DOT or Snell?

[Raid The Revenge]

DOT is government approved while Snell is rated by a third party. Snell hasn't started to rate modular (flip up) type helmets yet. Snell has more RACING type standards while DOT has more legal standards.

Either grade has high demands.

 

[wrightme43]

I like the ones that meet ECE or BSI tests.

The BSI test requires prerelease batch testing of every run. Not only has the design been tested, but the same run of helmets I have on my head has been tested prior to shipping.
Thats a good standard.
It is also softer than snell, but stronger than DOT.

If you are looking for highly rated helmet that is rockin comfortable and well well made check out Shark.

 

[Denver_FZ6]

DOT is government approved while Snell is rated by a third party. Snell hasn't started to rate modular (flip up) type helmets yet. Snell has more RACING type standards while DOT has more legal standards.

Came across this on the Snell site FAQs about Snell and Helmets. Unclear if mfg's are not submitting flip-ups for certification or what:

Why won't Snell certify some types of helmets like flip up front designs?
Snell does not dismiss out of hand any helmet design that strays from the conventional. Snell does not point out any design specifications other than general requirements in our standards. We are however, always concerned with innovations and new designs that may effect the helmet's ability to protect the wearer, or in some cases the helmets potential to cause injury. At present the Foundation has not had the opportunity to test any of the flip up front type helmets for certification. We do not find any fault with these designs as long as they are used according to the manufacturers instructions and meet all of the requirements of the standard. We will also certify any size of helmet as long as it meets the same requirements as any other Snell certified helmet.

 

[Comet]

DOT is government approved while Snell is rated by a third party. Snell hasn't started to rate modular (flip up) type helmets yet. Snell has more RACING type standards while DOT has more legal standards.

Either grade has high demands.

A Dot helmet according to the article isnt government approved. They work on the honour system and leave it to the manufacturers to test them. Here is part of that article..... DOT Helmet Standards - Full Pin - Sport Rider Magazine Helmets sold in the U.S. for street use must meet the criteria of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218, the official DOT standard. Like any other products manufactured to DOT standards such as lights, turn signals and wheels, a helmet model is not actually tested or certified to meet FMVSS 218 before it can be sold; the honor system is used. It's up to the manufacturer to test whatever is necessary to determine if the helmet meets the standard and then label it thus.