Snowmobile Helmet Buyers Guide

When riding a snowmobile, it is essential to ensure safety. And when it comes to safety, the helmet tops the list of the safety gears as it protects your head. With a snowmobile helmet, you will get ultimate protection, and there will be no fog build-up on the lens.

You need a helmet that is tough, comfortable and offers ample protection so that you can ride the skimobile with the assurance of safety.

But, when it comes to buying a snowmobile helmet, things can get challenging. You need a helmet that is comfortable, offers a good fit, has all the features that you need, and lastly fits in your budget. Finding a helmet that satisfies the criteria is often a task as there are plenty of helmets available out there.

In order to help you make an informed decision, we are here with this guide. The buyer's guide comprises the information you need to know. Read on to find out the factors that you should check when selecting a snowmobile helmet.

Benefits of buying a premium snowmobile helmet

There are numerous benefits of having a premium snowmobile helmet. From added protection to fog reduction, the helmet offers a plethora of benefits that you should know about. Here are some benefits a good snowmobile helmet offers.

Comfortable

When you buy a good quality, the helmet expects it to be comfortable so that you can keep wearing it for longer. These helmets have extra padding on the inside to offer more comfort. Buy a helmet following this buyer’s guide to ensure extra comfort from it.

Durable

When you go for a premium helmet, you can rest assured that it will be durable. These helmets are made using sturdy materials to withstand the impact and to protect you in the course of any accidents. Furthermore, good snowmobile helmets last longer, and that’s an added benefit.

Superb features

You will get a multitude of superb features with the best snowmobile helmet. The list of features an electric visor that heats up to remove the fog accumulation. There will be no fog on the visor, so you will get a clear view while riding the snowmobile.

Lightweight

Usually, these helmets are lightweight, and you can wear them without feeling any bulk. The modern helmets are made using lightweight materials that are highly durable. Purchase a helmet following this guide to buy a good snowmobile helmet.

Easy to use

Using a snowmobile helmet is easy, and there is no need to worry about anything. The helmets are easy to use, and you can quickly learn the features.

Factors to consider when buying an electric helmet

Before you click on the buy now button, it is important to check these factors to ensure that the helmet lasts longer and offers excellent performance. We have listed almost everything you need to know about these helmets, so buying the best one will be a lot easier.

Types of snowmobile helmet

The first thing you need to check is the type of snowmobile helmet. The type of helmet depends on multiple things, such as your requirements and what is your budget. Before, we have explained different types of snowmobile helmets:

Modular helmet

Modular snowmobile helmets are popular among snow rescue crews because of the durability and sleekness of these helmets. The lower portion of the helmet appears separate from the top area, so you can even flip the helmet whenever required. The helmets make it easier for the medical teams to access the face of the wearer due to the ¾-design.

Further, the helmet offers ample protection, but they aren’t as great as full-face helmets when it comes to protection. The helmets are available with a myriad of features such as a heated visor, and much more that you will find helpful while riding a snowmobile.

Full-face helmet

Full-face snowmobile helmets are popular among beginners and pro riders. The helmets offer unmatched protection and are affordable as well. The helmet comprises a one-piece body with a visor. The helmet doesn’t have a ¾-design, so you have to remove it fully to access the face.

The shell of the helmet offers excellent protection, and you can wear the versatile helmet during recreational riding or during a sports event. Furthermore, the helmet covers the entire face from the jawline to the head and the side to protect you from any type of injuries.

In fact, a full-face helmet can bear almost anything and has better strength when compared to modular helmets. Some full-face helmet models come with a removable visor so you can swap it with a tinted one.

Dual-sport helmet

Dual-sport helmets are a combination of full-face and snowcross helmets. The helmets are popular for their stylish design and offer an excellent field of view, so you will get a better view while riding. You can even replace the visor with a tinted one whenever required.

Further, the helmets are great and have a streamlined design that cuts the air so you will feel less drag while riding your snowmobile at speed. The protection offered by these helmets is good, and the shell covers the entire head and the jawline.

Snowcross helmet

The design of a snowcross helmet is a bit similar to that of full-face helmets, but there is no built-in visor, as you see in full-face helmets. You need to wear snow goggles with the helmet to protect your eyes from the snow. You should look for models that come with built-in deflectors to deflect those spine-chilling winds from touching your nose.

You will feel dry with these helmets provided that you are wearing good-quality snow goggles to keep the snow off your eyes.

Half helmets

As you can easily guess from its name, half helmets are like the old-school military helmets. These helmets cover the upper portion of the head, while the face and sides are still exposed. Furthermore, these helmets aren’t that great in terms of offering protection and don't have a built-in visor.

