Umair Gaines
Snowmobile helmets with electric shields are an effective way to reduce icing and fogging on your helmet visor. The electric shield is a dual-lens visor with a built-in heating element that, when turned on, heats up slightly, preventing moisture buildup from your breath. This is similar to the defrost feature in cars. These shields are available pre-installed or as an add-on for most full-face, modular, and dual-sport snowmobile helmets. They are powered either by a battery pack or by wiring them directly to the snowmobile's accessory outlet.
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What You'll Learn
Electric shields reduce fogging and icing on the helmet
Snowmobiling can be a fun and adventurous activity, but it's important to prioritise safety and comfort. One of the challenges snowmobile riders often face is visor fogging and icing, which can obstruct vision and lead to dangerous situations. This is where electric shields come into play.
Electric shields, also known as electric visors, are a common feature in many snowmobile helmets. They are designed with a built-in heating element that, when powered on, generates a slight amount of heat across the shield. This heating mechanism helps to reduce fogging and icing on the helmet's surface, improving visibility and overall safety.
Fogging occurs when warm, moist breath comes into contact with cold surfaces, such as the inside of a helmet visor. This issue is exacerbated by excess heat from the rider's head, especially during physical activity or for individuals with a higher body temperature. The electric shield's heating element prevents this moisture buildup by maintaining a temperature that discourages condensation.
While electric shields are effective at reducing fogging, they may not completely prevent icing or freezing rain buildup on the outside of the visor. This is because the level of heat required to melt ice or freezing rain would likely damage the visor plastic. However, electric shields still offer a significant advantage over regular dual-lens snowmobile helmet shields in terms of reducing fogging and light icing in various weather conditions.
To power an electric shield, some helmets utilise a battery pack, while others can be wired directly to the snowmobile's accessory outlet, providing a more consistent power source. It's important to consider the power options available for your specific snowmobile model and ensure compatibility with the helmet's power connection. Additionally, electric shields tend to be more expensive than standard snowmobile shields, reflecting their added functionality and convenience.
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They have a built-in heating element
Snowmobile helmets with electric shields are an increasingly popular option for snowmobilers. They have a built-in heating element that, when powered on, heats up the shield slightly. This heating action can reduce icing and fogging on the shield in many types of conditions. This is their main advantage over a standard dual-lens snowmobile helmet shield.
The heating element is powered by a power cord that you hook up to your sled. Most power cords have a standard end, which can be hooked up to most sleds. Alternatively, some helmets have a battery pack that powers the heating element. The preferable option is a helmet that can be wired directly to the snowmobile's accessory outlet, providing a more consistent power source.
The wire used to connect the helmet to the snowmobile is similar to an RCA cable used for home electronics. Its single-cable design allows for easy connection and disconnection, which is especially useful when wearing thick gloves. To further facilitate the handling of the cord while wearing gloves, some users opt for additional accessories, such as clips installed on the helmet to hold the cord and relieve strain on the connection.
The electric heating element in the shield prevents moisture buildup from the rider's breath, ensuring clear vision on the trail. This feature is comparable to the defrost function in a car during winter. It is important to note that electric shields are not designed to heat the interior of the helmet but rather to maintain clear visibility by preventing fogging and icing on the shield.
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They can be powered by a battery pack or wired to a snowmobile's accessory outlet
Snowmobile helmets with electric shields are an increasingly popular option for snowmobilers. They are designed to prevent moisture build-up and reduce icing and fogging on the shield. This type of helmet can be powered by either a battery pack or by wiring it to a snowmobile's accessory outlet.
The battery pack option is self-contained and portable, but it may not provide as consistent a source of power as the accessory outlet. The battery pack option is ideal for those who do not want to deal with the hassle of wiring the helmet to the snowmobile.
On the other hand, wiring the helmet to the snowmobile's accessory outlet provides a more consistent power source. This is because the helmet is drawing power directly from the snowmobile's electrical system. This option is preferable for those who want to ensure that their helmet shield remains heated consistently throughout their ride.
