A foggy motorcycle helmet isn’t just annoying. It can be scary — especially when you’re traveling at high speeds. Visibility is key to staying safe on the road, and any obstruction could be a danger to your health and safety when operating a motorcycle or any other vehicle. But it remains a common problem that can plague even the most experienced of riders. The good news is that you should be able to solve the problem without shelling out for a new helmet. All it takes is a little bit of air.
Let’s examine this problem more closely and what you can do to prevent your helmet from fogging up.
Use Helmet Communication for More Peace of Mind on The Road
Why Is My Helmet Fogging Up?
Fog occurs when the outdoor air temperature differs from that of the air inside your helmet. It is usually only a problem when wearing a full-face helmet, as half-face helmets don’t cover your mouth and nose. You can always ride with a half-face helmet and goggles, but full-face helmets offer more protection. You should never forgo wearing a helmet just because the glass keeps fogging up.
The problem can happen at a moment’s notice when it’s cold or overly humid on a rainy day. Your breath is usually much warmer than the air outside, which causes the glass to become opaque, thus compromising your ability to see.
Helmet manufacturers are all too familiar with this problem. That’s why most modern helmets come with anti-fogging techniques, such as air vents and cooling elements that ease sudden temperature changes.
What to Do If Your Helmet Fogs Up
If you are driving and suddenly find yourself unable to see due to the fog, slow down and pull off to the side of the road using the proper signal to make a quick fix before moving on.
Increase the Airflow
The best thing to do in a pinch is to open your visor to the outdoors. Letting the cold air in will get rid of the fog, but the force of the wind could blow it shut when you’re on the highway. Look for a way to crack open the visor when the wind is blowing using whatever you have. Try adding a bit of tape or some fabric to create a small gap over the seal of the visor to increase the airflow.
If the problem keeps happening and you don’t have another option until you reach your destination, you might need to find another means of transportation. Use a helmet communication system to radio one of your companions for help in an emergency, so they know you are having trouble seeing. Just speak into the device to talk directly to the other riders. You can also use it to quickly connect to your phone if you need to call for help or make other arrangements.
If you decide to go with a half-face helmet and goggles instead of a full-face helmet, choose a half-helmet communication system to keep in touch on the road.
Discover Our Half-Helmet Communicators Here
Attach a Visor Insert
Your helmet might also be compatible with a visor insert that keeps the glass from fogging up. The insert connects using a pin that creates a bubble of air around the glass. Search for a visor insert based on your helmet’s make and model to ensure it fits. You should see small pin inserts on the inside of the helmet. These plastic inserts tend to be cheap and effective.
Wear a Face Mask
You can also wear a face mask underneath your helmet, but some riders find this to be uncomfortable. But it never hurts to carry around a face mask, especially in the age of COVID-19. You can always pop it on during a particularly chilly day if the fog continues to be a problem. The mask method will only work if it directs your breath down and away from the visor. Try cinching the visor at the top to prevent the air you’re exhaling from fogging up the glass.
Treat the Visor
You can also treat the visor with anti-fogging waxes and silicone gels that insulate the glass from changing temperatures. Learn how to clean your motorcycle visor before applying the wax to avoid sealing in stains and blemishes that affect your visibility.
If you’re using an older full-face helmet, you’re much more likely to have this problem. Keep these tips in mind to find a solution that works for you.
