Beatrice Lang
When it comes to riding an electric longboard, safety should always come first. While electric longboarding is a thrilling activity, it is not without its risks. One of the most important safety precautions you can take is wearing a helmet. But with so many different types of helmets available, how do you choose the right one? This discussion will focus on whether a full-face helmet is necessary for electric longboarding and will explore the various factors that riders should consider when making their decision.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Protection | Full-face helmets offer more protection than half-shell helmets, especially in the event of a high-speed crash. |
| Cost | Full-face helmets can be expensive, with prices ranging from $100 to $300. |
| Comfort | Some users find full-face helmets bulky and uncomfortable, especially motorcycle helmets. |
| Visibility | Full-face helmets may obstruct the rider's field of view. |
| Versatility | Full-face helmets with removable chin guards offer more versatility for different riding conditions and temperatures. |
| Certification | It is important to choose a certified helmet, such as CSPC or ASTM certified. |
| Preference | Some riders prefer full-face helmets for their perceived sense of safety and style. |
| Additional benefits | Full-face helmets can keep bugs out of your face when riding at high speeds. |
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What You'll Learn
Full-face helmets offer more protection than half-shell helmets
When riding an electric longboard, it is important to wear a helmet to protect your head from any potential accidents or falls. While there may be varying opinions on the necessity of a full-face helmet, it is clear that full-face helmets offer more protection than half-shell helmets.
Full-face helmets cover the entire head and face, providing complete frontal protection. They include a face shield and chin bar, which offers added protection in the event of a crash. The chin bar provides extra coverage at the sides and rear of the head, which is crucial when riding at high speeds or on uneven surfaces. This additional protection can reduce the risk of severe and critical injuries, as well as lower the chances of head injuries.
On the other hand, half-shell helmets cover only the top of the head up to the ears. They are often preferred by older riders who prioritise comfort and visibility over maximum protection. Half-shell helmets are lightweight and provide adequate ventilation, making them a practical choice for cross-country or trail riding. They also allow for a full range of visibility and the feeling of wind on the rider's face.
However, when it comes to safety, full-face helmets are superior. They are designed to protect both the skull and the face from accidental injuries. This added protection can be crucial in high-speed or downhill riding, where the risk of impact is greater. While full-face helmets may compromise on ventilation and visibility to some extent, modern designs have addressed these issues with strategic vent placements and adjustable visors.
Ultimately, the choice between a full-face and a half-shell helmet depends on the rider's preferences and riding style. However, it is important to prioritise safety and ensure that the helmet meets the necessary safety standards and certifications.
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Full-face helmets are heavier than other helmets
While full-face helmets are considered the gold standard for protection in motorcycle accidents, they are heavier than other helmets. This extra weight can cause discomfort and limit visibility for the rider. The weight of a full-face helmet can also cause inconvenience and breathability issues, leading some riders to prefer the convenience of a three-quarters helmet with minimal compromise in protection.
Modular helmets, for example, are often slightly larger and heavier than comparable full-face helmets due to the additional internal mechanisms required to flip the visor up. Riding with an open modular helmet is generally not recommended as it can be pulled off the rider's head by the wind or snagged during a crash, leading to a potentially serious injury.
Full-face helmets are heavier than half-coverage or open helmets, which tend to be lighter but require articulation during use. The added weight of a full-face helmet can be a factor in a rider's choice, along with individual preference and local regulations. Some riders may opt for a lighter helmet, especially when riding electric longboards, to reduce weight and improve their speed and precision.
While full-face helmets offer superior protection, they can be expensive and bulky. Riders may need to weigh the benefits of added protection against the drawbacks of increased weight and cost. Electric longboard users, in particular, may prioritize speed and agility, making a lighter helmet a more attractive option.
Overall, while full-face helmets offer the best protection, their weight is a significant factor to consider. Riders, especially those using electric longboards, may need to balance the benefits of added safety with the drawbacks of increased weight, visibility limitations, and cost.
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Full-face helmets can be harder to communicate with other riders
While full-face helmets offer more protection than half-shell helmets, they do have some drawbacks. One notable disadvantage is the difficulty in communicating with other riders while wearing a full-face helmet. The enclosed design of these helmets can muffle your voice and make it harder for others to hear you clearly, especially when riding at high speeds or in noisy environments. This can impact your ability to coordinate with other riders, provide warnings, or simply engage in casual conversation during group rides.
