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How To Measure For A Helmet: The Ultimate Sizing Guide
Measuring for a helmet is simple. You will use a flexible tape measure. This helps you find your head size. Knowing your head size is the best way to pick a helmet. It helps you get a safe and comfy fit. We will show you how to do this easily. This guide explains how to determine helmet size with clear steps.
Why a Good Helmet Fit Matters Greatly
A helmet is vital. It keeps your head safe. If a helmet does not fit right, it cannot protect you well. A helmet that is too big will move around. This makes it less safe. A helmet that is too small can cause pain. It might not cover all of your head. A proper helmet fit is snug. It feels good. It stays put. This helps you stay safe during a fall or hit. Getting the right fit is the first step for any helmet.
What You Will Need for Measuring
Measuring your head is easy. You only need a few simple things. These are often found at home.
- A flexible measuring tape: This is key. It helps you get the true shape of your head. A cloth tape measure works best.
- A mirror: This helps you see what you are doing.
- A pen and paper: Write down your number right away.
That’s it. You are ready to start your head circumference measurement.
How to Measure Your Head’s Size
This is the main step. It is easy to do. Follow these instructions carefully.
Getting Ready to Measure
- Remove anything from your head: Take off hats, hair ties, or bulky hair clips.
- Flatten your hair: If you have thick hair, press it down a bit. This gives a true reading.
- Stand upright: Keep your head level. Look straight ahead.
The Head Circumference Measurement Steps
- Find the right spot: Place the measuring tape above your eyebrows. Put it about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above them. This is the widest part of your head. It is usually just above your ears too.
- Wrap the tape: Bring the tape around your head. Make sure it stays flat. Keep it level all the way around. Do not let it twist.
- Meet the ends: Bring the tape back to the front. The point where it meets is your measurement.
- Read the number: Look at the number on the tape. Write it down. Measure in both centimeters (cm) and inches (in). This helps you compare with different helmet sizing charts.
- Measure a few times: Do this a few times. This makes sure your number is correct. If you get different numbers, use the biggest one.
A Note on Measuring Tape for Head Use
Always use a flexible tape. A metal tape measure will not work. It cannot curve around your head. A cloth tape is best. If you do not have one, you can use a string. Then, measure the string with a ruler. This is not as good but can work in a pinch.
Using Your Head Measurement: Helmet Sizing Charts
Once you have your head circumference measurement, it is time to use a helmet sizing guide. Helmet brands use charts. These charts turn your head size into a helmet size (like S, M, L). Keep in mind that charts can be a bit different between brands. Always check the specific brand’s chart.
General Adult Helmet Sizing Chart (Example)
This table shows typical helmet sizing. Use it as a starting point.
| Head Circumference (cm) | Head Circumference (inches) | Helmet Size |
|---|---|---|
| 53 – 54 | 20.9 – 21.3 | XS |
| 55 – 56 | 21.7 – 22.0 | S |
| 57 – 58 | 22.4 – 22.8 | M |
| 59 – 60 | 23.2 – 23.6 | L |
| 61 – 62 | 24.0 – 24.4 | XL |
| 63 – 64 | 24.8 – 25.2 | XXL |
| 65 – 66 | 25.6 – 26.0 | XXXL |
Motorcycle Helmet Sizing Details
Motorcycle helmets need a very tight fit. This is for high speeds and safety. Your motorcycle helmet sizing is very important. After you measure, look at specific motorcycle helmet charts. Brands like Shoei, Arai, and Bell have their own charts. They might also have different shell sizes. A full-face helmet often feels snugger than an open-face one.
Bike Helmet Measurement Tips
Bike helmets focus on comfort and airflow. Your bike helmet measurement helps find the right size. These helmets often have adjustment systems. These are dials or straps. They help fine-tune the fit. Even with these, starting with the right size is key.
