A helmet is an absolute must for any motorcyclist. High-quality motorcycle helmets can keep you comfortable while also improving aerodynamics to protect your head in the event of an accident or fall. Most helmet manufacturers provide helmets for all head sizes and shapes, giving you a variety of choices.
Choosing the best motorcycle helmet for you can be complicated and difficult, but I’m here to help. There are numerous motorcycle helmets available, each with its own set of features, comfort levels, designs, and so on.
After carefully reading manufacturer websites and analyzing the numerous features, materials, and information, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 best motorcycle helmets available to riders. This list has something for everyone because it includes a variety of riding styles and price points.
All you have to do is think about what kind of helmet you want. There are many different types of motorcycle helmets, just as there are many different types of motorcycles. Each serves a specific purpose.
Considerations When Purchasing a Helmet
When choosing a motorcycle helmet, you should consider your riding style. Yes, you may be a mix of different types of riders, but each type of ride requires a particular type of motorcycle helmet.
Are you planning a trip to the country? Or soaring over the track on a rocket? If your motorbike is more of a workhorse for you, you’ll need something durable.
When looking for the finest motorcycle helmet, it is essential to conduct extensive research and evaluate a wide range of aspects. Many people will only look at the price tag.
Never do this because price should never come before safety! Consider the factors listed below to discover the ideal helmet for your unique needs and preferences.
Certification and Testing:
The U.S. Department of Transportation, or D.O.T., has put mechanisms in place to ensure that all motorcycle helmets sold in the country have been extensively inspected.
Motorcycle helmets must adhere to all of the standards outlined in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218. Generally, helmets that meet these requirements will have a stick on the exterior.
The sticker will bear the letter “D.O.T.,” making it easy to identify. Although it is uncommon to come across a helmet without this marking, if you do, you should not buy it.
What do D.O.T. and E.C.E. certificates mean?
The United States Department of Transportation, or D.O.T., is an abbreviation for Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #218. (FMVSS 218). While marketing their helmets, manufacturers rely on consumers’ faith in their goods and their own promises of D.O.T. compliance.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducts random testing to ensure compliance. The E.C.E., or Economic Commission for Europe, has the same safety regulations as the D.O.T.
Size, Fit, and Comfort of the Head:
Although safety should always come first, it is also critical to ensure that the helmet is comfortable throughout the journey. Helmets are worn for extended periods of time. Therefore they must be comfortable and ergonomically constructed to match the shape of your head.
To maximize efficiency, the helmet should fit as snugly as possible. You will be much less likely to wear the helmet if it is uncomfortable. If you’re not sure what size to wear, it’s critical to have your head measured so you can obtain the proper fit.
Visibility:
Wearing a helmet, which would impede your eyesight, would be extremely dangerous. The helmet should give you a clear view of the road ahead as well as all other vehicles nearby.
Remember that some helmets come with shields and that goggles can be purchased. This is advised since it provides additional protection against insects and weather conditions.
Ventilation in the Helmet:
The importance of ventilation cannot be overstated. Ventilation will have little influence on the overall performance of the helmet, but it will make the helmet considerably more comfortable. A properly vented helmet will be less hot and will not make you sweat.
The helmet should be snug, but it should also have plenty of ventilation ports so that wind can freely flow in and out of the helmet, keeping you comfortable and sweat-free throughout your ride.
Aesthetics and Design:
It is undeniable that you will want to appear cool and fashionable while wearing your helmet. With this in mind, you should pay great attention to the helmet’s general style, design, and aesthetics. Is there a particular hue you prefer?
Although the style has little bearing on the helmet’s performance, it is nonetheless suggested that you consider it. Also, keep in mind that you may easily add graphics to the helmet afterward. This isn’t required, but it will assist in tailoring the look of the helmet to your preferences.
Strap across the Chin:
Keep in mind that your helmet must be securely fastened to your head at all times. As a result, the helmet strap will be crucial. The chin strap should be riveted securely so that it does not come undone throughout your ride. Always tighten the chin strap so that there is no gap between your skin and the strap.
