Finding the right fit is crucial when selecting a motorcycle helmet to ensure protection and comfort while riding. Knowing your proper size and how to accurately measure for a motorcycle helmet is the first step. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions for measuring your motorcycle helmet size using a measuring tape or string.
Why Proper Motorcycle Helmet Fit Matters
Wearing an improperly fitted motorcycle helmet can be extremely dangerous by compromising safety in the event of a crash. A helmet that is too large or small can:
- Slide around or come off your head in a collision
- Obstruct visibility and limit ability to hear
- Cause discomfort and distractions while riding
A proper fit keeps the helmet securely in place and comfortable for maximum protection. Measuring correctly ensures you find the optimal size.
Measuring for Motorcycle Helmet Size
Follow these step-by-step instructions to accurately measure your head for finding the right motorcycle helmet size:
Step 1: Wrapping Tape Measure Around Head
- Have someone assist you or use a mirror to see your head
- Wrap a flexible measuring tape horizontally around your head about 1 inch above eyebrows and ears
- Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight
This gives you the head circumference measurement.
Step 2: Reading the Measurement
- With tape still wrapped snugly around, note the measurement in inches or centimeters
- Write down this number to use for size conversion next
Taking the measurement a few times can help ensure accuracy.
Step 3: Using Sizing Conversion Charts
Use your head circumference measurement to find your approximate helmet size:
| Head Circumference | Helmet Size |
|---|---|
| 20 – 20.75 inches | XS |
| 21 – 21.75 inches | S |
| 22 – 22.75 inches | M |
| 23 – 23.75 inches | L |
| 24 – 24.75 inches | XL |
| 25 – 25.75 inches | XXL |
Consult motorcycle helmet brand sizing guides too.
Measuring with String
If you don’t have a tape measure, follow these instructions to measure your head using string:
Step 1: Wrapping String Around Head
- Drape a non-stretch cord or string around your head about 1 inch above eyebrows/ears
- Have someone pull it snug or use a mirror to get it straight
Step 2: Marking String
- Note where the ends of the string meet in back and make a mark at this point
- This marked length is your head circumference
Step 3: Measuring String Length
- Lay the marked string flat next to a ruler and measure from end to mark
- Write down this length measurement
Use the length to find your helmet size with the conversion chart.
Tips for Accurate Motorcycle Helmet Measurement
Follow these tips for the most precise sizing when measuring for a motorcycle helmet:
- For adults, measure around widest part of head above ears/eyebrows
- Keep tape snug but not uncomfortably tight
- Wear the hairstyle you’ll have inside helmet when measuring
- Measure a few times and average the results
- Consult sizing info for the specific helmet brand and model
Taking extra care during measuring helps optimize fit.
Trying Helmets On for Fit
Once you know your measurements, trying on helmets in that size range can help finalize the fit:
- Helmet should feel snug all around your head without any pressure points
- No gaps between brow and interior padding
- Cheek pads should touch your face without excessive tightness
- Able to slide a finger between chin and chin strap
- With chin strap fastened, helmet should not slide forward or back
Try different brands and sizes around your measurement to find the best fit feel.
Motorcycle Helmet Sizing Systems
While head measuring methods stay the same, motorcycle helmet brands may use different sizing scales:
Small/Medium/Large/XL
The most common sizing system uses S/M/L/XL/XXL based on head circumference measurements.
Numeric Helmet Sizes
Some brands use specific numeric helmet sizes like 600 or 650 rather than standard S/M/L. Check brand’s sizing chart.
Head Circumference Ranges
Other brands size helmets based on a range of circumferences, like 21 inches to 22 inches for a medium.
Fit Systems
High-end helmet brands may utilize proprietary “fit systems” for a customized fit experience. Retailers can help find your size.
While measurement procedures remain consistent, the resulting size may vary across motorcycle helmet manufacturers. Checking the specific brand’s sizing information is always advisable.
Adjusting Fit on Your New Helmet
Many motorcycle helmets include sizing adjustment features to customize fit:
- Removable Interior Padding – Thinner pads can be swapped in to get a more snug fit
- Retention Systems – Sliders or dials allow adjusting how tightly the chin straps hug your face
- Cheek/Crown Pads – Some pads are adjustable or replaceable for a customized, secured fit
Getting professionally fitted for a motorcycle helmet is recommended to utilize these adjustments for safety and comfort.
When to Remeasure Your Head Size
In most cases, adults will maintain the same motorcycle helmet size over time. But here are some scenarios where remeasuring your head is a good idea:
- If you gain/lose a significant amount of weight
- After undergoing major hair style changes
- If it has been several years since your last helmet purchase
- If you notice your current helmet feeling loose or tight
- For women during/after pregnancy as head size can fluctuate
Periodically confirming your measurements ensures your helmet remains protective.
Conclusion
Finding the optimal motorcycle helmet fit starts with carefully measuring your head size about one inch above the eyebrows in a horizontal circumference. Use a flexible tape measure pulled snugly around your head and refer to size charts to identify your approximate helmet size. Try on helmets in that size range to finalize fit and make any adjustments needed. Remeasure periodically, especially if noticing fit changes. With the right measurement methods and size selection, you can ride safely and comfortably with a properly fitted motorcycle helmet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to measure on your head for a motorcycle helmet size?
The optimal measuring point is about 1 inch above the eyebrows and ears, all the way around the widest part of your head horizontally. This ensures the tape measure or string stays level.
What is the main reason you need an accurate measurement for motorcycle helmet sizing?
Getting the most precise measurement possible allows you to select the helmet size that will fit snugly and offer maximal protection by staying securely on your head.
How can you double check the fit of a motorcycle helmet after determining your size?
After measuring your head size and purchasing a helmet in that range, trying it on to assess fit and make any adjustments is highly recommended. The helmet should feel snug without pressure points and not slide around on your head.
Should you measure your head every time you buy a new motorcycle helmet?
Not necessarily – most adults will remain the same helmet size over time. But it is wise to remeasure periodically, such as if you notice your current helmet feeling loose or tight, or after major weight fluctuations or hairstyle changes.
What are some tips for getting an accurate measurement when sizing a motorcycle helmet?
Tips include: measuring a few times and averaging the results, using the same hairstyle you’ll wear in the helmet, keeping the tape snug but not too tight, and having someone assist to get it straight around your head.