Choosing a snowmobile helmet is perhaps the biggest safety decision you can make for yourself, but there are so many options. Where do you begin? Should you just buy the most expensive one on the market (because expensive obviously means “best”)? We have the answers—read on to learn our tips for buying the best snowmobile helmet.
Know the Types
The first step is to understand the types of snowmobile helmets. There are too many to count, so we’ll simply look at some of the most common helmets.
The full-face helmet is the ubiquitous snowmobile helmet, and for good reason—it just works. It’s fully enclosed and has smooth, aerodynamic curves for a great ride. Full-face helmets don’t have many moving pieces, which is a double-edged sword; this design helps with aerodynamics but may lose points in the “capabilities” arena.
Alternatively, modular shells take those benefits and give you options. This helmet style is like a convertible—you can wear it like a full-face helmet or an open-face helmet, depending on your preference and the situation.
If you ride for sport, consider a snowcross helmet. Snowcross helmets offer great rigidity, which means excellent protection if you crash. The main difference between this helmet and others is the absence of a face shield. Instead, you’ll pair this helmet with snow goggles, increasing your field of view.
Look for Safety Ratings
Most helmets will have some type of safety rating, and the two main types are DOT and SNELL. First of all, make sureyou choose a helmet with one of these safety ratings. Otherwise, the helmet may not meet the requirements to adequately protect you.
SNELL helmets are the go-to choice if you’re planning to travel at more than 60 miles per hour. On the other hand, DOT helmets are great for rocky terrain and going less than 60 miles per hour.
Choose Some Upgrades
Some helmets, like the CKX Titan, come with upgrades to give you more bang for your buck. For example, dual-pane shields are muchmore useful than single-pane ones because you won’t have to deal with nearlyas much condensation on the shield.
Now that you know these tips for buying the best snowmobile helmet, ensure you’re well-protected when you take to the trails. A new helmet is an investment in your future—make sure you choose a good one.
