Safety first. A motorcycle can be one of the most liberating and exciting forms of transportation. You’re pretty much getting all of the flexibility of a bicycle with the horsepower of a car. Of course, if you’re not careful, motorcycles can also be very dangerous. If you’re riding a motorcycle either recreationally or for your daily commute, now is definitely not the time for, “Look, mom! No hands!”
While you’ll hopefully never need to actually test the quality of your motorcycle helmet, it’s a good idea to make sure you have the best one possible. After all, better safe than sorry. This is one time where you don’t want to cut corners. When it comes to motorcycle helmets, good enough just isn’t good enough.
Carry on reading to see our full list of the best motorcycle helmets, followed by a recap breaking down what makes each product on our list stand out. Or jump straight to our number #1 Amazon pick here.
What Should You Look For in a Motorcycle Helmet?
If the last bike helmet you bought was for an old-fashioned bicycle, you probably just picked something that fit and looked decent and called it a day. We do not want to take that approach when it comes to motorcycle helmets. Ideally, you’ll be as picky with your helmet as you were with your motorcycle itself. Of course, to properly get the top-tier motorcycle you need and deserve, you need to actually know what you’re looking for. That’s why we’ve made this rubric to help you learn everything you need to learn about motorcycle helmets. In just a few short paragraphs, you’ll be a bonafide expert, and you’ll know exactly what to look for in the best motorcycle helmets on the market.
Criteria #1: Safety – A motorcycle helmet that doesn’t offer protection is little more than a big, bulky hat. There are multiple factors that will contribute to the safety of your motorcycle helmet, but the two biggest are probably materials and design. In terms of safety, the ideal motorcycle helmet will be a full-face helmet, though there are other options that will offer satisfactory protection. Depending on what else you’re looking for, you will have to weigh the pros and cons.
Criteria #2: Comfort – Especially if you’re going to be riding your motorcycle a lot, you’ll definitely want your helmet to be nice and comfortable. Luckily, a lot of the features that usually lead to a safe motorcycle helmet also contribute to a comfortable one. Good padding, a tight fit, and a chin strap are all features that will make sure that your head stays in place and that you enjoy your ride. We want to help you find the motorcycle that you’ll forget is even there unless the worst happens.
Criteria #3: Style – Your motorcycle helmet is going to be a part of your entire ensemble. You should like what it looks like. And while I can’t pretend to be a fashion expert or to know your specific fashion tastes, I can do my best to describe the physical appearance of every motorcycle that manages to earn a spot on our list. We know that style counts almost as much as function, and we don’t want you to be stuck with a helmet that gets the job done but that you hate wearing. Enjoying the way you look will make every aspect of your ride more enjoyable.
Criteria #4: Price – We’re not here to make you spend a ton of money for no reason. Meeting this criterion is less about being cheap and more about justifying your price. We’d rather buy an expensive product that’s cheaper than it should be than waste money on a cheaper product that isn’t worth the money and that will just break on you or not perform well.
Here’s How We’ve Determined the Best Motorcycle Helmets
We measured the specs of the top products on the market against our listed criteria to see how they held up and if they’re worth buying. We then checked customer reviews, blog posts, and “best motorcycle helmets” articles to see if the products on our list performed as advertised. We’ll also make sure to include a wide variety of products that covers different niches and price points. This way, everyone can find the perfect product that will satisfy their needs and their budget. Finally, we’ll make sure to describe any noteworthy features that don’t fit squarely into our listed criteria.
And without further ado, here is our list – tailored to your specific needs – of the best motorcycle helmets.
#1: Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet (Best Value – All-Purpose)
As we mentioned earlier, the best way to guarantee your safety in the unfortunate case of a collision is with a full-face motorcycle helmet. So if you want to put safety first, then you’ll have to look at the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet. This Bell brand, full-face motorcycle helmet earned itself DOT approval, so you can be sure that you’re leaving your head in good hands, so to speak, when you don this helmet for your daily ride.
The Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet also features the FlowAdjust velocity flow ventilation system, which means that you’ll be able to breathe easily with this motorcycle helmet. Couple that with the padded wind collar that reduces wind and road noise, and you’re getting a helmet that offers both freedom and padding.
The NutraFog II UV-protected shield features a QuickRelease lock, meaning that you can easily remove it for replacing or cleaning, or just forego it entirely if you so desire. Thanks to its Polycarbonate/ABS shell, the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet weighs just 3.75 pounds, and you’re getting an amazing helmet that’s a combination of light and protective.
