When we go to buy a helmet, the shopkeeper tells us different things. As you think this is DOT certificate, that’s why it is more expensive than your kidney, this one is not ECE or Snell certificate so the price is less. Actually DOT, ECE or Snell are these things? Does the price have anything to do with this?
If you want to ride a bike, you have to wear a helmet, but is it just to avoid the police case? Or to save your precious head in the event of an accident? If you thought about saving your head, why do you have a bowl helmet on your head??? I’m sure you were a little shaken and slightly tensed after hearing the question.
In fact, most of us are very indifferent about biker helmets, which is easily understood when we see the low-quality helmets on our heads.
There are also few smart riders who are safety conscious and wear good quality helmets. Many people think that the price of a good helmet is too high hence their reluctance to buy a good helmet. For these reasons, today I will try to know what a good helmet actually means? How much budget should be kept to buy a good helmet and what is the way to know if a helmet is really good?
Most of the people, when they go to buy a helmet, because the color does not match with the bike, they become more interested in keeping the good helmet and buying a quality helmet like a watermelon peel, which is a very bad practice. In fact, there is no basis for thinking that the color of the bike must match the helmet. The most important thing about the helmet is whether the helmet is able to ensure the protection of your head?
Read more: Common Motorcycle Problems
DOT helmets Certification:
DOT (Department of Transport) certification is a safety certification set by the American government. All helmets sold in America must carry this certificate to be legal for use on public roads.
However, DOT certification is a minimum standard for helmet safety. Because the test process to get this certification is very old process and there are many differences.
ECE helmets Certification:
ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) certification is a safety standard set by the United Nations. This standard is widely used in Europe and recognized by many other countries around the world. To achieve an ECE certification, a helmet must pass a series of tests that make these helmets more reliable.
Snell helmets Certification:
The Snell Memorial Foundation is an American non-profit organization that sets safety standards for helmets. Only those who make the most premium helmets carry this certification. To get a Snell certification, the helmet has to pass a number of critical tests including drop test, pressure test, visor test and these tests are not tampered with.
Helmets that pass the Snell test are generally considered the safest helmets in terms of safety.
So, which certification is best?
From the above discussion you must have understood which type of certification is best. But since Snell certified helmets are very expensive and not very available in our country, you can opt for minimum ECE certified helmets. But if you are a bit more smart, then when you buy a DOT or ECE certified helmet, check whether the helmet has a sharp rating.
Good brands of helmets must have DOT/ECE as well as SHARP ratings. And if you can buy a helmet that has a sharp rating, then you can be sure that you have bought a good quality helmet.
Now coming to the price, if you keep a budget of only 10-15% of the price of the bike you ride, you can easily buy a good helmet. The price may seem a little high at first, but remember that there is nothing wrong with spending a little more money on a helmet. Because a good helmet costs less than a 1-day ICU bill if you get a regular head injury.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best helmet for your safety, understanding the DOT, ECE, and Snell certifications is crucial. DOT certified helmets meet the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation, while ECE certified helmets adhere to European safety standards and Snell certified helmets are held to strict safety guidelines by the Snell Memorial Foundation.
So, which certification is best for you? The answer largely depends on your personal preferences and riding needs. While DOT certification is accepted in the United States, ECE certification is recognized globally for its rigorous testing procedures. On the other hand, Snell certification is known for its high-performance standards suitable for racing enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the best-certified helmet for you is one that fits well, is comfortable to wear, and meets the safety standards required for your riding style. Whether you choose a DOT, ECE, or Snell certified helmet, prioritizing your safety is always the top choice.
FAQ:
Which Helmet Standard Is The Best?
When it comes to deciding which helmet standard is the best – DOT (Department of Transportation), ECE (Economic Commission for Europe), or Snell – it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. Each certification has its own set of guidelines and requirements, so it’s essential to choose one that aligns with your riding style and priorities.
What Is Dot Helmet Certification?
DOT (Department of Transportation) helmet certification is a safety standard set by the U.S. government. Helmets that meet DOT standards undergo rigorous testing to ensure they provide adequate protection in case of an impact. If you ride on U.S. roads, wearing a DOT-certified helmet is often required by law in many states.
What Is Ece Helmet Certification?
ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) helmet certification is a safety standard recognized in over 50 countries. Helmets with ECE certification meet stringent safety requirements and are tested for impact resistance, penetration protection, and retention strap strength. Many riders consider ECE-certified helmets to offer a good balance of protection and comfort.
What Is Snell Helmet Certification?
Snell helmet certification is a voluntary standard set by the Snell Memorial Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving helmet safety. Helmets that meet Snell standards are tested for impact performance at higher speeds and energy levels than DOT and ECE standards. While Snell-certified helmets offer advanced protection, some riders may find them to be slightly heavier and stiffer than other helmets.
Which Helmet Certification Should I Choose?
The best helmet certification for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you primarily ride in the U.S., a DOT-certified helmet is a popular choice due to legal requirements. For riders who prioritize versatility and international recognition, an ECE-certified helmet may be preferable. If you seek maximum protection and are willing to invest in a high-performance helmet, a Snell-certified helmet could be the best option for you.
