Headgear provides the best protection out of all styles of helmets. Traditional bubble-shaped helmets feature aerodynamics that is optimized to fit different riding positions. Full-face helmets have a strong structural foundation, regardless of their appearance. The front wind visors are easily accessible and can be closed or opened.
Without proper ventilation, a full helmet could close with the visor closed. SMK helmets are equipped with ventilation channels in the top, sides, and front. These channels allow fresh airflow through the helmet to improve breathing and reduce fogging.
Modular Helmets
Modular skulls include chin bar sections that pivot upwardly on rear hinges. The chin bar can transform a helmet that is almost a full face into an open one by simply turning the chin bar. Modular helmets have a range of shapes.
Modular helmets must have less strength and stability than full-face helmets. Although the lower chin is strengthened for strength, it is a separate piece from the rest of the helmet. This makes them react differently in a collision.
Modular helmets often weigh more than full-face helmets due to the strength reinforcements located in the chin or other areas, and the many components that make up the heavy-duty pivot hinges.
Open Face Helmets
Open Face Head Helmets remain a favorite of scooter riders and speed bikers, covering the sides, top, back, and side of the head but leaving the face open to the fresh breeze. Open face helmets offer less protection from crashes, as there is no structural section around the chin. An adjustable strap around your chin secures them to your skull.
Open-air feels are not for everyone. They can be exposed to road dust, bugs, water, and other hazards. There are many open face helmets available that can be fitted with removable visors, air filtering face masks, and even a visor.
Dirt Bike Helmets ( “Off-Road” Helmets)
Because dirt biking off-road requires more physical exertion than regular riding, dirtbike headgear is lightweight and provides maximum ventilation. Dirt bike helmets provide less insulation which helps to maintain cool temperatures. One-piece construction provides greater protection around the neck area.
Dirt bike helmets are not intended to be worn at high speeds and lack a wind visor. Riders typically use separate goggles in their helmets for protection. This is a benefit because goggles are easy to remove and clean after everything has gotten mud-covered.
Wind and noise can build up inside dirt bike helmets, making it extremely uncomfortable when riding at high speeds. Sun peaks are also vulnerable to high levels of aerodynamic pressure, which can push your head up and back. These helmets were designed for dirt bikes and are intended to be used at lower speeds.
People who want to do extreme things or off-road racing may enjoy dirt bike helmets made with lighter weight composites.
Dual Sport Helmets
Two-sport helmets were originally designed for dirt bikes, but they have been redesigned to be street-ready at moderate highway speeds. Ventilation for on-road riding is improved with ducts, vents, and the face shields are easily flipped down when on the move. Flip the face mask up to wear with goggles on off-roading.
Dual sport helmets include chin bars which are permanently integrated, unlike dirt bike helmets. This provides jaw protection. They also have glare reduction sun peaks that don’t suffer from aerodynamic lift when speeds rise.
Dual sport helmets have more insulation than dirtbike helmets to keep riders comfortable while on-road. But they don’t provide as much warmth as full-face helmets.