When you purchase a motorcycle helmet, or begin the search for a new helmet, chances are you're going to find a helmet that is certified to one of two levels.   The two certifications in question here are the DOT certification, which is provided by the Department of transportation, and there is the Snell certification.

The DOT sets forth certain minimum requirements that helmets much meet in order for it to be categorized as a safe helmet for motorcycle travel.  These standards must be followed by any manufacturer that is wanting to produce DOT motorcycle helmets.  The Snell certification on the other hand is a more strict in terms of the standards that it sets forth, so there are a larger number of requirements that these helmets must meet in order to receive this classification.  The Snell standard is considered to be the best when it comes to helmet safety standards.

The testing process for each standard is similar in nature, but there are a number of different procedures that occur during the testing stages for each classification that are unique to each certification process.  Both tests, however, require a high impact test with a steel reinforced object.

When riders purchase helmets, they are depending on the manufacturers to provide safe and protective helmets that will stand up to the test if needed and that been made according to the standards set forth by the DOT or the Snell certification process.  Therefore, when a rider purchases a helmet that meets or exceeds the DOT guidelines or Snell guidelines, and the helmet is labeled as such, they know they are getting a helmet that is safe for them to wear which is reassuring.

The DOT rating process is a little more lenient in that not all of the helmets have to be tested, but rather there may be a few of the helmets tested in order to reassure that they are being made to the specifications that meet the requirements set forth to be considered a safe helmet.

The testing process involves a high impact situation, up to 400 g, in which a dummy head is placed in a helmet, and then dropped from a height of about 10 to 15 feet, which is the height that simulates most events in a typical accident situation.  This testing is meant to provide the results of a high impact situation and how the helmet holds up on impact.

The Snell certification testing process is a little more complex then that of the DOT certification process in that there are a number of tests that are performed on each helmet that is sent to be tested.  Many high profile helmet manufactures will choose to have their helmets testing for Snell standards because of the higher testing requirements which, if passed, provide for a more prestigious safety rating.

When it comes to motorcycle safety, there is nothing more important that protecting your head during each and every ride and that is made possible by wearing either a DOT or Snell certified motorcycle helmet.

Shop for DOT motorcycle helmets, Snell motorcycle helmets, and other high quality biker products at MotorMedley.com
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