When buying a new helmet, it is crucial to ensure it fits properly.

Not only do ill-fitting motorcycle helmets annoy and leave red marks on your forehead when you take them off, but they are also much less effective in case of an accident.

According to SHARP, making sure your helmet fits your head as well as possible is the number one factor in offering the best possible protection in the event of an accident.

Here are instructions for learning the perfect helmet size for your head.

Helmet sizes: What measurements to take to find your perfect size

Head measurement

First, even before buying a helmet, you need to measure the size of the head.

Take a tape measure (not the DIY ones, but the tailor‘s ones, which are usually colored in yellow and black) and run it around your head – over your ears, across your forehead, and behind your head

This way, you’ll know the correct helmet size.

The different helmet sizes and their respective sizes

Below is a table with head circumference dimensions and corresponding helmet sizes.

Measure your head and choose the correct helmet size for you.

Helmet sizes	Head circumference
XXS	51 / 52 cm
XS	53 / 54 cm
S	55 / 56 cm
M	57 / 58 cm
L	59 / 50 cm
XL	61 / 62 cm
XXL	63 / 64 cm

Rarely will a helmet be a little larger or smaller than it should be.

In this case, we will mention this in our reviews to help you purchase the correct size (although ordering on Amazon offers a free exchange or return policy).

What is the shape of your head?

Most modern helmets are medium oval, which is common to most Western-born people.

However, some helmets are made to accommodate people with longer, narrower heads and more rounded head shapes.

In most of our reviews, we state the head shape designed for, but if you are unsure of your head shape, it is worth trying a few helmets first to figure out which brands are right for you.

Helmet sizes: The compression test

Modular, full-face, and jet helmets have polystyrene padding inside the shell to absorb any impact and thus protect the head.

This padding should be relatively snug because if there is a gap between this surface and your skull, you could experience an impact in the event of an accident.

So when you try on a new helmet, it has to be snug.

It shouldn’t be so tight that when you put it on, it pushes your ears toward your neck, but it should be moderately tight.

You should be able to feel the polystyrene (EPS) lining touching the entire head without pressure points.

Wear the helmet for a few minutes to make sure it is comfortable.

Helmet Size: The Rock Test

With the helmet on and the strap tightened, try pushing the helmet up from the back or front.

If the helmet jiggles too much, it may not be the best option for you.

Obviously, it will jiggle a little, but if it moves so much that it covers your eyes or exposes your chin, you should probably look for a different size.

The loosening

The lining of a new helmet will loosen over time as it compresses slightly during use.

So, when you buy a new helmet, you will need to make sure that it is tight enough that it does not jiggle and, at the same time, that it is not too tight.

However, keep in mind that it will loosen slightly within the first or second month.

Lining

If you are wondering how to clean your helmet, check that the liners can be removed.

Most modern helmets have removable liners that you can clean in a washing machine or by hand.

Fasteners

Racing helmets have double-D ring fasteners that are practically standard fasteners required by various governing bodies.

However, they are not necessarily the best, and very simple and easy-to-use alternatives are available, such as the micrometer-style fasteners that many riders love and are the most common types on non-competition helmets.

So take a look at the different fasteners before you buy to see which one you prefer.

Whatever type of fasteners you choose must be secured and adjusted reasonably to keep the helmet on your head during an accident.

The good thing about double-D ring latches is that you have to tighten the strap every time you use it, although you have to be diligent to ensure you tighten it correctly.

Micrometric buckles are easy to use but must be readjusted from time to time.

They use a ratchet strip that offers adjustment within a set range each time you fasten it.

But over time, the strap may stretch, so you must readjust it and not rely on the ratchet alone.

Is purchasing a helmet on the web worth it?

Price-wise, absolutely!

When you buy a helmet online, you must make sure you can return or exchange it without any problems.

On our intercom.com site, you will find Amazon deals, where you can make a free return or replacement.

Besides, if you have read this article well, you will have no problem finding the right size helmet and the right model for you!

Full-face helmets on Offer

Modular Helmets on Offer

Motocross Helmets on Offer

Scooter Helmets on Offer

Car Helmets on Offer

Conclusions

Have you found the perfect helmet size for you?

Should you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment down below.

We usually respond within 24 hours.

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