Choosing a helmet for an ATV is a very demanding process. The technical condition of the new helmet must be perfect - no dents, scratches or cracks. Helmets are open, 3/4 closed and fully closed.
ATV helmets: main types
Before choosing a helmet for an ATV, you need to decide on its main varieties. They can be classified into three main groups based on the degree of head protection.
Open helmets are the cheapest, lightest and most compact option and offer the least protection. If we consider the design of such a helmet, you can notice a clear drawback - the lack of protection for the lower part of the face. Such equipment is equipped with a visor - a transparent shield that covers the face. Visor sizes vary. Open helmets are suitable for beginner ATVs who are not yet going to participate in extreme races and competitions.
Unlike open helmets, cross-country helmets protect a person's face much better. For this they have a sufficiently powerful arc. But the presence of a visor for cross helmets is a rarity. They are often used in conjunction with special glasses. By the way, with a vertical landing, the rider's eyes will be perfectly protected by a special sun visor.
For road bike owners, full-body helmets with integrals and modulars are best suited. They are able to provide the best protection when driving at high speeds. However, in off-road conditions, a closed helmet is significantly inferior to a cross helmet due to the lack of a sun visor and poor ventilation. Also in closed helmets there is no possibility of prompt cleaning of the visor from dirt.
In addition to the types described above, there are children's and winter helmets. As for the former, they differ from adults only in size. Well, winter helmets are more designed for snowmobiling. They have better insulation and a heated visor.
How to choose the right ATV helmet?
Before buying a helmet, be sure to try it on. It should fit the head as tightly as possible, without causing any inconvenience. You should also pay special attention to checking the fastening system. Ideally, the helmet should be held securely on the head without causing discomfort during prolonged wear.
ATV helmets can be made of plastic or composite materials. If we talk about the former, then they are cheaper and rather massive. Their outer cover is usually made of thermoplastic or polycarbonate. It is much better to get a helmet with a cover made of carbon fiber, fiberglass and aramid. Such models made of composite materials are much lighter, thinner and more reliable than their plastic counterparts. But their cost is quite high.
The properties of the materials from which helmets are made lose their properties over time. So it is imperative to pay attention to the stamp with the date of manufacture. After the expiration date, the ATV helmet will no longer meet all safety requirements. True, you can find such a stamp with a date only on branded models from well-known manufacturers.
