All helmets have a belt-like strap below the chin of some sort. This is a strap in two pieces that joins each side of the helmet by connecting the helmet under each ear. This chin strap is an essential safety feature. You need to be certain your helmet will stay on your head if you fall off. One of the most common causes of head injury to motorcyclists is forgetting to do up the chin strap. Even at slow speeds, if your head hits the road, an unsecured helmet will be pulled off. There are two types of chin strap, the difference is the mechanism for securing the two pieces together. A D-ring is similar to a trouser belt, one strap loops through a pair of D-shaped metal rings; you pull the strap as tightly as is comfortable and the strap will not come undone. A D-ring strap can be fiddly to do up and undo, but once it is done up, it stays secure. A ratchet strap has a set of teeth that lock together. A ratchet strap is quick to do up and to undo, has micro adjustments for comfort, but can be undone accidentally when riding. One type of chin strap is not better than the other. It is a personal preference. There are no independent tests by SHARP to assess the chin straps on new helmets. The important thing is that as the wearer, you remember to always do it up before you ride. The chin strap, once secure, should be tight enough so you can still open and close your mouth.

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