Many people would likely consider the prospect of a factory tour as an experience to be endured rather than enjoyed, but when the opportunity arose to see first-hand how Arai produces motorcycle helmets, I jumped at it.
I have always had a fascination with how different things are made, especially in the automotive world, but also the associated products and equipment that help enthusiasts get the most out of their passion. And for most motorcyclists, a helmet is much more than just a thing you throw over your noggin to protect it from impacts; a helmet is something to be coveted, cared for and appreciated every time you look at it, let alone every time you put your head in it.
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a decent collection of helmets. Even if they are well past their use-by date or, God forbid, they have been dropped or otherwise damaged, I still find it nigh on impossible to throw them out, instead putting them on display where I can view them and relive past rides and adventures.
After spending a few days in Japan being guided through Arai Helmet’s development and manufacturing facilities, one thing that stood out was the care that motorcyclists treat their helmets with is matched by the manufacturing process of these mostly handmade products.
Yes, Arai helmets are still mostly made
