Carbon fiber helmets are helmets that are made with carbon filament threads that are woven into cloth or felt. Carbon fiber helmets can also be combined with other substances (such as Kevlar) to strengthen the surface of the shell. This type of helmet is referred to as composite material. Carbon fibers are made by super-heating acrylic fiber, which then results in better strength as well as lighter weight material. Carbon fiber helmets made from composite material are the industry standard in motorcycle helmets and companies invest a lot of money and research in devising new kinds of lightweight, ultra-strong carbon fiber helmets.

Advantages Of Carbon Fiber Helmets

A carbon fiber helmet is much stronger than the competition – mainly being fiberglass helmets, which wearers often complain scratch too easily and are heavy. Carbon fiber composites are also stronger and more aesthetic than plastic helmets, which are a cheaper alternative. Carbon fiber technology allows helmets to be lightweight but be able to withstand a heavy collision on the shell and absorb the impact with the interior foam.

Some carbon fiber helmets, such as carbon fiber MX helmets, which are for dirt bike riding, and carbon fiber shorty helmets, which provide a hard shell but leave the entire face open, offer lightweight design, durability and comfort. Other full face helmets offer more unique advantages. Some helmets have an advanced channeling ventilation system, that makes the wearer feel cooler. Anti-fog systems are also important, as otherwise a full face helmet could fog up in cold weather. Lastly, some carbon fiber helmets have a communication speaker built inside of them, which allows multi-channel communication with others when required.

DOT Approved Carbon Fiber Helmets

What are the significance of DOT approved carbon fiber helmets? The DOT standard relates to the official United States regulation on motorcycle helmets. A manufacturer has submitted a test model to the proper channel and has met with a favorable safety rating. This successful testing merits a DOT sticker of safety. There may be similar stickers for material and quality, though the DOT standard is the only official government testing.

DOT approved helmets do not have to be full-faced helmets to be approved. Though full-face helmets might be safer in theory (since they can protect against excess wind, flying insects or small rocks) even half helmets with chin straps have won DOT's seal of approval, for their high carbon fiber quality.

Carbon fiber makes a helmet light, resilient and stylish -- it is the preferred choice for racing and biking enthusiasts.