The 10 Best Motorcycle Helmets (Buyer’s Guide)

When it comes to riding safely, settle for nothing less than the best motorcycle helmet you can afford.

You should never take your motorcycle out for a ride without first wearing a quality helmet. But with so many stylish and safe options out there, which one do you choose?

This review catalog and buying guide will help you find the best motorbike helmet for your riding needs. Here is a quick rundown of our top 5 picks…

The Best Motorcycle Helmet

As you go over the product reviews, keep in mind the criteria and considerations used to select and rank each helmet can be found in the buyer’s guide below. Now, onto our first pick…

1. HJC CL-17 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet

Our list kicks off with the HJC CL-17 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet. Not only does it offer excellent protection, but it also comes with very useful features that make riding a more enjoyable experience.

For starters, it complies with both DOT- and Snell regulations, comes with a full warranty, and is lightweight thanks to its advanced polycarbonate compound construction. Special padding that conforms to your face over time also makes it very comfortable to wear.

What truly makes the HJC CL-17 stand out, however, are its ventilation and shield designs. With the former, the cool air channeled by the vent mingles with a moisture-wicking lining to keep you cool and dry, with several finely-placed controls allowing you to determine just how much air enters the helmet.

As for the shield, it uses a Pinlock lens to stay fog-free, while a nifty RapidFire Shield Replacement System makes switching out old shields for new ones very easy. The replacement shields come in nearly every transparent color, letting you customize them to deal with the sun’s bright light and UV rays, as well as match your motorbike’s look.

As a downer, the interior padding can take a while to conform to your face, and depending on how you position your head, your forehead might rub against the top of the shield. But those are minor nitpicks for such a well-designed helmet.

Bottom Line

With its excellent combination of functionality, comfort, and price, the HJC CL-17 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet is one of the best biker helmets you can currently buy, if not the best. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

2. Vega Rebel Warrior Half Helmet

Although half helmets offer less protection than full-face helmets, the Vega Rebel Warrior Half Helmet is of such high quality that it is often considered one of the best motorbike helmets of any type.

This stylish unisex helmet comes in many different sizes and designs for a truly customized look, and you won’t strain your neck wearing it for extended periods thanks to its compact, extremely lightweight design (weighs only 2.2 lbs / 1 kg). 

An adjustment dial in the back and a padded quick-release strap help ensure a comfortable, secure fit, while a thick, high-density EPS liner provides maximum impact absorption. The removable, fully adjustable sun shield is optically correct, ensuring that sunlight, rain, and bugs don’t obstruct your vision.

The Rebel Warrior Half Helmet meets or exceeds all DOT FMVSS 218 safety standards. In fact, Vega is so serious about the quality of its products that it routinely conducts random batch tests and gives buyers a 5-year warranty, with a lifetime guarantee against defects. 

Cooling might be an issue for some riders, however. Even though the helmet has a moisture-wicking system, your head can get seriously hot. Also, sizes seem to run small, and not everyone will like the “mushroom head” shape.

Bottom Line

The Vega Rebel Warrior is a DOT-approved half helmet that’s stylish, lightweight, and comfortable. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

3. Bell Race Star Flex DLX Helmet

The Bell Race Star Flex DLX Helmet would have been our pick for the best motorcycle helmet had it not been for its very high price. Regardless, as a premium model, it offers ultra-high performance in every measurable criterion.

With the Race Star Flex DLX, you get excellent protection and impact absorption thanks to a 3k carbon composite outer shell that varies in thickness at key areas and six EPS liners, as well as the choice of five shell sizes for a secure, ultra-premium fit for any head size. It’s DOT-approved, meeting all FMVSS 218 standards.

This helmet is also lightweight at about 3.5 pounds (1.59 kg), comes in many different colors, and is comfortable to wear thanks to its triple-density cheek pads. It even has an anti-bacterial liner, as well as speaker pockets that allow you to take your music on the go.

There isn’t much to dislike about the design and performance of the Bell Race Star Flex DLX Helmet, but as mentioned earlier, it is a very expensive piece of motorcycle gear.

