The Difference between these Helmets

[russ69]

DOT and Snell are slightly different standards but you would not be correct to say that one standard is superior to the other. It depends on the impact and that is the difference in the testing criteria.
If I recall correctly (which is seldom) the Hurt study showed that high dollar helmets were not statistically safer.

 

[newbiker]

Why couldn't you ask something easy, like what's the best oil?

Haha... I'm sure that's gonna be another debate. BTW, which oil is the best for a CBR...hehe...

DOT is an insufficient standard. A helmet that only meets DOT standards is not safe. The only relevant standards are Snell and ECE. I think that ECE is a better standard and in many ways safer than Snell, but that is very debatable. Both are "safe." If you want to know more start here: http://silodrome.com/snell-vs-dot-vs-ece-r22-05-helmet-standards-throwdown/

More expensive does not mean safer. As noted above, it often means more comfortable, quieter, lighter, more/better features, more durable, better aesthetics/finish, and sometimes just more expensive. If a cheap helmet is comfortable, has the features you want, and meets ECE or Snell, get that helmet. I have been very impressed with the newest Icon helmets, for example, at half the cost of my Shoeis.

That's kind what I thought. For example - if a certain helmet is DOT "and" Snell approved... it's just as good as any premium branded helmets, right? AND above all, if FITS good, then it's "the one to get"? I understand the comfort, materials, etc..

 

[ScottRNelson]

For example - if a certain helmet is DOT "and" Snell approved...

I would be surprised if ANY helmet that meets the Snell standard doesn't also meet the DOT standard.

 

[TTTom]

I'd suggest starting your research by reading the Motorcyclist magazine article "Blowing the Lid Off" from June 2005. It is STILL the best article / research I've ever seen on this subject.

the claim that Snell standards are "better" is total bullshit. in a nutshell, Snell standards make for a helmet that is too stiff, one that absorbs less of the shock and passes more of it on to your brain


http://www.westcoastweasels.com/archives/PDF/Blowing_the_Lid_Off.pdf

 

[ScottRNelson]

the claim that Snell standards are "better" is total BS. in a nutshell, Snell standards make for a helmet that is too stiff, one that absorbs less of the shock and passes more of it on to your brain

That's only true for the smaller helmets. For someone like me who takes a size XL, the Snell standard is better - or at least not worse.

 

[Reli]

Best helmet is the one that fits you the best, regardless of brand. Contrary to conventional wisdom, Arai doesn't make a helmet that fits every rider. Yes, they try harder than most companies do, but it's impossible for them to achieve. So it's dumb to force yourself to buy an Arai just because you've "heard" that they're the best. You need to try on multiple brands.

 

[vato_loco]

I'll never buy a SNELL-rated helmet again. ECE is the way to go 'cause helmets with this standard are often way lighter than their SNELL counterparts,

My Arai RX-Q (SNELL) feels like a bowling ball compared to my AGV lid (ECE).