You wouldn’t wear shoes two sizes too big and expect to run comfortably, right? The same goes for motorcycle helmets. A helmet that’s too tight will make you miserable on long rides, while one that’s too loose won’t protect you in a crash. And let’s be honest—no one wants a helmet that slides around like a wobbly shopping cart wheel.
Getting the right size isn’t complicated, but there are a few things people often get wrong. This guide will show you how to measure your head, check for the right fit, and pick a helmet that feels like it was made just for you.
Step 1: How to Measure Your Head (The Right Way)
Before you even think about picking a helmet, you need to know your exact head size. Guessing won’t cut it — helmets aren’t like baseball caps that you can adjust on the fly. A wrong-sized helmet can either squeeze your head like a vice or be so loose that it won’t protect you properly in a crash.
Here’s how to measure your head the right way:
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Grab a flexible measuring tape. If you don’t have one, a piece of string and a ruler will do the trick.
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Find the widest part of your head. This is usually about an inch above your eyebrows and just above your ears.
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Wrap the tape around your head. Keep it level — don’t angle it up or down. It should sit where the helmet’s inner padding would rest.
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Check the number where the tape meets. If you're using a string, mark the spot, then measure it against a ruler.
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Write it down in centimeters and inches. Different brands use different sizing charts, so it’s good to have both.
Common mistakes to avoid:
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Pulling the tape too tight or too loose. A snug fit is key. If the tape is digging into your skin, it’s too tight. If it’s barely touching, it’s too loose.
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Measuring too high or too low. A helmet doesn’t sit on your forehead like a crown — it covers your whole head. Keep the tape in the right spot.
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Skipping this step altogether. If you just grab a helmet that "feels right," you might end up with something that’s unsafe or uncomfortable.
Why this matters: Even a top-of-the-line helmet won’t protect you if it doesn’t fit right. Take the extra two minutes to measure properly — it’s a small effort that makes a huge difference.
Step 2: Match Your Measurement to a Helmet Size Chart
Now that you’ve measured your head, it’s time to match that number with the right helmet size. But here’s the tricky part — helmet sizes aren’t universal. A Medium in one brand might fit like a Large in another. That’s why checking the specific size chart of the brand you’re buying is just as important as measuring your head correctly.
Here’s a general helmet size guide:
|
Head Circumference (cm) |
Helmet Size |
|
53-54 cm |
Small (S) |
|
55-56 cm |
Medium (M) |
|
57-58 cm |
Large (L) |
|
59-60 cm |
X-Large (XL) |
Why this matters: Helmets should fit snugly but not feel like they’re squeezing your skull. If it’s too loose, it won’t protect you properly in a crash. Too tight, and you’ll have a headache before you even hit the highway.
Brand Fit Differences — Why One Medium Might Not Be the Same as Another
A Shoei Medium won’t feel the same as an HJC Medium. Some brands have a rounder fit, while others are more oval. If you’re buying in-store, try different brands to see what feels best. If you’re shopping online, check the return policy in case the fit isn’t right.
Top Helmet Picks from Team Motorcycle
If you want a helmet that fits well and offers solid protection, here are a few great options:
Shoei RF-1400 Full Face Helmet – High-end comfort, excellent safety ratings, and great for long rides. If you’re serious about riding, this one’s worth it.
HJC i10 Full Face Helmet – A great all-around helmet that won’t break the bank. Good ventilation and a solid fit for most riders.
Scorpion EXO-R420 – Affordable, safe, and has great airflow. If you want a mix of protection and value, this is a smart choice.
New helmets feel tight at first and that’s normal. The padding inside molds to your head over time, so don’t rush to swap sizes unless it’s uncomfortably tight. A snug fit now means a perfect fit later.
Step 3: The Fit Test – Does Your Helmet Actually Work for You?
So, you’ve measured your head, matched it to a size chart, and picked a helmet. But before you hit the road, there’s one more thing — you need to make sure it actually fits right. A helmet that’s too loose won’t protect you in a crash, and one that’s too tight will make riding miserable. Here’s how to check:
The Shake Test
Put the helmet on, buckle it up, and shake your head side to side. If the helmet shifts or wobbles without much effort, it’s too big. A properly fitted helmet should move with your head, not on its own.
The Cheek Pad Test
Your cheeks should feel slightly pushed in — kind of like wearing a snug hoodie with the hood pulled tight. If your face feels like it’s being squished, the helmet might be too small. If the padding barely touches your skin, it’s too big.
The Forehead Test
Wear the helmet for about 10 minutes. When you take it off, check your forehead. If you see deep red marks or feel any pain, the helmet is too tight. A slight imprint is normal, but discomfort isn’t.
