Are Motorcycle And Snowmobile Helmets The Same
When it comes to helmets, safety is the topmost concern for riders. Helmets protect your head from impact in the event of an accident. Whether you are riding a motorcycle or a snowmobile, a helmet is a must-have safety gear. However, a common question that arises among riders is whether motorcycle helmets and snowmobile helmets are the same.
The answer is both yes and no. While both helmets serve the same purpose, there are some differences between the two. In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences between motorcycle helmets and snowmobile helmets, helping you choose the right helmet for your ride.
Construction and Design
Motorcycle helmets and snowmobile helmets have different construction and design. Motorcycle helmets are designed to protect the rider's head from impact during high-speed accidents on the road. They are made of a hard outer shell, an impact-absorbing liner, and a comfort liner that keeps the helmet snug and comfortable on the rider's head.
Snowmobile helmets, on the other hand, are designed to protect the rider's head from cold and impact during high-speed rides on snow. They are made of a hard outer shell, an impact-absorbing liner, and a thermal liner that keeps the rider's head warm in cold weather.
Visor and Face Shield
The visor or face shield is another area where motorcycle helmets and snowmobile helmets differ. Motorcycle helmets come with a visor that protects the rider's face from wind, dust, and debris. The visor is typically clear or tinted, and some helmets come with a built-in sun visor as well.
Snowmobile helmets, on the other hand, come with a face shield that protects the rider's face from cold weather, snow, and debris. The face shield is usually tinted, and some helmets come with a dual-pane face shield that reduces fogging during cold weather rides.
Soundproofing
Another difference between motorcycle helmets and snowmobile helmets is the soundproofing. Motorcycle helmets are designed to reduce wind noise during high-speed rides. They come with aerodynamic features that reduce wind drag and noise, making the ride more comfortable for the rider.
Snowmobile helmets, on the other hand, are designed to keep the rider warm and protected from cold weather. They come with thick insulation and padding that reduces sound but not as much as motorcycle helmets. Snowmobile riders also wear additional gear such as balaclavas and earplugs to protect themselves from cold and noise.
Certification
It's important to note that motorcycle helmets and snowmobile helmets are certified differently. Motorcycle helmets are certified by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and/or the Snell Memorial Foundation. Snowmobile helmets, on the other hand, are certified by the Snell Memorial Foundation and/or the ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) standard.
It's important to choose a helmet that meets the safety standards for your ride. Make sure to check the certification label on the helmet before purchasing it.
Conclusion
While both motorcycle helmets and snowmobile helmets serve the same purpose of protecting the rider's head from impact, they are designed differently to meet the specific needs of the riders. Motorcycle helmets are designed for high-speed rides on the road, while snowmobile helmets are designed for high-speed rides on snow in cold weather. It's important to choose a helmet that meets the safety standards for your ride and provides maximum comfort and protection.