Additional Features:
Motorcycle helmets have become increasingly sophisticated as technology has advanced. The helmet speaker and microphone are one of the most recent features.
Some latest technology Bluetooth motorcycle helmets are now available, allowing the driver to answer phone calls while on the road. This will raise the cost somewhat, but it will also give additional reassurance and peace of mind.
Price:
When it comes down to it, pricing is always an important consideration. In reality, most customers will just consider pricing. This is not advised. Nonetheless, you should be certain that you receive the most bang for your buck. Take your time researching and purchasing the most protective helmet available, so you can rest comfortably that your money was well spent.
Warranty:
Finally, keep in mind that certain helmets come with a guarantee. This can be a useful feature that raises the overall worth of the helmet. If something out of the usual occurs, the warranty will allow you to fix the problem without having to pay for anything more.
After considering all of these factors, take a look at the motorcycle helmets we’ve highlighted, and we’re confident you’ll discover the right lid for you.
Read more: Here’s a guide to help you plan your motorcycle rental escape from the ordinary.
Our Top 5 Motorcycle Helmet Picks
1. Shoei RF-1200 Helmet
The first motorbike on our list is the Shoei RF-1200. This racing helmet is the successor to the RF-1100, which was already a major hit in the motorcycle gear industry.
The RF-1200 improves on the RF-1100’s highlights while also improving the helmet’s comfort and wearability. The RF-1200 is a high-end motorcycle helmet for a good reason. It does everything a racing or street-touring motorbike helmet should accomplish. The comfort of this outstanding helmet is its defining feature.
The inside lining of the RF-1200 is of the same excellent quality that you would expect from a Shoei helmet. The hypoallergenic inner lining is completely detachable and washable. The lower section of the helmet also has a very soft and comfy liner.
The RF-1200 is also the lightest Snell-approved helmet on any track today, which contributes to its comfort. With the low amount of wind noise, several users report they nearly forgot they were wearing a helmet on their shoulders.
With this degree of comfort, Shoei’s RF-1200 is a clear contender for the best full-face or snowmobile motorcycle helmet on the market. Long tours will be a lot more enjoyable with the RF-1200 on your head. Racers will benefit from the extra comfort as well since it eliminates one distraction while they focus on each curve.
FEATURES:
- Full Face Racing
- Pin-Lock Visor
- E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Quick-Release System) CWR-1 Shield System
- D.O.T. and Snell M2015 Certified
PROS:
- The most comfortable helmet ever
- It is light in weight.
- Aerodynamic
- The pin lock visor eliminates fogging.
CONS:
- The pricey Pin lock visor has a habit of staring at night.
- Some people may find it excessively restrictive.
2. Arai XD4 Helmet
The Arai XD4 is a high-end and high-quality motorcycle helmet, similar to the previous helmet. Because it is on the high end of the spectrum, the XD4 is also on the high end of the price spectrum. The price is justified, as many consider the XD4 to be the pinnacle of dual-sport motorcycle helmets.
From top to bottom, the XD4 receives the greatest ratings for a dual-sport motorcycle helmet. With its wide vertical and horizontal clearance for a full view all around, this helmet is exactly what you need for an adventure tour.
The entire construction of this helmet is made of solid and strong materials. With this motorbike helmet in your hands, you can see why Aria’s X.D. series has received so much praise. Aria has established the standard for adventure touring motorcycle helmets.
The XD4 sets the standard for adventure touring helmets in terms of overall safety, quality, and comfort. And it’s the lid of choice for A.D.V. tourers. The cost is not prohibitively expensive, but if you are serious about adventure touring. After that, you may bet on the XD4.
FEATURES:
- Full Face Dual-Sport
- Adventure Touring and Motor Sport
- Fully removable, replaceable, and washable interior
- D.O.T. and Snell M2015 Certified
- Best Adventure Touring
PROS:
- The best visibility is possible.
- Comfortable
- Excellent chin ventilation
- Feel like a high-end shell
CONS:
- Pricey
- Top ventilation is not as effective.
- Some people may find the chin strap too short.
