reasons why you should always wear a motorcycle helmet when riding:
1) Protection: Helmets offer unparalleled protection against head trauma – which is one of the leading causes of death among motorcyclists.
2) Visibility: Modern helmets come with various features designed to enhance visibility such as built-in lights (e.g., LED strips), reflective surfaces or bright colours that make you more visible on the road – especially at night.
3) Comfort: Quality helmets are made with materials designed to provide comfort during extended periods of use. They come with breathable fabrics that wick away moisture and prevent sweat accumulation inside your helmet – making for a more comfortable ride overall.
4) Style: Motorcycle helmets have evolved greatly over time and now come in many different styles ranging from open-face designs to full-face models complete with visors and vents. There’s something for everyone no matter what style you prefer!
Overall wearing a motorcycle helmet is an essential part safe driving practices as they help reduce serious injuries if involved in a crash. In addition to protecting your head and face, a helmet can also enhance visibility while providing comfort and style. It is important to always look for helmets that meet safety standards set by the respective governing bodies in your region or country.
Criteria for selecting the top motorcycle helmets
When it comes to purchasing a motorcycle helmet, safety should be your top priority. Here are some criteria to consider before buying:
1. Certification:
Ensure that the helmet is certified by a recognized body such as DOT (Department of Transportation), ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) or Snell Foundation. This ensures that the helmet has met minimum safety requirements.
2. Fit and comfort:
A proper fitting helmet will not only provide maximum protection but also ensure comfort during long rides. Measure your head size correctly and try on different sizes and shapes to find one that fits snugly but not too tight.
3. Weight:
The lighter the helmet, the less strain it will have on your neck muscles during extended use.
4. Ventilation:
Proper ventilation helps keep you cool in hot weather while riding, reducing fatigue and increasing concentration levels.
5. Visors:
Anti-scratch visors with UV protection significantly improve vision while riding in bright sunlight conditions while also providing adequate airflow inside of the helmet.
In conclusion,
In summary, when shopping for motorcycle helmets, prioritize safety over style or price since a good quality protective gear can potentially save your life if an accident occurs on any given ride out there!
Full-face helmets
Full-face helmets offer the most protection for a rider’s head and face. They cover the entire head and have a chin guard that extends down to protect the jawline. Full-face helmets also typically have a visor that can be lowered to protect the eyes from sun glare, wind, and debris.
The design of full-face helmets allows for maximum impact absorption in case of an accident. They are made with hard outer shells and several layers of foam padding on the inside, which work together to absorb shock and reduce the force transferred to the rider’s head.
Some full-face helmets also come equipped with additional safety features such as reinforced chin guards, multi-density EPS liners, or emergency release systems that allow first responders to easily remove the helmet in case of an accident.
While some riders may find full-face helmets too hot or claustrophobic, newer models often come with ventilation systems that keep air flowing through vents in strategic locations around the helmet. This helps regulate temperature and prevent fogging on the visor.
In terms of style and design options, there are plenty available for full-face helmets. Riders can choose from sleek solid colors or elaborate graphics featuring everything from skulls to superheroes. Some manufacturers even offer customizable options where riders can upload their own designs or logos onto their helmet.
Overall, if you prioritize safety above all else when it comes to motorcycle gear, a full-face helmet is your best bet. They provide unparalleled protection for your head and face while riding on two wheels.
Open-face helmets
Open-face helmets are a popular choice for riders who want the protection of a helmet but don’t want to feel entirely enclosed. These helmets cover the top, back, and sides of the head but leave the face exposed. They typically have a visor or shield that can be raised or lowered to protect against wind and debris.
One advantage of open-face helmets is their visibility. Riders have an unobstructed view of their surroundings, which can improve safety on the road. They also tend to be lighter and more comfortable than full-face helmets, making them a good choice for long rides.
However, open-face helmets do not provide as much protection as full-face helmets. In addition to leaving the face exposed, they also leave the chin and jaw vulnerable in case of impact. Some models come with optional chin guards that can offer additional protection.
When choosing an open-face helmet, it’s important to look for one that meets safety standards such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or Snell certification. It’s also important to make sure it fits properly and securely on your head.
Overall, open-face helmets are a good option for riders who prioritize comfort and visibility over maximum protection. As with any type of helmet, it’s important to choose one that meets safety standards and fits correctly in order to ensure optimal protection while riding.
Modular Helmets
Modular helmets, also known as flip-up helmets, are a popular choice for riders who want the versatility of an open-face helmet with the added protection of a full-face helmet. These helmets feature a chin bar that can be lifted up, allowing the rider to easily speak with others or take a drink without removing the entire helmet.
One standout modular helmet in 2015 was the Shoei Neotec Helmet. This high-end option features a lightweight shell made from multi-composite fibers and is designed to reduce wind noise and turbulence while riding. The Neotec also has an internal sun visor and is Bluetooth compatible for easy communication on-the-go.
The Schuberth C3 Pro Helmet is another top pick for modular helmets in 2015. This German-made helmet boasts superior comfort thanks to its unique design that sits snugly around the neck without causing pressure points. It also includes advanced safety features such as reflective materials for increased visibility and an anti-roll-off system that keeps the helmet securely in place during accidents.
For those on a budget, there’s the HJC IS-Max II Modular Helmet. Despite its affordable price point, this helmet still offers great value with features like adjustable ventilation systems and quick-release cheek pads for easy removal during emergencies.
