The Do’s and Don’ts of Choosing an ATV Helmet
When it comes to headgear like your ATV helmet, there’s no room for compromise. The difference between a good helmet and bad helmet can be the difference between life and death. That’s why Gator Sports is taking the time to help you distinguish what to buy and what not to buy. Safety comes first, after all, and we want our valued customers to stay protected!
How to Choose an ATV Helmet
There are certain things to look for when deciding on an ATV helmet. Below are some “do’s” and “don’ts” to keep in mind as you shop around:
Don’t Buy on Price Alone: Keep in mind that a price point doesn’t always determine the quality or the safety of a helmet. When selections can range anywhere between $90 to $700, some customers find it overwhelming to browse and discover the right helmet. We recommend that you consider your budget and compare it to the safety ratings of the helmets you can afford. All of them should have DOT and Snell ratings based on simulated safety tests. Always, always make sure the helmet you buy has a “DOT Approved” sticker on it.
Always Buy New: A used helmet has usually seen its share of adventures. There is no way to tell from the outside of a used helmet how much internal damage it has accrued. Because of this, you will always want to avoid used or second-hand helmets. You never want to discover through an accident that the integrity of the helmet has been compromised.
Make Sure You Buy the Proper Fit: A great helmet is useless if it doesn’t fit the rider right. Make sure that your ATV helmet is the proper fit for you before you make your purchase. You can do this by trying it on. Tighten the chin strap to a comfortable fit, then grab the helmet with both hands while you are wearing it and jostle it left, right, forward, and back. Your helmet shouldn’t slide when you do this. If it does, it’s too big. Next, try sliding a finger between your forehead and the helmet’s padding. If you can, it’s too big. Lastly, tug the helmet forward while you are wearing it to see if it slides off. Again, if the answer is “yes,” your helmet is too big. The key is to find a helmet that is both snug and comfortable.
Make Sure You Buy the Proper Style: Not all helmets are the same. They are designed for the activity that they were made to be worn for. Make sure that you purchase an ATV helmet designed for ATV riding.
Shop for Helmets at Gator Sports
If you’re in head of some headgear, come to Gator Sports to buy a helmet. We carry all of your ATV needs with a great selection of accessories, parts and Polaris vehicles. Simply stop by our location in LaBelle or give our showroom a call during business hours at 863-675-1464.