Helmets that do not have the D.O.T. sticker are sometimes referred to as being a novelty helmet. The word novelty would imply that the helmet is not a really protective or only made for decoration.
Some of the cheesy novelty helmets hardly provide adequate protection and deserve the title of novelty. Other non-DOT rated or novelty helmets are made of far better composition than that of their DOT counterparts. The high quality novelty helmets only lack the D.O.T. rating because of their low profile styling of the shell.
What's the purpose of buying a helmet if it doesn't have the sticker showing that it meets or exceeds D.O.T. standards? The purpose might be only to look as if they have the required helmet in case they come across a traffic cop. They might also believe in the saying "something is better than nothing".
Some motorcyclists actually want adequate protection from a helmet but don't like bulkiness of a D.O.T. helmet. A small number of companies have created a smaller and more low profile helmet using superior strength to weight ration materials. Some of which consist of carbon fiber and or kevlar. Kevlar and carbon fiber have been on the market for some time but not used in motorcycle helmet application until after the U.S. military helmets were on the market.
If you are not obligated by state law to wear a DOT rated motorcycle helmet, you have the luxury of choice and freedom to choose a low profile helmet. Be sure to take your time and look for a truly high quality novelty helmet. Don't settle for the imaition carbon fiber type or carbon wrapped helmet. Stick with authentic carbon fiber or something equal in quality and tensile strength. There are a few low profile helmets that have a carbon fiber / kevlar blend that can withstand an enormous amount of weight and friction. Be careful with the helmet origin. Many false or imitation carbon fiber helmets are on the market. Be sure you use a company known for selling good novelty helmets.
Some of the cheesy novelty helmets hardly provide adequate protection and deserve the title of novelty. Other non-DOT rated or novelty helmets are made of far better composition than that of their DOT counterparts. The high quality novelty helmets only lack the D.O.T. rating because of their low profile styling of the shell.
What's the purpose of buying a helmet if it doesn't have the sticker showing that it meets or exceeds D.O.T. standards? The purpose might be only to look as if they have the required helmet in case they come across a traffic cop. They might also believe in the saying "something is better than nothing".
Some motorcyclists actually want adequate protection from a helmet but don't like bulkiness of a D.O.T. helmet. A small number of companies have created a smaller and more low profile helmet using superior strength to weight ration materials. Some of which consist of carbon fiber and or kevlar. Kevlar and carbon fiber have been on the market for some time but not used in motorcycle helmet application until after the U.S. military helmets were on the market.
If you are not obligated by state law to wear a DOT rated motorcycle helmet, you have the luxury of choice and freedom to choose a low profile helmet. Be sure to take your time and look for a truly high quality novelty helmet. Don't settle for the imaition carbon fiber type or carbon wrapped helmet. Stick with authentic carbon fiber or something equal in quality and tensile strength. There are a few low profile helmets that have a carbon fiber / kevlar blend that can withstand an enormous amount of weight and friction. Be careful with the helmet origin. Many false or imitation carbon fiber helmets are on the market. Be sure you use a company known for selling good novelty helmets.
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