How to Break in a Motorcycle Helmet: Your Complete Guide

Why Is It Important to Break in a Motorcycle Helmet?

A motorcycle helmet is your most crucial safety gear while riding. However, an improperly fitting helmet can be a source of discomfort and distraction. It may even reduce the level of protection it provides. When helmets are manufactured, they are designed to fit tightly initially, allowing them to compress over time and conform to the unique shape of your head.

Breaking in a helmet ensures:

• Improved comfort: A broken-in helmet will fit more naturally around your head, reducing pressure points.
• Enhanced safety: A well-fitted helmet stays in place better, offering maximum protection in case of an accident.
• Better performance: You will be less distracted by discomfort, which allows you to focus more on your ride.

Understanding how to break in a motorcycle helmet properly will save you from the discomfort that often comes with a new helmet, and it will extend its lifespan.

How Long Does It Take to Break in a Motorcycle Helmet?

Breaking in a new motorcycle helmet typically takes 15-20 hours of riding. This might seem like a long time, but the process is gradual. The foam lining inside the helmet compresses slowly, molding to the shape of your head and becoming more comfortable with each use.

Here’s how the process works:

• First few rides: The helmet will feel tight and may even cause slight pressure in certain areas.
• After 10-15 hours of wear: The helmet begins to mold to your head. Any initial discomfort should start to fade.
• After 20 hours: Your helmet should feel significantly more comfortable and fit snugly without being too tight.

Remember, it’s important not to force the break-in process by using heat or excessive pressure, as this could damage the internal structure of the helmet.

Steps to Break in a Motorcycle Helmet

Now that you understand the importance of breaking in your helmet, let’s look at the specific steps to ensure your helmet molds to your head safely and comfortably.

1. Choose the Right Size

Before breaking in your helmet, ensure you have the right size. A helmet that is too large won’t offer the necessary protection, and a helmet that is too small will cause discomfort even after the break-in process. Use a flexible tape measure to measure the circumference of your head about one inch above your eyebrows. Compare this measurement to the size chart provided by the helmet manufacturer.

2. Wear the Helmet Regularly

The most straightforward way to break in a motorcycle helmet is to wear it as much as possible. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to ride for hours on end. You can wear it around the house while watching TV or performing light activities. The more often you wear the helmet, the quicker it will adjust to your head shape.

3. Focus on Problem Areas

Some helmets may cause pressure points in specific areas, such as around the temples or forehead. If you experience this, take note of where the discomfort is. Over time, the foam will compress in these areas, but you can speed up the process by gently massaging or pressing on the helmet’s interior foam with your fingers. Be careful not to use excessive force, as this could damage the padding.

4. Don’t Use External Tools

While it might be tempting to try to stretch out a helmet using external tools like hairdryers or heat guns, this can damage the materials inside the helmet, reducing its protective capabilities. Stick to the natural method of wearing the helmet and allowing it to break in over time.

5. Loosen the Cheek Pads

Many riders find that the cheek pads are the most uncomfortable part of a new helmet. Some helmets have removable cheek pads that can be adjusted for a better fit. If your helmet has this feature, try adjusting or swapping the pads to see if it makes a difference in comfort.

Common Mistakes When Breaking in a Motorcycle Helmet

While breaking in your helmet, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid:

1. Forcing the Process

Riders often try to accelerate the break-in process by overstuffing their helmets or applying heat. This can warp the foam or damage the helmet’s protective shell. Let the helmet break in naturally through regular use.

2. Choosing the Wrong Helmet Size

If your helmet feels painfully tight, even after several hours of use, you might have purchased the wrong size. Check the manufacturer’s sizing guide and compare it to your measurements. The helmet should be snug but not uncomfortable.

3. Ignoring Pressure Points

If you notice specific areas of discomfort that don’t improve after the break-in period, you might need to take a closer look at the fit. In some cases, a helmet might not be the right shape for your head, even if the size is correct. Some brands offer different internal shapes for various head types, so consider switching to a different model if the discomfort persists.

Benefits of a Properly Fitted Helmet

A properly fitted helmet provides more than just comfort. Here are the key benefits of ensuring your helmet fits perfectly after the break-in period:

1. Increased Safety

A helmet that fits properly stays securely on your head, providing maximum protection in case of an accident. Loose helmets can move around, compromising the helmet’s ability to absorb impact.

2. Reduced Distraction

When your helmet is comfortable, you can focus more on the road and less on adjusting your gear. A well-fitting helmet eliminates pressure points and discomfort, allowing for a smoother, more enjoyable ride.

3. Improved Aerodynamics

A snug-fitting helmet reduces wind resistance, making your ride more streamlined. This can lead to improved performance, especially on longer rides.

How to Maintain Your Helmet After the Break-in Period

Once you’ve successfully broken in your helmet, it’s essential to take care of it to ensure it continues to provide comfort and safety.

1. Clean the Liner Regularly

Sweat and oils from your skin can accumulate inside your helmet, leading to unpleasant odors and potential wear on the padding. Most helmets come with removable liners that can be washed. Be sure to clean your helmet liner regularly to keep it fresh and extend its lifespan.

2. Store It Properly

When you’re not using your helmet, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can damage the materials in your helmet, reducing its effectiveness over time.

3. Inspect for Wear and Tear

Even the best helmets wear out eventually. Check your helmet regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in the shell or fraying straps. If you notice any damage, it’s time to replace your helmet to ensure continued protection.

When Should You Replace Your Motorcycle Helmet?

No matter how well you take care of your helmet, it will need to be replaced eventually. As a general rule, motorcycle helmets should be replaced every five years or sooner if they’ve been involved in an accident.

1. After an Accident

If your helmet has sustained any impact, even if it doesn’t show visible damage, it’s essential to replace it. Helmets are designed to absorb one significant impact, and they may no longer provide adequate protection after a crash.

2. When the Liner Wears Out

Over time, the liner inside your helmet will compress and lose its ability to conform to your head. If your helmet feels loose or no longer fits as snugly as it once did, it’s time for a replacement.

3. If the Helmet Feels Loose

Even without visible signs of wear, a helmet may become loose as the foam compresses over time. If your helmet no longer feels secure on your head, it’s time to invest in a new one.

Make Sure Your Helmet Fits Like a Glove

Understanding how to break in a motorcycle helmet ensures your helmet fits perfectly, providing both comfort and safety. With time and patience, your helmet will mold to the shape of your head, giving you the best possible riding experience. Follow the steps outlined above to break in your helmet effectively, and remember to maintain it properly so that it serves you well for years to come.