Whether you’re hitting the dunes, carving through trails, or racing with your crew, wearing a helmet is the single most important safety measure you can take on your ATV.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, ATVs cause more than 100,000 injuries each year, and head injuries are the leading cause of ATV-related deaths. In fact, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85%, and cut the risk of death by 42%, according to data from the CDC and National Trauma Data Bank.
No matter your skill level or speed, accidents happen fast. Helmets don’t just protect — they give you a fighting chance to walk away.
What to Look for When Buying an ATV Helmet
Not all helmets are created equal. When you're shopping for an ATV helmet, safety should always come first — but comfort, fit, and style matter too. Look for a helmet that is DOT-certified (Department of Transportation) at minimum, or SNELL/ECE-certified for even higher safety standards. These certifications mean the helmet has passed rigorous impact and durability testing.
Material also plays a big role. Polycarbonate and fiberglass helmets are lightweight and durable — perfect for trail and dune riding. Carbon fiber options tend to be lighter and stronger, ideal for performance riders or racers.
Make sure your helmet includes:
- Proper ventilation for airflow on hot rides
- A removable, washable liner to keep things fresh
- A wide eye port if you're pairing it with goggles
- A snug, but not painful fit that holds firm under movement
And don’t forget style. Whether you're after a sleek black shell or bold graphics to match your quad, it’s worth finding something you actually want to wear.
How to Properly Size Your ATV Helmet
Got a helmet in mind? Good.
Now it’s time to make sure it fits, and that’s important. If it's too tight, you'll end up with headaches. If it's too loose, it won't offer the protection you need.
So, take the time to find that sweet spot where the helmet fits securely without pinching or pressing uncomfortably. Don't rush this step; finding the right fit can make all the difference in your riding experience.
Here are our five suggestions for fitting your helmet:
1. Check Your Head
- Use a soft measuring tape about 1 inch above your eyebrows.
- Wrap it evenly around the widest part of your head.
- Note the measurement in centimeters or inches.
2. Match with Size Chart
- Use the manufacturer’s helmet size chart (they’re not all the same!).
- An example in the graphic comes from https://xtremehelmets.com/charts/fly-racing-size-chart/
- Compare your measurement to find the right size range.
3. Try It On
- The helmet should fit snug—like a firm handshake on your head.
- It should sit low on your forehead without tilting back or forward.
4. Do the “Shake Test”
- Shake your head side to side and up and down.
- A proper helmet shouldn’t move independently from your head.
5. Check the Chin Strap and Adjust for Comfort
- It should feel secure — not choking, but tight enough that you can’t easily pull the helmet off.
- Comfort matters so wear it around and make sure there are no painful pressure points.
Vito’s Performance Wants You Riding Safe!
At Vito’s Performance, we don’t just sell performance parts — we live and breathe the quad lifestyle. It takes a certain type of spirit to tackle dunes, rooster tail through the mud, or fly through the woods on a four-wheeler or bike.
But to keep doing what we love, we have to think about safety! To reduce the risk of ATV-related injuries and deaths, riders should follow safety guidelines, which includes wearing appropriate protective gear, receiving proper training in ATV operation, and adhering to age restrictions and guidelines.
So, take the steps to be safe out there, make sure you take good care of your quad (with the help of Vito’s, of course), buy and adjust your helmet, and we’ll see you out there!
POWER UP with VITO’S PERFORMANCE | Since 1998, Vito’s Performance has been supplying the world with top-quality and hard-to-find ATV parts for builders and enthusiasts alike. We specialize in the Yamaha Banshee and the Yamaha Blaster, and carry parts for all Yamaha Raptors, the Yamaha Warrior, Honda 300ex and 400ex, and the Honda TRX450r. For assistance with all performance products, contact Vito’s Performance online or call (248) 969-9168.