Are Helmets Filled with Foam Inside?
2 Answers
Helmets are indeed filled with foam inside. A motorcycle helmet (officially known as a motorcycle rider helmet) is a protective device designed for the heads of motorcycle riders and passengers. The primary purpose of this helmet is to protect the rider's head during impacts, preventing or reducing injuries and potentially saving the rider's life. Definition and Standards for Mopeds: Regardless of the propulsion method, a moped is defined as a motorcycle with a maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h. If powered by an internal combustion engine, its displacement must not exceed 50 ml. If it is electrically driven, the total rated output power of its motor must not exceed 4 KW. Requirements for Riding a Moped: To ride a moped, one must be at least 16 years old, with a height of 1.45 meters or more, vision of 0.7 or above (or corrected to 0.7 or above), no red-green color blindness, normal hearing, and no physical disabilities or diseases that could hinder safe riding. After passing a medical examination and tests on traffic rules and riding skills administered by the public security authorities, a moped driver's license will be issued. For licensed mopeds, a medical examination is required every two years, and those who fail are not permitted to continue riding.
Having ridden motorcycles for many years, I can confirm that the interior of helmets is indeed filled with foam, typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) materials. This foam is designed to compress upon impact, absorbing shock to protect the brain, while the hard outer shell guards against penetration by sharp objects. Not just any foam will do for helmets—they must meet safety standards like DOT certification, as the density and thickness of the foam directly affect protective performance. Helmets are constructed in multiple layers, with the foam core serving as the inner liner, sometimes covered with soft materials for added comfort, but the core function remains shock absorption. I recommend purchasing branded helmets, as their foam tends to be more durable. After a significant impact, even if the outer shell appears intact, the internal foam may have compressed or deformed and must be replaced to maintain protection. Make it a habit to regularly inspect the foam by pressing it to check for cracks. Daily riding safety comes first—this foam padding has saved both my life and my friends'.