When choosing between these two options, it is important to consider the compatibility between the helmet and the power source. The type of power connection included with the helmet should be checked to ensure it is compatible with the snowmobile's accessory outlet. Additionally, the location of the accessory outlet on the snowmobile and the length of the power cord on the helmet should be considered to ensure a comfortable and safe connection.
Some helmets, like the HJC model, come with clips that adhere to the helmet and manage the cord strain. The cord can be routed inside the jacket, behind the storm flap, to minimize damage and keep it out of the way.
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They are available pre-installed or as a kit for existing helmets
Snowmobile helmets with electric shields are available pre-installed or as a kit for existing helmets. Most full-face, modular, and dual-sport snowmobile helmets can be purchased with a dual-lens electric shield already fitted, or you can buy one separately and install it yourself.
The pre-installed option saves you the hassle of installation, but it's worth noting that some helmets, such as lightweight carbon fibre models, may not offer this feature. Therefore, you might need to purchase a kit separately.
If you already own a snowmobile helmet and want to add an electric shield, you will first need to remove the current shield and then install the new one. This process can be done by following the manufacturer's instructions or seeking guidance from a reputable source, such as a dealer or an online installation guide.
When considering electric shields, it is important to note the power options. Some shields have a battery pack, while others can be wired directly to the snowmobile's accessory outlet, providing a more consistent power source. It is also important to ensure compatibility between the helmet's power connection and your snowmobile model.
Additionally, consider how you will route the power cord between the helmet and the snowmobile. Some helmets come with clips that adhere to the helmet and manage the cord strain. Alternatively, you can use Ty-Wrap mounts or tape the cord to your helmet to reduce strain on the connection.
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They are more expensive than standard shields
Electric shields for snowmobile helmets are more expensive than standard shields because they are a more premium option, offering a range of additional features and benefits. Firstly, electric shields have a built-in heating element that prevents moisture buildup, fogging, and icing on the shield, ensuring a clear field of vision. This heating feature is particularly useful for snowmobilers who ride in varying weather conditions, as it enhances safety and improves the overall riding experience.
The heating element in electric shields is strategically positioned along the outside rim of the shield. This design allows for efficient heating of the shield without transferring heat to the interior of the helmet. While the primary purpose is to maintain a clear field of vision, the lack of heat transfer is also advantageous in ensuring the rider doesn't become uncomfortably warm.
The power source for the electric shield is another factor that influences the cost. Some helmets offer the convenience of a built-in battery pack, providing a portable and self-contained power solution. Alternatively, certain helmets can be wired directly to the snowmobile's accessory outlet, ensuring a consistent and reliable power source. The ability to connect to the snowmobile's electrical system eliminates the need for frequent battery changes or recharging, making it a more sustainable and maintenance-free option.
Additionally, electric shields often come with a standard breath box or breath guard, further reducing the chances of fogging. This breath guard is designed to seal tightly over the rider's nose and around their face, directing their breath downwards and out of the bottom of the helmet. By preventing condensation on the shield, the breath guard complements the heating element's function, providing a comprehensive solution to fogging and moisture issues.
The higher cost of electric shields is justified by their advanced features, which significantly enhance the safety and comfort of snowmobiling. By investing in an electric shield, riders can ensure they maintain clear vision during their rides, reducing the risk of accidents caused by impaired visibility. This premium option is particularly beneficial for those who ride in challenging weather conditions or those who prioritise having the best possible equipment for their snowmobiling adventures.
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Frequently asked questions
An electric shield in a snowmobile helmet is a dual-lens shield with a built-in heating element. When turned on, the shield heats up slightly, reducing icing and fogging.
The electric shield works by heating up the shield, preventing moisture buildup from your breath. This is similar to the defrost feature in cars.
The electric shield can be powered in two ways. Some helmets have a battery pack that powers the heat for the shield. The other option is to wire the helmet directly to the snowmobile's accessory outlet for a more consistent power source.
The main advantage of an electric shield is that it reduces icing and fogging on the shield in various weather conditions, improving visibility and safety.
