When searching for the best motorcycle helmets in 2024, prioritize safety and comfort. A reliable helmet protects your head and ensures an enjoyable ride, whether commuting or touring.
Full-face helmets offer maximum protection, especially for the face and jaw, while modular helmets provide versatility with their flip-up fronts. The right fit is essential for proper protection. Through extensive testing in various weather conditions, well-designed helmets have proven to stay comfortable in both fast and slow rides.
Always choose helmets that meet safety standards like DOT or Snell, though some experts recommend softer European helmets for a balance of safety and comfort. Select helmets from trusted manufacturers to ensure safety and quality.
The Best Motorcycle Helmets of 2024
- Best Overall Motorcycle Helmet: Bell Qualifier DLX
- Best Budget Motorcycle Helmet: AGV K1 S
- Flip-Front / Quietest Modular Helmet: LS2 Valiant II, Schuberth C5
- Best Full-Face Helmet Over $150: Shoei GT-Air II
- Best Full-Face Helmet Under $150: HJC C10, LS2 Assault Helmets
- Best Dirt Bike Full-Face Helmet: GLX GX23
- Best Open-Face (Jet) Helmet: Shoei J-Cruise II
- Best Retro-Style Motorcycle Helmet: Arai Regent-X
- Best Adventure-Specific Helmet: BELL MX-9, Shoei Hornet X2
- Most Comfortable Motorcycle Helmet: Shoei Neotec II
- Best ILM Motorcycle Helmet: ILM
Best Overall Motorcycle Helmet
Bell Qualifier DLX
Specs
Type: Upright conventional
Materials: Polycarbonate (PC), multi-density impact liner
Weight: 4.9 Pounds
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified/DOT certified
Pros
- Very quiet
- Photochromic visor
- Available in shell sizes
- Lightweight
Cons
- No specific communication system
- Visor isn’t Pinlock compatible
Advanced Construction and Comfort
The Bell Race Star Flex DLX stands out as the best overall motorcycle helmet due to its lightweight and strong 3K Carbon Shell Construction. This advanced material offers unmatched protection on both the road and the track. When cruising on the highway or pushing limits, you can feel secure knowing your head is well-protected. The helmet also features speaker pockets for easy integration of a communication system, ensuring a more connected riding experience.
One of the standout features is the Bell ProTint Photochromic Shield Technology, which automatically adjusts to changing light conditions for optimal visibility. Whether riding in bright sunlight or through sudden weather changes, your vision remains uncompromised. The helmet’s padding uses magnets, making it easy to remove and clean. After extensive testing, it remains a top choice for comfort on long rides.
Best Budget Motorcycle Helmet
AGV K1 S
Specs
Type: Upright conventional
Materials: Carbon fiber shell, heat-resistant and strong synthetic fibers, multi-density EPS foam
Weight: 3.02 lbs.
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified/DOT certified
Pros
- Pinlock visor compatible
- Extra lightweight
- Super wide, 190-degree field-of-view for better visibility
- Four shell sizes
Cons
- Not the best breather
- No integrated sun-shield
As an avid rider who values both safety and comfort, I find the AGV K-6 Solid Helmet to be a top choice. This helmet is built with precision using a shell made of carbon paramedic fiberglass (CAAF), providing maximum protection with its 5-density EPS structure. This design ensures unparalleled impact absorption, making it ideal for unexpected bumps and serious collisions. The collarbone-safe profile minimizes injury risk during falls.
Its integrated ventilation system (IVS) with 5 front vents and a wide rear extractor ensures optimal airflow, keeping me cool even on hot days. The universal fit is snug and comfortable, and the sleek design adds style to any ride, whether I’m on an urban commute or a weekend trip. The lightweight design reduces neck strain and fatigue, making it a reliable and versatile choice for anyone seeking a secure fit and a smooth ride.
Flip-Front / Quietest Modular Motorcycle Helmet
Here are a few top-rated flip-front or modular helmets based on our reviews. We frequently update this list as we assess more helmets.
