And I wear my helmet when I am dressed in those cute commuter clothes, on my Jamis. Maybe I am a dork because I don't see the helmet as a detriment to my riding chic? One thing has nothing to do with the other. I could buy one of those cool Nutcase helmets to use when I am toodling around town, but frankly, I am perfectly fine with wearing one of my regular helmets.
Yes, I am risk aversive, more than a lot on this board. But, I just don't get the idea that the helmet messes up your cool factor.
Last year my son's wife wanted to buy a cruiser, to ride along the beach, to the next town in San Diego. After he convinced her that a hybrid would better suit her needs, they had to have the helmet discussion. She had never worn one. He pretty much told her that she would not be getting the bike unless she wore a helmet. He bought her one of the Nutcase ones that is very cool looking. Although she thought he was talking from a "racers" perspective, she wears it and she also sees that he wears his, even though he only rides for fun now.