Choosing a Helmet for UTV Riding
As the days get longer again and the warmer months are just around the corner, you’re probably getting ready for outdoor activities again, like off-roading. Or maybe you’ve been using a UTV all winter to work on the property or enjoy the snowy weather in a new way. No matter what you use your UTV for or what time of year you take it out, always make sure you’re prioritizing safety. One of the most important pieces of safety equipment you should be wearing is a helmet. But you won’t want to wear just any helmet. To help you choose the right one, Joe’s Cycle Shop has provided some tips for sifting through the market to find the gear that will provide you with the best protection. If you’re still looking for the perfect UTV, then stop by our showroom to see what we have in stock right now. We proudly serve the regions of Jackson and Humboldt, Tennessee, as well as Corinth, Oxford, and Olive Branch, Mississippi.
Why Wear a Helmet?
You may be wondering what the fuss is about anyway. Propelled by four sturdy wheels and often featuring roll protection, UTVs may feel safe enough on their own that it may seem unnecessary to wear a helmet. And while it’s true that UTVs are designed to withstand a variety of terrain, they’re not designed to protect you. Any debris that may get kicked up or an accident can still result in serious injury to you, or worse. The safety measures that are included in the vehicle aren’t completely sufficient in providing you maximum protection, so you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing the right gear no matter how long you’ll be using your UTV or how slowly you’ll be moving.
Different Types of Helmets
Now to talk about the helmets themselves. You’ll need to get a little creative, as UTV specific helmets generally aren’t popular. Instead, you’ll want to repurpose a different helmet. There are certain helmets you should avoid, like half helmets, because they just won’t provide you with enough protection. Motorcycle helmets are definitely better when it comes to coverage, although many people don’t like them because they’re not as breathable and a little heavy.
The most popular choice is motocross helmets. These helmets give you the right amount of protection for your face, head, and neck, while also being lightweight and comfortable. After all, they’re built for fast-paced racing on rough terrain, so they’re perfect for keeping you safe while in a UTV.
Fit and Comfort
No matter what kind of helmet you choose, you’ll want to make sure it fits properly. The perfect helmet will be snug, but still comfortable and won’t move around too much. When you’re trying on a helmet, secure it and try to move it around on your head. If you feel the helmet wiggling around or if it comes off completely, then you’ll want to look for a smaller size.
Deciding if a helmet is too small can be more difficult. As we mentioned, the helmet should feel snug, but ultimately comfortable, so if one size actively causes discomfort or pain, then it’s probably too small. However, once you buy a helmet, don’t toss out the receipt. Sometimes the only way to know if you need a bigger size is to wear it while riding for a while. If at the end of the day you think your helmet is giving you headaches, then exchange it for a bigger size.
Goggles vs. Facemask
While your helmet should cover your head and mouth, you’ll also want to make sure your eyes are protected as well. Some helmets will come with a facemask to accomplish this. In general, motocross helmets do not come with facemasks, so in this case, you’ll want to get goggles. Try to find a pair that also comes with anti-fogging lenses, UV filtering, and ventilation to make your UTV ride even easier.
There are a lot of ways in which you can be following best UTV safety practices and wearing the right helmet may just be the tip of the iceberg. Another great way you can ensure your safety, and the safety of your passengers is to take your vehicle in for regular maintenance with a professional. When this time comes, schedule a service appointment with Joe’s Cycle Shop. We welcome all patrons from the regions of Jackson and Humboldt, Tennessee, as well as Corinth, Oxford, and Olive Branch, Mississippi.
