Partner Content: This content was created by a business partner of Motor1 and researched and written independently of the Motor1 newsroom. Links in this article may result in us earning a commission. Learn More

A full face motorcycle helmet with exceptional safety features.

A two-in-one modular helmet with a superior cooling system.

A quality motorcycle helmet with an integrated Bluetooth module.

An open face helmet with seven different visor and shield positions.

A half helmet that has customizable features for each rider.

A motorcycle helmet is one of the most important purchases that any motorcycle rider will make. High-quality motorcycle helmets not only protect your head in the event of an accident or a fall, but can also keep you cool and improve aerodynamics. Most helmet manufacturers design helmets for all head shapes and sizes, giving you a wide range of options to choose from.

Our team has reviewed the best motorcycle helmets on the market for your convenience. We’ll break down our top picks for the different types of helmets, explain the benefits of each style of helmet, and cover helmet safety certifications from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) amongst a range of other topics in our buyers guide at the end of this review.

Shoei helmets are known for their advanced aerodynamics, and the Shoei RF-1400 is no exception to the brand’s reputation. Tested by Shoei in its world-renowned wind tunnels, the RF-1400 offers a six-percent reduction in lift and a four-percent reduction in drag compared to its predecessor, the RF-1200.

The RF-1400’s Vortex Generators on the sides of the face shield reduce wind turbulence and create a wind and waterproof-tight seal, while still allowing in valuable informative sounds from the road. With its center-located forehead vent, the RF-1400 can intake large amounts of air for optimal cooling. Its enlarged exhaust outlet vent takes advantage of negative pressure to expel hot air rapidly.

In case of emergencies, the Dual-Layer Multi-Density expanded polystyrene (EPS) liner and Multi-Ply Matrix Aim+ shell provide critical protection, and the Emergency Quick Release System can eject the helmet off of the rider if necessary.

Amazon Review Score: 4.7 out of 5 based on 200 ratings

Many customers who enjoy using their RF-1400 love its ventilation system and say it is one of the best helmets for noise reduction. One of the few complaints about this helmet is that it initially feels small, but after a short amount of time, it adjusts to the rider’s head size.

The convenience of a two-in-one design is hard to beat, and Shoei delivers exceptional quality with the Shoei Neotec II. Its Pinlock® Evo fog-resistant system and internal sun shield improve visibility while the expansive three-position upper ventilation system promotes dynamic cooling.

In addition to its streamlined shape and shell-integrated spoiler, the Neotec II has an innovative top air outlet design that works with its deflecting chin bar to reduce wind noise.

This is a modular helmet that can flip up into an open face design that retains the safety of a full face helmet. An additional feature of this helmet our review team likes is its multi-ply Matrix AIM shell and multi-piece EPS liner, which offers best-in-class safety.

Amazon Review Score: 4.7 out of 5 based on 300 ratings

A common compliment for this helmet is that it’s very quiet even in high-wind environments. Many customers also say this helmet is more comfortable than others they’ve owned due to its supportive cheek pads. One complaint that some customers have is this helmet fits tight for those with oval-shaped heads.

The ILM Bluetooth Integrated Helmet has a battery life that supports eight hours of talk time and 110.0 hours of standby. This full-face motorcycle helmet has an intercom system that allows a maximum distance of 1,680.0 feet between two riders. Riders will be able to answer or reject incoming phone calls and listen to FM radio, music, or GPS navigation instructions thanks to the helmet’s one-touch controls.

Noise suppression technology provides riders with the ability to hear high-quality audio even when riding at high speeds. Replaceable and washable multi-density EPS liners make sure a rider’s both safe and comfortable. It should be noted that this helmet sizing runs small due to the built-in Bluetooth® module.

Amazon Review Score: 4.3 out of 5 based on 2,750 ratings

A huge number of reviewers like the sound quality that this Bluetooth motorcycle helmet provides. An individual reviewer claims he opted for the matte black color on this helmet and that it looks as well as feels better than any motorcycle helmet he’s ever had. One woman says this helmet is a great low-cost alternative to a carbon fiber motorcycle helmet.

Like most open-face helmets, the Bell Mag-9 has an adjustable front that can be worn in seven different positions. Because of this, it can be worn with or without the face shield or visor in the rider’s view. The visor doesn’t affect the Mag-9’s Velocity Flow ventilation system which cools the rider for reduced sweating.

This helmet has a polycarbonate shell and moisture-wicking EPS foam interior for a personalized fit. For those who enjoy music or take phone calls while they ride, the Mag-9 can be integrated with a Sena or Card Bluetooth communication system.

