Helmet Ratings Explained
When it comes to motorcycle gear, the most important rating is the certification markings on your helmet. These ratings indicate whether a helmet meets specific safety standards, and there are several globally recognized certifications, each with its own testing methods.
How Are Helmets Tested?
Most certification bodies test helmets in similar ways, although their criteria differ. Here are the common tests:
Anvil Test: Helmets are dropped onto a flat or angled anvil to simulate impact.
Penetration Test: A spike-shaped anvil is dropped onto the helmet to test its resistance to puncture.
Strap Test: All major standards test the helmet's strap retention to ensure it stays secure in a crash.
Now, let's get into the specific helmet safety certifications.
DOT FMVSS 218
DOT stands for the Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218. It has been around since 1974 with only minor updates, the last significant one being in 2013, when a sticker change made it easier to identify novelty helmets.
Key Facts:
All helmets sold in the USA must be DOT-certified.
DOT requires manufacturers to self-certify their helmets.
There is no pre-sale governmental testing, though DOT does conduct random post-sale tests by purchasing helmets off the shelf.
Helmets that fail testing may incur fines of up to $5,000 per instance, but this system has been criticized for being outdated.
There is a 400g threshold for impact, which is quite high—concussions typically occur around 75-100g.
There is no neck rotation test.
Tests:
Anvil Test (flat and angled surfaces).
Penetration Test (6lb object dropped from 10 feet onto the helmet).
NOTE: The DOT standard is generally considered to be less stringent compared to other certifications.
SNELL Memorial Foundation (M2020)
The SNELL standard, established by the Snell Memorial Foundation in 1957, honors Pete "William" Snell, who died in a crash due to helmet failure. SNELL updates its standard roughly every five years. Manufacturers pay for their helmets to be tested to this standard.
Key Facts:
285g impact threshold.
No neck rotation test.
SNELL standards are primarily designed for automotive racing, which may result in some tests being less applicable to motorcycle crashes.
SNELL-certified helmets tend to have harder shells, which can transfer more energy to the EPS foam layer and, potentially, the head.
Tests:
Dual Impact Test (logs brain acceleration, helmet must withstand two impacts in the same spot).
Roll-off Test (tests helmet retention at a 135-degree angle).
Chin Strap Test (measures the strength and stretch of the strap).
Chin Bar Test (evaluates the helmet's chin bar).
Penetration Test (using a 6.6lb weight to test shell and visor resistance).
Controversy: The M2020D and M2020R variants use different shell hardnesses, but helmets are not always labeled to distinguish between the two.
ECE 22.05
The Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) standard 22.05 was released in 2000 and replaced by ECE 22.06 in 2020. ECE 22.05 is one of the most widely used standards globally, adopted in over 50 countries.
Key Facts:
275g impact threshold (lower than both DOT and SNELL).
Helmets certified to ECE standards are generally lighter and have softer shells, which may absorb impact energy better.
Concern: Manufacturers are aware of the exact locations where impact tests occur, which can lead to "gaming the system" by reinforcing only those areas.
Tests:
Anvil Test.
Chin Bar Test.
Strap Test.
Face Shield Test.
ECE 22.06
Released in 2020, ECE 22.06 represents a significant improvement over its predecessor. This standard includes more tests and stricter criteria, making it one of the most rigorous certifications available today.
Key Facts:
275g impact threshold.
Added oblique impact testing to simulate rotational impacts.
Testing expanded from 6 impact locations on ECE 22.05 to 18 impact locations.
Helmets must now undergo testing with built-in accessories (e.g., intercom systems, cameras).
Modular helmets are now tested for roll-off in both directions.
Neck rotation testing has been introduced.
NOTE: The ECE 22.06 standard aligns closely with FIM testing requirements.
FIM
The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) sets the global standard for motorcycle racing helmets. FIM's stringent tests set impact thresholds lower than most other certifications.
Key Facts:
275g impact threshold for most tests, with a stricter 208g threshold for specific samples.
Not all helmet sizes are tested for FIM compliance—ensure your helmet's size is certified.
The global standard for professional racing.
MIPS
(Multi-directional Impact Protection System)
Developed by Peter Halldin and Hans von Holst, MIPS is a system designed to reduce rotational forces during an impact by allowing the helmet to move slightly around the rider's head.
How It Works: The MIPS system incorporates a low-friction layer inside the helmet that allows for 10-15mm of movement upon impact, helping to reduce rotational force.
Race Helmets vs Street Helmets
Race helmets aren't necessarily safer than street helmets. They are designed for aerodynamics, better airflow, and optimized visibility in a racing tuck. However, they tend to be louder (so earplugs are a must) and offer the same level of protection as many street-focused helmets. More expensive helmets don’t always mean safer helmets—higher price points often reflect exotic materials and construction quality rather than superior safety.
Final Thoughts on Helmet Safety Ratings
In my opinion, these are the helmet standards ranked from worst to best:
DOT
ECE 22.05
SNELL
ECE 22.06
FIM
Which standard is the best? FIM, ECE 22.06, or SNELL. Adding MIPS is a significant bonus.
However, even the safest helmet in the world is useless if it doesn’t fit properly. Make sure to get your helmet fitted correctly and prioritize comfort along with safety.