Bottom Line

The Bell Race Star Flex DLX Helmet is the full-face motorcycle helmet to get if money isn’t an issue. It justifies its high price with unprecedented all-around performance. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

4. Shoei RF-1200 Motorcycle Helmet

Japan’s Shoei has been one of the top helmet manufacturers for decades, producing high-quality helmets and continually raising the bar with each new release. The handmade Shoei RF-1200 is easily one of their best motorbike helmets.

With a lightweight, powerful, and compact design, this full-face helmet covers your entire head, providing full frontal, back, and sideways protection. It comes in four different shell sizes and cheek pads with several thickness levels to provide a custom fit that’s snug and secure, no matter your head size.

Unsurprisingly, it’s both DOT- and Snell-compliant and comes with a 5-year warranty, which is essentially the lifespan of the helmet.

Inside, five different vents provide perfect ventilation when riding at any speed, while the inner liner is made from high-end materials that contour to your head and face for added comfort. A Max-Dry system easily eliminates sweat to keep your head dry.

The Shoei RF-1200 is a premium helmet, and as such, is fairly expensive. However, we think it’s a good value considering everything it offers.

Bottom Line

The Shoei RF-1200 is a handmade premium motorcycle helmet with impeccable safety credentials, build quality, and creature comforts. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

5. ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet

Often a contender for the best motorcycle helmet on many comparison lists, the ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet offers a solid combination of protection, comfort, and modern technology.

A durable, very lightweight ABS shell and comfortable inner pads work together to provide a level of protection that meets or exceeds DOT FMVSS-218 safety standards. The interior is ventilated for extra comfort, while a streamlined design reduces wind noise. 

ILM’s biker helmet is available in seven colors and several different sizes, allowing you to customize it to your liking. It also comes with a micrometrical adjustable strap for a secure fit and two anti-fog and scratch-resistant visors (one clear and the other tinted) for optimal visibility throughout the day.

Although a bit gimmicky, there is a removable scarf for riding on cold winter days, and you can easily remove and wash the liners and cheek pads at your convenience. 

Like everything in life, the  ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet isn’t perfect. Sizes run a bit big, and wind noise can be an issue when riding at speeds.

Bottom Line

The ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet looks good, has decent features, and is DOT-approved, everything most riders could ever want in their helmet. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

6. Shoei RF-SR Helmet

The Shoei RF-SR is a more affordable version of the RF-1200 with nearly the same build quality and performance levels.

This helmet is made out of a composite shell that blends fiberglass, plastic resin, and organic fibers for incredible toughness, while a dual-layer, multi-density EPS liner maximizes impact absorption and ventilation.

Each helmet is handmade to the highest standard, including extensive testing in a wind tunnel by professional riders to ensure a highly aerodynamic profile with a very low drag coefficient. 

With these design highlights, is it a wonder that the RF-SR easily meets both DOT and Snell safety standards? You also get a 5-year warranty.

But as much as we like the Shoei RF-SR, it has a few minor issues. A small gap between the helmet and visor lets in some potentially distracting wind noise, and like every Shoei helmet, it’s on the expensive side.

Bottom Line

More affordable than the Shoei RF-1200, the Shoei RF-SR is a handmade, aerodynamically optimized premium helmet that delivers superb protection and comfort. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

7. 1Storm Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet

This full-face biker helmet from 1Storm is another top-rated option for those on a tight budget. Extensively tested for safety and durability, it is a reliable, DOT-approved piece of protective gear.

The helmet comes in all standard sizes for a perfect and secure fit no matter your head size, while a sturdy alloy shell effectively absorbs and disperses impacts. Multi-density EPS materials help ensure both rider protection and comfort.

You will also be pleased with the easily removable and washable thick inner padding, as well as the flip-up and dual-lens design that lets you switch between smoked and clear visors with relative ease. The availability of many different colors means you can match your helmet to your riding gear.