Amazon Review Score: 4.4 out of 5 based on around 400 ratings

Although most reviews are positive, a common theme among negative reviews is that this helmet runs small and riders must order a size up for the best fit. Beyond this, reviews tend to focus on how sturdy the padding is in the Mag-9.

The ScorpionExo Covert X is the latest addition to ScorpionExo’s renowned Covert line of motorcycle helmets. Similar to the Covert, the Covert X features a half-helmet profile and a polycarbonate shell to keep your head protected. Subtly integrated forehead vent intakes increase airflow to keep you cool on hot days. The thermodynamic composite technology (TCT) shell combines fiberglass, aramid, and poly-resin fibers to provide the utmost protection.

This motorcycle helmet has three unique riding configurations: full mode, 3/4 mode, and 1/2 mode. It should be noted that both the front mask and the chin bar are removable. 

Less than a hundred customers on Amazon have left reviews for the ScorpionExo Covert X. The vast majority of reviewers had positive things to say about this helmet, with several citing its lightweight and ability to block out wind noise. An individual reviewer states that he thinks the modular system is well thought out. Reviewers with negative feedback are few and far between.

Safety is the number one most important feature of a motorcycle helmet, which is why it’s important to buy one that’s DOT-approved. In addition to certifications, finding a helmet that properly fits your head is a must. You’ll also want to consider comfort and visibility.

You may want to try several types of motorcycle helmets before selecting the best one for your head shape and riding style, as it is a critical piece of riding gear.

There are six standard types of motorcycle helmets:

Visibility is vital when wearing a motorcycle helmet. It’s important that a sun visor doesn’t fog easily, whether it’s due to an anti-fog visor or proper ventilation.

Some helmet styles also offer greater visibility at the expense of protection. For example, a half-helmet only protects the upper half of a rider’s head, but offers much more visibility than a full face or dual sport helmet. Determine what visibility needs your helmet must meet before choosing a new one.

Before being approved for mass production, motorcycle helmets must be verified by a variety of institutions for adequate safety standards. Below is a list of notable motorcycle helmet certifications regarding safety:

Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has a useful guide on motorcycle helmet safety and all the associated factors to consider when choosing your next helmet.

A motorcycle helmet should fit snugly on your head when riding, as a loose-fitting helmet offers poor protection. Many motorcycle helmets have removable or customizable pads to help create a proper fit. Other helmets are designed for specific head shapes, such as oval versus round. Before taking a ride, be sure to check that your helmet properly fits on your head.

A great helmet should also offer optimal climate control to prevent overheating or excessive cooling, which can distract you while riding. Moisture-wicking helmets will keep your head dry and helmets with good ventilation will help, too.

Be sure the weight of your helmet is comfortable before you ride. Most riders can wear a helmet that is 5.0 pounds or lighter without causing discomfort, but anything heavier can potentially hurt your neck.

Everyone’s head is shaped differently, which is why motorcycle helmets come in all different shapes and sizes. The most notable shape styles are round oval, intermediate oval, and long oval. Most people’s head is somewhere between round and oval shaped, with intermediate oval being the most common head shape.

To properly measure your head, use a cloth tape. Start just above your eyebrows and measure around the thickest point on the rear of your head. Once you’ve measured the size of your head, simply cross reference your head’s measurement with the helmet manufacturer’s size chart.

We recommend getting a friend to help you accurately measure the size of your head, as it’s relatively difficult to do on your own. We’d also like to note that you should be measuring your head shape rather than your face shape.

To select the five motorcycle helmets in this review, our team searched Amazon and Advance Auto Parts for top products, looking at factors like customer ratings, prices, superlatives, and Prime shipping eligibility.

Each year, we review over 1,000 auto products. Our team of product experts thoroughly researches top products and tests items on real vehicles when possible before making our recommendations.

We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more.

Most helmets have a protective clear coating to protect them from UV damage, which is also resilient to glue and is therefore safe for stickers. However, some manufacturers recommend not putting stickers on your motorcycle helmet because the glue from said stickers can break down the material of the helmet.

Motorcycle helmets will fit snugly for the first 20 hours or so of wear and eventually conform to the shape of the rider’s head for a comfortable fit. If your new helmet is still causing you pain after the first 20.0 hours, then it may be too tight.

Many motorcyclists choose to wear a bandana or a thin beanie under their motorcycle helmets to absorb sweat. As long as what you’re wearing does not impair your field of vision or helmet fit, then it is safe.

Motorcycle helmets should be replaced every five years or within seven years of the manufacturer’s date. You should also replace your helmet after an accident.

*Data accurate at time of publication.

Copyright ©️ 2022 Motor1.com. All rights reserved.