Different helmet models are meant to protect in different ways. A half shell protects the top of the head. A 3/4 protects the top, back, and side of the head but leaves the face uncovered. A full face covers the entire head and face.
They all have: An outer shell designed to protect against penetration and friction against the pavement. An interior lining that should absorb a violent impact. Soft padding on the inside to make the helmet comfortable to wear. Some type of strap connection that keeps the helmet secure.
The helmet shell has a hard surface made to resist rocks and other road debris. It also resists hard impacts up to a certain point in which it compresses. Helmets with older specs such as D.O.T. absorb impact by a crumpling into the styrofoam. The energy destroys the styrofoam instead of transferring the energy to your head.
The D.O.T. sticker is what many officers look for when there is a mandatory helmet law in place. However, D.O.T. does not necessarily mean it's the best helmet. The D.O.T. rating has just been around for a long time and local governments have just picked up on it. The D.O.T. sticker is not what actually provides head protection. The helmet does. So choose a helmet using high quality materials, comfort, and style.
Some helmets are DOT rated, other carry a different rating such as SNELL. Some helmets to not have any particular rating. Aside from legal obligations, the quality and material makeup of the helmet is far more important that the rating sticker. DOT helmets are made for one hard impact. Once the helmet has compressed or damaged, it needs to be replaced. Helmets constructed with carbon fiber or kevlar are protective for several impacts.
A good strap connection is essential for helmet retention in the event of a crash. The buckle type should be made of a high grade polymer much like a military spec quick disconnect. D-rings are also fine as long as you have the straps tight enough.
They all have: An outer shell designed to protect against penetration and friction against the pavement. An interior lining that should absorb a violent impact. Soft padding on the inside to make the helmet comfortable to wear. Some type of strap connection that keeps the helmet secure.
The helmet shell has a hard surface made to resist rocks and other road debris. It also resists hard impacts up to a certain point in which it compresses. Helmets with older specs such as D.O.T. absorb impact by a crumpling into the styrofoam. The energy destroys the styrofoam instead of transferring the energy to your head.
The D.O.T. sticker is what many officers look for when there is a mandatory helmet law in place. However, D.O.T. does not necessarily mean it's the best helmet. The D.O.T. rating has just been around for a long time and local governments have just picked up on it. The D.O.T. sticker is not what actually provides head protection. The helmet does. So choose a helmet using high quality materials, comfort, and style.
Some helmets are DOT rated, other carry a different rating such as SNELL. Some helmets to not have any particular rating. Aside from legal obligations, the quality and material makeup of the helmet is far more important that the rating sticker. DOT helmets are made for one hard impact. Once the helmet has compressed or damaged, it needs to be replaced. Helmets constructed with carbon fiber or kevlar are protective for several impacts.
A good strap connection is essential for helmet retention in the event of a crash. The buckle type should be made of a high grade polymer much like a military spec quick disconnect. D-rings are also fine as long as you have the straps tight enough.
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