As we already know, there are several sizes for helmets from XS (extra small) and everything in between to XL (extra-large) or XXL (extra-extra-large). The two most popular sizes are M (medium) and L (large).

However, do each size group say L fit all the head sizes within that group? The easy answer is no because while each of us has a general skull shape that corresponds to our ancestry, each of us has small to large differences among one another.

The three general head shapes

1. Round

• Front to back/ear to ear measurements are nearly the same.

2. Intermediate oval

• The most common head shape. Front to back measurement is slightly longer than ear to ear.

• Head shape is longer from forehead to back of skull, compared to ear to ear.

Asian versus Caucasian head shapes

Since we live in Asia, it is best to see how our head shapes compare to those of westerners. It is not discriminatory. Instead, it is important to understand what this means towards selecting a well-fitting helmet.

 As we can see, one single helmet will not fit peoples on two different groups of people. This is why SHOEI has Asian fit helmets for the Asian market.

A badly fitting helmet is uncomfortable in many factors. It could cause the wearer to get headaches, even blurred vision and shortness of breath in extreme cases. But more importantly, the helmet cannot provide adequate protection if the helmet does not fit correctly.

This also brings us to the subject of buying your SHOEI helmet elsewhere other than in your own market segment. Mail ordering a helmet from other markets may not net you an Asian fit unit and vice versa. You will also run into warranty and aftersales support issues, too. It is not about local distributors attempting to monopolise the market but it is to ensure that a SHOEI wearer enjoys his purchase to his utmost satisfaction and safety.