ATV Helmet Buying Guide

ATVs are fast, fun, and agile, but they can also be hazardous if you don’t use appropriate safety equipment. Whether you use your quad for work or play, you should wear a well-fitted helmet — it’s the best protection you can have against a head injury. This short guide explains some of the differences between various types of powersports helmets and some of the things you should look for when buying a new helmet.

Types of Helmets

There aren’t many models of ATV-specific helmets, probably because what makes for a good ATV helmet will also generally make for a good UTV or motocross helmet. A good motorsports helmet is one that’s lightweight and sufficiently ventilated for keeping cool during hot summer rides. It also will likely have room for using goggles so that the rider can pick their own eye protection, but it should otherwise offer full-face protection. Many models also feature a visor on top to keep rain and water out of the rider’s face. Try to avoid overly heavy and poorly ventilated motorcycle helmets when possible, and it should almost go without saying that a bike helmet is not made for the speed or force of an ATV.

Riding Comfort

One of the most important elements to consider when buying a helmet is riding comfort. As much as possible, try to find helmets to try on in person and try on multiple sizes of the same helmet. After doing this, you’ll have a much better idea about helmets that are likely to be a good choice. The important takeaway though is that if your helmet pinches your head, slips down into your field of vision, obstructs your lines of sight, or is too stuffy to wear, you want to try another model.

Goggles or Facemask?

If you go for the traditional motorsports style of helmet, you’ll likely be presented with the choice between a facemask or goggles for eye protection. A facemask gives you better overall protection from precipitation, dust, and debris. Goggles open up a wide variety of options and you can choose from eyewear with fog-resistant, UV blocking, and glare-reducing features. But that will come at a separate cost, so if you’re on a budget, a facemask might be the better option.

Staying safe on your quad requires you to protect your head and eyes, and an ATV helmet is the best way to do that. If you are in the market for an ATV, visit SoCal Honda Powersports in Carson, CA, to check out all the latest models that we’ve got in stock right now. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Los Angeles and Long Beach.