Not all rides call for a full-face helmet. There may be times when you want the wind in your hair, the sun on your neck, and absolutely nothing between you and the road except for a lightweight shell that offers the minimum required safety standards. That is why the CARTMAN Matte Black Half Helmet is such an excellent solution. This DOT-approved half-shell will not break the bank. If you typically cruise, ride a scooter, ride an ATV, or something similar, then this helmet is likely exactly what you are looking for.
Check the current price on Amazon.
Build Quality and Safety
Let's address the critical details first. The CARTMAN half helmet was tested under Department of Transportation Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 218 (FMVSS No. 218), therefore meeting the federal government's impact requirements. FMVSS No. 218 is the baseline requirement for any legally compliant street helmet in the USA.
The CARTMAN is made of ABS plastic, lightweight ABS plastic. ABS is commonly used in the manufacturing of economical helmets. However, as a primary material, it is still able to withstand everyday impacts and maintain its structural integrity while maintaining a light overall weight.
Within the CARTMAN shell lies a high density EPS liner. EPS liners absorb impact energy upon collision. The EPS within the CARTMAN extends throughout the top portion of the helmet, providing the necessary absorption of impact energy during a potential collision. The EPS liner is also fully ventilated to allow air to flow through the helmet on warmer days.
A quick-release buckle is another positive aspect of this helmet at this price level. As opposed to using a traditional d-ring type buckle system, the CARTMAN utilizes a snap-in mechanism that allows you to easily put on and remove your helmet with gloves on. Simply snap the buckle in place, pull tight and you're ready to roll. See the latest CARTMAN listing on Amazon for the full spec sheet.
Comfort and Fit
Fit is everything when it comes to half-helmets. The CARTMAN features a matte black finish that is clean and classy. There are no flashy graphics or racing stripes, just a simple classic look that goes perfectly with any bike.
The interior padding of the CARTMAN is better than expected for a helmet in this category. While it is not as plush as many premium helmets from Shoei or Arai, it is suitable for short to moderate length rides through town. The EPS liner is designed to fit comfortably around the crown of your head, and additional padding adds to the helmet's ability to stay secure. In addition, the EPS liner is fully ventilated, allowing cool air to pass through the channels and keeping your head cooler on warm days while sitting at traffic lights.
The sizing for the CARTMAN half helmet is simple: measure your head circumference and compare it to the chart provided in the product description on Amazon. Some reviewers have reported that the helmet fits slightly larger than listed size, therefore if you fall between two sizes, consider choosing a smaller size.
While wind noise is always present in half-shells due to lack of head coverage, earplugs are highly recommended for long-distance travel. Some riders choose to purchase additional products such as a half-helmet skirt or wind deflector to reduce wind buffeting, especially at higher speeds.
As indicated by its marketing materials, the CARTMAN half helmet is intended for use by motorcycle riders, cyclists, and participants in various outdoor activities. Its versatility makes it useful for those that regularly switch between these disciplines. Keep in mind that since half shells offer reduced head protection compared to 3/4 and full face helmets, they should not be relied upon for high speed cornering or aggressive canyon riding.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
At the time of writing, the CARTMAN half helmet had earned over 161 customer reviews with an average rating of 4.2 stars out of five. By far the most common theme in reviews of this helmet relates to both its affordability and comfortable fit.
Praise for this helmet includes comments regarding its lightweight build quality, easy-to-use quick-release buckle, and clean matte finish. Many scooter and ATV enthusiasts complimented the helmet stating it worked flawlessly for their purposes. Only a few noted that the helmet ran somewhat larger than listed size. Thus, possibly downsizing may be beneficial.
Some reviewers mentioned that while the padding was satisfactory, it could potentially be thicker, and that wind noise increased at higher speeds. Although several customers noted slight cosmetic blemishes in their purchased helmets, none stated these defects adversely impacted performance. Overall, reviews were overwhelmingly positive toward what is essentially a budget-friendly DOT-approved helmet for casual riding.
Who Is This Helmet For?
This helmet would be perfect for:
- Motorcycle riders who require head protection but do not wish to spend money
- Scooter/moped riders seeking a lightweight, compact helmet
- ATV/UTV riders requiring DOT approval for trail riding
- Budget-conscious motorcyclists seeking a backup/passenger helmet
- Any motorcyclist desiring a simple matte-black helmet that can complement any vehicle
Please note that this helmet is not suited for highway commuting. Nor is it designed for aggressive canyon riding or sport bike applications. Riders who desire added protection should research and explore our full-face helmet reviews or read our other helmet guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CARTMAN half helmet DOT approved?
Yes. The CARTMAN half helmet has been tested under Department of Transportation Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 218 (FMVSS No. 218) and passed with flying colors.
What sizes are available?
Multiple sizes are offered including large. Please see the full size chart with measuring instructions on Amazon.
Does it have a quick release buckle?
Yes. It utilizes a quick-release snap-in buckle as opposed to traditional d-ring buckles. This is much easier to operate with gloves on.
Is the liner removable and washable?
The EPS liner is designed to fit comfortably around the crown of your head and is ventilated for airflow. The padding can be managed for basic cleaning, though for a budget helmet most owners simply wipe it down rather than removing the liner.
Can I wear glasses with this helmet?
Yes. Since there is no enclosure covering your eyes or mouth area, you are free to wear them without restriction.
What's the return policy?
Amazon handles all return requests. Return procedures generally follow seamlessly. However, this may vary based on individual circumstances.
Final Verdict
In essence, the CARTMAN matte black half helmet delivers what it promises: an economical, DOT-compliant half-shell that fulfills its obligations in terms of functionality and safety. It is neither luxurious nor brimming with features. Yet it satisfies the requirements for motorcyclists who occasionally take casual cruises around town and need an inexpensive helmet for occasional use.
While it does meet your safety needs via its ABS shell/EPS liner combination, it cannot protect you from all possible hazards, particularly in high-speed situations, since it only covers about half of your cranium and offers little to no wind protection.
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