Low profile motorcycle helmets are often quite minimalistic. Most of them don’t even have a visor or chin, resembling what we know as “mushrooms”. But why do low profile motorcycle helmets have mushroom heads in the first place?
The helmets have mushroom heads because of the thick padding and foam added by manufacturers. The sleek outer shell is also made of thick material for better protection if in case the worst happens.
But is it really that effective? Are all low profile helmets mushroom look alike? How safer they actually are? Let’s dive in and learn more about helmets with mushroom heads.
What Is A Mushroom Head Helmet?
Before we get started, let’s understand what a mushroom head helmet actually is. Basically, it is a name given to helmets without a visor or chin, and that comes with thick and excessive padding for added protection.
Although the helmet is a perfect fit in most cases, it tends to make the riders head look a few inches bigger, appearing like a giant mushroom on the head, hence the name mushroom head.
In simple terms, mushroom head helmets are thicker, bigger, heavier, but safer at time time. The design features excessive stuffing to absorb any impacts on crashing. As a result, most of these helmets are DOT-approved (Department of Transportation) with regulators believing they are the ideal standards for safety.
Overall, mushroom head helmets ensure optimal safety from head injuries. However, the helmets tend to be uncomfortable, heavier, and rigid. This is why you see many people opting for the lightweight half helmet without the mushroom appearances.
In the end, the ideal choices come down to personal preferences and safety. The age-old mushroom look is ideal for safety but one must compromise on comfort. So, a low-profile lightweight helmet is ideal if you want a sleek and more comfortable feeling.
Why Do Low Profile Motorcycle Helmets Have Mushroom Heads?
Helmets keep you safe, however, we often look for something a bit more than that. After all, the first thing anyone notice is the appearance, not the shell material or other safety features.
As a bike lover, what would you prefer? Safety or appearance? The truth is, mushroom head helmets aren’t that good looking as you head basically looks like a giant mushroom. But why do low-profile motorcycle helmets have mushroom heads to begin with?
The mushroom head appearance can be attributed to excessive padding and thick shells. The extra protection added helps absorb impacts in case of accidents.
In most cases, the helmets feature a tough exterior shell that protects against impacts. Additionally, they feature different foam padding on the interior to help enhance comfort and further absorb shocks. Plus, You can also find extra moisture-wicking fabrics on the helmets to help absorb any moisture and sweat.
The helmets work perfectly when it comes to safety, however, the extra materials add more weight making them bulky, heavier and less comfortable.
Manufacturers are always trying to get low-profile helmets without the mushroom appearances. However, this must be done without affecting safety. Nowadays, we have low-profile helmets without a mushroom appearance.
That’s not what we’re here to discuss. The biggest question is whether mushroom head helmets are safe. This leads us to our next segment of this article.
Are Low-Profile Helmets Safe To Wear While Riding?
To some extent, almost all low-profile helmets are safe. However, low-profile helmets with mushroom heads are the safest in the market. But he thing is, most bike riders are always on the lookout for a stylish, lightweight, and low-profile helmet with good protection.
So, are low-profile helmets safe? Nowadays, you can pretty decent low-profile helmets with new technologies and some little padding to ensure optimal safety. These are DOT-certified low-profile helmets that can meet a wide array of needs. The helmets feel light and comfortable on the head.
They are a unique blend of helmets that give users protection and looks. The low profile prevents the bulky mushroom head design. You can be sure of looking stylish and great on the road.
So, in a way, low-profile helmets are safe to some extent. First, they are minimally padded, lightweight, and comfortable to wear. The helmets cover almost the entire head. However, it leaves out vital parts of the head like the chin, back of the head, and neck. This is the minimal risk the helmets pose in case of accidents.
In some instances, you might consider complementing the helmets with glasses. They tend to strike a thin line between safety and looks.
So, apart from design and safety to an extent, what else do you stand to gain from low-profile helmets?
Benefits Of Wearing Low-Profile Helmets
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Easy to wear and remove:
There is less tussle with low-profile helmets. You can easily wear and remove them with ease. These helmets do not put your neck and shoulders under heavy stress.
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Comfortable:
Secondly, the helmets are comfortable and feel great to wear. The unique design offers comfort. You don’t have to feel like you’re wearing a giant mushroom over your head. Most riders choose half helmets because of comfort.
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Lightweight:
Thirdly, the helmets are exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry around. You can have them on your head for long periods without fatigue. They are also easy to store and can fit in backpacks.
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Great fitting:
The helmets offer a great fit, therefore, ensuring more security. You can be sure the helmet will not sag. It stays in place coming with straps that ensure a great fit.
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Affordable:
Lastly, these helmets are quite affordable. The fewer materials used in their construction means they tend to cost less. I can confidently say low-profile helmets are safer to wear.
However, they are not the safest with the degree of safety varying. Research has shown that helmets offer up to 67% protection against head injuries. Additionally, the helmets protect against 29% of fatal injuries.
Overall, for low-profile helmets, the chin is at the highest risk of injuries in case of accidents. This is because of the helmet design that does not cover the chin. Only a full-face helmet with a mushroom head provides full-head protection.
Conclusion
Wearing helmets while riding motorcycle is a great way to keep yourself safe. In fact, in most countries, you need to wear a helmet by law. At the end, everything comes down to personal safety and style.
Mushroom head helmets come with their pros and cons. Deciding between a low-profile motorcycle helmet with a mushroom head and one without should not be difficult. But you need to see what works for you and choose accordingly.