Guides
Guides
Is a 20 Year Old Motorcycle Helmet Still Good?
by Keith Nixon
on Sep 21 2026
A 20-year-old motorcycle helmet may look perfectly usable, but age matters. Here’s what happens as helmets get older and when it is time to replace your lid.
Guides
Are Expensive Motorcycle Helmets Actually Safer? What the 2026 SHARP Results Tell Us
by Keith Nixon
on Sep 01 2026
Does spending more on a motorcycle helmet actually mean better protection? We look at the 2026 SHARP results, ECE 22.06, helmet prices and why the correct fit still matters most.
Guides
What Not to Wear When Riding a Motorcycle?
by Joshua Griffin
on Feb 24 2025
Regular jeans, trainers and everyday clothing might be comfortable, but they are not designed for a motorcycle accident. We look at what not to wear on a bike and the proper riding gear to use instead.
Guides
How to Loosen a Tight Motorcycle Helmet Safely
by Keith Nixon
on Oct 29 2024
Motorcycle helmet feeling too tight? Learn what can safely settle, what must never be altered and when you need a different size or shape.
Guides
How Do I Know If My Helmet Is Road Legal in the UK?
by Joshua Griffin
on Jul 22 2024
When it comes to riding motorcycles, safety is paramount. One of the most critical pieces of safety gear is your helmet. However, not all helmets are created equal, and ensuring that your helmet is road legal in the UK is essential for both your safety and compliance with the law. This guide will he...
Guides
Are Flip Up Helmets as Safe as Full Face?
by Joshua Griffin
on Jul 19 2024
Motorcycle helmets are an essential piece of gear for any rider, providing critical protection in the event of an accident. Among the various types of helmets available, full-face motorcycle helmets and flip-up (or modular) helmets are two popular choices. But how do they compare in terms of safety?...
Guides
What Are the Disadvantages of a Full Face Helmet?
by Joshua Griffin
on Jul 18 2024
When it comes to motorcycle safety, full-face motorcycle helmets are often touted as the gold standard. They offer unparalleled protection by covering the entire head, including the chin and face. However, like any piece of gear, they come with their own set of disadvantages. In this blog post, we'll...
Guides
Do Helmets Get Looser Over Time?
by Joshua Griffin
on Jun 04 2024
When it comes to safety gear, helmets are non-negotiable, especially in high-risk activities like motocross. A well-fitted helmet can be the difference between a minor scrape and a severe injury. However, one question that often arises among riders is: Do helmets get looser over time? Understanding ...
Guides
Is it Better to Have a Tight or Loose Helmet?
by Joshua Griffin
on Jun 03 2024
When it comes to motocross, safety is paramount. One of the most crucial pieces of safety gear is the helmet. However, a common question that arises is whether it's better to have a tight or loose helmet. This guide aims to provide you with comprehensive insights into whether it is better to have a ...
Guides
How Do I Know My Childs Helmet Size?
by Joshua Griffin
on May 24 2024
One of the most crucial pieces of gear when it comes to ensuring the safety of your child while they enjoy riding a motorcycle is the helmet. A well-fitted helmet can make all the difference in protecting your child from potential injuries. But how do you determine the right size? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding the perfect fit for children's motorcycle helmets.
Why Helmet Fit Matters
Before diving into how to measure for a helmet, it's essential to understand why fit is so important. A helmet that is too loose or too tight can compromise safety and comfort. A properly fitted helmet provides maximum protection by absorbing impact efficiently and staying securely in place during a ride.
Measuring Your Child's Head
The first step in finding the right size for childrens motorcycle helmets is accurate measurement. Here’s how you can do it:
Tools You’ll Need
A flexible measuring tape
A piece of string (if you don’t have a measuring tape)
A ruler (if using string)
Pen and paper to note down measurements
Steps to Measure
Positioning: Have your child stand or sit upright.
Measure Circumference: Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of their head, usually just above the eyebrows and ears.
Note Down Measurement: Ensure that the tape is snug but not too tight, and write down the measurement in centimetres or inches.
Double Check: For accuracy, measure at least twice.
If you're using a piece of string, follow the same steps but mark where the string meets and then measure it against a ruler.