Breaking It In – Helmets Loosen Over Time
New helmets always feel a little tight at first. That’s because the padding hasn’t molded to your head yet. If the fit is snug but comfortable, it should break in within a few rides. But if it already feels loose from day one, it’s probably the wrong size.
Taking the time to get the fit right now means you’ll have a helmet that’s comfortable, secure, and ready to do its job when you need it most.
Step 4: Head Shape Matters More Than You Think
Picking the right helmet size is only half the battle. The other half? Head shape. Even if a helmet matches your measurements, it won’t feel right if it’s not shaped for your head. Some riders end up with pressure points, headaches, or loose gaps because they didn’t realize their head shape was the issue.
The Three Main Head Shapes
Manufacturers design helmets in different shapes to match how people’s heads are built. Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Round Oval – About the same width and length. If helmets usually press in on the sides, you might have a rounder head.
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Intermediate Oval – Slightly longer front to back than side to side. This is the most common shape in North America, so most helmets are made to fit this type.
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Long Oval – Much longer front to back than it is wide. If helmets always feel tight on your forehead but loose on the sides, this is likely your shape.
How to Figure Out Your Head Shape
Stand in front of a mirror and look at the top of your head. Better yet, have someone take a photo from above. If helmets always squeeze in certain spots but feel loose in others, it’s a sign you might need a different shape.
Taking a few minutes to check your head shape can make a huge difference in comfort — because a helmet that fits right is one you’ll actually enjoy wearing.
Step 5: Common Helmet Sizing Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
A helmet is only as good as its fit. Too tight, and you’ll get headaches. Too loose, and it won’t protect you the way it should. A lot of riders get sizing wrong because they go with what "feels good" in the moment rather than what actually fits. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Buying a Size Up Because It Feels More Comfortable
A helmet should feel snug when it’s brand new. The padding will break in over time, molding slightly to your head. If you start with one that’s already loose, it’ll only get worse. A proper fit means the helmet stays put when you shake your head but doesn’t pinch or cause pain.
2. Forgetting About the Chin Strap
A helmet isn’t just about the top of your head — the chin strap matters too. If it’s too loose, the helmet can shift or even come off in a crash. A good rule of thumb? Fasten the strap and try pulling the helmet forward off your head. If it moves too much or slides off, it’s not secure enough.
3. Ignoring Brand Differences
Not all helmets fit the same, even if they’re the same size on paper. A Shoei Medium isn’t the same as a Bell Medium. Some brands run narrower, some wider. Always check the specific brand’s size chart and, if possible, try the helmet on before buying. If you’re ordering online, check the return policy in case the fit isn’t right.
A helmet that fits correctly can be the difference between walking away from an accident or not. Take your time with sizing — your safety depends on it.
Step 6: FAQs – Answering Your Most Common Questions
Buying a helmet can feel overwhelming, especially with all the different sizes, shapes, and brands out there. If you’ve got questions, you’re not alone. Here are some of the most common things riders wonder about when it comes to helmet fit and comfort.
Do Helmets Loosen Up Over Time?
Yes, they do. The padding inside a helmet compresses slightly as you wear it, which is why a brand-new helmet should feel snug. If it feels “just right” when you first put it on, chances are it’ll be too loose after a few rides. That’s why riders are often told to buy a helmet that’s comfortably tight from the start.
Can I Wear a Helmet One Size Bigger for Comfort?
No. A loose helmet is a bad helmet. In an accident, a helmet that’s too big can shift or even come off, making it useless when you need it most. Comfort is important, but so is safety. If a helmet is the right size, it should feel snug all around your head — without squeezing too hard or causing pain.
What’s the Best Helmet for Glasses Wearers?
If you wear glasses, you’ll want a helmet that won’t pinch the frames or make it impossible to slide them on. Look for helmets labeled "glasses-friendly", which usually have grooves in the padding to fit your frames. Modular helmets are also a great option since the front flips up, making it easier to put your glasses on before locking the helmet in place.
Got more questions? The right helmet isn’t just about size — it’s about fit, comfort, and safety. Take your time finding one that checks all the boxes.
Get the Right Fit and Ride With Confidence
Your helmet isn’t just another piece of gear — it’s the one thing standing between you and serious injury if something goes wrong on the road. A good fit doesn’t just make the ride more comfortable, it keeps your head protected, cuts down on wind noise, and reduces fatigue on long trips.
Taking the time to measure your head, check sizing charts, and try on different fits isn’t a hassle; it’s the difference between a helmet that works and one that fails when you need it most. Get it right, and you’ll ride with more confidence, knowing you’ve done everything you can to stay safe.