The bulkiness of full-face helmets can also hinder peripheral vision, making it harder to see other riders and observe hand signals or gestures they may use to communicate. In such cases, hand signals and physical gestures become crucial for conveying messages or instructions. However, these methods may not always be effective, especially when riding at high speeds or in situations where hand signals may not be easily noticed.
Additionally, full-face helmets can be hotter and less breathable than open-face helmets, leading to increased perspiration and potential discomfort during long rides. This can further impact your ability to communicate effectively, as you may feel fatigued or less inclined to engage in conversation. It is worth noting that some full-face helmets offer better ventilation than others, so choosing a well-ventilated model can help mitigate this issue to some extent.
Despite these challenges, it is still possible to communicate effectively with other riders while wearing a full-face helmet. Many helmets have built-in communication systems or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to speak with other riders through an intercom system or connect to your phone for hands-free communication. Additionally, hand signals and pre-planned communication strategies can be employed to convey essential information quickly and effectively.
Ultimately, the decision to wear a full-face helmet involves weighing the benefits of increased protection against the potential drawbacks, including the impact on communication. While it may present some challenges, with proper planning and the use of appropriate technology, effective communication with other riders remains achievable even while prioritizing safety with a full-face helmet.
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Full-face helmets can be more expensive
While a full-face helmet is not strictly necessary for electric longboarding, it is an important safety precaution to consider. The main benefit of a full-face helmet is the added protection it provides for your face and head in the event of a fall or collision. This is especially important when riding at high speeds or in traffic, where the risk of a severe crash is much higher.
However, one of the biggest drawbacks of full-face helmets is their cost. Full-face helmets can be significantly more expensive than half-shell helmets, with prices ranging from $100 to $300 or more. This makes them a considerable investment, especially for those who are new to the sport or those with limited budgets.
It is worth noting that the added expense of a full-face helmet may be justified for some riders. Those who engage in more extreme forms of longboarding, such as downhill speedboarding, or who regularly ride in traffic may find the extra protection well worth the cost. Additionally, full-face helmets can provide added benefits such as improved airflow, better visibility, and protection from bugs and debris.
On the other hand, for casual riders or those who primarily ride on bike trails or other less hazardous routes, a half-shell helmet may be sufficient. Half-shell helmets can still provide adequate protection for your head in the event of a fall, and they are typically more affordable, lightweight, and comfortable than full-face helmets.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a full-face helmet comes down to a personal assessment of your riding style, the level of risk you are comfortable with, and your budget. While the added expense of a full-face helmet may be a burden for some, the potential benefits in terms of safety and protection cannot be overlooked, especially for more experienced or adventurous riders.
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Full-face helmets can be harder to see out of
While full-face helmets are considered the safest option for electric longboarding, some riders may find it harder to see out of them. This is due to the design of the helmet, which covers the rider's entire face, including the chin and jaw, resulting in a larger surface area that can obstruct the peripheral vision.
The visibility offered by a helmet is an important consideration, as it can impact the rider's field of view and affect their ability to navigate and make quick decisions while riding. Obstructed vision can be a safety concern, especially when riding at high speeds or in busy areas with other riders or traffic.
Some full-face helmets attempt to address this issue by offering detachable chin guards or convertible designs. These helmets allow riders to remove the lower portion of the helmet, effectively converting it into an open-face style, which can improve visibility and ventilation during casual rides or in hot weather conditions.
However, it is essential to note that removing the chin guard reduces the level of protection offered by the helmet. Riders need to carefully consider the trade-off between improved visibility and decreased protection when deciding whether to opt for a full-face or detachable design.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that some riders may find that the bulk and weight of a full-face helmet can initially be cumbersome and take some time to get accustomed to. The weight and balance of the helmet can impact the overall riding experience and comfort, especially during long rides or when riding at high speeds.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not necessary to have a full-face helmet for electric longboarding. However, it is important to wear a certified helmet to keep yourself safe.
Elbow and knee pads are essential, as well as gloves if you plan to freeride downhill. If you're engaging in extreme sports such as downhill speedboarding, consider a full-face helmet, back support, and riding leathers.
Always practice your foot braking, especially if you plan to ride in traffic. Keep to your lane and avoid highways after dark. Most areas do not allow longboards on sidewalks, and drivers may not be used to looking out for skateboarders. Potholes, rocks, and other obstructions on the road pose additional risks.