3. Shoei Modular Solid Neotec II Motorcycle Helmet
The only helmet on our list to obtain a perfect score, but before you continue, you should know that this helmet is E-X-P-E-N-S-I-V-E.
The flagship motorcycle helmet from Shoei’s outstanding collection is pricey. The Neotec II is a one-stop shop for everything. Shoei stacked the deck by laying all of their cards on the table.
Quality you’d expect from a Shoei helmet, with enough bells & whistles to last a full parade. The Shoei Neotec II is, without a doubt, the greatest modular motorcycle helmet and, in general, the best motorcycle helmet on the market.
A synthesis of everything Shoei has innovated over its career. It’s aerodynamic enough to be seen streaking down the track, but it’s also comfy enough to be a dream on a long trip.
We could go on and on about how fantastic the helmet’s construction is or how Shoei improved on the already unique design of the original Neotec. But it will come down to whether you are prepared to spend over 700 big ones for a motorbike helmet. If you answered yes, there is no doubt that you should get the Neotec II.
If money isn’t an issue, check out these carbon fiber motorbike helmets. This is a helmet you’ll want to wear every day of the week. While being modular and better for everyday use, the Neotec’s older cousin, RF-1200, may be just as comfortable as the first helmet we feature.
Most users and reviews are concerned that the audio and communications system only uses the Sena S.R.L. Motorcycle Bluetooth Communication System that is designed for the helmet. Other systems can be installed, but some jerry-rigging is required.
This adds a hefty bill to an already pricey helmet, but the specialized system allows the Neotec II to be quieter while also making the most of a communications system by integrating it directly into the helmet.
FEATURES:
- Full-Face Modular Helmet
- Drop-down internal sun shade visor
- In-Helmet Audio & Communication Via SENA SRL
- Anti-Fog Pin-Lock
- D.O.T. Approved and DMVSS 218 Standard
PROS:
- Anti-fog visor by Pin lock
- The market’s best modular mechanisms.
- Comfy
- Amazing Noise Reduction
- Each detail is modern and of the highest quality.
CONS:
- Expensive
- Because the helmet is designed to have a specific audio and communication system, using a different system will be more difficult.
- Did I mention it was pricey?
4. Scorpion Exo Covert Unisex-Adult Half-Size
We’ll be blunt: some helmets are “louder” than others, and when a helmet’s style is too loud, it can be difficult to wear. It would be good for you if you could pull off the look. If not, consider getting a more traditional-looking helmet.
Scorpion’s Covert is audible. Basically, like a loud universe bending. “The Scorpion Covert” even sounds awesome. Everything from the Scorpion decal to the barrel screams fire.
Then there’s the white model (WARNING: NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART), which may motivate you to join G.I Joe and give you the courage to take down Cobra. We’re only stating that scorpions vs. cobras aren’t unusual.
We realize this article lists it as the Best Multi-Form Motorcycle Helmet, but it should actually be best in Style, as in a loud style that is still tastefully done but takes some work to pull off. Anyway, multi-functional helmets. All of this means that the helmet has detachable sections that allow it to be transformed into a new ‘form’ of the helmet.
Remove the Muzzle to reveal an open face. Remove the side flaps to reveal a half-shell. Covert accomplished it better than everyone else in the motorcycle helmet market in 2022. The Covert’s Muzzle isn’t exactly ventilating, so cold-weather rides will necessitate some extra face protection.
Only the top of the helmet is D.O.T. approved, which is still rather decent for a half-shell helmet. Then, of course, if this helmet doesn’t look well on you, it won’t look good on anyone.
FEATURES:
- Multi-Form Cruiser Helmet (Half-Shell, Open-Face, Full-Face)
- Removable Sections along the Helmet
- Drop-down Sun Visor that fits Muzzle
- Includes Bell’s Speed Dial Fitting Tool
- D.O.T. Certified (Top Half)
PROS:
- The greatest-looking helmet ever appears as if it came straight from a movie set.
- The drop-down visor fits into the curvature of the Muzzle.
- High-quality mechanisms are used throughout the helmet.
- It will give you the courage to confront even HYDRA.
CONS:
- Style may be too much for certain folks.