We don’t suggest going with half helmets as they are not safe to wear, and your face remains exposed to injuries.

Lenses

The next thing to check after selecting the right type is the lens configuration. Snowmobile helmets come with different types of lenses, and it is essential to choose the lens that offers ultimate clarity and blocks the sun rays from creating issues while you are riding on the snowmobile.

Also, the lens should resist fogging up, so you will get a clear view all the time. Go for snowmobile helmets with anti-fogging technology to ensure that there is no fog accumulation on the visor. Each type of helmet has a different type of lens configuration.

Some helmets like a half helmet or snowcross helmets don't have a lens setup, and you need snow goggles to wear with them. On the other hand, if you go for full-face snowmobile helmets, then you will get options to select different lens configurations.

Here are the common types of lenses available in snowmobile helmets:

Heated shields

Heated shields are the lenses that come with a heating strip powered by the battery of the helmet. The heated strip keeps the lens heated so that there is no fogging at all. Snowmobile helmets with heated shields are gaining a lot of popularity due to their fog resistance and ease of use.

However, you have to spend more as heated shields are available in expensive helmets only. Also, the setup needs timely maintenance, and you need to charge the battery so that the strip keeps working when you are riding the snowmobile.

Dual-pane shield

The dual-pane shield lens is commonly available in dual-sport and full-face snowmobile helmets. The lens has two layers i.e., internal and external, and there is a small bag between the two layers. The space between the layers prevents fog build-up on the lens and keeps it insulated. The mechanism is similar to a dual-pane window that you see in your house.

These snowmobile helmets are affordable, and there are plenty of options available in the market in different types of helmets.

Frameless and framed lenses

Modern snowmobile helmets come with frameless lenses so that you can change the visor if required. On the other hand, some helmets have framed lenses that you cannot change. Depending on your need, you should buy the type of lens system with the snowmobile helmet.

Lightweight design

It is essential to buy a snowmobile helmet that is lightweight so that you don’t feel the bulk while wearing it. Lighter helmets are great because of less inertia, and you will feel comfortable while wearing the helmet for a prolonged time. Also, there will be lesser chances of whiplash due to the weight of the helmet.

When choosing a lightweight snowmobile helmet, make sure that it is made using durable material that can withstand the impacts and protects your head and face in the courses of any accidents. Go through some customer reviews to know more about the material of the helmet. Just looking for a lightweight helmet isn’t enough as you need one that is durable as well.

Ventilation ports

When selecting a reliable snowmobile helmet, make sure to check the availability of ventilation ports. A good helmet should have these ports so that the air inside the helmet finds its way out of the helmet. When you release the breath, the visor can fog up because of condensation, and that's where the ventilation ports help.

There can be multiple ventilation ports available on a helmet, depending on its model and design. Further, a lot of helmets often have two or three vents as they are enough to fetch fresh air into the helmet while allowing the hot air to move out without causing condensation.

With a snowmobile helmet with multiple ventilation ports, you can rest assured that there will be no cold scalp of sweaty hair.

Sun shield

Not every snowmobile helmet has a sun shield, and that is why it is essential to check it beforehand. The blazing hot rays of the sun can enter through the lens to your eyes, causing difficulties in seeing the trails. Also, the snow reflects the sunlight, and it becomes hard to ride the snowmobile.

You should go snowmobile helmets that have tinted lenses that reflect the sunlight, so you get better clarity. Further, there are some models available that let you swap the visor with a clear one whenever required.

Comfort

Comfort is something you cannot compromise with, as an uncomfortable helmet can cause issues while riding. You should go for a helmet that has ample padding so that it fits nicely on your head, and there is no compromise with comfort.

Another thing to look for when buying a snowmobile helmet is the fit. You should get the right size so that it remains stable on your head. Go for a branded helmet to ensure a comfortable fit. Also, check customer ratings to determine the level of comfort you can expect with a helmet.

Aesthetics

Snowmobile helmets are available in a myriad of options with different styles and designs. You should go for a helmet that matches the aesthetics of your gear and gives you a proper and complete look.

These helmets are available in some quirky color combinations, and purchasing a good-looking helmet will be a great choice.

Chin curtain

The chin curtain is the part on the lower part of the helmet that prevents the chilled air from entering inside the helmet. A reliable snowmobile helmet should have a chin curtain that locks with your chin and prevents the cold air from entering inside.

Easy to put and remove

The snowmobile helmet should be easy to put and remove so that you don’t find it hard. These helmets are available with quick release straps that lock on your chin to keep the helmet stable. Further, the strap should be comfortable, and it should have padding so that you feel ultimate comfort when wearing a helmet.