Finally, the 1Storm’s best motorcycle helmet impresses with its excellent ventilation system, which does a good job of keeping riders cool in hot weather. However, it might fit too snuggly for some people, and noise intrusion when riding over 40 mph (64 km/h) can be an issue.

Bottom Line

The 1Storm Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet is by no means a state-of-the-art biker helmet, but it’s very affordable and has everything you need to ride safely and stylishly while keeping cool and dry. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

8. Bell Qualifier DLX Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet

The Bell Qualifier DLX is proof that a quality motorcycle helmet doesn’t have to be expensive, as it offers a nice mixture of quality materials and convenience features at a price most bikers can afford, not to mention solid head protection.

Bell’s full-face motorcycle helmet meets all DOT FMVSS 218 standards, meaning it will protect your entire head should you get into an accident. Its lightweight polycarbonate shell can withstand loads of pressure and easily absorbs impacts.

It is durable, compact, portable, very aerodynamic, easy to put on, and comes in several different sizes and colors that allow you to customize it to fit your head perfectly and match your bike and riding gear.

The face shield is clear, tinted, and reinforced with the NutraFog II anti-fog technology, with a click-release system allowing for quick, easy, and hassle-free shield swaps. You also get contoured cheek pads and integrated speaker pockets for added comfort and convenience.

One minor issue to point out: The Bell Qualifier DLX Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet lacks padding in the chin area, an omission that lets in wind and creates noise when traveling at high speeds. This makes it more suitable for riding in warmer months.

Bottom Line

With the Bell Qualifier DLX Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet, you don’t have to shell out big bucks for good all-around performance. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

9. Arai XD4 Dual Sport Helmet

Like its Japanese contemporary, Shoei, Arai has built a solid reputation for building the highest caliber helmets. Despite being over six years old, their XD4 Dual Sport Helmet remains one of the best motorcycle helmets on the market.

The XD4 is constructed out of a complex fiberglass laminate shell and weighs only 3.8 lbs, making it strong, sturdy, flexible, and relatively lightweight. And, thanks to careful engineering, the weight is evenly distributed to achieve a low center of gravity and better absorb impacts over a wider area.

Does it meet DOT FMVSS 218 standards? You betcha! Not only that, but it’s also ECE 22-05-approved (Europe), Snell-certified, and comes with a 5-year warranty.

The XD4’s ventilation system is one of the best, with many strategically positioned vents  efficiently circulating air to keep conditions under the helmet cool. At the same time, Arai’s Dry Cool system effectively wicks away moisture and heat to keep you dry.

Another highlight of the XD4 is its customizable fitment. Peel-away pads at the temple and cheek allow you to adjust the snugness, while a Facial Contour Support feature enhances the helmet’s stability and allows you to effortlessly slide it on.

Is the Arai XD4 flawless? No. It’s average as far as noise levels are concerned, and because it’s hand-built to ensure the highest possible quality and safety, it’s expensive. However, Aria has fielded one of the finest pieces of motorcycle gear on the market.

Bottom Line

If money isn’t an issue and you only want to own one motorcycle helmet for all your riding needs, I highly recommend the Arai XD4 Dual Sport Helmet. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

10. Bell Custom 500 Helmet

If you want a modern motorcycle helmet with a retro twist, the Bell Custom 500 is certainly one to consider.

As an open-face helmet, the Custom 500 doesn’t offer the complete protection of full-face helmets. Nevertheless, it’s DOT-approved and meets all FMVSS 218 standards thanks to its tough fiberglass composite shell and multi-density EPS liner, which effectively absorb and distribute impacts.

Also, all units come with a lengthy five-year warranty for some peace of mind.

You can choose from five different sizes and over ten unique colors and designs, which together with an integrated 5-snap pattern that accommodates all manners of aftermarket shields and visors, allows you to easily customize the helmet to achieve a perfect fit and match your riding gear.

The Bell Custom 500 Helmet fits tightly, so consider sizing up when buying yours.

