A motorcycle helmet protects riders’ heads during impacts and reduces head injury risk by 69% and death risk by 42%. These protective devices combine a polystyrene foam inner shell with a durable outer layer to absorb and distribute impact forces.
Construction and Function
The helmet consists of two main protective components: a hard outer shell made from polycarbonate, fiberglass, or Kevlar, and a soft inner liner made of expanded polystyrene foam (EPS). The outer shell prevents penetration from sharp objects and maintains structural integrity, while the foam liner crushes during impact to gradually decelerate the head.
Premium Materials
High-end helmets use reinforced fiberglass with Kevlar or carbon fiber construction. These materials offer superior protection while remaining lightweight. The interior uses comfort padding and moisture-wicking fabrics.
Types of Helmets
Full Face Protection
Full face helmets provide complete head coverage with an integrated chin bar. Studies show they offer maximum protection since 35% of crashes impact the chin area. These helmets include face shields and ventilation systems for rider comfort.
Modular Design
Modular helmets combine full face and open face features with a pivoting chin bar. They allow easy access to the face while stopped but should remain closed while riding. Some models meet both full face and open face safety certifications.
Open Face Options
Open face helmets cover the top, sides and back of the head but lack chin protection. While offering less protection, they provide better visibility and airflow. Many riders supplement them with face shields or goggles.
Safety Standards
The United Nations ECE 22.06 standard provides comprehensive testing requirements in Europe. In North America, the DOT FMVSS 218 standard and Snell Foundation certification are primary safety benchmarks. Testing evaluates impact absorption, penetration resistance, retention system strength, and field of vision.
Color and Visibility
Research shows helmet color affects rider safety. Light-colored helmets reduce injury risk by 24% compared to black helmets. However, white helmets may decrease visibility against bright sky backgrounds on rural roads.
Historical Development
The first motorcycle helmet emerged in 1914 when Dr. Eric Gardner created canvas and shellac designs for the Isle of Man TT races. The death of T.E. Lawrence in 1935 led Dr. Hugh Cairns to research head injuries, resulting in mandatory helmet laws for British military riders by 1941.
A motorcycle helmet is a type of helmet used by motorcycle riders. Motorcycle helmets contribute to motorcycle safety by protecting the rider's head in the event of an impact. They reduce the risk of head injury by 69% and the risk of death by 42%. Their use is required by law in many countries. However, only 10.4% of all motorcyclists wear helmets, according to the World Health Organization in 2016.
Motorcycle helmets consist of a polystyrene foam inner shell that absorbs the shock of an impact, and a protective plastic outer layer. Several variations exist, notably helmets that cover the chin area and helmets that do not. Some helmets provide additional conveniences, such as ventilation, face shields, sun visors, ear protection or intercom.