No matter which modular helmet you choose in 2015, it’s important to ensure proper fit by measuring your head circumference and consulting manufacturer sizing charts before making your purchase.
Dual-sport helmets
Dual-sport helmets are designed for riders who enjoy both off-road and on-road riding. They provide a balance between the features of motocross helmets and full-face street helmets. Dual-sport helmets have a chin bar and visor like a motocross helmet, but also include features such as vents, face shields, and noise reduction padding that you would find on a full-face street helmet.
One of the key advantages of dual-sport helmets is their versatility. They provide protection for different types of riding scenarios, making them ideal for riders who like to switch between off-road adventures and city commutes without having to change their gear. Dual-sports are also popular among adventure riders who tackle long-distance trips through varying terrain.
Another benefit of dual-sport helmets is that they offer increased peripheral vision compared to many other types of motorcycle headgear. This can be particularly useful when navigating tight trails or taking in scenic views while cruising down winding roads.
When choosing a dual-sport helmet, it’s important to consider the type of riding you will be doing most often. Those who spend more time off-roading may want to prioritize ventilation over noise reduction while those using their helmet mainly on highways may prefer greater soundproofing ability than ventilation capacity.
Some popular brands producing high-quality dual sport motorcycle helmets include Arai XD4 Explore Helmet , Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet , Shoei Hornet X2 Adventure Helmet , Icon Variant Pro Ghost Carbon Helmet .
Overall, if you’re looking for an all-purpose helmet that offers elements from both street and dirt bike models then investing in a quality dual sport model could be your best bet!
Off-road helmets
When it comes to off-road riding, a specialized helmet is essential for maximum protection and comfort. Off-road helmets are designed with unique features that cater to the specific needs of dirt bike riders.
One of the most notable differences between an off-road helmet and a regular motorcycle helmet is its extended visor. The elongated visor serves two purposes: it offers increased sun protection and shields from debris that can be kicked up by other riders or the bike itself.
In addition to the extended visor, off-road helmets typically have larger ventilation systems compared to their on-road counterparts. This is because off-roading can be more physically demanding, causing riders to sweat more in hot conditions. Proper ventilation helps keep riders cool while also reducing fogging inside the helmet.
The construction of an off-road helmet also differs from a traditional motorcycle helmet. Off-road helmets are made with lightweight materials such as fiberglass or carbon fiber so that they don’t weigh down a rider while navigating rough terrain. They also come equipped with chin bars and peak vents for added safety and breathability.
If you’re in the market for an off-road motorcycle helmet, some top-rated options include Bell Moto-9 Carbon Flex Helmet, Shoei VFX-Evo Helmet, Fox Racing V3 Motif Helmet, and Arai VX-Pro4 Dirt Helmet.
Top picks and their features
When it comes to choosing the best motorcycle helmet, there are a lot of factors to consider. From comfort and fit to safety features and style, different helmets offer different benefits for riders. Here are our top picks for the best motorcycle helmets of 2015:
1. Shoei RF-1200
The Shoei RF-1200 is a high-end helmet that offers exceptional protection and comfort for riders. Its lightweight design makes it easy to wear for long periods of time, while its aerodynamic shape reduces wind noise and drag. The helmet also includes advanced safety features such as an emergency cheek pad release system.
2. Arai Corsair-X
The Arai Corsair-X is another top-of-the-line option that provides excellent protection for riders. It utilizes a unique multi-density EPS liner that helps absorb impact from crashes, while its ventilation system keeps air flowing through the helmet to reduce heat buildup inside.
3. Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS
If you’re looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing safety or comfort, the Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS is an excellent choice. It features a Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) which can reduce rotational forces in certain types of impacts, as well as an adjustable ventilation system and removable/washable interior padding.
4. Scorpion EXO-R420
The Scorpion EXO-R420 is another budget-friendly option with great value for its price range ($150-$170). Despite being one of the cheaper helmets on this list, it still includes important safety features like dual-density EPS foam lining and reinforced polycarbonate shell construction.
5. Icon Airflite Rubatone
If you want a helmet that stands out from the crowd, the Icon Airflite Rubatone is a stylish and unique option. Its angular design and matte black finish give it an edgy look, while its ventilation system and drop-down sun visor make it comfortable to wear in all weather conditions.
Ultimately, the best motorcycle helmet for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs as a rider. Whether you prioritize safety, comfort, or style – or some combination thereof – there’s sure to be a helmet on this list that fits your requirements.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In conclusion, the 2015 best motorcycle helmets list is a comprehensive guide that covers all of the essential aspects for choosing an excellent quality helmet. From safety and comfort to design, each of these products has been thoroughly tested and researched to ensure their performance.
Based on our findings, we highly recommend the Shoei RF-1200 as the top pick for its superior safety features, exceptional ventilation system, and comfortable fit. Its sleek design also makes it a popular choice among motorcyclists.
As for budget-friendly options, the Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS Helmet stands out as an affordable yet reliable option with its multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) technology.
When selecting a motorcycle helmet, it is crucial to assess your specific needs beforehand. Remember that safety should always be your top priority when riding a motorcycle or any other vehicle on the road.
We advise you to take into consideration factors such as the type of riding you will be doing (e.g., street vs. off-road), your head shape & size, and environmental conditions (e.g., weather). These are critical components that can affect your overall experience while wearing a helmet.
Lastly, we encourage every motorcyclist to invest in high-quality protective gear regardless of their level of expertise or frequency of use. Your health & well-being are invaluable assets that must never be compromised over aesthetics or price tags!
Stay safe on the road!