Helmet Guides

How Do I Buy a Motorcycle Helmet as a Gift?

3 min read

Rider in a black open-face helmet with a checkered visor on a vintage scooter

Buying a helmet as a gift is easy to get wrong, because a helmet only works if it fits the person wearing it. The best approach is to get their actual head measurement, match the helmet style to how they ride, and keep the packaging and tags intact so it can be exchanged. If you can't do the first part without spoiling the surprise, a gift card or a "helmet shopping trip" is often the better present.

Pink and white open-face helmet with a red tinted shield on a bike

Step 1: Get their real head size

Guessing, or borrowing their cap size, is the most common mistake. Helmet sizes are based on head circumference, and they vary between brands and models.

  • Ask directly if you can. Most riders know their helmet size, but the measurement in centimeters or inches is more useful than "medium."
  • Measure their current helmet's size label, usually under the comfort liner or on the strap. It tells you what they wear now, but check whether it fits them well.
  • Measure their head around the widest part, about a finger's width above the eyebrows. Our guide on measuring your head for a helmet shows how.

Then compare that number with the size chart for the exact helmet you're buying.

Step 2: Match the style to how they ride

  • Highway, long trips, sport bikes: full-face.
  • Commuting with lots of stops, glasses wearers: modular.
  • Cruisers, scooters, short city trips: open-face (3/4).

If you're not sure, look at the helmet they wear now. Most riders stick with the style they already like. Our full-face vs modular guide helps if you're torn.

Rider in an open-face helmet with a mirrored shield by the sea

Step 3: Choose features they'll actually use

  • DOT FMVSS No. 218 certification. Non-negotiable for a road helmet in the US.
  • A drop-down sun visor if they ride a lot in changing light.
  • A removable, washable liner. Every rider appreciates it.
  • Room for a Bluetooth headset if they use one.
  • A color and graphic that matches their bike or style. This is the fun part, and it's the part they'll notice first.

Step 4: Make exchanges easy

  • Check the seller's return and exchange policy before you buy, including how long you have.
  • Keep the box, bags and tags.
  • Tell the recipient to try it on indoors, for 20 to 30 minutes, before riding in it or removing tags.
  • Keep the order confirmation so an exchange is quick.

The FTC's online shopping tips are worth a quick read if you're buying from a site you haven't used before.

Rider in a gray open-face helmet with a dark visor on a red bike

Red flags to avoid

  • No DOT label, or a suspiciously low price for a "premium" helmet. See how counterfeit helmets put riders at risk.
  • No size chart, or one that only says S, M, L without measurements.
  • No clear return policy.
  • Used helmets. You can't know if they've been dropped or crashed.

FAQ

Can I buy a helmet as a surprise?

You can, but only if you know their measurement. Otherwise, plan on an exchange.

What if I get the size wrong?

That's why you keep the packaging and tags. Exchange it for the right size before they ride in it.

Is a gift card a better idea?

For many riders, yes. They get to choose the exact fit and style themselves.

What color should I choose?

Bright colors and white are more visible on the road. Otherwise, match their bike or the style they already wear.

Keep reading