The truth about the German style retro open face motorcycle helmet (half motorcycle helmet) - DOT certified by BwondMand: you're purchasing this helmet for its appearance, not for protection. Once you realize that, all the rest becomes clear. This is an older-style half helmet shell. It's made from high-strength ABS plastic. It has a genuine DOT sticker on it. And it uses the same type of construction used in most helmets. Most buyers say you get a tremendous amount of helmet for your money, but no buyer should ever suggest that a half-shell provides more protection. Instead, it is a fashion statement with a legitimate sticker and the right buyer will be completely satisfied with the results.
Build Quality and Safety
Firstly, let us address the issue of safety. This helmet is certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). As such, it meets the federal motor vehicle safety standard #218. DOT certification means that the helmet meets the minimum legal requirements for road riding within the United States. To learn more about what is included in FMVSS #218, please visit nhtsa.gov.
The shell of this helmet is constructed from high-strength ABS plastic, which is the same material found in many entry-level and mid-range helmets. Additionally, it will hold up to normal wear and tear in terms of impact resistance and abrasion. Underneath the shell lies the foamed liner, which is responsible for absorbing energy during an accident. This is precisely why most manufacturers build their helmets using a hard outer shell surrounded by a crushable inner layer. The combination of a hard outer shell surrounding a crushable inner layer allows most helmets to pass DOT testing.
In terms of aesthetics, this half shell is truly retro. By leaving your entire face and jaw area uncovered, it resembles something out of an old war film. Riders report that it has an old-school vibe when seen in person. In addition, due to its simplistic design and clean finish, it easily pairs with cruisers, bobbers and any bikes that may appear to have old-fashioned lines. Many riders say they purchased this helmet to complement their existing bike or retro-themed clothing.
Now, let us discuss the reality of this helmet. Although it appears to resemble a protective piece of equipment, it only protects what it physically covers. Therefore, your chin, jaw line and almost all of your facial structure are left vulnerable to the elements while wearing this helmet. While most casual riders believe this vulnerability is acceptable for slow-speed cruising and short-town jaunts, most serious riders would agree that this helmet is only suitable for low-speed cruising or short-term exposure to the elements.
Comfort and Fit
The comfort and fit aspects of a half helmet are essentially the only two areas of consideration. Since it is primarily an aesthetic item, there is little else to consider when selecting a half helmet. However, the padding and straps provided with this helmet are critical components for maximizing comfort. BwondMand provides this helmet with a soft, fully-adjustable chin strap. Riders can fine-tune this strap until the helmet fits comfortably against their throat without causing discomfort.
While ventilation may be one of the primary reasons many choose this style of helmet, it is certainly a factor. Given that your face and jaws are exposed to the elements while riding, air flows freely and cools you down quickly in warmer climates. Marketing materials claim to encourage use year-round regardless of climate conditions. While it can be quite pleasant to remain cool during warmer months, cold weather requires additional measures. In colder climates, simply adding layers or a balaclava beneath will suffice.
When sizing this helmet, pay close attention as sizing affects how a half helmet fits your head compared to a full-face helmet. Since there is less shell surface area contacting your head than on a full-face helmet, fit plays a different role in determining comfort. BwondMand manufactures this helmet in multiple sizes ranging from small to larger options. Reviewers overwhelmingly cite that this style of helmet runs tight and recommend sizing up at least one size larger if you fall somewhere between sizes. Wearing a helmet that pinches your forehead during a 2-hour ride can ruin your day entirely. By taking your time and ensuring accurate measurements prior to making your final decision regarding size selection, you can prevent this problem altogether.
The interior liner provided with this helmet is satisfactory for casual riding purposes for shorter periods. It will not provide the same degree of comfort as a plush touring liner. However, since it is designed for casual use, some owners wash the liner after long rides in hot weather to remove odors and extend its life cycle. Finally, the weight of the helmet is relatively low, thereby reducing strain on your neck during extended rides.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
With an average rating of 4.4-stars based on 129 reviews on Amazon.com, BwondMand has garnered an overwhelming positive response from consumers. Most reviewers praised the value they received for their dollar, stating that they were shocked by how sturdy this helmet felt considering the price point. Many buyers chose this helmet specifically for matching their bike's retro design or theme. Additionally, numerous riders cited that having a DOT-approved helmet removed concerns related to purchasing cheap gear.
Several users mentioned utilizing this helmet on electric scooters and mopeds in lieu of larger motorcycles, citing that the light-weight open design worked perfectly for them.
Most criticisms centered around fit issues, with many reviewers claiming that the helmet ran smaller than expected. Again, this criticism aligns perfectly with previous recommendations from enthusiasts to size-up at least one size larger when choosing a half-helmet.
Wind noise complaints also appeared frequently. Frankly, wind noise is inevitable when using an open-faced helmet like this one. If you desire quieter operation then this isn't your lid.
Who Is This Helmet For?
As previously discussed, this is not a helmet for every rider and that's okay. It was created for a certain type of rider - Cruiser/rider types and retro-types will love this helmet. If you own an older style bike with traditional lines (bobbers/cruisers/etc.) this will add greatly to the overall aesthetic. Additionally, scooter/e-bike riders will enjoy this helmet's ability to ventilate properly while still being a lightweight option that won't overheat. Budget-conscious riders will appreciate the affordable price-point as well. Sport-type riders and high-way riders shouldn't even consider this helmet however. A half-helmet exposes your face/head/jaw area to harsh winds/wind-noise etc., therefore sporty/aggressive riders require the higher level of protection offered by full-face helmets.
If you'd like to explore other motorcycle helmets beyond this style, check out our motorcycle helmets roundup.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BwondMand half helmet DOT approved?
Yes. It carries DOT approval and meets federal motor vehicle safety standard 218 and so is legal for use on the streets throughout the United States.
What sizes does it come in?
The manufacturer offers this helmet in a range of sizes from small to large. Reviewers note that sizing tends to be snug. If you are between sizes, it is safer to go up one size.
Is this helmet good for summer riding?
Generally yes. Open face half shell design allows direct airflow to your face and keeps you cool in hot weather. This is a big reason why riders like this style for summertime.
Will it work in cold weather?
Yes, it does. Coverage is less so you will want to wear a balaclava or additional layers when temperatures drop. Because it has an open design, you will feel more wind on your skin during cold weather rides and you need to prepare more for winter riding.
How does a half helmet compare to a full face helmet?
A half helmet covers less of your head and leaves your face and jaw exposed. It is lighter and keeps you cooler. It also gives you a wider view. But it offers much less protection during a crash and lets in more noise from the wind. For cruising at low speeds it works really well. For aggressive riding a full face helmet is safer. Check the latest price on Amazon before you decide.
Does this helmet work with Bluetooth headsets?
Yes, generally it works well. The open half shell leaves lots of room around your ears for speakers and microphones. Several owners mount intercom systems in helmets similar to this one.