DOT motorcycle helmets a requirement, of course, in the helmet law states. A DOT motorcycle helmet can be anything from a shorty all the way up to a full face helmet. You, the rider, need to figure out what kind of DOT protection you want. Most cruiser riders want the shorty and the opposite end is the sport bike riders usually opt for the full face protection.

Match your helmet to your riding style.  DOT rated means the helmet met the safety requirements of the Department of Transportation. You have a significantly better chance of surviving a crash with a DOT rated helmet, than you do without...  The foam used inside the helmets between your head and the shell is what will help save your live on impact.