GoPro mount

Well, if you love recording your ride on the snowmobile, go for a helmet that comes with a GoPro mount. The mount will let you attach the action camera on the helmet so that you can record the riding experience with ease.

Not all helmets have a GoPro mount, so make sure to check it beforehand as you won't be able to attach a camera without a mount. The mounts are available either on the top or on the chin area of the helmet.

Safety rating

Before you purchase the skimobile helmet, it is essential to check the safety rating. The safety rating helps you determine the safety a particular helmet model can offer. Not all snowmobile helmets offer incredible protection, so it is indispensable to go through the safety rating.

Here are the following safety ratings available when buying a helmet:

Snell

Snowmobile helmets with snow ratings are incredibly safe, and they are among the safest helmets available out there. Further, these helmets can be expensive due to the safety rating and the safety tests that the helmet passes before being available for purchase.

ECE

Snowmobile helmets with ECE rating are not common in America, but you will find these models if you live in Europe. The helmets with ECE safety ratings are tested on the standards set by the authorities to determine the quality of s helmet.

DOT

DOT or the Department of Transportation is the safety rating used in America. You will find a lot of snowmobile helmets with DOT rating as they are incredibly safe and are affordable as well.

Never buy a helmet that has no safety rating as they are not that safe, and it isn’t suggested to buy helmets that offer less protection.

Breath guard

The breath guard of the helmet lets you breathe with ease when riding at good speeds. It should offer a snug fit so that there are no issues while breathing. The function of the breath guard is to keep the hot air moving out of the helmet while letting the fresh air in so that you can breathe.

Breath guards are available in almost all snowmobile helmets, but there are a few options, such as half helmets that don’t have these features.

Warranty

When buying a snowmobile helmet, don't forget to check the warranty. You should buy a helmet that comes with a good warranty so that you can rest assured about any claims in the event of any manufacturing defects.

Price

The price of the helmet depends on multiple factors, such as the type and features it offers. Make your budget before you start searching for the best snowmobile helmet. The helmet should be durable and fits in your budget to get a highly-protective option without overspending.

Accessories to buy with a snowmobile helmet

After choosing the best snowmobile helmet, you should look for the following accessories to buy with it. If you want a fantastic experience riding your snowmobile, it is important to have these accessories.

• Helmet bag

The helmet bag will let you carry it on the go. Invest in a premium quality snowmobile helmet bag that has handles so that you can travel with it. The bag will protect the visor and the helmet from any damages, and it is worth the investment.

• Extra visors

Always carry some extra visors so that you can use them depending on the light conditions. The visor should reflect the sunlight so that you get a clear view of the surroundings.

• Helmet lock

Get a helmet lock to protect it from any thefts. You can lock the helmet with the snowmobile while going for lunch while taking rest inside the camp.

• Goggles

Not all snowmobile helmets have visors, and that is why it is essential to buy snow goggles. You can wear the goggles to keep the snow and winds from entering your eyes.

FAQs: Best Snowmobile Helmets

Q: What should I wear under a snowmobile helmet?

A: It is important to wear the right gear under a helmet so that you get added protection from the winds and the snow. We suggest you wear a facemask under the helmet as it will protect you from frostbite. Also, you should wear eye protection to keep your eyes protected from flying debris and ice kicked by the snowmobile.

Q: How long does a helmet last?

A: The lifespan of the helmet depends on multiple factors such as the material, design, and type of helmet. Usually, snowmobile helmets are durable, and they last multiple years without any problems provided that you have purchased a good helmet. Buy a helmet following this guide to ensure that it lasts longer.

Q: How to prevent the lens from fogging?

A: To prevent the lens from fogging, you should buy helmets with an electric shield. The electric heating shield keeps the visor warm, and it prevents the fog from accumulating. You can even buy helmets that have multiple ventilation holes to ensure that there is no fogging at all.

Q: How to attach a camera with the helmet?

A: To attach the camera with the helmet, you need to attach the mount first. Attach the camera mount to the dedicated slot and then put the camera inside the mount. Use some good-quality sealant to make sure that the mount remains secure in its place and doesn’t fall off when you are riding the snowmobile.

Q: Are snowmobile helmets lightweight?

A: It depends on the model that you are buying and the material. Usually, snowmobile helmets are lightweight, and you can wear them all day long.

Conclusion

When you buy a snowmobile helmet following this buyer's guide, expect it to offer excellent performance and protection. We have covered multiple things that you should check before buying a snowmobile helmet. Make a list of helmets and compare then based on the factors listed here.

When buying a helmet, make sure to check customer reviews to ensure that it is a good choice. Lastly, go for branded options only so that you get a good warranty with them.