Adam,
I'm pretty sure Snell refuses them on principle. They figure that
anything that threatens the structural integrity of the helmet is a bad
thing.
I know Snell DOES refuse to accept half helmets under any circumstances,
but the DOT folks will still certify them.
Recall, the Snell Memorial Foundation was established by the Snell family
after the loss of a member of the family in a car racing accident, when a
helmet failed. In other words, they have roots in racing, and that's
still reflected in their general orientation. Yes, yes, I know, most of
these motorcycle helmets get exclusive street use, but they have a bit of
a "racing" orientation. Race in a half helmet? Race with a flip-up
front? Not likely. But other than cars, no one would race with a 3/4
helmet either, and very few would even do it there at this point.
The differences show up in testing methods, to a small degree. Snell
approval requires the ability to take a "hard" hit, more so than DOT.
They also have a standard that requires multiple hits on one helmet, in
succession, which DOT lacks.
Fact is, even though I like Snell stickers too, I'd still say that these
are likely VERY GOOD helmets and likely to do their intended job should
the need arise.
Phil