LS2 Valiant II
Specs
Type: Modular helmet
Safety Rating: Not ECE 22.06 certified
Price: Around $139.95
Pros
- Still available despite being discontinued
- The New Advent X model coming soon
- DOT approved. Meets the FMVSS 218 Standard
Cons
- Older designs may attract legal attention from Shark
Schuberth C5
Specs
Type: Modular with a hinge chin bar, upright conventional
Materials: Fiberglass shell, carbon fiber reinforcements, EPS foam interior
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified/DOT certified
Pros
- Pinlock visor compatible (and included)
- Super quiet due to chin and neckroll spoiler
- Built-in communication system with boost antenna and speakers
- Internal sun shield
Cons
- Visor detents could be better
- Only two shell sizes
- Stuffy in hot weather
We focus on a variety of factors such as comfort, safety ratings, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision. Each helmet undergoes thorough evaluations, ensuring you find the best fit for your riding style. Since finding the right fit is crucial, we encourage you to explore our other reviews on the best motorcycle helmets. We cover options ranging from budget-friendly picks to high-end models, catering to every type of rider. Whether you’re commuting daily or planning a weekend adventure, you can trust our recommendations to keep you protected and comfortable on the road.
Best Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet Over $150 in 2024
Here is our top full-face helmet selection priced over £150, based on our evaluations. We regularly update this list as we review more helmets.
Shoei GT-Air II
Specs
Type: Full-face helmet
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified
Price: From $460.99
Pros
- Drop-down sun shield
- Micrometric ratchet fastener
- Good visor and ventilation
Cons
- One of the most expensive options
We prioritize various factors such as comfort, safety ratings, and overall performance to assist you in making an informed decision. Each helmet is thoroughly evaluated to ensure you find the best fit for your riding style. Since finding the right fit is essential, we encourage you to check out our additional reviews on the best motorcycle helmets. Our extensive coverage includes options that cater to every rider, from budget-friendly choices to premium models. You can trust our recommendations to keep you safe and comfortable on your rides.
Best Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet Under $150 in 2024
Here are our top full-face helmets priced under £150, selected from our reviews. We continually update this list as we evaluate more helmets.
HJC C10
Specs
Type: Full-face helmet
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified
Price: From $89.99
Pros
- First ECE 22.06-certified helmet under £100
- Wise buy for anyone on a budget
Cons
- Doesn’t have a drop-down sun shield
LS2 Assault Helmets
Specs
Type: Full-face helmet
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified
Price: From $129.99
Pros
- Includes a drop-down sun shield
- Features a Pinlock anti-fog insert
Cons
- Check the fit carefully
These are just a few examples from the wide selection of full-face motorcycle helmets. Since finding the perfect fit is essential, be sure to check out our other reviews on the best motorcycle helmets, which include options ranging from budget-friendly choices to premium models.
Best Dirt Bike Full-Face Helmet
Here is our top pick for the best dirt bike full-face helmets, chosen from our thorough reviews. We will keep this list updated as we evaluate more helmets in the future.
GLX GX23
Specs
Type: Full-face helmet
Usage: Dirt bike, off-road, motocross, ATV motorcycle
Certification: DOT Approved
Color: Matte Black
Size: X-Large
Pros
- Durable construction
- Comfortable fit for men and women
- Designed for off-road activities
Cons
- little bulky
Each helmet is evaluated for comfort, safety, and performance to ensure you make an informed choice. Since finding the right fit is crucial for your riding experience, we encourage you to explore our other reviews on the best motorcycle helmets. Our reviews cover a range of options, from budget-friendly selections to premium models.
Best Open-Face (Jet) Motorcycle Helmet 2024
We’ve reviewed top open-face helmets for you. Stay tuned for updates as we’ll be adding more reviews regularly.
Shoei J-Cruise II
Specs
Type: Jet helmet
Safety Rating: Not ECE 22.06 certified
Price: From $610.99
Pros
- Full-length visor for excellent airflow
- Protects from stones and bugs
Cons
- Not ECE 22.06 certified
Since a proper fit is essential for safety and comfort, take a look at our other reviews covering a wide range of motorcycle helmets. We feature options for every rider, from affordable budget-friendly models to premium high-end choices designed for performance.
Best Retro-Style Motorcycle Helmet 2024
We’ve selected a standout retro-style helmet from our reviews. Don’t forget to check back often, as we’ll continue adding new helmets to the list.
Arai Regent-X
Specs
Type: Full-face helmet
Safety Rating: Not ECE 22.06 certified (NOTE: The Arai Rapide has now been replaced with the 22.06 Concept-XE)
Price: From $566.99
Pros
- Distinctive graphics
- Effective visor
- Squared-off chin
Cons
- Not ECE 22.06 certified
This is just a glimpse of the many open-face motorcycle helmets we’ve reviewed. A proper fit is key, so check out our other helmet reviews, offering everything from affordable options to high-end models.
