ADVANTAGES OF OPEN FACE MOTORCYCLE HELMETS
Open face helmets (also known as 3/4 helmets), have been around a long time. Considerably longer than full-face helmets, which have eclipsed the open face helmets in protection quality in the past several decades.
OPEN FACE MOTORCYCLE HELMETS
Open face helmets represent a more “classic” motorbike look and may be preferred, stylistically, by some riders of classic, retro or even vintage bikes.
But make no mistake about it, other riders wear ‘em too.
On the other hand, it’s not uncommon for riders to choose an open face option simply because it allows for easier communication between pilot and passenger, as well as ease of grabbing a bite to eat or a sip to drink with the helmet still on.
Finally, open face helmets are a little easier and quicker to put on and take off then a full face helmet.
But of course it cannot be overlooked that an open face helmet offers considerably less face protection than a full face helmet.
FEATURES OF OPEN FACE MOTORBIKE HELMETS
All helmets, including open face ones, are secured by a chin strap. In fact, a helmet’s protective utility is greatly reduced, if that chin strap is NOT securely fastened to ensure a snug helmet fit.
Quite a number of open face helmets either come standard with a short visor, or have the option of adding one. Visors provide an advantage in reducing sunlight glare, which can be distracting when riding west, late in the day.
Some open face helmets have adjustable vents which allow air through the internal liner, to help keep your head cooler on hot days.
Open face helmets include foam liners as part of their protective and comfort feature, but some helmets include removable liners, which facilitates cleaning. (In fact, usually you can just toss them in the washing machine with your laundry).
If you want to use an intercom or communication system, it used to be that open face helmets were the way to go. However, that aspect can now be provided for many full face helmets, too. But obviously an open face helmet does not offer the enclosed restriction that a full face helmet with its chin section necessitates.
Often the face shields for open face shields are adjustable, so you can move your shield out of the way at a rest stop, or fuel stop and be able to speak to others without the shield as an obstruction.
Motorcycle helmets, open face or otherwise, are constructed from various plastics. If you spend more money for a “Premium” helmet you are sometimes getting a helmet reinforced with kevlar or carbon fiber, which are lighter and stronger.
MOTORCYCLE HELMETS: ONE-SHOT PROTECTION
By the way, motorcycle helmets are primarily designed to break in a crash. They are manufactured to disperse the energy from a sudden shock as part of its protective purpose. So, helmets are a one-shot piece of protective gear once you’ve had an accident.
Unfortunately, even dropping a helmet, or letting one bang against a wall can use up that energy absorption property and render the helmet ineffective for protection, even without any visible damage.
In fact, helmet manufacturers recommend that riders replace their helmets not only after any impact (which makes sense) but also, every three years, or so, even if there has not been any impact (of course that means more helmet sales, so you KNOW they’re going to say that). Regardless of their motivation, it’s your head and it’s my head. Protect it in the way that makes sense to you.
OH! Almost all helmets come with a Department of Transportation (DOT) certification, but there are a few that don’t. (And you don’t want those).
Finally, as would be necessary for any motorcycle helmet, be sure to select one that fits correctly. Here is an article on How To Fit A Motorcycle Helmet.
COMPARE AND REVIEW THIS GREAT SELECTION OF OPEN FACE MOTORCYCLE HELMETS
There’s tons of open face helmets to choose from. They vary significantly in cost, colors and features. Review and compare the following selection of open face helmets. Order the size that best matches your head, and ensure it’s comfortable when you receive it. Your helmet should fit SNUGLY so that it is stable when you shake your head side-to-side, front-to-back, or up and down. However, you don’t want it so tight that it is uncomfortable. It needs to be emphasized that a helmet should NOT be loose. If that’s the comfort level you require, recognize that you have significantly reduced the protective benefit by having a loose helmet.
