by Frank Medley
Founded after the untimely death of auto racer Pete Snell in 1956, the Snell Memorial Foundation was founded to create a safety standard for helmets. Pete was wearing a helmet at the time of his death, yet was inadequately protected.
The Snell motorcycle helmet testing standards are more rigorous that even those of the Department of Transportation. Unlike the DOT, the Snell testing is done in their own laboratories, and not by the manufacturers.
One of the first tests performed in the Snell motorcycle helmet testing regime is that of peripheral vision. Several different tests ensure that nothing blocks or obstructs peripheral vision while the helmet is being worn.
The next round of testing is the performance tests. These are what help to ensure that your helmet will remain intact, and will do its job should you ever be in a fall or accident on your bike.
The helmets are also subjected to a variety of conditions before they are tested, to ensure that they will work after being used in normal conditions. They are both heated, cooled, made wet, and then tested.
Another important part of Snell motorcycle helmet testing is the impact tests. These are performed in order to ensure that in the event of an impact, the head is as protected from injury as possible.
There has been criticism of some of Snell’s testing methods. Many believe they are too expensive to be reasonable for most manufacturers. Others believe that they are excessive, and aren’t needed to prove a helmet is safe.
If you are interested in top of the line protection, buy a helmet which meets Snell motorcycle helmet testing standards. You will know that your helmet is as safe as is possible, and will help to protect you.
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