The technology of motorcycle helmets has changed greatly since its introduction as a safety feature to highway and off-road motor bike riding. The first effective crash helmet was designed in 1954 as a means of protecting race car drivers. Recognizing the value of wearing helmets, the Los Angeles police department required their use for all motorcycle patrolmen in 1955. The motorcycle helmet quickly became a standard necessity for bike riding safety. Over the years, the motorcycle helmets have altered as greatly as football helmets, which were once nothing more than leather head gear, and now a scientific process for reducing debilitating head injuries.

Landmark Events In Helmets

Roy Richter, who had lost two friends in racing accidents and immediately began studying ways to design helmets that would protect the head from serious injury in the event of a crash. Proponents of his introductory line of motorcycle helmets included Evil Knievel who credited his Bell helmet with saving his life after a failed stunt created an impact so great, he remained in a coma for twenty-eight days.

The use of helmets as protective head gear date back to the days of early Greek warriors. In 500 B.C. the Spartan helmet was used, redesigned and developed for the next thousand years as a metal shield while engaged in combat. Far to cumbersome to be used in today’s sports, the principal of the helmet remains the same. The basic design is a light weight metal outer cover, with thick, soft rubber padding designed to absorb impact. Within the line of motorcycle helmets, there is a great deal of variety the range of features and expense. For those who search for an inexpensive helmet, HJC helmets are an excellent consideration. More top of the line brands include Arai and Shoei helmets whose technology offers a built-in helmet cam for recording all of your travels.

Football Helmets

The designs used for football helmets, which have developed over the years to include side cushioning as well as frontal protection has been incorporated into the use of motorcycle helmets. While Nolan helmets may look nothing like a Chicago Bears helmet, the function remains the same; protecting the head from blows that could result in brain concussions, coma or death. Since the early nineteen eighties, most manufacturers of motorcycle helmets have also designed a wide selection of bicycle helmets for a safer and more comfortable ride.