By Henry Pattel
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 lining of the helmet is final layer of protection before your head. Some liners are better than others. Some may use a terry cloth liner while other may use a moisture resistant memory foam. The higher priced helmets usually have sizing or comfort pads to absorb even more energy.
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 retention method for the strap is very important. Many helmets use a d ring method which is secured by looping the straps through the rings. Other methods involve a plastic or seatbelt type connector. A high quality quick release would consist of high strength plastic such as polymer.
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 lining of the helmet is final layer of protection before your head. Some liners are better than others. Some may use a terry cloth liner while other may use a moisture resistant memory foam. The higher priced helmets usually have sizing or comfort pads to absorb even more energy.
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 retention method for the strap is very important. Many helmets use a d ring method which is secured by looping the straps through the rings. Other methods involve a plastic or seatbelt type connector. A high quality quick release would consist of high strength plastic such as polymer.
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