Wearing Glasses with a Motorcycle Helmet

Wearing glasses with a motorcycle helmet can be tricky.

This is unfortunate if you prefer to wear sunglasses, and even more unfortunate if you’re somebody who needs prescription glasses to see.

Find some expert tips on how to wear glasses or sunglasses comfortably and safely underneath your helmet below.

Can you wear glasses under a motorcycle helmet?

It is certainly possible to wear glasses underneath your helmet, but it has to be done tactfully.

The last thing you want to do is break your expensive frames.

You also don’t want the discomfort of your helmet squeezing your frames against your temples.

The most important thing you’ll need to do is to find a helmet that works with the shape of your head and the shape of your specs.

Below are suggestions to find a comfortable fit.

How to Wear Glasses or Under a Motorcycle Helmet

You have two main options for comfortably and safely wearing your glasses with your motorcycle helmet.

You’ll either want to:

• Buy glasses that fit your helmet.
• Buy a helmet that fits your glasses.

Option 1: Get a Helmet that Fits your Glasses

Whether you have prescription glasses or want to wear sunglasses while you ride, look for these features to find a helmet that will accommodate them.

• A wide opening in the front.
• Interior cuts that make room for glasses.
• Soft cheek pads that allow space for your frames to slide in and out.
• A space between the eyes without padding, where your frames can comfortably sit.
• Visor vents to ensure your glasses won’t fog up mid-ride.
• Face padding with pull-away foam that allows for fit customization. 
• A modular helmet with a flip-up design to open the front of the helmet.
• Air-padding systems that allow the rider to inflate the helmet padding to a size that is comfortable for them.
• An open-face helmet.

There are helmets specifically designed for wearing with glasses.

Look for an indication the helmet was built with glasses in mind in the product description.

Some brands will include a small glasses icon on the helmets, indicating they were built for glasses wearers. These will often be your easiest options.

Option 2: Get Glasses that Fit your Helmet

If you’ve already invested in a helmet, it may make sense to fit glasses that fit it.

There are certain features to look out for in glasses that will fit comfortably inside your helmet, including straight, thin arms that don’t irritate the backs of your ears as well as padded rims and arms.

We know riders that keep a pair of glasses specifically for riding.

If you’re an avid rider, it is definitely worth considering contacts or LASIK surgery for a comfortable, long-term solution.

Option 3: Get Goggles

This can a great option for both prescription wearers and those looking for general eye protection.

Yes, prescription goggles exist!

High-quality goggles will protect your eyes from wind, flying debris, and insects, plus you’ll be able to actually see without worrying about uncomfortable frame-rub.

Many helmets are designed to fit goggles.

Look for adjustable goggles to ensure a comfortable experience wearing them with your helmet.