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To size a motorcycle helmet, measure around your head about one finger-width above your eyebrows and ears, then match that number to the brand’s size chart. A new helmet should feel snug all round, press evenly on your cheeks and forehead, and not move when you shake your head. Fit matters as much as any safety label.
This guide walks you through measuring, checking head shape, trying a helmet on and choosing the right type. Once you know your size, see our best motorcycle helmets.
Quick answer: enter your head measurement in our free motorcycle helmet size calculator to see your size in HJC, Bell, Shoei, Arai and Scorpion charts.
Step 1: Measure your head
Use a soft tape measure. Wrap it around the widest part of your head, about 2 cm above your eyebrows and just above your ears. Take the measurement a few times and use the largest number. If you are between sizes, try both.
Step 2: Know your head shape
Heads are round, intermediate-oval or long-oval when viewed from above. Most riders are intermediate-oval, which suits brands like Shoei, Bell and HJC. Arai often suits rounder heads; some Klim and Italian helmets suit longer heads. A helmet in the wrong shape will press on your forehead or the sides of your head, even in the right size.
Step 3: Check the size chart
Every brand’s chart is slightly different, so don’t assume your size carries over. Brands like Shoei make several shell sizes, which matters for riders at the small or large end. If you measure 54 cm or less, see our guide to helmets for small heads.
Step 4: Try it on properly
- Hold the straps and pull the helmet on. It should be a little hard to get on.
- The cheek pads should press your cheeks; this is normal and pads loosen over time.
- The top of the eye port should sit just above your eyebrows.
- Fasten the strap snugly, with room for about one finger under your chin.
- Shake your head and try to roll the helmet forward off your head. It should stay put.
- Wear it for 20–30 minutes indoors. Pressure points that hurt now will hurt more on the road.
The fit test
- Put it on: it should take a little effort.
- Cheeks: the pads should press your cheeks; you may bite your cheek when you smile.
- Forehead: even pressure, no hot spot.
- Eye port: the top should sit just above your eyebrows.
- Shake test: shake your head; the helmet should move with you, not on its own.
- Roll test: fasten the strap and try to roll the helmet forward off your head. It shouldn’t come off.
- Wear test: wear it for 20–30 minutes. Any pain now gets worse on the road.
Too tight or too loose?
- Too tight: headaches, red marks or pain on the forehead after 20 minutes. Try a different size or head shape.
- Too loose: the helmet shifts, lifts at speed or you can fit fingers between your forehead and the liner.
Step 5: Choose the right type
Full-face helmets protect the most. Modulars flip up at stops. Dual-sport helmets work on and off road. Learn more in types of motorcycle helmets and modular vs full-face.
Step 6: Check safety certification
Look for DOT in the US and ECE 22.06 elsewhere. Our helmet safety ratings guide explains each label. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation also has helmet buying advice.
Buying online
Buying online is fine if you know your size and shape. Buy from a retailer with easy exchanges, try the helmet indoors with tags on, and send it back if it doesn’t fit.
If helmets in your size always pinch above the ears, you may have a round head; see our picks for the best motorcycle helmet for round heads. Riders who wear glasses should also read our guide to the best helmets for people who wear glasses. If helmets in your size keep pressing on your forehead, see our picks for the best motorcycle helmets for long oval heads.
FAQ
How tight should a motorcycle helmet be?
Snug enough that it doesn’t move when you shake your head, with firm but even pressure and no painful spots.
Will my helmet loosen over time?
Yes, the padding breaks in by a small amount. Buy it snug, not loose.
What if I’m between sizes?
Try both. Some brands sell different cheek pads to fine-tune fit.
Do kids’ helmets size the same way?
Measure the same way, and buy a youth helmet that fits now, not one to grow into.
Should I wear glasses with my helmet?
Many helmets have channels for glasses arms. Try your glasses in the helmet before you buy.
The bottom line
Measure, know your head shape, check the brand chart and try the helmet properly. Then pick from our guides: beginner helmets, modular helmets and women’s helmets.
Browse all our how-to and safety guides.
