Never used to wear on 'til a couple months ago. I was riding Harden (big sharpish rocks) and I took a fall. Managed to put my hand where my head was aiming at just in time to save cracking my skull, and my hand was in agony for a week. I dread to think what that would have done to my head if I hadn't broken my fall, so I ordered a helmet as soon as I got in that night. Also, I feel more confident in a helmet. I dunno if everyone gets that but I certainly do.