When choosing a helmet for scooter riding, there are a few key factors to consider in order to find the best option for safety and comfort. In the opening paragraphs, we’ll provide quick answers to common questions about scooter helmets to give an overview of what to look for.
What types of helmets are designed for scooters?
There are two main types of helmets made for scooter riding:
- Full face helmets – Covers the entire head, with a chin bar and visor. Offers the most protection.
- Open face helmets – Covers the top, back, and sides of the head. The face is open. Less protection than full face but allows for better visibility and ventilation.
What safety certifications should you look for?
Look for a scooter helmet that meets safety standards such as:
- DOT (Department of Transportation) – Common standard for motorcycle helmets in the US. Ensures impact protection.
- Snell – Rigorous standard that indicates high performance for impact protection.
- ECE 22.05 – Widely used standard in Europe that includes impact, penetration, and retention testing.
How should a scooter helmet fit?
A proper fitting scooter helmet:
- Sits level on your head and low on your forehead
- Has cheek pads that touch your cheeks without pressing uncomfortably
- Doesn’t wobble or shift around when you turn your head
- Offers a snug and secure fit with the chin strap fastened
What features should you look for in a scooter helmet?
Ideal features in a scooter helmet include:
- Ventilation – Flow-through vents to keep your head cool while riding.
- Visor – A tinted visor to shield your eyes from sun glare.
- Inner Padding – Removable, washable interior padding for comfort and hygiene.
- Lightweight – A lightweight shell to prevent neck fatigue from a heavy helmet.
- Optional Extras – Some helmets include integrated Bluetooth, speakers, and even cameras.
How much should you budget for a quality scooter helmet?
Expect to spend:
- $50 – $100 for a basic open face scooter helmet meeting DOT standards.
- $150 – $300+ for a full face scooter helmet with extra features and premium construction.
Focus more on finding a helmet with the right safety certifications and fit rather than just shopping by price alone.
Now, let’s compare some top scooter helmet options:
Helmet | Type | Safety Rating | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
Vega Helmets Warrior | Full face | DOT | Drop down tinted visor, Ventilation, Padded liner |
Bell Qualifier | Full face | DOT, ECE | Transitions shield, Anti-fog shield, Integrated speaker pockets |
Triple Eight Dual Cert | Open face | DOT, CPSC | Dual certification, Sweat-saver liner, Adjustable strap |
Vega Helmets Warrior
This affordable full face helmet from Vega offers basic protection for scooter riding. It meets DOT safety standards and includes a drop down tinted visor to shield your eyes from the sun. Rubber trim along the bottom forms a good seal against wind and noise. The ventilation system uses a number of vents in the chin, forehead, and back to allow air flow. The liner and cheek pads are removable and washable. Sizing runs a little small, so consider ordering a size up.
Bell Qualifier
With DOT and ECE 22.05 certification, the Bell Qualifier is a versatile street helmet ideal for scootering. It provides a secure and protective full face coverage. The shield transitions from clear to tinted in sunlight and has an anti-fog coating. Integrated speaker pockets allow you to add Bluetooth speakers. The padded wind collar seals out wind and road noise. The velocity flow ventilation system directs air through the helmet to keep you cool. Overall, the Bell Qualifier offers great features and performance at an affordable price point.
Triple Eight Dual Cert
The open face design of the Triple Eight Dual Cert provides good visibility and ventilation for seeing your surroundings while scootering. It meets both DOT and CPSC safety standards for protecting your head from impacts. The sweat-saver liner wicks moisture and dries quickly. An adjustable strap allows you to dial in the fit. There’s also a padded chin strap for comfort. For riding in warm weather, the Dual Cert is a solid choice with dual certification and a good value.
In summary, here are some final tips for choosing the best scooter helmet:
- Select a full face or open face helmet based on your preference.
- Make sure the helmet meets DOT, ECE, or similar safety standards.
- Try it on in person and ensure a snug, secure, and comfortable fit.
- Look for good ventilation, sun visor, padding, and lightweight materials.
- Spend $100+ for decent safety and features; $200+ for premium quality.
- Take proper care of your helmet with regular cleaning and replacement after a crash.
Wearing a quality helmet designed for scooter use is essential gear to help protect your head and reduce injury in the event of a crash. Invest in a helmet that fits well and offers reliable impact protection.
Ride safely and always wear your helmet!