Just in case you needed some more reassurance, customers are crazy about this motorcycle helmet. The Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet has over 3,600 reviews on Amazon, and a quick skim of those reviews will tell you everything you need to know. Our top-ranked motorcycle helmet has been praised for its protection, comfort, and price, so you’re really getting the whole package with the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet. Just as a nice cherry on top, the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet comes in 17 different styles, so even the pickiest customers will be able to find something that goes with their wardrobe.
The Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet is an amazing motorcycle helmet that offers both function and style at an affordable price. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a list of the best helmets that don’t include this product, and it’s easy to see why. The price to performance ratio of this helmet makes it close to unbeatable, and the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet was a pretty clear winner to be named our best value motorcycle helmet.
#2: ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet (Best Overall)
The Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet may have been our best motorcycle helmet in terms of price-to-performance, but if you’re willing to splurge and pull out all the stops, then you’ll have to look into buying the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet for your ride.
It may be more expensive, but a little research will make it pretty clear where your money is when you buy the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet. If you’re the type of customer who won’t settle for anything but the best, then you’ll need to read up on the premium-grade ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet.
Reason #1 to Choose This Product: Bluetooth Integration
Want to feel like you’re in the future? Then buy the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet. The Bluetooth integration of this helmet is something straight out of science fiction, and it’ll really streamline the entire riding experience for you. You can finally answer the phone easily and safely while riding. The ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet features a control panel on the side that will let you call, answer, reject incoming calls, and redial with just the push of a button.
The Bluetooth 3.0 function on this futuristic motorcycle helmet also boasts 8 hours of calling time and an amazing 110 hours of standby time. You can ride around the entire country and still have some battery left when you make it home. If you’re tired of missing important phone calls while out on your bike, this is the best motorcycle helmet for you. Whether you want to call in a delivery order so you can make sure dinner arrives home at the same time as you, or you want to answer incoming calls from your loved ones so they don’t worry about you, the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet has you covered. This helmet is the best way to make sure you’re never out of the loop, even when you’re out riding and giving the road your undivided attention.
Of course, the Bluetooth feature also means that you can listen to music right in your helmet while you’re riding. You’ll get the perfect soundtrack to your ride with concert-like sound quality when you buy the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet.
Reason #2 to Choose This Product: Modular Design
If you want the best of both worlds, then you want a modular motorcycle helmet. These helmets give you the option for both a closed-face design and an open-face helmet, so you can adjust your helmet based on whatever the situation demands. The ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet lets you stay flexible and embrace nature. This modular helmet meets DOT safety standards, so you don’t need to worry that you’re leaving yourself too vulnerable when you opt for the open-face style. Of course, it is probably a good idea to wear face goggles with the open-face mode. No matter what you’re looking for, the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet offers it.
Our runner-up biking helmet features a washable microfiber liner and adjustable vents, and the Bluetooth feature is compatible with GPS navigation. The Bluetooth panel means that this helmet runs a little small and is a little heavier than our previous helmet, but that seems like a pretty fair trade. The helmet comes in black, red, and white, and the visor features an anti-fog design so you’ll always have good visibility. Finally, if you have a friend or riding partner with the same helmet, the Bluetooth can function as an intercom that works within 1000 feet. This helmet really changes the riding experience.
Just as with our number one pick, the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet has earned several stellar reviews on Amazon, so you don’t need to worry you’re experimenting with an unproven product. The crowd has spoken, and it’s clear that the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet is worth every penny. There’s no better option if you want the flexibility of a modular helmet and the amazing Bluetooth compatibility.
#3: TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet (Best Open-Face)
If you want something that gives you a little more freedom, then you’ll probably be more interested in open-face helmets. Open-face helmets allow you to feel the freedom of the wind in your face while you’re riding, and that wind will keep you nice and cool if you’re taking your motorcycle for a spin on a hot day. If that sounds appealing to you, then the TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet will be right up your alley.
The TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet is DOT approved, so it still meets our safety standard even though it’s an open helmet, and it comes with a drop-down sun visor. This open-face helmet features two outer shells, and it comes with removable and washable inner comfort padding.
The TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet comes in a classic black color, but it’s available with five different decal patterns, so you can pick the emblem that matches your personality. This open-face helmet is also one of the cheapest products on the market, and it’s been praised for being an amazing option compared to its price range.
