DOT and Snell are good minimums, but you really want headear that FITS, too. Different gourds fit into different helmets. after DOT/Snell and fit, then I'd say personal preferences come into play, such as vents, colors, styling, price, etc.
I bought a 95 dollar Fulmer to start off in because it was approved and it fit, nothing else. I got tired of the poor venting and high-speed whistling within 6 months, and bought an HJC. Now a nearly-new 95 dollar helmet sits on my entertainment center, collecting dust... so how much money did that cheap helmet save me? :dunno: just a thought
good luck with your shopping. :cheers:
I tried on a few different style Vega helmets at a local dealer because they were too cheap NOT to look at. My opinion is that they suck - they are poorly made, the finish on them is cheaper than any other helmet I've seen and the worst part was the lining. The lining was a rough cloth, and not comfortable at all. Maybe this thing will protect you in a crash, but you don't want to be wearing this thing all the time.
I've seen quite a few closeouts for HJC & KBC helmets with NEW Snell2000 approved helmets in the 90-140 range. I'd suggest sticking with that...
my old helmet was a vega.. didnt have any issues with it..
The lining later on became loose (about 2 yrs of use) but its still quieter than my HJC which is my current helmet. I still have my vega with me.
Vega is a dirt bike manufactuer, but the fact that they can produce cheap helmets with decent quality and pass Snell M2000.. I think its worth it.
My vega is super quiet, but that is compared to an HJC and my Schuberth. I had no issues with the quality in the year that i have owned it, but I had to get a new helmet because in hindsight, the vega didn't fit me. The cheek pads were way too tight. I kept biting my cheeks. Other than that it's not uncomfortable, even if it is unremarkable in any category. I would wear it before my HJC anyday, if the stupid thing fit. The flip up face and storm trooper visor on the schuberth are too cool in a dorky kind of way to pass up though...plus it is the only helmet that truly fits my funny shaped head. Do danes have funny shaped heads? Supposedly I'm a good part danish...