Half Helmet
In recent years, the half helmet has made a huge comeback. These helmets were super popular back in the 50’s and 60’s, but fell out of favor for more full faced helmets from the 70’s right up and through recent years. I do not recommend half helmets for youth riders. For the more experienced rider, these helmets can be a good alternative. They are certainly a lot lighter and aren’t anywhere near as hot in the summer.
Now don’t be fooled. Just because these helmets are much lighter than their full faced cousin – half helmets can be as light as 28 oz. – don’t think they aren’t as safe. The higher quality half helmet is made of a very sturdy yet incredibly light carbon fiber shell. Most come with very plush liner and have stainless steel rings to fasten the chin strap.
Of course, safety is the #1 concern of most when purchasing a helmet. Many think that full face helmets provide the safest way to go. While it’s very difficult to argue with that logic, quality half helmets are indeed DOT approved. If you purchase a half helmet that is DOT approved, you can rest assured that you’ve got a very safe helmet. However, there is more facial area that will be exposed in a head on crash.
Many like the looks of a half helmet over full faced helmets. Of course this is a matter of personal preference, but there is no question – they are a lot lighter and a lot cooler in the summer. Driving through Arkansas in July several years ago, I wished I’d had a half helmet to be sure! Just as with full faced helmets, you can get half helmets in any color or design you want with a custom paint job.
If you’ve not looked into half helmets lately, you’ll be surprised in what you see out there. There are so many styles and sub styles it’ll boggle your mind. There are still the very basic units out there, with just a shell and chin strap, but there are also retro German helmets, the beanie or shorty style, units with heating devices in them and on and on.
If you do a lot of riding in cooler temperatures, you’re going to want to pick up some earmuffs, a scarf or a snap on visor. You may pooh pooh this initially, but let me tell you – when you are out riding late in the afternoon while checking out the stunning foliage on the Kangamangus Highway in the White Mountains of New Hampshire in mid October, you’ll be happy you have the additional gear. Just do yourself a favor and bring your half helmet with you when you buy these additional items for warmth. You’ve got to make sure your helmet will fit comfortably over your earmuffs, or that a visor you purchase will fit correctly on your helmet.
When it comes to purchasing a half helmet, be sure to purchase from a reputable dealer. Of course, you can do this from a trusted local dealer. But in most cases, you’ll find you can do better – sometimes much better – when buying from a reputable dealer online. When it comes to your safety, you’ve got to ensure you are comfortable with who you are doing business with. Buying a half helmet on eBay may sound like a good idea, but in reality, it may not be. Remember, you’re talking about your or a loved ones safety. Be certain any helmet you buy is DOT certified – indicated by the sticker on the back of the helmet. Don’t take some guy’s word for it in an email – look for confirmation of this fact on the reputable dealers web site.
Sadly, a lot of folks will simply look for the cheapest or snazziest half helmet. Don’t fall into this trap. Sure, look for a great deal and a helmet that fits your personality, but just make sure it’s DOT approved first.