Gear and Accessories
How to Choose a Motorcycle Helmet: Standards, Fit and Types
What makes a motorcycle helmet legal in the UK, how it should fit, the main helmet types and when to replace yours.
Your helmet is the most important piece of kit you own. A good one is legal, protective, comfortable and quiet enough to ride in for hours. Here is how to choose one that suits you and your riding.
What makes a helmet legal?
On UK roads, a helmet must meet one of these standards, according to GOV.UK:
- British Standard BS 6658:1985 with the BSI Kitemark
- UNECE Regulation 22.05
- UNECE Regulation 22.06
- An equivalent European standard with an equivalent mark
If you ride with a visor or goggles, they must also meet an approved standard: a British Standard with a BSI Kitemark, UNECE Regulation 22.05 or 22.06, or an equivalent standard. Check for the markings on your helmet and visor.
Legal is not the same as best
A helmet can be legal and still offer different levels of protection. The government's SHARP scheme tests helmets and rates how much protection they give. It is worth checking the ratings for the models you are considering before you buy.
Types of helmet
- Full face: the most protection, covering the chin. A good all-round choice for road riding.
- Modular (flip-front): a full-face with a lifting chin bar. Convenient for conversations and glasses, but check how it is certified and how it performs.
- Open face (jet): lighter and cooler, but no chin protection.
- Adventure and dual-sport: peak and larger visor opening for off-road and touring.
Getting the fit right
Fit matters as much as the type of helmet. A helmet that is too loose can move or come off in a crash, and one that is too tight causes pain on longer rides.
- It should be snug all round with no pressure points.
- It should not move on your head when you shake it or push the chin guard.
- You should not be able to pull it off with the strap fastened.
- Wear it for several minutes in the shop to check for hot spots.
- Try it with your glasses if you wear them.
Head shapes differ, and the same size can fit differently between brands. Try several and ask a specialist to help you.
Features worth considering
- Ventilation: useful in summer, and adjustable vents help in all seasons.
- Visor system: an anti-fog insert helps in wet and cold weather. See our wet and cold weather riding tips.
- Integrated sun visor: handy for low sun in autumn and winter.
- Noise levels: wind noise causes fatigue, and many riders use earplugs.
- Weight: a lighter helmet is easier on your neck over a long ride.
- Bluetooth compatibility: useful if you want to use an intercom or satnav.
Looking after your helmet
- Clean the shell and lining with mild soap and water, following the maker's advice.
- Avoid harsh solvents and strong adhesives that can damage the shell.
- Store it somewhere cool and dry, not on a mirror or hot surface.
- Do not drop it. Impacts can damage the inside even if the outside looks fine.
When to replace
Replace a helmet after any significant impact, even if it looks fine. Most manufacturers also advise replacing a helmet after a number of years, so check their guidance. Never buy a used helmet when you cannot know its history.
Other gear to think about
A helmet is only part of your protection. Consider a proper jacket and trousers with armour, gloves and boots that are made for motorcycling. Read our guide to motorcycle security too, because locks and a secure place to store your kit and bike matter.
Frequently asked questions
Is a more expensive helmet safer? Not always. Price does not guarantee protection, so check SHARP ratings and fit.
How tight should a helmet be? Snug but not painful. It should not move when you shake your head.
Can I use a helmet from a different country? Check that it carries an approved standard marking for UK roads.
Looking for gear to go with your next bike? Ask the DH Superbikes team.