Best Adventure-Specific Motorcycle Helmet
Here are top-rated adventure-specific helmets, curated from our comprehensive reviews. We encourage you to check back frequently, as we will be updating this list with additional helmet evaluations.
BELL MX-9
Specs
Type: Upright conventional, ADV-specific
Materials: Koroyd and carbon construction
Weight: 3.4 lbs.
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified/DOT certified
Pros
- Very light for an ADV lid
- Excellent venting at a speed
- Quick-release visor, plus included photochromic transition visor
- Pinlock visor compatible (and included)
- Fidlock clasp
Cons
- Only two shell sizes
- Stuffy at a slower pace
Shoei Hornet X2
Specs
Type: Adventure helmet
Safety Rating: ECE 22.06 certified
Price: From $670.99
Pros
- Quick-release visor
- Might suit pure road riders better
Cons
- Not a direct alternative to Arai Tour-X4
This is just a glimpse of the extensive range of adventure-specific motorcycle helmets. Ensuring a proper fit is essential for both safety and comfort, so be sure to explore our other reviews, which cover a wide spectrum of options, from budget-friendly models that offer great value to premium helmets designed for top performance and advanced safety features.
Among the standout options, the KLIM Krios Pro excels as the ultimate adventure motorcycle helmet. Lightweight and incorporating Koroyd technology, it absorbs impact forces similar to a car’s crumple zone, enhancing safety during crashes. Its unique air-filled tubes provide excellent ventilation and keep the helmet cool at high speeds, although the limited brow venting affects airflow.
Most Comfortable Motorcycle Helmet
Based on our reviews, here are the most comfortable motorcycle helmets Be sure to check back regularly, as we’ll continue to update this list as we review other helmets.
Shoei Neotec II
Specs
Type: Modular with a hinge chin bar, upright conventional
Materials: Multi-ply matrix of fiberglass, organic and glass fibers, and synthetic resin plus an EPS liner
Weight: 4.09 Pounds
Safety Rating: DOT certified
Pros
- Pinlock visor compatible (and included)
- Internal sun shield
- Insanely comfortable, cushy interior
- Nearly as quiet as the Schuberth
- Excellent, easily removable cheek pads
Cons
- Not ECE 22.06 certified
- Somewhat heavy
The Shoei Neotec 3, may not meet the ECE 22.06 standard, but it boasts an impressive safety record with a five-star rating from the UK’s SHARP testing agency. This helmet feels more comfortable than the Schuberth C5, thanks to its plush internal padding, particularly around the cheek pads. The venting system is exceptional, preventing fogging even at lower speeds, and there are no whistling noises when cruising at 60 mph.
These are just a few of the many adventure motorcycle helmets we’ve tested Since fit is crucial, make sure to explore our other reviews of the best motorcycle helmets, from budget options to premium models.
Best ILM Motorcycle Helmet
ILM
I can confidently recommend the ILM Adult Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet Model 159.
First and foremost, safety is paramount, and the ILM 159 doesn’t disappoint. DOT approved and exceeded FMVSS-218 and DOT safety standards, I feel assured knowing that my head is well protected. Plus, with its dual visors – including an HD-enhanced wide-angle lens for increased peripheral vision and a sun visor for protection against glare – I can ride with confidence in any lighting condition.
Pros
- wide-angle lens
- cheap helmet
- sun visor
- Good value for money
- DOT approved
- FMVSS-218
Cons
- loose wire
- wind noise
What are the Best Motorcycle Helmet Brands
Helmet brands are most associated with overall build quality, with the best value brands according to their owners
Arai Arai helmets are known for their exceptional safety standards, comfort, and innovative design. They prioritize rider protection and offer a wide range of models to suit different riding styles.
Shoei Shoei helmets combine advanced technology with premium materials, providing superior safety and comfort. Their helmets are known for their aerodynamic design and noise-reduction features.
AGV AGV helmets are celebrated for their cutting-edge design, lightweight materials, and superior aerodynamics. They offer a perfect balance of safety, comfort, and style.
LS2 LS2 helmets provide great value for money, with a focus on safety and comfort. They offer a variety of models that cater to both beginner and experienced riders.
HJC HJC helmets are popular for their affordability, safety features, and comfortable fit. They offer a wide range of styles and designs to suit different preferences.
Here is a guide on motorcycle helmet brands to avoid, that are not built quality with best value.