Youth Helmet Sizing Chart Specifics
Kids need helmets too. Youth helmet sizing chart values are smaller. Children’s heads grow. So, check their head size often. Never buy a helmet for a child to “grow into.” It must fit right now.
| Head Circumference (cm) | Head Circumference (inches) | Youth Helmet Size |
|---|---|---|
| 47 – 48 | 18.5 – 18.9 | XXS (Youth) |
| 49 – 50 | 19.3 – 19.7 | XS (Youth) |
| 51 – 52 | 20.1 – 20.5 | S (Youth) |
| 53 – 54 | 20.9 – 21.3 | M (Youth) |
Remember: These are general. Always check the brand’s chart.
Safety Helmet Dimensions and Their Importance
All helmets, whether for riding or work, follow rules. These rules ensure ‘safety helmet dimensions’ meet standards. This means the helmet can protect your head. Your measuring helps pick the right size within these safe bounds. A proper fit ensures the helmet works as it should.
What a Proper Helmet Fit Feels Like
Once you have your size, try on the helmet. The fit is more than just a number. It is about how the helmet feels. This is where ‘helmet fitting tips’ come in handy.
Key Signs of a Good Fit
- Snugness All Around: The helmet should feel tight. It should hug your whole head. It should not be loose. It should not wiggle side to side. It should not move up and down easily.
- Even Pressure: The pressure should be even. No specific spots should feel too tight. There should be no painful pressure points. If you feel hot spots, the helmet is too small. Or, it is the wrong shape for your head.
- Forehead Contact: The inner padding should touch your forehead. It should feel firm against it.
- Cheek Pads: For many helmets (like motorcycle ones), cheek pads are key. They should touch your cheeks. They should gently push your cheeks up. This helps hold the helmet steady.
- Clear Vision: The helmet should not block your sight. Your eyes should be in the center of the eye port. You should see clearly out of it.
- No Movement When Shaken: With the strap fastened, try to move the helmet. It should not move separately from your head. Your skin should move with the helmet. If it slides around, it is too big.
How to Check the Fit
- Put it on: Gently slide the helmet onto your head.
- Strap it up: Fasten the chin strap. Make it snug. You should only be able to fit one or two fingers under it.
- Shake your head: Move your head side to side. Move it up and down. The helmet should move with your head. It should not slide.
- Try to roll it off: Try to roll the helmet off your head. Pull it forward. It should not come off. It should not roll over your eyes. Pull it backward. It should not roll off your head. This is the “roll-off test.” It is very important.
Trying on a Helmet: Beyond the Tape Measure
The tape measure gives you a good start. But trying helmets on is still the best.
Differences Between Brands
Helmet sizes can vary. An “M” from one brand might feel like an “L” from another. This is why you should always try on the helmet you want. If you buy online, check the brand’s specific helmet sizing guide. Read reviews.
Head Shape Matters
People have different head shapes. Some heads are more round. Others are more oval (long front to back). A helmet might be the right size but the wrong shape. This will cause pressure points. If a helmet is too tight on the sides but loose front to back, your head is more oval. If it is tight front to back but loose on the sides, your head is more round. Some brands make helmets for specific head shapes.
Wear it for a Few Minutes
Do not just put it on for a second. Wear the helmet for 2-5 minutes. This lets you feel any pressure points. Sometimes, a helmet feels fine at first. But after a few minutes, it might start to pinch.
Special Details for Helmet Fitting
Other things can change how a helmet fits.
Hair Length and Style
If you have very thick hair, it can make your head seem bigger. Measure your head with your normal hair style. If you usually wear your hair in a ponytail, try to measure with it down. If you wear it up, think about if it will fit under the helmet.
Eyewear (Glasses)
If you wear glasses, bring them when you try on helmets. Some helmets have channels for glasses arms. Make sure your glasses fit comfortably. They should not pinch. They should not push the helmet away from your head.