Bottom Line

While not Bell’s best motorbike helmet, the cool-looking Bell Custom 500 Helmet is a tasteful blend of modern, highly protective design and slick retro-styling. CHECK LATEST PRICE.

Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide

Use this highly detailed buying guide to narrow down your options and find the best motorcycle helmet for your riding needs.

What Is A Motorcycle Helmet?

Motorcycle riders are at high risk in traffic crashes, particularly for sustaining head injuries, because of the lack of protection provided by motorcycles. Unlike motor vehicles, motorbikes don’t have seat belts, airbags, or a metal cocoon to absorb the force of an impact.

That’s where motorcycle helmets come in. This type of helmet is worn by motorcyclists to protect their heads during impact, either to reduce the severity of head injuries or prevent them altogether.

Some helmet designs incorporate other safety and convenience features such as face shields, ventilation, ear protection, and intercoms.

A 2008 systematic review of several studies found that motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of head injury by around 69% and death by around 42%.

Benefits Of A Motorcycle Helmet

The benefits of wearing a motorcycle helmet should be obvious; however, they are worth repeating considering the disturbing number of riders who still insist on riding without head protection.

1. Greater Safety

For any rider who thinks wearing a helmet hampers the sense of freedom riding a bike offers, we’ve got three sobering words for you: Traumatic brain injury. The fact that motorcycles don’t provide the structural support and safety features that motor vehicles do means a quality motorcycle helmet is the only way of protecting your brain.

2. Better Visibility

Unlike automobile drivers, motorcycle riders don’t have the luxury of a massive windshield preventing dirt, debris, bugs, wind, and rain from constantly hitting them in the face and reducing their visibility. Helmets with face shields address this issue.

3. Lower Medical Costs

Motorcyclists who don’t wear helmets sustain more severe injuries in accidents than smart riders who wear helmets, resulting in significantly higher medical costs. One American study found that the average hospital charge for unhelmeted patients was $7,383.31, compared to $4,184.26 for helmeted patients.

4. Makes You Visible

Many of the best motorcycle helmets have vibrant designs that, in addition to being stylish, help you be seen by alerting other motorists of your presence. This design feature is particularly useful in heavy traffic, where the bike can easily be obscured by larger vehicles.

5. Lower Insurance Rates

Calculating the cost-risk analysis of different driving situations is at the core of how insurance companies make their money. Unhelmeted motorcyclists incur higher medical bills on average; the main way insurance companies offset these higher costs is by raising their insurance premiums.

Types Of Motorcycle Helmets

There are six main types of motorcycle helmets, all providing varying levels of protection for the rider. You can find

Full Face Helmets

Full-face helmets offer the most coverage around your head, chin, and neck. Available in a wide variety of designs that suit riders of all types, they are generally considered the safest type of motorcycle helmet.

One design element that sets them apart from many other helmets is the presence of a chin bar, a very valuable safety feature considering that it’s the chin that takes the brunt (~ 50%) of severe impacts during an accident.

Flip-up Helmets

Also known as modular helmets, flip-up helmets are different from traditional full-face helmets in that the chin bar and visor can be flipped up to open the front of the helmet. This design feature makes them easier to put on and remove and makes it possible to chat with others without having to take off the entire helmet.

Unfortunately, having an extra hinge makes them slightly heavier than full-face helmets. Moreover, the hinge can break on impact, exposing your face, neck, and other parts of your head to the pavement.

Open Face Helmets

As suggested by their name, open-face helmets cover the top back and sides of the rider’s head, leaving the face exposed. Popular amongst scooter riders, tourers, and cruisers, they are less cumbersome and offer a more visceral riding experience than flip-up and full-face helmets but also less safe due to the absence of a chin bar. 

Half Helmets

Half helmets are similar in design to bicycle helmets in that they only cover the top of the head and the area from the forehead to the brows. Everything below the forehead is completely exposed.

Even though they are very light, provide great airflow, and sometimes offer a bit more coverage of the back of the neck and ears, this type of motorcycle helmet offers significantly less protection than full-face and flip-up helmets.

