New helmet?

[dianescott]

I had an accident last month and I haven't ride my bike since the accident because of the injuries I have. Nothing serious all thanks to my gears.

My problem is I want a new helmet, my last helmet, Bell Vortex, broke in the accident. It was given to me as a gift from my brother for having the bike.

Now I am confused what brand of helmet I should go this time? There are many choices but I want the best from the rest, so can anyone help me?

Suggestions and experiences are appreciated.

[map]

First thing about any helmet is to try it on before you buy and get one that fits.

That is one that is not obviously too loose but also not too tight. However remember all padding does give a little over time so snug is better. Also if you wear spectacles you need to find if you can put them on ok and they'll be comfortable. Maybe look at a flip front for spectacle wearers? It may look silly but do not be afraid to wear a helmet in the shop for at least 15 minutes. This gives an indication of any pressure points. Sadly not many shops offer a try, as in take for a ride, before you buy service (Hein Gericke did once on certain helmets, not sure if still do).

Trying a helmet is important as you'll hear people say they have Arai or Shoei shaped heads.

Next thing is if you want to go by brand, e.g. Arai, Shoei, Schuberth, Bell etc. or just a helmet. Then if you want pretty colours or a plain shell. Maybe also check out the weight of a helmet as well (useful to discover this in the wear in shop trial).

All helmets sold in the UK have to meet the safety standard. Therefore in theory there should be no difference between the expensive brand names and those sold in the likes of Aldi. The difference is in the build quality, wind noise and the like. True you will also pay for a name/brand.

If you are interested there is the SHARP helmet safety scheme (clicky link) that rates/ranks various helmets. However, this is subjective as discussed in various other threads.

You may have noticed I haven't recommended a brand or helmet as it is indeed a personal choice. What you may find is people recommend the helmet they are currently wearing. As said you can't really try before you buy so sadly it is a bit of guesswork. What might suit one person might not be right for you.

Hope that makes it as clear as mud.
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...and the whirlwind is in the thorn trees, it's hard for thee to kick against the pricks...
Gibbs, what did Duckie look like when he was younger?

[dianescott]

One the fits me well it is!

Thanks for the reply.

I think you did the right thing not suggesting any brand of helmet. I think I should to a local store and find myself a helmet that feels comfortable to wear and really has full coverage of my head.

Thanks for making me realize that.

Anyways, I was looking for anything about helmets and I found this online store

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Is is really safe to buy online?

[Rogerborg]

I'd suggest that you buy in store from the people who are providing you with the opportunity to try on helmets. It's quite short sighted to chisel a few $$$ on a sale. At a minimum, check out the online prices than ask the store if they'll match it.
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Biking is 1/20th as dangerous as horse riding.
GONE: HN125-8, LF-250B, GPz 305, GPZ 500S, Burgman 400 // RIDING: F650GS (800 twin), Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500 AVL, Ninja 250R because racebike

[Lyam]

[dianescott]

I think buying in local stores would be practical and hassle-free but the thing is online stores have wide collection of helmets than in local. Agree???