The importance of a snowmobile helmet is indisputable. After all, it will protect your head if there’s an impact following an accident. But, equally important, it ensures that you remain warm by retaining as much heat as possible.
However, not all helmets will do so. Fortunately, here is how to choose the perfect snowmobile helmet. Check out the things to consider.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Snowmobile Helmet
1. Chin Curtain
When choosing a snowmobile helmet, choosing one with a chin curtain is a wise move. Since the environment you are riding in is usually cold, this part is quite essential.
It will ensure that cold water doesn’t enter from underneath the helmet. Consequently, you get to keep warm regardless of how cold it gets.
2. Air Vents
You most likely think the slots and vents that facilitate ventilation are bad news when it is snowing. However, that’s far from the truth because airflow is important, so you need your snowmobile helmet to have air vents. The rider’s breath is bound to cause moisture build-up, and ventilation will clear it.
It is ideal for the regulation of internal temperature. In addition to that, it prevents fogging. Preferably, go for one with adjustable vents to set it according to the best suitable amount of airflow at any particular time.
3. Breath Guard
As the name suggests, this feature handles the rider’s breath. Ensure that yours seals tightly around the top of your nose and face because only then will it serve its purpose. At first, the guard will hold the rider’s breath. Then, all the air exhaled either through the mouth or nose will be redirected downwards.
Consequently, it will not come into contact with the visor, avoiding fogging that often affects the vision. Look for comfortable, removable, and easy-to-install breath guards so that they don’t end up doing more harm than good in the end.
Keep in mind that a great breath guard will also ensure that cold air doesn’t hit your bare skin.
4. Quick Release Strap Fastener
When wearing your snowmobile helmet, you need to have an easy time, no doubt. But, equally important, you don’t want taking it off to be a bother. To facilitate that, it is advisable to consider the fastener. It makes doing up your helmet and undoing it reasonably easy.
5. Shield
Snow reflection can be distracting. That’s where the shield comes in to protect your eyes from the same. Ensure that you settle for a dual-pane shield because a single one will prove inadequate when the temperatures are too low.
Thanks to the dual-pane, the fogging will be minimal regardless of how cold it gets.
The pair is separated by a layer of gas which serves as an insulator hence prevents heat transfer. After all, the heat is the reason behind the condensation on your shield during cold temperatures.
6. Electric Visor
It is also something worth considering when choosing a snowmobile helmet. It may not be of much help with the frost or ice outside it, but it will surely prevent the visor from fogging.
7. Safety Standards
The main reason for wearing your snowmobile is for protection in case of impact. One way of knowing whether yours meet the minimum safety standards is by considering certifications and approvals. They include Department of Transport (DOT) approval. Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) certification and Snell standards.
They undergo constructive tests, including peripheral vision and penetration, to measure their ability to withstand the impact of landing on a sharp object. Tests also focus on impact and how shock absorbing it is once it occurs.
Equally important there is the retention rating which tells whether the chin strap remains fastened.
