The CARTMAN matte black half helmet is a DOT-certified skull cap, and the Medium variant is the listing most people with average heads should buy. Here is what the review of the CARTMAN matte black Half helmet in medium. The CARTMAN matte black Half helmet is a DOT-certified (DOT fmvss 218) helmet with a 228 rating at 4.3 stars.
The Deal You Make With a Half Helmet
As many of you know, CARTMAN has other helmet reviews on this website, but this is a new listing for the medium version of the helmet. With a Half helmet, the primary concern is going to be how it fits around your skull, as they only cover the upper part of your head. DOT fmvss 218 certification doesn't change that fact.
However, it does ensure that the Shell of the helmet passed the same impact and retention testing required for all helmets that carry a full-face certification. What remains unchanged is that you still expose yourself to potential harm to your Jaw, face and chin area when using a Half helmet. Riders who use Half helmets are aware of these risks and often opt for them due to reduced air resistance, lighter weight, and an "open" style.
Do not misread the certification story. The certification standards apply only to the actual Shell that exists and provide no assurance regarding those areas of your body that remain uncovered. Many riders will happily take that risk when riding at low speeds (e.g., scootering, atvs, etc.), while others will make the decision based upon speed (i.e., highway riding).
Medium Fit Specifics
Since Half helmets rely entirely on a good fit, please consider this section carefully. If you don't get a proper fit on a Half helmet, it may either lift off your head at higher speeds (a safety hazard!) or become uncomfortable enough to cause headaches within hours of wearing it. According to CARTMAN's specifications, their "medium" size should fit heads ranging from 22.4 to 22.8 inches. Please measure your head with a soft measuring tape placed above your eyebrows prior to purchasing.
While some customers have complained about the fit of the helmet being too small/tight/loose, there aren't nearly as many complaints as would suggest that the manufacturer isn't accurately representing the measurements on the chart. The buckle is designed with quick release and allows for adjustment even with gloved hands, which makes sense given that you'll likely need to adjust the buckle quickly after removing your gloves in order to get ready to ride.
Shell and Venting
This helmet features an ultra-lightweight ABS Shell along with a thick EPS liner that provides excellent ventilation. The ventilated design of the EPS liner helps keep you cool during hot weather by allowing air flow directly into the interior of the helmet where your head sits. This is especially important on a Half helmet since the entire upper portion of your head is exposed to wind.
Additionally, the matte finish is durable and resists scratches much better than glossy finishes. However, since it picks up hand oils quite easily, you can expect to wipe down the helmet frequently in addition to wiping it clean once or twice per week depending upon your usage habits.
What the Ratings Say
Based on the overall 228 user Ratings, people complain primarily about the noise level associated with this type of helmet (as expected) and secondarily about fitting issues among users with head circumferences slightly larger/smaller than specified (which suggests that users were buying based upon head measurement rather than trying different sizes to determine best fit). Conversely, users rave about how light this helmet weighs (and thus easy to wear), its excellent airflow characteristics and competitive pricing relative to similar DOT-certified helmets.
Given the size of the user base and overall rating, this product falls within the "normal" range for both budget DOT-certified helmets and for products with similar certifications within this price point. Additionally, since there was little evidence of structural failures in the comments/Ratings, users can reasonably trust this helmet as a protective device.
who would benefit most from using this helmet?
If you plan on riding a scooter, ATV or UTV, this helmet offers the bare-minimum level of protection while offering improved airflow. As such, if you fall into this demographic and meet the recommended size requirements (head circumference: 22.4, 22.8 inches) then this helmet is a viable option for you.
However, if you drive a motorcycle at high speeds or require protection for your lower Jaw/facial area then you may wish to consider an additional layer of protection via a full-face or modular helmet at the next available price-tier.
You can compare this helmet to all other DOT-certified helmets reviewed here on our motorcycle helmet comparison table page, and view additional content related to motorcycles in our blog.
frequently asked questions
Is this helmet street legal?
Yes. In accordance with federal motor vehicle safety standard #218 (fmvss 218), this helmet complies with all applicable safety regulations.
Will this helmet fit me?
According to carter's specs, their "medium" size should fit a head circumference of approximately 22.4 to 22.8 inches. Please measure your head with a soft measuring tape located above your eyebrows before placing an order.
Does this helmet offer equal protection compared to a full-face helmet?
In terms of meeting applicable safety standards, yes. However, it protects only the upper portion of your head. Therefore, you will still be exposing yourself to potential injury to your Jaw and face.
How heavy is this helmet?
Lightweight. One of the most praised aspects of this helmet is its lightness.
Can I Wear Sunglasses With This Helmet?
Yes. Because this is an open-face design, you have ample space for sunglasses. Additionally, the fully ventilated EPS liner ensures that heat does not build-up behind your glasses.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this helmet street legal?
Yes. It meets or exceeds DOT FMVSS No. 218, the US federal standard for motorcycle helmets.
Will the Medium fit me?
Medium suits a 22.4 to 22.8 inch head circumference. Measure above the eyebrows with a soft tape before ordering.
Does a half helmet protect as well as a full-face?
It uses the same certification standard, but it covers only the top of the skull. Jaw and face are exposed by design.
Is it heavy?
It is a lightweight ABS shell, and weight is one of the most-praised traits in the reviews.
Does it work with sunglasses?
Yes. The open-face design leaves room for sunglasses, and the vented liner keeps heat from building behind them.