A question about helmets...?

I've been shopping for months for a helmet that fits properly (and THAT'S the important part). My question is, has anyone out there purchased a helmet without trying it on first? I'm interested in a KBC FFR, or a Zeus 508, but I can't find ANY dealers in my area (Philadelphia, PA) that have them in stock. Anyone know of any shops/resources/advice concerning helmets/helmet buying? I need help. I started the MSF course tonight, and want to purchase my first bike SOOOON! Thanks!!

The Internet is a wonderful thing, but they have not yet found a way to try on a helmet on line. Every helmet manufacturer seems to use their own sizing making it difficult to get a good fitting helmet on line. This is why I have given up on buying a helmets on line.

Consider all the time waiting for the helmet to arrive only to find it's the wrong size. Now you need an RMA number from the seller, which takes forever, and have to ship it back to them. Then you find out about the re-stocking fee of 20%!
Sounds like experiance don't it? IT IS!

Never buy a helmet without FIRST trying it on. You may not find that fighter pilot style helmet at the first. You may find the selection limited here or there, but when you finally do find the right helmet and leave the shop, you WILL have a helmet that fits properly.
Ride Safe

no, i havn't, if you can not find a dealer to try one on, you better check the return rules before buying on line.

DO NOT buy without trying it on. Proper fit is paramount. Find one locally that fits you. Don't risk your head or your wallet just to get a helmet that you think looks cool.

If you can find a reputable online dealer--one that will provide you with sizing instructions and charts, and one with a good return policy, go ahead and purchase the helmet you like. If it doesn't fit, you're out less than $20 for shipping. I have purchased 3 helmets online in the last several years. Two were good fit, one was returned. No problem...

My advice is a Shoei Multitec.
http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/shoei/mul...

If you know how big your head is (for example, my head is 53cm about the forehead) then look at the size of the helmet you're hoping to buy. I bought a Caberg V2 without ever trying on a caberg helmet. It fits perfect cos the size said 52/53cm (XS).

I tried a OGK FF3 before and it said XXS but it was still too big. Turns out OGK XXS was 54cm.

Check the manufacturer sizing and go by cm size is your best bet.

Go to www.webbikeworld.com this site will have every thing you will ever want to know regarding helmets and tons of other stuff with links to places you proably would not find just surfing. I swear by this web site.

A helmet, when you first try it should be TIGHT ! Do not buy anything online if you cannot return it. Helmets mould to your head after a time and the snugger the fit the greater the potential protection. (If you cannot find a ZEUS or KBC dealer in Philly, there is a problem !) Try out an HJC - inexpensive and safe .....

Unfortunately cheap helmets fit like cheap helmets, I rode with a HJC for a couple years and then swithched to Shoei and what a difference, I will never go cheap or buy one without trying it on. Both helmets were the right size but cheaper helmets tend to wear out quicker in the padding area around the head. Shop around and don't settle for anything that isn't perfect right away.

Go to "Newenough .com" they're and excellent on line vendor and often have 1st quality at excellent prices many times with free shipping. Most importantly you should find a shop that has the helmet you're thinking of buying and try it on first then order.All helmets have variations in fit and each of us have different shaped heards. The shop should not rush you and you need to wear it for at least 1/2 hour to make sure there are no pressure points. A helmet should be very snug but with no hot(pressure) spots to distract you. Good luck in your search and congrats on going to MSF school.