Riding a dirt bike is thrilling, no matter if you’re new or experienced. But with great adventure comes great responsibility—and that starts with safety. One of the most critical pieces of gear a female rider needs is a high-quality helmet. The right helmet can be the key to walking away from an accident or facing serious injuries.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best dirt bike helmets for women in 2022. We’ll look at features to consider. Then, we’ll discuss how to pick the right size. Also, we’ll give a detailed review of the best helmet brands and models. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best helmet for your riding needs.
Why Wearing a Dirt Bike Helmet is Essential
A helmet is more than just an accessory; it’s a life-saving piece of equipment. Here are some key reasons why wearing a helmet is non-negotiable for dirt bike riders:
- Helmets protect against head injuries. They cushion falls and collisions. This lowers the risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Prevention of Facial and Skull Fractures: A full-face helmet protects the skull, jaw, and face from severe injuries.
- A helmet protects you from dust, rocks, rain, and wind. It acts as a barrier against elements that can block your view and cause discomfort.
- Legal Requirement: In many places, it is the law to wear a helmet when riding a dirt bike.
Now that we’ve established why helmets are crucial let’s dive into how to choose the right one.
How to Choose the Best Dirt Bike Helmet for Women
1. Helmet Size and Fit
The first and most important step in choosing a helmet is ensuring it fits properly. A helmet that doesn’t fit well can be uncomfortable. It may not protect you properly if you have an accident.
How to Measure Your Head Size
- Use a soft measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of your head, about an inch above your eyebrows and ears.
- Compare your measurement with the size chart provided by the helmet manufacturer.
- Try the helmet on and ensure it fits snugly without causing discomfort. It should not move around when you shake your head.
Head Shapes and Helmet Fit
- Round Oval: Equal width and length of the head.
- Intermediate Oval: Slightly longer from front to back than from side to side (most common head shape).
- Long Oval: Significantly longer from front to back.
Choosing a helmet designed for your head shape ensures maximum comfort and safety.
2. Internal Padding
The interior padding of a helmet affects comfort and protection. Look for:
- Moisture-wicking material: Prevents excessive sweating.
- Removable and washable liners: Keeps your helmet fresh and clean.
- Impact-absorbing padding: Provides additional protection in case of impact.
3. Helmet Weight
A lightweight helmet reduces strain on your neck and shoulders, especially during long rides. Ideally, a helmet should weigh between 2.5 to 3.5 pounds for optimal comfort.
4. Ventilation System
Proper airflow is crucial, especially for off-road and dirt bike riding. A well-ventilated helmet prevents overheating and improves overall comfort.
Look for:
- Multiple air vents for enhanced airflow.
- Adjustable vents to control airflow based on riding conditions.
5. Safety Certifications
Always choose a helmet that meets or exceeds safety standards. Here are some essential certifications to look for:
- DOT (Department of Transportation): A basic safety certification required in the U.S.
- ECE (Economic Commission for Europe): A higher standard used in Europe and globally.
- SNELL: A stricter standard for racing helmets.
- SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme): A UK-based safety rating system.
6. Visibility and Visors
Helmets come with different visor options:
- Clear Visor: Best for night riding and general use.
- Tinted Visor: Reduces glare from sunlight but may not be suitable for nighttime use.
- Iridium or Mirrored Visor: This gives a stylish look and cuts glare. However, it might not work well in low light.
A wide field of vision is essential for situational awareness while riding.
7. Strap and Locking System
A secure strap system ensures your helmet stays in place during a crash. Look for:
- D-ring chin straps: Secure and adjustable.
- Quick-release buckles: Convenient but ensure they are sturdy and reliable.
8. Design and Color
Choose bright or reflective colours for better visibility, especially at night or in low light. While style matters, safety should come first.
Top 5 Best Dirt Bike Helmets for Women in 2022
1. Bell Women’s Vortex Monarch Helmet
- Lightweight and durable polycarbonate alloy shell.
- Removable and washable interior padding.
- Adjustable ventilation system for temperature control.
- Available in pink, white, and black butterfly designs.
2. Scorpion Exo EXO-R2000 Women’s Dispatch Full-Face Helmet
- Designed with MotoGP riders’ input for high performance.
- Aero-tuned ventilation system for optimal airflow.
- Adjustable inflatable cheek pads for a custom fit.
- Strong composite shell for maximum protection.
3. HJC CL-17 Mystic Full-Face Dirt Bike Helmet
- DOT-approved with advanced polycarbonate composite shell.
- Supercool moisture-wicking interior fabric.
- Anti-bacterial and removable interior padding.
- UV-resistant and scratch-resistant visor.
4. Shoei Duchess RF-1200 Street Racing Dirt Bike Helmet
- Bluetooth-ready helmet with integrated speaker system.
- 3D Max-Dry system and breath guard for comfort.
- Pin-lock anti-fog system for clear visibility.
- High-impact resistance for maximum safety.
5. HJC CL-17 Streamline Full-Face Dirt Bike Helmet
- Advanced CAD technology for superior fit and comfort.
- Anti-scratch and pin-lock system on the face shield.
- Full airflow ventilation from front to back.
- Side shield technology to prevent wind disturbances.
Where to Buy the Best Dirt Bike Helmets for Women?
You can purchase high-quality dirt bike helmets from:
- Online stores: Amazon, RevZilla, Cycle Gear, Rocky Mountain ATV/MC.
- Motorcycle gear shops: Visit physical stores to try helmets before buying.
- Buy directly from brand websites like Bell, Shoei, HJC, and Scorpion. This way, you get authentic products and valid warranties.
FAQs
1. How do I determine the correct size for a dirt bike helmet?
To find the right helmet size, measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows and around the widest part of your head. Compare this measurement to the manufacturer’s size chart. Always try the helmet on before purchasing to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
2. What safety certifications should I look for in a dirt bike helmet?
Look for helmets with safety certifications such as:
DOT (Department of Transportation) – U.S. safety standard
ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) – European safety standard
SNELL – A higher safety standard, often used for racing
SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme) – UK safety rating
3. Are full-face helmets better than open-face helmets for dirt biking?
Yes, full-face helmets provide superior protection by covering your entire head, including the chin and jaw. Open-face helmets leave your face exposed, increasing the risk of injury in an accident.
4. How often should I replace my dirt bike helmet?
Replace your helmet every 3-5 years, even if it looks undamaged. If you’ve been in an accident, replace it immediately, as internal damage may not be visible but can compromise safety.
Final Thoughts
Safety should always be your top priority when riding a dirt bike. A good helmet keeps you safe from injuries and makes your ride better. To choose the right helmet, consider its size, ventilation, padding, safety ratings, and visibility. These factors will help you meet your needs.
Ride safe, enjoy the adventure, and ensure you have the right gear to protect yourself!
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. Also, subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on dirt bike gear and accessories!
