I know riding around showing of your new shades cause you to look really, really cool - stop it! Wear a helmet!
Okay, I'm off my soapbox now, and we could be provided down to business.
When choosing a helmet there are a number of things to consider; in this guide we'll cover the basics to get you going.
First, look for a helmet that is planned for being "off-road" ( from time-to-time labeled as "motocross") - a standard motorcycle helmet will give safety, but it won't provide some of the truly great features of a helmet made specifically for an ATV.
Second, make sure the helmet is comfortable - I know the first thing you think about with helmets is safety; but comfort is right up there. Check these things when comparing comfort levels: make sure there's enough padding, check for a good seal around the ear (not touching the ear), ensure there's a neck roll that cradles the back of the neck, and ensure the're no straps or fasteners protruding in a helmet.
Next, and this is a huge one, ensure that the helmet is DOT or Snell certified. Simple, if the helmet isn't certified - don't bother.
Also, you may be in the store and you have two helmets, and you simply can't pick... Go with the one who has the most EPS. EPS is the hard form-type liner inside the helmet that actually absorbs the crash impact. Manufacturers can just put in the least, but some go above and beyond, so keep that in mind.
Finally, providing you have a face shield (and why wouldn't you?) make certain it meets the VESC-8 or ANSI Z-87 standards, plus ensure the face shield doesn't distort your view or flop around after you've opened it.
On final note: the materials that safety helmets are supplied of deteriorate, so if you have an old helmet (or one with been in an accident due to the fact that the are single use items) - get a fresh one.
For more information on ATV Helmets check out: http://helmets.atv-aftermarket.info/
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