Practical TT Guide: Choosing the Right Cross or Enduro Helmet

The selection of off-road helmets is much more limited than the impressive range of road motorcycle helmets. There are differences, however, and the details that might seem trivial may not be all that much ... The Moto-Station gives you some helpful advice when choosing a Cross or Enduro helmet.

What would be the basis for choosing among the different models available on the market when buying an all-terrain helmet? A priori, there are not many questions here, but some details - small additions that we do not necessarily think about - can tip the scales in one direction or another. Moto-Station explains how to learn and choose a Cross or Enduro helmet.

Discipline: the decisive criterion

Overall, it has two great off-road capabilities: cross-country or enduro. This already provides a rather important choice: the weight of the helmet. A motocross round lasts a maximum of thirty minutes, often less at FFM and Ufolep regional championships. Whether the helmet you're wearing weighs 1 or 000 grams, the difference in fatigue won't be significant. A light helmet is a plus, but not required. On the other hand, things are a bit different in enduro because when you're about to spend a few hours on the bike, go hiking, or compete, a lightweight helmet will always be more visible at the end of the day. And if you're backpacking outdoors, the riding light is obvious...

Practice frequency

The number of annual launches can also influence your choice. A driver who occasionally walks or rides a motorcycle no more than once a month does not necessarily need a first-class helmet, all the comfort and all the options? On the other hand, when you start surfing the net, both cross and enduro, riding in a comfortable helmet is more enjoyable. For example, foam that needs to be washed regularly can become less and less pleasant over time: you might as well opt for a quality interior for ordinary pilots.

Defense, the same fight for all models?

All helmets on the French market comply with current safety standards. However, there may be some differences between models. With a polycarbonate helmet - often cheaper - the shell does not deform in the event of an impact: it is an inner shell that absorbs kinetic energy. In the case of a fiber (composite or carbon) helmet, the shell "works" on impact and absorbs some of the impact itself. Some brands (notably Shoei and Airoh) offer a quick-release side foam system to keep pressure off the neck if emergency services need to step in and remove the helmet. This isn't necessarily what you want to hear when buying headphones, but it's still good to know about them.

Very fresh foam!

The helmet is easy to maintain, especially off-road. While shopping, feel free to dismantle and reassemble the internal foams or ask the seller for a demo. This may seem like a small thing, but you should be aware that some models are much more difficult to disassemble than others. Then we can quickly lose patience and wash the lather less often. And since wearing a clean helmet is still much more enjoyable, do not lose sight of this detail. Several brands, including the Scorpion, offer an extra set of foams, which is quite handy for crafting a fresh helmet between two races or during your lunch break on an enduro ride.

Bonus spare parts kit?

Of the additional items that come with a helmet, the visor is the most common, but this is not always the case. It is always good to have one in advance, especially if you have a strong love for nature and tend to kiss it often ... If you can, order a spare visor immediately, as references are very limited. two years after the release of the headphones, it takes longer to find the part you need. Note in passing that the slightly flexible visor will accept the restrictions without much damage.

Protect your helmet

It clearly shows that the double D is obvious, especially since the micrometric buckle is not approved in the competition. Take some time to figure out how to properly use this double-D buckle because your helmet is poorly secured and little used. But you already know that ...

Statement

In competitions, the helmet is only valid for 5 years after leaving the factory. Therefore, it is necessary to find out about the current standards and decipher the label on the chin with the help of the seller. Buying a helmet at a super promotion could mean that the helmet has been in stock for several years now. Suddenly give yourself a nice present for this season, but you find yourself throwing you off with a brand new helmet from tech control, which may seem incredible, but it is possible. However, you can still use it for workouts or walks.

Look at your helmet “for real”

It is more important than ever to pick up a helmet before buying. Therefore, shopping is very important. This makes it possible to make sure that the helmet is in perfect condition. Otherwise, it can be returned to the manufacturer for the warranty to work, which is not always the case with a helmet ordered online. Obviously, shopping also allows you to try out different models directly. The test is important because ergonomics vary from one brand to another and the dimensions are not exactly the same.

Guess mask and glasses

Think about the mask you are going to use: not all helmets will fit all masks, so it is helpful to make sure the holes for your face are sufficient. Nothing prevents you from choosing a helmet with a narrow opening if you are not going to use a volume mask. For prescription glasses wearers, some models have recessed foam to fit the temples. Check with your retailer: Adequate ergonomics will inevitably be more enjoyable in both enduro and motocross.

Size matters!

For a helmet test, be it a cross, enduro or road model, everything is the same. If you want to know everything, see our article: How to Try on a Motorcycle Scooter Helmet in a Store.

There you are, now you're wearing a motocross or enduro helmet: there are more than ... However, know that if you fall hard and severely damage your helmet (shell, not visor), you will be good for a new purchase. In fact, rejection of a damaged helmet is systematic under the technical control of an off-road event. And in any case, you can't be too careful.

Arnaud Vibien, photo MS and DR