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Can I Use a 10-Year-Old Motorcycle Helmet?​

Let’s say you have found a protective hood that you consider the best modular motorcycle helmet. However, on closer inspection, you realize it’s 10 years old from the day of purchase.

By appearance, the helmet appears to have no tangible defect. Thus, you are tempted to wear it for street rides. But another question lingers in your mind, can I use a 10-year-old motorcycle helmet? And how safe is a 10-year-old motorcycle helmet?

That is the issue we are exploring in the post!

=>> RELATED: Finding the right motorcycle helmet at helmetgurus.com

How Safe is a 10-Year-Old Helmet?​

It’s not easy to tell exactly how safe a 10-year-old helmet is. The initial quality, intensity of use, and how you have been caring for it matters.

But one thing is for sure: you can count on a brand-new helmet as safer than a 10-year-old model. A new hood has a test of reputable bodies and is not subject to any use and is very reliable.

Except wearing a 10-year-old lid is better than not wearing anything at all while riding.

Should I Wear a 10-Year-Old Motorcycle Helmet?​

Whether you should wear a 10-year-old helmet is up to an individual’s choice. In some countries, it's illegal to wear a helmet whose sticker indicates it is more than 5 years old. So, consider the legal implications.

Also, take into account the type of rides you’ll be undertaking. Some rides such as off roads, racing, and related rides. A ride that has the highest risk of accidents requires top-notch protection.

What are the Dangers of Using a 10-Year-Old Helmet?​

There are several dangers of using a 10-year-old motorcycle helmet. Having been in use for 10 years it becomes challenging to gauge its structural integrity. That is, you’ll be betting on its level of protection.

Still, the fit of the helmet is most likely to degrade over 10 years of use. And a compromised fit means less protection. The buckles, locks, and visor sealing ability may be weaker than before.

=>> RELATED: Best modular motorcycle helmet - helmetgurus.com

When riding, sweating is inevitable. As the liner and EPS absorb sweat, their fresh smell dwindles. And the EPS may over time grow harder than required. And in case of an accident, you won’t have legal grounds for suing the helmet or insurance compensation while wearing an old helmet.

Further, the aged helmet is likely to present a deceiving appearance. Thus, you may wear it thinking you have the best modular helmet protection. However, in the event of an accident, it may give way and expose your head to a deadly crash.

When is the Right Time to Replace Your Helmet?​

The correct time to replace your helmet is under the following circumstances:

Following a crash

After developing cracks and breakage

Reaching the manufacturer’s advisable expiry period

When the helmet no longer fits you snugly

If the parts have worn out and don’t feel secure

Continuing to wear a 10-year-old helmet exposes you to a lot of risks. If a new helmet can’t guarantee you 100 percent protection, how much protection would a 10-year-old provide?

The biggest risk of relying on an old helmet is the unknown structural integrity. According to Helmet Gurus, if you need the optimum safety protection of a helmet, replace it when it’s timely.