A popular trend across helmet brands is to create a product that has that “retro” feel along with 21st century protection. Typically, the helmet style of choice is the open-face to be a vessel of this trend.
GMAX Brand Sales Manager Andrew Mikolaichik noted that although it seems as if the same basic open-face helmet design has lasted the test of time and has remained a popular choice for consumers over the last decade, the evolution of the helmet has held its success thanks to its versatility and ability to be customized by the consumer.
“Versatility seems to be a common trend to keep interest in the open-face category,” Mikolaichik said. “The ability to offer accessories to change the helmet’s appeal is something consumers like to take advantage of.”
Some of the accessories that customers are choosing from include inner and outer shields, visors, neck curtains and speaker pockets for audio and communication systems. To improve visibility on the road, LED light kits and brake light kits that can be paired wirelessly with a rider’s brake lights are available.
Mikolaichik offered some helpful tips for dealers who are looking to boost their open-face helmet sales:
When fitting a helmet, open-face helmets have a more relaxed fit when comparing it to a full-face helmet because of the open chin area. Full-face helmets will have more cheek pressure.
Open-face helmets are a great option for someone who wants to get out of a half-helmet and into a helmet with more protection or for those who think full-face helmets may be claustrophobic.
An open-face helmet can feel just as light as a half-helmet when it’s on because of the weight distribution.
Although open-face helmets have a retro look, the technology inside of the helmet is nothing short of impressive, including helmets that are DOT approved with MIPS technology that specializes in the safety and protection of the brain in case of an accident. Keep an eye out for more advanced features from MIPS, as they recently acquired the brand Fluid Inside and their related patent rights to offer safety solutions associated with technology that addresses both linear and rotational motions to improve helmet protection.
