Selecting an ATV helmet of appropriate size and fit is vitally important to both safety and comfort, whether for yourself or as a gift for children. In order to do this correctly, ensure it fits correctly while protecting against injuries to both. However, how exactly do we select such an important item? Let's walk through it step-by-step!
How to Measure Your Head for an ATV Helmet
Start by measuring your head correctly with a soft measuring tape; take measurements approximately an inch above your eyebrows at its widest point (usually the back), wrapping around until its end at your temples - this measurement will give an accurate idea of which helmet size would best suit you.
Once you've taken your measurements, the next step should be matching it against an ATV helmet size chart to find an ATV helmet suitable to your size.
ATV Helmet Size Chart
Now that you understand how to measure your head circumference, the time has come to find the appropriate ATV helmet size chart for both adults and children in your family. Below you will find measurements for both adults and children so that everyone finds an ideal match!
| Size | Head Circumference (inches) | Head Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Small | 20 ½” – 21 ¼” | 52 – 54 cm |
| Adult Medium | 21 ¼” – 22” | 54 – 56 cm |
| Adult Large | 22” – 22 ¾” | 56 – 58 cm |
| Adult X-Large | 22 ¾” – 23 ½” | 58 – 60 cm |
| Adult 2X-Large | 23 ½” – 24 ¼” | 60 – 62 cm |
| Youth X-Small | 18 ½” – 19 ¼” | 47 – 49 cm |
| Youth Small | 19 ¼” – 20” | 49 – 51 cm |
| Youth Medium | 20” – 20 ¾” | 51 – 53 cm |
| Youth Large | 20 ¾” – 21 ½” | 53 – 55 cm |
Choosing the Right Helmet for Different Age Groups
Adult helmet selection should focus on comfort, safety and type of riding you plan to do - if riding rugged areas or racing you'll require greater protection; otherwise a standard fit helmet should provide enough cover.
Children are of paramount concern, and helmet fitting is of equal concern; as kids grow quickly, they should regularly check that it provides adequate protection and ensure that it still fits securely.
Helmet Fit: How to Ensure Your Helmet is Properly Fitted
Once you've selected an ideal helmet, the next step should be ensuring it fits comfortably on your head. A proper fitting helmet should rest squarely upon it without tilting forward or backward.
Adjust the chin straps so only one or two fingers fit between it and your chin - this ensures the helmet stays securely fastened during your ride without causing discomfort.
ATV Helmet Types and Their Impact on Sizing
There are various ATV helmet options to consider, each offering different benefits and fitting options. Full-face helmets provide maximum coverage by surrounding all areas of your face with protection, but they must fit snugly around both your neck and face in order to provide effective results.
Open-face helmets tend to provide greater airflow for greater comfort while offering less protection - ideal for warmer climates or casual riding situations.
Modular helmets combine features from both full-face and open-face helmets, giving you greater versatility and adjustment as needed. However, these may be bulkier; to ensure proper fitting, select the size according to manufacturer recommendations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an ATV Helmet
One common error when selecting an ATV helmet is choosing one that's too large. Many may believe a larger helmet provides greater comfort; however, loose-fitting models cannot guarantee adequate protection.
Erroneously ignoring helmet's safety standards can also be costly. When selecting your helmet, ensure it has been certified by organizations like DOT, ECE or Snell; otherwise it might not provide adequate protection in an accident situation.
Safety Standards for ATV Helmets
Es is essential that riders select helmets which meet stringent safety standards, with United States helmets needing approval by the Department of Transportation (DOT), while European standards such as ECE 22.05 or Snell certification may even more stringent.
Certifications prove that an ATV helmet has undergone rigorous impact resistance testing, making sure it can stand up to the challenges associated with ATV riding.
Maintenance and Care Tips for ATV Helmets
Maintaining your helmet properly for maximum effectiveness requires proper care and maintenance. Wipe it down regularly using damp cloth. Also avoid harsh chemicals which could harm its inner lining.
After any impact, it is advisable to inspect your helmet carefully for signs of wear and tear and damage. If significant wear and tear have occurred, replacing it may be necessary.
FAQs
What is the best way for me to measure my head for an ATV helmet?
To measure your head circumference accurately, wrap a soft measuring tape around its widest part - just above your eyebrows - using a soft measuring tape. This will provide your head circumference, which you can compare against the size chart for accuracy.
How tight should an ATV helmet fit?
Your helmet should fit comfortably but should not cause you discomfort, staying securely in place when moving your head without shifting around or shifting in its entirety.
What size ATV helmet should a 10-year-old child wear?
Measure their head circumference, then refer to the youth section of our size chart - typically, they will fall between small or medium, depending on how your measurements turn out.
Can I use one helmet for both ATV and motorcycle riding?
Yes, as long as the helmet meets all required safety certifications, you can use it for both activities. Be sure that it fits securely and comfortably for both types of riding.
Conclusion
Finding the correct ATV helmet size goes far beyond comfort: It is also about safety. A properly fitting helmet protects riders during their ride and may help ward off serious injuries that might otherwise arise from improper fitment.
By taking careful measurements and consulting an accurate size chart, it's easy to select a helmet with optimal comfort and fit for riding over rough terrain or just casually enjoying an outing. Prioritize safety over comfort whenever riding.
