You've taken the time to pick out the right ATV but have you taken the time to pick out the right helmet? You're shopping will not be complete until you've taken the time to pick out the proper helmet for you and your family. You're also going to need some gloves, jackets, pants and boots to make sure you and your family is protected. Remember that a helmet is the single most important piece of protective gear you will ever own.
So, how do you go about finding the proper helmet that fits right and also provides you with the most safety? How tight is too tight? How loose it too loose? Are all helmets the made the same? No, not all helmets are made for the same activity. You do not want to get a helmet that would be used for regular street use. ATV helmets cover you head completely with a face guard that protects your face and mouth area. Make sure that when you put the helmet on you shake your head from side to side and up and down. If the helmet shifts it's too big. On the other hand if the helmet is hard to get on and off it's too tight. You must also take into consideration the weight of the helmet. You want to make sure you will be able to endure the weight of the helmet for 15 to 30 minutes without it being cumbersome.
The second thing to look for is how easily the helmet can come off. If you get thrown from your ATV, you do not want your headgear to go flying off in one direction and you in another. Now that you've got the helmet on, adjust the chinstrap. Make sure it is tight and secure under your chin. Next, take the helmet from the back and try to take it off by pushing it to the front. Does the helmet come off? After that try moving the helmet side to side. If the helmet does not shift from side to side and does not cut off any circulation you know you have a good fit.
Children's helmets are another issue. A lot of parents think it's a good idea to buy a helmet that is a little bigger because the child will eventually grow into it. This is not a good idea. There are no cutting corners when it comes to your children's safety. The last thing you want is your child to have an accident and have their helmet fall off. Having a helmet to large is just as dangerous as having no helmet at all.