When it comes to protecting your head, there are many options to choose from. Helmets come in different shapes, styles, and sizes, each designed to provide protection for specific activities and head shapes. The wide range of helmet options can make it difficult to choose the right one.
In this article, I have explored the different types of helmets available and the features that make them unique. Whether you’re a skateboarder, a cyclist, a professional motocross rider, or a horse rider, understanding the different options available can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a helmet.
Let’s Get Down Understanding the Types of Helmets
From the short/half helmet, designed for only covering the top part of the head, to the full-face helmet that provides full protection for your head and face, I’ve covered a wide range of helmets. I also discussed the wiggle helmets, which are the safest for kids and youth, and the time trial helmets, designed for time-sensitive racing.
1. Short/half helmet
This helmet is designed to only cover the top part of the head, including the forehead, and halfway down to the backside of your head.
As this is one of the most inexpensive helmets for skateboarding purposes, this is one of the most commonly used ones.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Good ventilation
- Easy to wear and remove
- Stylish
- Good for short-distance rides
Cons
- Limited protection
- Not suitable for high-speed activities
- Limited adjustability
2. Open-face/BMX helmet
As the name goes, when you wear this type of helmet, it keeps your face open.
Apart from the front side, the rest of the three sides of the helmet is durably made with enough cushioning foam inside it to protect the rider’s head from impacts.
3. Leisure helmet
People mostly use leisure helmets for casual riding. Although the helmet is excellent at providing ventilation, when it comes to protection against impacts, the helmet doesn’t seem to hold that well.
It’s more for the style than proper head protection.
Pros
- Good ventilation
- Affordable
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Good for casual riding and hot weather
- Easy to wear and remove
Cons
- Limited protection
- Not suitable for high-speed activities, off-road, and long-distance rides
- Limited adjustability
4. Full-face helmet (street bike)
As the title goes, a full-face helmet provides full protection to your head as well as the entire face.
There is a shatter-proof glass shield to protect the face from impacts to enhance overall protection. This is for those who spend a lot of time on the road.
Pros
- Maximum protection
- Good for high-speed activities, off-road activities, and long-distance rides
- Adjustable
- Durable
- Good aerodynamics
- Shatter-proof visor.
Cons
- Bulky, Expensive, and Heat build-up
- Limited ventilation, hearing/communication
- Difficult to put on and remove
- heavier than other types of helmets.
5. Wiggle helmets (for kids and youth)
This is the type of safest helmet that you see bicyclists wearing. Wiggle helmets look mechanical due to the unique exposed construction.
These helmets are also available for both kids and youth, apart from regular adult sizes.
6. Road helmets
Both skateboarders and longboarders can use road helmets for long-time rides.
Even though wiggle and road helmets look similar to each other, construction-wise, road helmets are sturdier and more well-built.
Pros
- Aerodynamics
- Lightweight
- Good ventilation
- Adjustable
- Durable
- Good for long-distance rides
- Suitable for multiple activities (skateboarding and longboarding)
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited protection and adjustability
- Not suitable for high-speed activities and off-road
- Limited coverage on the sides and back of the head.
7. Time trial helmets
People who participate in time-sensitive racing require time-trial helmets. Apart from providing some excellent aerodynamic benefits, the helmet also notifies you about the clock.
8. Motocross helmet (off-road)
Also known as off-road helmets, these are specially designed to withstand bumpy tracks and the impacts of dirt roads. The helmet doesn’t include any eye protection, so the rider has to wear eye-protective gear separately.
Pros
- Maximum protection
- Durable
- Good ventilation
- Adjustable
- Good fit
- Lightweight
- Impact resistance
Cons
- No Eye protection
- Limited coverage, visibility, and hearing/communication
- More expensive than other types of helmets.
9. Modular helmet
Sportspeople also address this helmet as a modular helmet. It’s a combination between a full-face helmet and a ¾ helmet. The chin bar and visor can be flipped up from the front part of the helmet.
Some modular helmets include a secondary internal visor to protect the eyes from the sunlight.
10. Snocross helmet (snowmobile)
Similar to a motocross helmet, snocross helmets are much lighter than full-face headgear. The helmet allows plenty of space for you to wear snow goggles while riding in low-temperature areas.
Pros:
- Designed for snowmobiling
- Visor protects the face from sun and snow
- Chin guard for extra jaw and chin protection
- Durable materials for cold and harsh weather
- The ventilation system keeps the head cool and dry
- Good visibility and peripheral vision
- Secure fit with retention system
Cons:
- More expensive but has less ventilation
- Heavier than other helmets
- Not as lightweight as other types.
11. Jockey helmet
Horse riders wear jockey helmets while racing, galloping, or for leisure riding. This particular helmet is the easiest one to wear and remove for its convenient shape and design.
Conclusion
It is important to understand the different types of helmets available and the features that make them unique. With the proper helmet, you can enjoy your favorite activities with confidence, knowing that your head is protected.
Safety should always come first, and wearing the right helmet can make all the difference in an emergency situation. It is crucial to choose the helmet that best fits your needs and wear it properly.
So, whether you’re a recreational cyclist, a professional motocross rider, or a horse rider, there is a helmet for you. Make an informed decision and enjoy your activities with peace of mind knowing that your head is protected.