Understanding Helmet Sizes
Once you have your child's head measurement, refer to a sizing chart specific to childrens motorcycle helmets. Different brands may have slight variations in sizing, so always check their specific charts.
Common Size Categories
Small: Typically fits head circumferences between 18-19 inches (46-48 cm)
Medium: Fits 19-20 inches (48-51 cm)
Large: Fits 20-21 inches (51-53 cm)
Always refer to each brand's unique sizing chart for precise measurements.
Trying On Helmets
After identifying potential sizes based on measurements, it's time for your child to try on some helmets.
Key Fit Checks
Snug Fit: The helmet should be snug but not overly tight.
Even Pressure: Ensure there are no pressure points or gaps.
Stability Test: Have your child shake their head side-to-side and up-and-down; the helmet should stay in place without moving excessively.
Comfort Check: Make sure your child feels comfortable wearing it for extended periods.
Adjusting Helmet Fit
Most childrens motorcycle helmets come with adjustable features like padding inserts or dial-fit systems that allow fine-tuning for an optimal fit.
Padding Inserts
Many helmets include additional padding that can be added or removed as needed to achieve a better fit.
Dial-Fit Systems
Some modern helmets feature dial-fit systems at the back that allow easy adjustment by turning a dial until achieving desired snugness.
Safety Standards and Certifications
When selecting childrens motorcycle helmets, ensure they meet recognized safety standards such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe). These certifications indicate that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing for impact resistance and overall safety performance.
Regularly Recheck Fit
Children grow quickly, so it's essential to regularly recheck their helmet fit every few months or before each riding season starts. An ill-fitting helmet due to growth spurts can compromise safety significantly.
Conclusion
Finding the right size for childrens motorcycle helmets involves careful measurement, understanding sizing charts, trying on options, making necessary adjustments, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. By following these steps diligently, you can provide your child with maximum protection while they enjoy their riding adventures safely and comfortably.
Check out our full range of motorcycle helmets, available online or by visiting our Darwen store today. If you have any questions regarding any of our ranges, please call our customer service team at Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear store on 01254 704 000 and we will be more than happy to help.
Remember always; safety first! Happy riding!
Guides
Difference Between Motorcycle Helmets and Motocross Helmets
by Joshua Griffin
on May 08 2024
When it comes to motorcycle helmets, there are several types available, each designed with a specific purpose in mind. Two of the most common types are motorcycle helmets and motocross helmets. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are significant differences between them. This article ...
Guides
Can I Use a Motorcycle Helmet for a Car Track Day?
by Keith Nixon
on Mar 22 2024
Already own a motorcycle helmet and heading for a car track day? Find out when it can be used, why open-top cars usually need full-face helmets and which approvals actually matter.
Guides
Are Motocross Helmets Road Legal in the UK?
by Joshua Griffin
on Mar 19 2024
When it comes to riding motorcycles off-road, safety is paramount. One of the most critical pieces of safety equipment is undoubtedly the helmet. However, a question that often arises among motocross enthusiasts in the UK is: "Are motocross helmets road legal?" This blog post aims to answer ...
Guides
Can a Motorcycle Helmet Go Out of Date?
by Joshua Griffin
on Mar 04 2024
Motorcycle helmets are essential safety gear for any rider. They provide the necessary protection against head injuries in case of an accident, which can be life-threatening. However, one question often arises among riders is, "Can a motorcycle helmet go out of date?" The simple answer is yes. Motor...
Guides
Are Open Face Motorcycle Helmets Legal?
by Keith Nixon
on Feb 21 2024
Open face motorcycle helmets are legal in the UK, but they still need to meet an approved safety standard. We explain ECE 22.05 and 22.06, visor rules, motorway use and how open face helmets compare with full face options.
Guides
Beginners Guide to Motorcycle Gear!
by Joshua Griffin
on Feb 09 2024
Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience. The thrill of the open road, the wind in your face, and the freedom to go wherever you want are just a few of the many reasons why people love motorcycling. However, before you hop on your bike and hit the road, investing in the right motorcycle clo...
The North West's leading bikers store based in Darwen, Lancashire is now home to an ever growing, vast array of motorcycle clothing and helmets to suit all budgets.
The North West's leading bikers store based in Darwen, Lancashire is now home to an ever growing, vast array of motorcycle clothing and helmets to suit all budgets.