$200 helmet and $4 sunglasses- go figure. In order to pass DOT, there is a minimum for thickness of padding in the hat, regardless of composition. However, that is only one side of the equation. What should be asked is, "what's the reason that all these beannie helmets don't pass SNELL?". Yes, I too wear a beannie in the summer. The truth is that NONE of the beannies will pass the pull over test of SNELL testing. When a helmet hits something, and you are moving, the friction will pull on the helmet. A beannie can be pulled right over your head and come off, or move around, or just throttle you, so when you hit the ground the second time, and yes you probably will bounce, you are a skinhead. If you are intersted in protecting your ******-ets, buy a high quality fullface helmet with a visor and a ful set of riding gear- jacket, pants, boots, and gloves. The pieces of the whole work as a system, and the effect of all is lessoned by the omission of any. If you want to look cool, get whatever cool is to you, and be aware of and accept the risk associated. There is a reason no one is allowed on the track without a SNELL helmet- think about it. On a similar tear- same for air bags- if they are so damn great, why don't race cars come with them? I'd take a chomemolly roll cage and 5 point harness over an air bag in the steering wheel anyday, but I'd look stupid sitting in my truck in traffic wearing a helmet (with the visor down...).
