Helmet selection can be overwhelming, but we are here to assist you in choosing the best option for head protection. Check out these top helmet choices.
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Looking for the best motorcycle helmets to protect yourself on the road? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of top-rated helmet options based on safety certifications, owner feedback, personal experience, and sales data. Not all helmets are the same, so it’s important to find the right size, shape, and style for your needs. Make sure to follow our guide on how to properly measure your head for a helmet to ensure the best and safest fit.
Remember, wearing a helmet is the single most important thing you can do to increase your chances of survival in a motorcycle crash. It’s also legally required in most states, so gear up and protect yourself today. Keep reading for more helpful tips on shopping for your next motorcycle helmet.
Shoei RF-1400
Best motorcycle helmet for the street
$580 at Revzilla
Are you a street bike rider looking for an all-around helmet that offers maximum protection and comfort? The Shoei RF-1400 may be the perfect choice for you! This helmet has received a Snell 2020 rating for its high level of protection, and it comes in a variety of sizes with multiple shell sizes to ensure a comfortable and lightweight fit. The RF-1400 also boasts stylish looks and good ventilation. If you have a medium-sized budget and aren’t sure which helmet to buy, the Shoei RF-1400 is a great starting point. It’s our top recommendation for the average motorcycle rider with an average-shaped head.
Other Full-face Motorcycle Helmets to Consider
Shoei Neotec 2
Best modular motorcycle street helmet
If you’re in the market for a modular helmet, the Shoei Neotec 2 is a top choice. It’s known for its comfort, convenience, and attention to detail, and it also delivers on protection with its dual-layer EPS liner and stainless steel chinbar lock components. When worn on the road, the Neotec 2 is quiet and stable thanks to its shell design and vortex generators, and it also features an internal sun visor, excellent ventilation, a Pinlock-ready face shield, and the ability to integrate with an SLR Bluetooth Headset from Sena. While it may be a bit heavier than other options in its class, it’s worth considering if you prioritize comfort and convenience.
Other Modular Motorcycle Helmets to Consider
Shoei VFX-EXO
Best motorcycle helmet for dirt
If you’re a dirt bike rider, you need a helmet specifically designed for off-road conditions. The Shoei VFX-EVO dirt helmet is a top-performing option that offers maximum protection with its advanced AIM Plus construction and ability to reduce injury through its MIPS or EVO system, which allows the EPS foam liner to move independently of the shell during rotation. This helmet also prioritizes ventilation to prevent sweaty heads and is lightweight at just over 3.5 pounds. Additionally, it is DOT and Snell certified, making it legal for road use. While it may be a pricier option compared to other dirt helmets, its top-tier protection and versatility make it worth the investment.
Other Dirt Motorcycle Helmets to Consider
Arai XD-4
Best motorcycle helmet for ADV
If you need a helmet that can handle any terrain, the Arai XD-4 is our top choice. This ADV helmet is widely recognized for its protection and performance, and it has received SNELL M2020 certification. It features superior ventilation, a customizable interior with removable sections of foam, and handcrafted construction with precise paintwork. The large air scoops on the sides of the helmet provide excellent airflow, and the aerodynamic peak helps to reduce buffeting at high speeds. If you frequently ride on both dirt and pavement, the Arai XD-4 is the ideal helmet for you.
Other ADV Motorcycle Helmets to Consider
AGV Pista GP RR
Best motorcycle helmet for track racing
Are you a track rider in search of a dedicated racing helmet? The AGV Pista GP RR carbon fiber helmet is a top choice among professional riders worldwide. It features lightweight carbon construction, an aerodynamic spoiler design, tear-off posts, a Pinlock insert, and FIM certification for enhanced safety on the track. However, it should be noted that racing helmets often lack convenience features like adjustable vents or noise reduction, and this one comes with a high price tag. However, if you’re serious about racing, it may be worth the investment.
Other Track/Race Motorcycle Helmets to Consider
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Helmet for You
When it comes to buying a motorcycle helmet, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find the best one for your needs.
First, think about the type of riding you’ll be doing and choose a helmet that is suitable for your specific activities. For example, if you’ll be mostly riding on the street, you’ll want a different helmet than if you’ll be mostly off-road.
Next, set a budget to help narrow down your options. Keep in mind that quality helmets can range in price from under $200 to over $2,000, so it’s important to determine how much you can afford to spend.
Third, consider the climate you’ll be riding in and look for a helmet with good ventilation or a lining material that will keep you cool if it’s hot, or a helmet that works with a Pinlock anti-fog insert if it’s cold or wet.
Fourth, decide on the safety certification you want your helmet to have. For street riding, it’s mostly a matter of preference, but if you’ll be taking your motorcycle to the track, you’ll likely need a Snell-certified helmet that is current or no more than one iteration out of date.
Finally, think about your head shape and size and choose a helmet that will fit comfortably to remove any distractions while riding. A helmet that fits well will be more comfortable to wear and will help to protect you effectively in the event of an accident.
How to Choose the Right Size Motorcycle Helmet
Measuring your head for a motorcycle helmet is essential to ensure a proper and comfortable fit. To begin, you’ll need to determine your head shape by having a friend take a photo of the top of your head. Most people will have an intermediate oval head shape, but there are also long oval and round oval shapes.
Next, use a soft tape measure or a piece of string to measure the circumference of your head above your eyebrows at the widest point. If you use a string, lay it flat against a ruler to get the measurement. It’s important to note that helmet manufacturers mostly use metric measurements for sizing. Once you have these two criteria, you can determine your size and choose the style of helmet that suits your needs.
Finally, make sure to try the helmet on in person and wear it for around 30 minutes to check for pressure points or hot spots. The helmet should fit snugly without moving around on your head when shaken, but it shouldn’t be too tight to be uncomfortable on longer rides. A properly fitting helmet is crucial for both safety and comfort while riding.
How to Care for your Motorcycle Helmet
Maintaining a motorcycle helmet is simple as long as you follow a few basic steps. First, avoid using any chemicals to clean the shell of your helmet, and instead use warm water and a soft cloth. This will be sufficient for most cleaning needs, including removing dead bugs.
To clean the visor, you can use a dedicated visor cleaning spray or water and a microfiber cloth.
For the inside of your helmet, follow the specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer for the liner material.
To store your helmet, keep it in a cool and dry place with the visor open to allow it to dry out and air out after wearing it on hot days.
Determining When to Replace your Motorcycle Helmet
There are two main reasons to consider replacing your motorcycle helmet. The first is if you’ve been in a crash and the expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam liner has absorbed the energy of the impact. While some people suggest replacing a helmet after it has been dropped, this is generally not necessary as long as the shell is intact.
The second reason to replace your helmet is due to age. Over time, the polymers, resins, and foams in a helmet can break down, especially if you sweat a lot or use hair products while wearing it. It’s generally recommended to replace your helmet every five years to ensure optimal safety and protection.