I think as we get more comfortable on bikes we take less and less precautions.. The fact of the matter is, most gear is meant to protect you in a crash going less than 40mph.. If I lay my bike down on the freeway going 80 then no amount of gear is going to protect me from the car right behind me.
That being said.. Is it safest to always wear a FF helmet and all your gear? Yes. Is there times on a hot summer day when you just want to throw on a skid lid and a vest and go out and enjoy the sun? Yes. (Especially if you’re a cruiser guy like me) When I started I swore I would always wear a FF helmet.. After a year that rule has kinda gone out the window.. My helmet choice now is which will I be more comfortable in on that day.. Warmer days I put on the 1/2 and cooler days I go with the full..
Everyone makes their own judgments as to what is “safe enough” for them.. It’s about finding what works for you and doing your best to stay safe.. Would I recommend that a new rider go with a 1/2 helmet while they’re learning to ride? Never.. But as for someone who has been riding a while and is competent, I say why not. They are after all DOT approved as far as skull protection goes… Yes you run a larger risk of rash and jaw damage but we take a risk every time we get on our bikes.
