About ATV Helmets
Driving ATV (all-terrain vehicles) is an activity people enjoy for both fun and for sport. Like any motorized vehicle hobby, there are some precautions to consider, such as wearing a helmet. For any ATV helmet activity, an ATV helmet should be worn to protect the rider (or passenger) in the event of a mishap. Helmets should be the correct size and can be purchased with a variety of features.
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Function
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ATV helmets are worn to protect the rider in the event of a crash or fall from the vehicle. They should be worn low on the forehead, above the eyebrows. Be careful not to set the helmet on too far back as the wearer should see the edge of the helmet in the upper range of his or her vision.
Features
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Although motorcycle helmets can be worn while driving an ATV, off-road and motocross helmets offer greater features and protection for driving this type of vehicle. Various ATV helmets offer a range of features for the wearer. Interior and exterior options include a scratch-resistant outer shell, a variety of designs and everything from snap out cheek pads to washable and replaceable interior lining. Different helmets also offer different ventilation options, including adjustable forehead and chin vents for increased air flow or to reduce wind noise as well as anti-fog systems which use adjustable side vents to draw heat and moisture out of the helmet to keep visor fog to a minimum. As for visor options, these can be replaceable, tinted with UV protection or the helmets may include a lever to securely lock the visor in place so it does not open during a rough ride. When searching for the perfect helmet, keep in mind what features you want your helmet to provide, beyond protection.
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Size
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Wearing a helmet is important, however, without the right size a helmet may be useless. To find the right ATV helmet size, measure the circumference of the widest part of the head. When trying on helmets, go for one size smaller and larger than this measurement. Take your time and try on helmets from a variety of manufacturers as different brands may fit differently. Don't settle and don't choose a helmet based on looks alone. It is extremely important that the helmet not move while it is worn. There should be some resistance while pulling the helmet on and, once on the head, it should stay in place no matter how much the wearer jumps around. Additionally, some riders may opt for a lighter weight helmet for long rides as a heavy helmet can lead to neck fatigue.
Benefits
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Beyond protection, wearing a helmet while driving an ATV has other added benefits. Helmets also protect the wearer from the wind, cutting down ambient wind noise, reducing wind fatigue and shielding eyes. Wearing a helmet, you can hear better and see better and wearing full-face helmets can keep distractions to a minimum.
Warning
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Finding the correctly sized helmet is just as important as having a helmet at all. A loose fitting helmet can be dangerous: it may slide and fail to protect the wearer in the event of a fall or crash, and may slide to obstruct vision or cause other complications while driving an ATV. This is especially important for children: purchasing a larger sized helmet to last longer may cost more in the long run than purchasing new helmets as the child grows. However, don't go to the extreme and choose a helmet that is too tight as this may cause problems of it's own.
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