The Essential Features of the Best Motorcycle Helmets
Safety Certification
When selecting the best motorcycle helmet, it’s important to ensure it meets safety standards established by organizations such as DOT, ECE, or Snell. These certifications guarantee that the helmet provides sufficient protection in an accident. These offer riders peace of mind regarding their safety on the road.
Proper Fit
A proper head-size fit helmet is essential for safety and comfort while riding. Your hat should fit perfectly—not too tight or too loose. This ensures that the helmet stays securely in place during your ride. It provides the necessary protection in case of an accident and ensures you’re comfortable throughout your journey.
Impact Absorption
Quality helmets are equipped with inner liners specifically designed to absorb the energy from impacts, which helps reduce the risk of head injuries during crashes. This crucial feature enhances the helmet’s ability to protect you in the event of an accident, providing an added layer of safety while you ride.
Chin Strap
A secure chin strap is an important component of the best motorcycle helmets. It helps to keep the helmet securely in place while you’re riding, as well as in the unfortunate event of an accident. This ensures that the helmet stays properly positioned on your head, providing continuous protection and minimizing the risk of it coming off during impact
Ventilation
Ventilation is crucial for the best motorcycle helmets to prevent overheating and maintain comfort, particularly during long rides in warm weather. Proper airflow helps to keep the rider cool by allowing heat to escape and fresh air to circulate inside the helmet. This feature enhances comfort and reduces the likelihood of discomfort or fatigue, ensuring a more enjoyable riding experience.
Visor
A clear and scratch-resistant visor is an important feature of the best motorcycle helmets. It ensures good visibility and allows you to see clearly in various weather conditions and environments. Additionally, the visor acts as a barrier against debris and insects. It protects your eyes and faces from potential hazards on the road. This enhances safety and overall riding comfort.
Comfort Padding
Soft and moisture-wicking padding is a key aspect of the best motorcycle helmet comfort. This padding helps to enhance comfort by providing a cushioned feel against your head, particularly during long rides. Additionally, the moisture-wicking properties help to keep sweat away from your skin and reduce irritation. This ensures that you can focus on enjoying your ride without discomfort.
Weight
Lightweight helmets reduce neck strain and fatigue, making them more comfortable for long-term wear. This allows riders to enjoy their journeys without feeling weighed down or experiencing discomfort, enhancing the overall riding experience.
Noise Reduction
Helmets with effective noise reduction features help minimize wind and engine noise, enhancing overall riding comfort. By reducing the amount of noise that reaches the rider’s ears, these helmets help create a quieter and more enjoyable riding experience. This allows riders to focus better on the road ahead and reduces fatigue.
Visibility
Helmets with reflective elements or bright colors improve visibility to other motorists on the road. This makes it easier for drivers to see you, reducing the risk of accidents. By choosing a helmet with these features, you can ride with added confidence, knowing that you’re safe on the road.
How to Find the Best Motorcycle Helmets
Research
Start by researching different helmet brands, types, and features. Look for reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality helmets.
Determine Your Needs
Consider your riding style, environment, and personal preferences. Determine what features are most important to you, such as safety certifications, ventilation, or noise reduction.
Check Safety Ratings
Look for helmets that meet safety standards set by organizations like DOT, ECE, or Snell. Check for safety ratings and reviews from other riders and check lifespan.
Consider Comfort
Pay attention to comfort features such as padding, ventilation, and weight. Choose a helmet that feels comfortable to wear for long periods.
Evaluate Visibility
Look for helmets with clear visors and reflective elements to improve visibility to other motorists, especially in low-light conditions.
Set a Budget
Determine your budget and compare prices for helmets that meet your criteria. Remember to prioritize safety and quality over price.
Read Reviews
Look for online reviews and testimonials from other riders to learn about their experiences with different helmet models.
Purchase from a Reputable store
Once you’ve found the perfect helmet, purchase it from a reputable retailer or online store with a good return policy and customer service.
Understanding Best Motorcycle Helmet Types
- Full-face helmets
- Open-face helmets
- Half helmets
- Modular helmets
- Off-road helmets
Understanding the differences between these helmet types will help you choose the one that best suits your riding style, preferences, and safety needs.
Best Full-face Motorcycle Helmets
These provide the most coverage, protecting your entire head, including your face and chin. They offer excellent protection and are ideal for all types of riding.
Best Open-face Motorcycle Helmets
Also known as 3/4 helmets, these cover the top, sides, and back of the head but leave the face exposed. They offer good visibility and airflow but provide less protection than full-face helmets.
