Friday, January 30, 2009

What is Snell Motorcycle Helmet Testing?

By Frank Medley

The Snell Memorial Foundation is an organization designed to promoting helmet safety standards, and testing helmets to make sure they are safe. It was founded after the death of auto racer Pete Snell, who died in a 1956 despite the fact that he was wearing a helmet.

The Snell motorcycle helmet testing standards are more rigorous that even those of the Department of Transportation. Unlike the DOT, the Snell testing is done in their own laboratories, and not by the manufacturers.

One of the most important parts of the Snell motorcycle helmet testing is the vision test. This is especially important for full face helmets. It ensures that when riding, a motorcyclist has complete peripheral vision.

The testing then moves into performance testing. This is the section of the testing which best ensures your safety in the even of an accident, as it ensures that the helmet will be able to protect you.

To ensure that the helmets do not break down after they are used, helmets are subjected to heat, cold, and wet before they are tested. This will check for any breakdown after normal use.

The Snell motorcycle helmet testing also includes several different types of impact testing. This is designed to ensure that during an impact, the helmet will minimize any damage to your head.

There has been some criticism of the Snell testing. Manufacturers argue that it is very expensive. Others argue that the testing is too rigorous, and that the helmets need not be so tested to be proven safe.

If you are interested in top of the line protection, buy a helmet which meets Snell motorcycle helmet testing standards. You will know that your helmet is as safe as is possible, and will help to protect you. - 16752

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