I'm also with VF on this one. I bought a helmet when I started my training 30+ years ago, well before they were the norm, and have worn it throughout my career. The only time I haven't was when I flew for the oil industry and they wouldn't let me. Gave me the same BS excuse mentioned above, not from management but from the chief pilot.
The only negative comments I've ever received were from fellow pilots. Maybe it's because other pilots are jealous. If a tourist, VIP or passenger has ever commented, it was favourably. Maybe that's because I've had a cool paint job on it but no one has ever asked 'where is theirs?'.
I'm 6' 3" and have no problem wearing it in any helicopter I've ever flown, from R22's to Mi8's and I'm a VR pilot so need to stick my head out the door. Sure there is some technique required in some types but that isn't hard to learn.