The obvious benefit of this open-face design is that the TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet weighs just 3 pounds, making it our lightest helmet so far. Of course, It’s worth noting that customers claimed the TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet runs a little small, so it may be a good idea to buy one size up.
The disadvantage of open-face helmets is obviously that they don’t offer quite as much protection, and your chin is particularly vulnerable. This means if you’re a less experienced rider, you should definitely stick to completely closed helmets for now. But if you’re a real pro and you trust your riding skills, then it may be time to spice things up with an open-faced helmet. And if you’re looking for an open-faced helmet that’s stylish, comfortable, durable, and will keep you nice and cool, look no further than the TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet.
#4: Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield (Best Low Cost)
Less material means less production cost, so it’s no surprise that open-face helmets are usually the cheapest way to go. If your main concern is saving your hard-earned money, then you’ll definitely want to focus on open-faced helmets. That being said, even among open-faced helmets, the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield is just about the cheapest option out there.
The Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield features removable cheek pads that are easy to clean, and it has clear-coated UV paint for a long-lasting finish. Our budget-friendly helmet also features a pivoting face shield and a top-brow vent that offers excellent ventilation. Just like all of our helmets, the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield is DOT-approved and guaranteed to live up to even the strictest safety assessments.
The removable windshield of the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield gives you some great flexibility, while the upper vent will help you stay cool on those hot summer days. The only real problems with this budget motorcycle helmet are that it’s a bit of an unknown quantity – it only has 500 reviews on Amazon – and it only comes in one style. If you’re not very picky about fashion, and if you prefer to use your own judgment when assessing a problem, then neither of those traits will borrow you too much. Besides, of the few reviews that were left on the Amazon page of the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield, almost all of them were positive.
The Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield is cheap for a reason; it’s pretty bare-bones, and you’re not exactly getting anything fancy. We’ve already written a little about the pros and cons of open-face helmets, so you should know what you’re getting yourself into there. If you think that you spent enough on your actual motorcycle and that it’s time you save a penny or two, then the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield is an amazing choice. It’ll keep you safe without costing a fortune, and isn’t that really the point of a helmet? Save some money with the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buying a motorcycle helmet isn’t exactly something you do every day, which means that you might still have a lot of questions. We wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t at least try to answer all of those questions before sending you on your way, and that’s why we’ve included this FAQ section in our article. We can’t read your mind, but we can do our best to cover all of the bases and answer the most common questions among customers. Keep reading for your crash course in everything related to motorcycle helmets. In no time at all, you’ll be giving out your own advice like a real pro.
How Helpful Is a Motorcycle Helmet?
Very helpful. There were 4,905 fatal motorcycle crashes in the United States in 2018. That’s not a statistic you want to be on the wrong side of. And while a helmet won’t stop a crash, it’ll drastically raise the odds that you walk away from a crash unharmed. Helmets are about 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle death and about 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries. That pretty much tells you everything you need to know. The bottom line is that motorcycles are dangerous vehicles, and you need to take every precaution you can before getting behind the handles of one. It’s a pretty straightforward case of “better have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” Be safe; wear a helmet.
What Are the Different Types of Motorcycle Helmets?
We spoke very briefly about some of the different types of motorcycle helmets, specifically full-face helmets, modular helmets, and open-face helmets. But there are a lot of other helmets out there, and you’ll probably want to know at least a little about all of them before you make your final decision. Keep reading for our master class on all of the different motorcycle helmets.
Full-Face Helmets
Full-face helmets are exactly what they sound like – they cover your full face. In the unfortunate event of a crash, your chin is the part of your face that’s most likely to hit the ground first, so that’s arguably the most important part to protect. Open-face helmets are slacking in this area, but full-face helmets will have you covered, literally.
Open-Face Helmets
For some people, the whole point of riding a motorcycle is the freedom of feeling the wind in your face. If you’re not going to get that experience, you might as well just drive a car. If that’s what you’re looking for, then you’ll need to buy yourself an open-face helmet. You’ll keep the really important part of your face protected, but you’ll still get to feel the rush of riding exposed to the elements. These helmets are for the real thrill-seekers out there.