Best Half Motorcycle Helmets
These cover only the top of the head. They are popular among cruiser riders for their lightweight and minimalistic design but offer limited protection in case of a crash.
Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets
These combine features of both full-face and open-face helmets, allowing you to flip up the chin bar for convenience when stopped or talking to others. They offer versatility but may not provide as much protection as full-face helmets when the chin bar is raised.
Best Off-road Motorcycle Helmets
Designed for dirt bikes and motocross riding, these helmets have a distinctive shape with a visor and chin guard. They offer excellent ventilation and protection for off-road adventures.
How We Tested Motorcycle Helmets?
We spent over a year testing a range of motorcycle helmets on pavement, off-road, and even some trails. The testing included various conditions to see how the helmets performed in terms of comfort, noise, and usability. We made sure to focus on the visors and vents to ensure proper breathability during long rides. The key was to balance weight without losing the essential safety features. Heavier helmets tend to be more tiring, so we sought out lightweight options certified by the SHARP five-star or ECE 22.06 standards.
We carefully reviewed full-face helmets, paying special attention to how they performed across different seasons and conditions. The overall goal was to find helmets that protect and stay comfortable on every type of ride.
Conclusion
Best motorcycle helmets are crucial for reducing the risk of head injuries and deaths in accidents. They work by absorbing and spreading out the force from impacts, protecting the brain and skull. Research shows that wearing a helmet greatly decreases the chance of dying or getting seriously hurt in a crash. Today’s helmets are also more comfortable, better ventilated, and designed to cut through the wind smoothly, making them easier and nicer to wear.
However, motorcycle helmets do have some downsides. They can be uncomfortable if they don’t fit well, and might slightly limit your side vision or hearing. Sometimes, wearing a helmet might make riders feel too safe and take more risks. Despite these issues, the clear benefits of wearing a motorcycle helmet make it a key part of staying safe on the road.
What’s the Best Motorcycle Helmet Shell Material?
The shells of motorcycle helmets are typically made from glass composite, carbon, Kevlar, or a combination of these materials, with the main distinction being weight. Carbon fiber helmets are generally lighter but tend to be pricier, like the carbon fiber AGV K6S we tested, which is more affordable than other top picks.
In the $200-300 range, full-face motorcycle helmets are usually made from heavier materials, but this doesn’t necessarily mean a lower degree of protection. There is a linear relationship between safety and cost, as well as weight and cost, meaning that while heavier helmets may be cheaper, lighter ones often offer better comfort and protection.
Does My Motorcycle Helmet Fit Right?
A full-face motorcycle helmet should feel snug, with the lining and padding adjusting over time. It shouldn’t move without the chin strap buckled, and you shouldn’t be able to easily slide your fingers between the padding and your forehead.
To ensure a proper fit, measure your head with a soft tape measure around your forehead, above the ears, and around the back of your head. Match this measurement with the manufacturer’s size chart. Some brands offer helmets with different densities of pads, so if you’re between medium and large, you can use a thinner pad for the medium or a thicker pad for the large.
How Much Should I Pay for a Good Motorcycle Helmet?
For a decent motorcycle helmet, expect to pay around $150 to $500. This price range offers reasonable helmets for riders who don’t want to spend several hundreds of dollars but still want good protection.
What is ECE 22.06, is it better than DOT, and when is it legal?
ECE 22.06 is a newer, tougher standard than ECE 22.05, and from July 2023, all motorcycle helmets sold in the UK must meet this standard. It includes extra impact tests like the chin bar test, tests for rotational forces, and even visor penetration with a steel ball at 134 mph. Though DOT is an American standard, it’s not as strict as ECE 22.06. Wearing an ECE 22.05 or ECE 22.06 helmet is still legal, but helmets with just a DOT rating are not.
Are ACU Gold helmets better?
No, an ACU Gold sticker doesn’t mean the helmet is better than others. The Auto Cycle Union governs motorcycle sports and gives helmets a sticker for racing approval, but they don’t do extra testing. A gold sticker is for road racing, and silver is for off-road. While ECE 22.05 is still the main standard, you’ll need an ACU-approved helmet for public track days. Stickers can be bought online, and a scrutineer might not easily tell if a helmet hasn’t been fully approved.
About the Author
I am Daniel Ken, an experienced motorcycle rider with 8 years on the road, and I specialize in writing about motorcycle helmets. I share expert insights on helmet safety, comfort, and style, helping fellow riders choose the best gear. My knowledge covers top safety standards, helmet types, premium materials, and advanced ventilation and noise reduction features.