- Not the cheapest cruise helmet on the market.
- It is actually cooler than you.
5. Bell Qualifier DLX Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
This dirt bike helmet is ideal for first-time racers. In short, Bell’s cheap racing helmet is our favorite. The Qualifier DLX looks and feels nice, and it comes with a slew of useful functions. One of the finest racing motorbike helmets under $250.
The Qualifier DLX is right up there with the best budget racing helmets. Bell has done an excellent job on this motorbike helmet. It’s no surprise that Bell’s Qualifier line is so popular on racing tracks across the United States and Europe.
Bell has always been a recognized brand, and the beauty of a motorbike helmet just adds to that faith. We’ll begin with what Bell excels at: the face shield. Each Qualifier DLX includes a ‘Transitions Photochromic’ face shield as standard. That is, in the presence of U.V. radiation, it will darken. The Qualifier DLX will often darken during the day, especially when gloomy.
So don’t anticipate it to change back and forth when you pass through cloud cover and back into the sunlight.
Bell’s unique “Click Release” technology is another amazing feature of the face shield. With a variety of face shield settings available at the touch of a button.
The Qualifier DLX is also an intercom system ready out of the box. A detachable panel on the helmet’s left side offers a hole for the Cardo Q1/Q3 intercom, Cardo Qz, or the original Sena SMH10.
Generally, the most common criticism about the Qualifier DLX is that it is noisy. Some users have resorted to duct taping or simply covering vent holes that let in a lot of wind. In case, if there is no intercom system installed, the intercom hole is considered to be very loud.
FEATURES:
- Full Face Racing
- D.O.T. and E.C.E. Certified
- Consists of the Bell Sena SMH10 and Cardo Scala Rider Q1/Q3 Bluetooth stereo headset and intercom
- Photochromatic (light transitioning) face shield
- “Click Release” face shield
PROS:
- Very inexpensive
- Great Face Shield from Bell
- Amazing airflow
CONS:
- Noisy
- Sizing isn’t ideal.
Bonus Recommendation
6. I.L.M. Bluetooth Integrated Modular Helmet
The I.L.M. Bluetooth Motorcycle Helmet’s battery capacity provides for eight hours of conversation time and 110.0 hours of standby time. This snowmobile motorcycle helmet with intercom technology enables a maximum separation of 1,680.0 feet between two riders.
Riders will be able to accept or deny incoming phone calls, as well as listen to F.M. radio, music, or G.P.S. navigation directions, using the helmet’s one-touch controls. The trendy style of this helmet will appeal to you.
One of the main characteristics of this helmet, according to experts, is the use of D.S.P. noise and echo cancellation technology. Even with your helmet speakers turned on, it may be difficult to hear noises when riding a motorbike.
This helmet’s speakers actively reduce incoming noise, improving the quality of Bluetooth calls and music. It features sleek curves and lovely angles that give it a very modern appearance. It also includes a lot of talking time.
PROS:
- It satisfies or complies with both D.O.T. safety criteria.
- It is super light and comfy to wear.
- Bluetooth 3.0 technology is also included.
- The ear liners and top liner are both washable and removable.
CONS:
- You may come across some loudness difficulties.
What Type Of Motorcycle Helmet Is Recommended?
A full-face helmet is the best option since it is the most secure. While some may argue that comfort is more important than safety, face covering is one of those things that is better to have than not to have.
So, Which Motorcycle Helmet Is The Best?
Helmets are the one piece of motorcycle equipment you should never be without. According to the Traffic Safety Administration, wearing a helmet when riding a motorcycle reduces the likelihood of an accident by 37% and brain damage by 67%. This should be enough to persuade you to purchase and wear a motorcycle helmet.
In short, the helmet keeps you safe in the case of an accident. We’ll applaud you if you’ve made it this far in the article. Congratulations!
We want to help you get closer to selecting the best helmet for you so you can go back on the road, track, or mound.
There are no one criteria with which to compare all the numerous helmets on the market and name only one the “best,” unfortunately. Basically, it depends on your style and budget.
Keep in touch with us so you can learn more about motorcycle helmets.
