ATV Helmets
Don't lose your head while ATV riding
The first thing you should learn about riding an ATV is that you should never, ever ride a machine without wearing a helmet. In fact, some people won't even let their children sit on an ATV without a helmet - and that's a good way to get them used to putting it on every time. There have been thousands of ATV accidents over the years, and hundreds of them have resulted in death. If you fall off an ATV, you have to protect your head or suffer the consequences. A helmet is the most important piece of protective riding gear you'll own.
There are many different brands, types and styles of ATV helmets on the market and it will be your job to find out which one will suit you best. Remember that a helmet is there to serve a function. It's not a fashion accessory, so choose a model that offers the best protection. Don't pick a helmet just because the color matches your boots.
Most helmets are made of a hard composite shell with soft Styrofoam-type cushioning inside. The most popular types of ATV helmets include full-face models that have a built-in face shield with chin and mouth protection; open-face versions that don't protect the chin and mouth; and off-road / motocross helmets that protect most of your face, chin and jaw. Off-road helmets are slightly different from full-face helmets as they offer better ventilation. These helmets also have a visor that flips up and acts as a face shield.
The first element of a good helmet is the fit. If the helmet doesn't fit you properly, it doesn't matter how much padding and protection it offers - it won't help you. The helmet has to fit snugly on your head. If it moves or comes flying off at impact, it's basically useless, and could even cause an injury. The only way to know if a helmet fits you properly is to try it on first. It's not recommended that you buy a helmet for somebody else or buy one online, since you can't try it on.
Your helmet should also be comfortable. Make sure it's not too heavy and that it doesn't overheat you and cause you to sweat. A good ATV helmet should also be approved by a government or consumer safety agency such as the Department of Transportation. These helmets go through a series of rigorous tests before they get the seal of approval.
For ATV safety reasons, you should replace your helmet every five years (or sooner, if needed), as it can weaken and deteriorate with age. You should never wear a cracked or dented helmet. Be aware that a helmet is only good for one hard impact. Even though the helmet may still look fine after a collision, it has been structurally damaged inside. For this reason, never buy a used helmet.
ATV helmets come in a variety of colors, materials and sizes, and you can buy helmet bags to carry them and protect them.
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