Keeping The Helmet Visor Clear
The visor is what you see the world through when riding, which makes it quite important that it stays clean and offers the best visibility.
Fogging is a problem that plagues all riders. The condensation of the moisture in your breath on the visor can be a visual distraction, which can potentially become a dangerous situation when on the move. This is especially true when there is a drop in temperature. Another big problem in keeping a visor clear, or rather clean, of bugs. Bug-splatter can lead to a visual distraction, which again is a potential hazard. So, what can you do to keep your visor clear?
First let’s tackle the fogging problem.
Ventilation: To avoid fog from building on the visor, it is essential to have good ventilation inside the helmet. Keep your helmet vents open to increase the circulation of air inside the helmet. This will help in dissipating the moisture, before it has a chance to build up on the visor. If that is not enough, crack the visor open one step. This will dramatically increase the airflow inside the helmet, which will help clear up the fogging. The AGV K1 series and the Bell Qualifier series are two helmet models that provide excellent ventilation.
Balaclava: Wearing a balaclava underneath your helmet is another way of controlling moisture. The balaclava fabric covers your nose and mouth, and catches any moisture expelled from the two in the fabric. This decreases the amount of moisture in the air that can manifest on the helmet visor. The Rev’it! Micro Balaclava is a great example of one, which fits in comfortably underneath any helmet.
Anti-fog coating: If you want a proven manufacturer solution, invest in a visor with an anti-fog coating. These visors are coated with a substance which doesn’t allow moisture to build up on its surface. They are manufacturer tested and the most sure-shot way of keeping moisture at bay. The coating is however only good for a year or two and you will need to replace the visor after that period. The Bell Qualifier Blaze helmet and AGV K-3 series come with an anti-fog visor, straight from the factory.
But, what about bug-splatter?
Damp microfiber: This is the easiest way to manage bugs. Keep a microfiber cloth handy when you are out riding and wipe your helmet after each ride. Make sure the cloth is damp, otherwise the bugs might leave a scratch on the visor. If you are riding through an area with a high number of bugs, wipe your visor when you stop for a break. Wet tissues can be used as a substitute for the microfiber cloth.