Dirt Bike Helmets

Designed specifically for off-road riding, off-road (dirt bike) helmets are possibly the best motorcycle helmets in terms of durability, featuring a design that allows them to absorb impacts while keeping your head stable and secure.

They are usually equipped with a larger visor and a more accentuated chin bar for improved airflow; however, some models don’t come with eye protection, necessitating a separate set of glasses or goggles.

Top Motorcycle Helmet Brands

When shopping around for a new helmet, always consider the companies and brands that have established a solid reputation for producing the sturdiest, safest, and most comfortable helmets. The following are the top motorcycle helmet brands:

Shoei

Founded in 1959, Shoei is a Tokyo-based Japanese company known for its comfortable, high-end helmets. They were one of the first producers of carbon fiber helmets, as well as helmets that use Kevlar.

The Shoei RF-1200 Street Motorcycle Helmet is very popular internationally. Find Shoei Helmets.

HJC 

HJC has been exclusively making motorcycle helmets since the early 1970s and has made a name for itself on the world stage by offering a wide selection of comfortable, stylish, and affordable products.

The HJC 980-614 IS-MAX II Modular Motorcycle Helmet is one of their best-sellers. Find HJC Helmets.

Bell 

Bell Sports is an American maker of bicycle and motorcycle helmets that traces its origins way back to 1923. Their helmets have been made famous by many movie stars over the decades, and the Bell Qualifier DLX Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet is widely considered one of the best motorbike helmets. Find Bell Helmets.

Arai

Established in 1926, Arai is another iconic Japanese manufacturer renowned for making some of the best biker helmets. Every single Arai helmet is hand-built and rigorously tested!

The Arai XD4 is one of the best adventure helmets on the market. Find Arai Helmets.

How To Choose The Best Motorcycle Helmet

The growing popularity of riding has given rise to an overwhelming number of motorcycle helmets to choose from, enough to bewilder the average shopper. Use the following ten criteria to filter out the best helmet for your riding needs.

1. Helmet Type

The first step in buying a motorcycle helmet is what type you need for your riding needs. While the various types of helmets all have the same purpose, some do a better job of protecting your head than others. For example, it would be unwise to get a half helmet if you’re a dirt biker.

2. Safety Standards

Before buying a motorcycle helmet, make sure it meets any quality and safety standards established by your country, state, or province. In the United States, for example, it’s illegal to wear a helmet that doesn’t have a D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) certification.

3. Helmet Fit And Comfort

How well a motorcycle helmet fits your head determines just how much protection it can provide. To find the right helmet size, determine your head shape and size and try on the helmet to check for proper fit and comfort. Make sure it’s not too tight or too loose.

4. Material Quality

Although motorcycle helmets are required to pass certain quality standards, not all of them use the same quality materials. Most helmets are constructed using thermoplastic, while many premium models use fiberglass, carbon composite shells, and/or kevlar.

5. Inner Padding

High-quality motorcycle helmets have two inner layers of protection to better absorb impacts from collisions and keep your head from jostling around. Often made of expanded polystyrene (EPS), the first layer is tasked with absorbing some of the kinetic energy from the impact, while the second layer is primarily for comfort.

6. Face Shield

For the best visibility while riding, go with a motorcycle helmet that has a face shield. A standard feature on full-face and flip-up helmets, shields protect your face from dirt and debris, bugs, and other substances. Some can even be tinted to offer UV protection.

7. Chin Strap

A motorcycle helmet needs to have a padded strap that protects the rider’s chin and keeps the helmet securely planted on your head. Some chin strap designs have a quick-release button, while others feature a traditional, more secure D-ring. 

8. Ventilation 

Although ventilation has little impact on the protective efficacy of a helmet, it can make wearing one more comfortable. That’s because a properly ventilated helmet is usually less hot, humid, and smelly.

9. Bluetooth Speakers, Microphone

Some higher-end helmets come with Bluetooth speakers and microphones, allowing the rider to listen to their favorite music and answer phone calls while on the road. Motorcycle helmets with Bluetooth capabilities are essentially wearable smartphones.

