Selecting motorcycle helmets for assessment FAQs
Understand how helmets are chosen for SHARP testing and the criteria used to ensure a fair and representative selection.
Do all motorbike helmets need to be rated by SHARP?
No. SHARP does not aim to test all new helmet models. It is not possible for SHARP to test every new helmet that comes onto the UK market. All new helmets coming onto the market must, by law, go through a process of assessment beforehand to prove they meet the necessary minimum legal requirements for helmets, so the SHARP scheme does not need to re-test all helmets. Rather, SHARP is a consumer information programme that provides detail about the performance of a helmet which cannot be assessed by a buyer. The helmets we test are generally ones requested by the public, or selected by us so that we encourage the manufacturers to make helmets that will gain a high star rating.
How are helmets selected for inclusion in the test programme?
Helmet models are selected using a range of criteria, including market information and requests from the trade or individual members of the public. SHARP aims to test a mixture of popular helmets across different price ranges, new brands, and helmets with new or unusual features.
How are helmets supplied for testing?
Each star rating requires seven helmets of the same model for the full test process. Most helmets tested are purchased from UK retailers or distributors. In some cases, retailers, distributors or manufacturers supply helmets free of charge from stock. When this occurs, SHARP validates the test results by independently purchasing and testing at least one sample through a retail route available to UK consumers.
Does SHARP test all types of helmet such as open face, motocross or adventure styles?
Not presently. We have concentrated on testing full face and system/modular (flip front) helmets because the majority of helmets sold fall into this category. The style of a helmet is a very personal choice.
To date, SHARP has rated over 520 models of helmet and we are working hard to provide ratings for as many other full face and system helmets as possible, subject to their availability to the UK motorcyclist.
