Most helmet manufacturers, including leading brands such as Shoei, Arai, HJC, and Bell, recommend replacing your helmet every five years from the date of manufacture, not the date of purchase. This recommendation is based on internal degradation of materials over time, even if the helmet appears undamaged externally.
Why Five Years?
EPS liner degradation: The Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) liner, which absorbs impact, can break down over time due to sweat, UV exposure, and general wear.
Comfort liner and padding deterioration: Sweat, hair oils, and bacteria degrade the interior padding, compromising comfort and proper fit.
Shell fatigue: The outer shell—whether made of polycarbonate, fiberglass composite, or carbon fibre—can weaken due to thermal cycling and UV exposure.
Advances in safety standards: Helmet safety technologies evolve rapidly. A helmet from five years ago may lack the enhanced safety features found in newer models.
Should You Replace Your Helmet After a Crash?
Absolutely. Even a minor crash can compromise the structural integrity of your helmet. The EPS liner is designed to absorb a single impact. After that, its effectiveness is permanently reduced, even if the outer shell appears intact.
Visible vs. Invisible Damage
Cracks or dents in the outer shell indicate obvious failure.
Hairline fractures or compressed EPS may not be visible but can render a helmet unsafe.
Strap failure or compromised buckles also necessitate immediate replacement.
Never rely on a visual inspection alone. If your helmet has experienced any impact, replace it immediately.
Signs That It's Time to Replace Your Motorcycle Helmet
Even if you haven’t had a crash, helmets show signs of age and wear. Watch for these indicators:
1. Loose Fit or Shifting Helmet
If your helmet no longer fits snugly or moves around on your head, the interior padding has compressed. A loose helmet is a dangerous helmet, as it cannot effectively absorb impact or protect your skull.
2. Worn-Out Interior Padding
Frayed, flattened, or foul-smelling padding is not only unhygienic but also a sign that the helmet’s interior is breaking down. A proper fit is crucial for protection.
3. Faded, Cracked, or Dull Shell
Discolouration or cracking on the shell suggests UV degradation. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can weaken even the toughest outer materials.
4. Failing Straps and Buckles
Chin straps and retention systems degrade over time. If your strap frays, stretches, or won’t lock properly, the helmet can fly off during a crash.
5. Manufacturing Date Over Five Years Ago
Most helmets have a manufacture date stamped inside, often under the comfort liner. If your helmet is more than five years old, it’s time for a new one—even if it looks brand new.
Factors That Accelerate Helmet Degradation
Some riders may need to replace their helmets sooner than the five-year recommendation due to lifestyle, location, or usage habits.
Frequent Use
Daily riders will wear out padding and liner material far faster than occasional weekend riders.
High Heat and UV Exposure
Riders in hot, sunny climates (e.g., Arizona, Australia) should consider replacing helmets every 3 to 4 years due to increased UV degradation and internal heat wear.
Improper Storage
Helmets stored in damp garages, left in car trunks, or exposed to fuel vapours degrade rapidly. Store helmets in cool, dry, shaded places.
Sweat and Hair Products
Oils, gels, and sweat seep into the liner and EPS foam, weakening structure and leading to quicker breakdown of interior materials.
Are Premium Helmets More Durable?
High-end helmets made of carbon fibre or multi-composite shells may be more resistant to impacts and UV radiation, but they are not immortal. Even the best helmets on the market should still be replaced every 5 years, or immediately after an impact.
While premium models might retain comfort and appearance longer, they are not exempt from internal material fatigue.
The Risks of Using an Old Helmet
- Using a helmet beyond its recommended life puts riders at serious risk:
- Increased chance of skull fracture due to degraded EPS.
- Higher rotational force transfer, leading to brain injury.
- Compromised retention system, causing the helmet to fly off.
- Poor fit, reducing shock absorption and increasing injury risk.
- No matter how sentimental or stylish, an old helmet is not worth your safety.
When in Doubt, Replace It
If you’re unsure whether your helmet is still safe, err on the side of caution. The cost of a new helmet is negligible compared to the cost of a traumatic brain injury or worse.
For more information on selecting the quietest and safest motorcycle helmets, check out detailed reviews and recommendations at quietestmotorcyclehelmet.org
Conclusion: Replace Your Helmet Every 5 Years or After Impact
To stay safe on the road, replace your motorcycle helmet ever five years, sooner if it’s damaged or heavily used. Check the manufacture date, watch for signs of wear, and never use a helmet that has been in a crash. Treat your helmet as a life-saving investment, not just a riding accessory.