Half Helmets
Half helmets can be thought of as a type of open-face helmet, and they’re the most open helmets out there. Unlike typical open-face helmets, they don’t typically include a face shield, so you might want to slap on a pair of goggles while using these helmets. These are basically the open-face helmets of open-face helmets, and you should only get them if you’re a really experienced rider who’s confident they can avoid an accident. Even then, be careful! But these helmets are the only way to go if you’re willing to risk bugs in your teeth for the purest experience possible.
Modular Helmets
The appeal of a modular motorcycle helmet is pretty simple – it’s the best of both worlds. When you have the option of seamlessly switching off between a full-face helmet and an open-face helmet, the world is your oyster. Open things up and embrace the wind, or keep your face both protected and warm while you’re riding in the colder months. The choice is yours, and you’ll be able to ride in just about any situation. A modular helmet is as adaptable as you are.
Off-Road Helmets
As their name suggests, these helmets are specifically designed for off-road riding. They don’t offer any eye protection, so you’ll need to bring your own goggles. Of course, you also won’t want to wear a helmet like this on your daily commute. But if you want to go on a real adventure, this is the type of helmet for you. Off-road helmets also offer maximum protection while still being lightweight, so they’re amazing for those brutally hot summer days.
Dual-Sport Helmets
If modular helmets are a mixture of full-face and open-face helmets, then dual-sport helmets are a mixture of full-face helmets and off-road helmets. These helmets are made to handle off-roading and on-road riding. They feature removable visors so you can either stay completely covered or forego the windshield for extra breathability. Of course, if you do leave the windshield at home, you’ll probably want to put on a pair of goggles. These helmets are not quite as breathable as off-road helmets, but they do offer fantastic soundproofing. If you want to call an audible and leave the highway every now and then, you’ll need to buy a dual-sport helmet for your motorcycle.
Verdict: Your Best Motorcycle Helmets
We’re reaching the end of our list, and you’re hopefully starting to get a good idea of which of our products is best for you. But if you haven’t made up your mind yet, not to worry. We don’t want to rush you, and we know how important it is to make sure you’re getting the motorcycle helmet that’s perfect for you. That’s why we’re going to recap all of our motorcycle helmets and focus on their standout features. This way, you’ll be able to see the highlights and really know what each product has to offer for you.
If you want the best value for your money, pick the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet.
When you find a top-notch full-face motorcycle helmet that will protect you for an affordable price, you take it. There aren’t many specific features that stand out with the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet, but that’s because it has a little bit of everything. Our top-ranked biking helmet boasts a comfortable design, a lightweight frame, and a protective and sturdy build. The reasonable price tag is just a cherry on top. There’s a reason the Bell Qualifier Unisex-Adult Full Face Street Helmet was our number one pick. This should be the first helmet anyone looks at.
If you need this Bluetooth capability, pick the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet.
There’s just nothing better than being able to listen to music while you enjoy the open road. And being able to answer your phone definitely isn’t too bad either. The Bluetooth capability of the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet will make you feel like you’re in the future, and riding has never been more convenient. Whether you’re using the intercom feature, taking a call, making a call, or enjoying your special riding playlist, it’ll all be easier than ever with the ILM Bluetooth Integrated Modular Flip-up Full Face Motorcycle Helmet. This helmet will make sure you’ll never have to pull over ever again.
If you want to keep the spending cheap, pick the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield.
You’ve spent enough money already. If a good half helmet wasn’t enough of a reward in and of itself, then the amazing price tag will convince you to buy the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield. What you see is what you get with this helmet. It’s a simple helmet that will protect your face in case the worst happens. It will also allow you to really enjoy the open road, and it costs less than a night out to dinner. Save your money and ride the way riding should be done with the Fuel Helmets Open Face Helmet with Shield. Just remember to bring a pair of goggles.
We’re just about ready to wrap things up. If none of the helmets highlighted above are quite what you’re looking for, you may be more interested in the open-faced TORC T55 Spec-Op Motorcycle Half Helmet.
Remember, it’s important to have your priorities sorted out before you start looking for your helmet. This will save you some time as you’ll spend much less time wandering around like a chicken with its head cut off. Speed up the buying process by knowing what you want beforehand. All of our helmets have one or two particular features that set them apart from the crowd, and focusing on those features will help you find the helmet that’s best for your need. Take a second to think things over, and if none of our helmets really caught your eye, it’s always a good idea to do some further research.
That’s all for now. We hope we’ve helped you find the helmet of your dreams, and we hope you (safely) enjoy your ride!
