Most manufacturers recommend replacing a motorcycle helmet every five to seven years even without a crash, since the internal materials that absorb impact degrade slowly with heat, sweat and UV exposure. The shell can look fine while the protective layer underneath has already lost some of its effectiveness.

Getting helmet sizing right starts with a proper head measurement, taken with a soft tape around the largest part of the head, just above the eyebrows and ears. That figure points to a starting size, but it is only a starting point, since head shape varies as much as head size.

A leather trimmed helmet needs a little more attention than a plain shell, but the upkeep is straightforward. Dust and light dirt can be wiped away with a soft, dry cloth, and any marks are best treated with a product made for leather rather than general household cleaners, which can dry the material out over time.

To browse current models when it is time to replace yours, see Heroine Racer.

To find out more about the made to order process, visit Heroine Racer.

Full face and open face helmets suit different kinds of riding, and the right choice usually comes down to where and how you ride rather than looks alone. A full face helmet covers the chin and jaw, giving more protection in a wider range of impacts, and tends to suit faster roads and longer distances.