MOTORCYCLE HELMETS: MATERIALS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND WHY SAFETY IS NON-NEGOTIABLE
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Choosing a helmet isn't just a matter of style. It's a decision that could save your life.
When you walk into a helmet shop, you're faced with a huge selection: different models, prices ranging from 100 to over 1000 euros, mysterious materials like ABS, fiberglass, carbon fiber. And then there are labels with acronyms like ECE 22.06, DOT, SNELL...
In this article, we explain everything you need to know to choose the right helmet: the materials, the safety differences, the new ECE 22.06 homologation, and why traveling with a homologated helmet is essential—for your head and your wallet.
HELMET MATERIALS: ABS, POLYCARBONATE, FIBERGLASS, CARBON FIBER
The outer shell of the helmet is the first barrier against impacts. The material it is made of affects weight, strength, durability and, of course, price.
1. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
What is it:
Injection-molded thermoplastic plastic, the most common material in entry-level and mid-range helmets.
Injection-molded thermoplastic plastic, the most common material in entry-level and mid-range helmets.
Strengths:
- ✅ Economical – Low production costs = affordable prices
- ✅ Impact resistant – Absorbs impact energy well
- ✅ Easy to produce – Allows for complex designs and vibrant colors
Ideal for: Those looking for a good quality/price ratio and certified protection without spending a fortune.
2. POLYCARBONATE
What is it:
Thermoplastic plastic that is lighter and more durable than ABS, often used in mid-range helmets.
Thermoplastic plastic that is lighter and more durable than ABS, often used in mid-range helmets.
Strengths:
- ✅ Lighter than ABS
- ✅ Good impact resistance
- ✅ Affordable price
Ideal for: Those who want a lightweight helmet at a reasonable price, but need to replace it every 3-5 years.
3. FIBERGLASS
What is it:
Composite material made of interwoven fiberglass and epoxy resin, worked by hand or with molds.
Composite material made of interwoven fiberglass and epoxy resin, worked by hand or with molds.
Strengths:
- ✅ Lighter than ABS and polycarbonate
- ✅ Very durable – Higher rigidity, distributes impact energy better
- ✅ Durable – Does not degrade with UV like plastics
- ✅ Better shock absorption
Ideal for: Experienced riders looking for lightness, comfort and superior safety.
4. CARBON FIBER
What is it:
The top of the range: carbon fiber interwoven with resin, ultra-lightweight and extremely resistant.
The top of the range: carbon fiber interwoven with resin, ultra-lightweight and extremely resistant.
Strengths:
- ✅ Very lightweight – Reduces neck strain over long distances
- ✅ Extreme rigidity – Maximum protection and energy distribution
- ✅ Durable – Does not degrade with UV
- ✅ Premium aesthetics
Ideal for: Professionals, performance enthusiasts, and those who want the best technology.
5. KEVLAR AND COMPOSITE MATERIALS
Some premium helmets combine fiberglass + carbon + Kevlar to get the best of each material: lightness, strength, and optimal impact absorption.
Ideal for: Those who don't compromise and seek maximum security.
ECE 22.06 APPROVAL: THE NEW FRONTIER OF SAFETY
Since January 2024 , the new ECE 22.06 standard has been in effect in Europe, replacing the previous ECE 22.05. All new helmets sold must be certified according to this stricter standard.
What changes with ECE 22.06?
The new regulations introduce stricter and more realistic tests to ensure superior protection in the event of an accident.
1. Oblique Impact Test
- Brand new feature: Simulates angled (45°) impacts, not just vertical ones.
- Why it's important: Most real-world accidents occur with oblique impacts, which cause rotations that are dangerous for the brain.
- Result: ECE 22.06 helmets offer better protection against traumatic brain injuries and rotational injuries.
2. Tests on different areas of the skullcap
- Several points on the shell are tested (front, sides, rear, chin guard for full-face helmets).
- It ensures uniform protection across the entire surface.
3. Visor test
- The visor must withstand impacts from objects (stones, insects) without breaking or detaching.
- It must ensure optimal visibility without optical distortion.
4. Retention system test (strap)
- The strap is tested with dynamic loads to ensure that it does not open in the event of an impact.
- It must withstand tension and wear.
5. Integrated accessory testing
- Internal sun visors, intercoms, and communication systems are tested to ensure they do not compromise safety.
6. Label with year of production
- Each helmet must show the year of manufacture on the inner label.
- It helps you understand when to replace your helmet (recommended every 5 years).
Can I still use my ECE 22.05 helmet?
Yes! ECE 22.05 approved helmets remain legal even after January 2024. You can continue to use them as long as they are in good condition.
However, new helmets for sale must be ECE 22.06 certified.
WHY IT'S ESSENTIAL TO TRAVEL WITH A CERTIFIED HELMET
1. SAFETY: YOUR LIFE IS WORTH MORE THAN ANY SAVINGS
A certified helmet has been rigorously tested for:
- Absorb the impact energy.
- Protect against head injuries and brain damage.
- Resist penetration by objects
- Stay firmly in the lead during the accident.
An unapproved or counterfeit helmet may look identical, but it offers no guarantee of real protection. In the event of an accident, it could break, come off, or fail to absorb the impact—with devastating consequences.
2. LAW: HEAVY PENALTIES FOR THOSE WHO TRAVEL WITHOUT A CERTIFIED HELMET
In Italy (and throughout Europe), riding with an unapproved helmet is illegal and carries the following penalties:
- Fine from €83 to €332 (Article 171 of the Highway Code)
- Suspension of driving license from 15 days to 2 months (in case of recidivism)
- Vehicle impoundment for up to 60 days.
- 5 points deducted from the driver's license.
Attention: Just wearing any helmet is not enough. It must be:
- Approved according to ECE 22.05 or 22.06 regulations (or DOT/SNELL for imported helmets)
- Intact (without cracks, deformations or visible damage)
- Correctly fastened.
3. INSURANCE: RISKS OF NOT BEING COMPENSATED
In the event of an accident, if you are wearing an unapproved or unfastened helmet, the insurance company may:
- Reduce compensation due to contributory negligence.
- Refuse compensation for personal injury.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE A CERTIFIED HELMET
Look for the inner label with:
- ECE 22.05 or ECE 22.06 marking
- Country of homologation code (e.g. E3 = Italy, E1 = Germany)
- Unique homologation number
- Year of production (mandatory for ECE 22.06)
Be wary of helmets without labels, with poorly printed labels, or sold at prices that are too low.
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR HELMET
Even if it's certified, a helmet needs to be replaced:
- After an accident (even if it seems intact)
- Every 5 years (materials degrade due to UV, sweat, and temperature)
- If it shows cracks, deformations, or visible damage.
- If the strap or padding is worn out.
CONCLUSION: SAFETY IS NON-NEGOTIABLE
Choosing the right helmet means protecting your life. Whether you choose ABS, fiberglass or carbon fiber, the important thing is that it is ECE 22.06 approved (or 22.05 if you already own one), intact and the right size .
Don't skimp on safety. A quality helmet can mean the difference between an accident and a tragedy.
Because the road is freedom, but freedom requires responsibility.
Selected Style, Inspired by the Road 🏍️
Come and discover our selection of ECE 22.06 approved helmets from House of Riders.