Balaclavas or Headwear
Some people wear thin headwear under their helmets. This can add a tiny bit of bulk. If you plan to use a balaclava, wear it when you measure. Or, think about going up a half size if you are between sizes.
Different Helmet Types, Different Fits
While the measuring process is similar, how you want the helmet to feel can vary.
Motorcycle Helmets
- Full-face: These offer the most protection. They are very snug. Cheek pads are key for stability. ‘Motorcycle helmet sizing’ demands a tight, secure fit.
- Open-face: These do not cover the chin. They can feel less restrictive. Still, they must fit well on the crown of your head.
- Modular: These have a flip-up chin bar. They should feel like a full-face when closed.
Bike Helmets
- Road, Mountain, Commuter: These are lighter. They focus on ventilation. They often have comfort pads and an adjustable fit system (dial at the back). Your ‘bike helmet measurement’ is crucial. The helmet should sit level on your head. It should cover your forehead.
- Kids’ Bike Helmets: Focus on stable fit. Look for a good chin strap and adjustable pads. The ‘youth helmet sizing chart’ helps.
Sports Helmets (Snow, Skate, Equestrian)
- Snow Helmets: Often come with ear pads. They need to fit well with goggles.
- Skate Helmets: Often have a harder outer shell. They come with padding that you can move. You might get a set of pads to adjust the fit.
- Equestrian Helmets: These must meet specific safety rules. They often have harnesses for a secure fit. ‘Safety helmet dimensions’ are critical for horse riding.
When to Get a New Helmet
Helmets do not last forever. Even if they look fine, they can age.
- After an impact: If your helmet takes a hit, replace it. Even if you cannot see damage, the inside padding or shell might be weak. This is the most important rule.
- Age: Most helmet makers say to replace helmets every 3 to 5 years. Materials break down over time. Sweat, UV rays, and normal wear can weaken the helmet.
- Wear and tear: If the straps are frayed, the buckle is broken, or the padding is worn out, it is time for a new one.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Measuring incorrectly: Do not measure too high or too low on your head. Always go above your eyebrows.
- Buying based only on size: Do not just look at the number. Helmets are like shoes. They need to be tried on.
- Ignoring head shape: A round head in an oval helmet will hurt. An oval head in a round helmet will move too much.
- Thinking “bigger is better”: A loose helmet is not safe. It will move around.
- Not checking the chin strap: A loose strap means the helmet can come off in a fall.
- Not doing the roll-off test: This test shows if the helmet will stay on.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Fit
Finding the right helmet size is very important. It starts with your head circumference measurement. Then, you use a helmet sizing guide. But it does not end there. You must try the helmet on. Feel how it fits. Make sure it is snug, comfy, and does not move. Using these helmet fitting tips will help you find the perfect and safest helmet. Knowing how to determine helmet size means you are ready for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a string instead of a tape measure?
Yes, you can use a string. Wrap it around your head just like a tape measure. Then, lay the string flat and measure it with a ruler or a stiff tape measure. This is less accurate than a flexible tape, but it works.
What if I am between sizes on the helmet sizing chart?
If your measurement falls between two sizes, try the smaller size first. Helmets should fit snugly. If the smaller size gives you painful pressure points, then go up to the larger size. Remember, padding often breaks in over time.
Should a helmet feel tight at first?
Yes, a helmet should feel tight at first. It should be snug all around your head. It should not cause pain, though. The padding inside will compress a little with wear. This makes the fit even better over time.
How do I know if my child’s helmet fits right?
For a child’s helmet, make sure it sits level on their head. It should cover their forehead. The chin strap should be snug but not tight. You should not be able to fit more than one finger under the strap. The helmet should not move when they shake their head. Check the youth helmet sizing chart carefully.
Do helmet sizes vary by brand?
Yes, helmet sizes often vary by brand. A “Medium” in one brand might fit differently than a “Medium” in another. Head shapes can also differ between brands. Always check the specific brand’s sizing chart. If possible, try on the helmet.