10. Warranty

Many motorcycle helmets are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. The longer the warranty, the more peace of mind you have knowing that you can repair or replace the helmet at little to no cost.

Taking Care Of Your Motorcycle Helmet

The best motorcycle helmet will protect your head during crashes; prevent dirt, debris, and bugs from flying into your face; and provide a comfortable and secure fit for prolonged periods. However, you have to do your part to make sure your helmet doesn’t end up doing you more harm than good.

Not only must you know how to properly maintain it, but you must also know when to replace it.

Signs You Need To Replace Your Motorcycle Helmet

Here are 5 telltale signs that you need a new motorcycle helmet:

1. Helmet age. Like most products, motorcycle helmets expire. Many manufacturers suggest that you replace your helmet five years after its manufacture date, even if it hasn’t been used. That’s because the materials used to make the helmet deteriorate over time.

2. Wear and tear. Although not always apparent, consistently using a helmet will weaken its structural integrity over time. Consider replacing your helmet once you start noticing signs of deterioration on its exterior and interior, even if it’s well before its expiry date.

3. Accidents. Helmets are designed to provide one-time protection, so getting into just one accident is reason enough to get a new unit. You may not notice any serious damage on the helmet after a crash, but that doesn’t mean it’s still in good condition.

4. Looseness. For a helmet to properly protect your head and feel comfortable, it must fit snugly around your head so that when you move or shake your head, it stays in place. Replace your helmet when it starts getting loose and uncomfortable.

5. Strap, lock failure. The chin strap plays a crucial role in keeping the helmet securely on your head. If it doesn’t work properly, get a chin strap replacement. If that doesn’t address the problem, buy a new helmet.

Note: Never buy or wear a used motorcycle helmet. Although it may look fine on the surface, you can never be sure about its accident history and overall condition.

Motorcycle Helmet Maintenance Tips

Taking care of a motorcycle helmet is a lot easier than most people think. Here are 10 maintenance tips that will help keep your helmet in good working condition for years to come:

• Handle with care. Although they might not seem like it, motorcycle helmets are surprisingly fragile. They are designed to disperse impacts through their entire body, so each drop or impact will weaken their structural integrity to some extent, even if not visible. 
• Clean helmet often. Make sure to wash the outside and inside of your helmet regularly. Dirt, debris, and bug splatter can corrode the paint if left alone, while the build-up of fallen hair, sweat, grease, and other particles will cause the liner to deteriorate prematurely. 
• Use water for cleaning. Most cleaning products can damage a helmet’s fabrics, protective coating, and graphics, so use only water when cleaning your helmet. If you really must use a solution, opt for mild soap or a specifically-made helmet cleaner.
• Use car polish. For helmets that have a gloss coat, using car polishing will give them a nice shine and keep them looking new for as long as possible.
• Clean the bugs off. Splattered bug guts are unsightly and can corrode your helmet’s paint job. To get rid of any bugs on your helmet, soak a washcloth or paper towel in warm water, cover the affected surface for about ten minutes, and wipe them off.
• Clean ventilation grates. If your helmet has built-in ventilation, use a Q-Tip or cotton swab to clean out the grates. Any build-up of dust and particles in the vents will impede airflow, worsening the quality of air that circulates inside the helmet.
• Lubricate moving parts. The dry rubbing of your helmet’s moving parts can wear them down quickly. Periodically applying a silicone-based lubricant on these components can keep them working for longer. 
• Use a helmet bag. Make sure to put your helmet in a cover or bag when you’re not using it. Doing so will provide some protection against bumps and prevent scratches.
• Don’t hang your helmet. Storing your helmet by hanging it on an object is risky business. Not only can it easily be knocked off and potentially sustain damage, but it’s also a surefire way to ruin the inner lining.
• Keep away from fuel. Fuel, cleaning fluids, and extreme heat can all damage a helmet’s materials, so don’t store your helmet near them. 

Motorcycle Helmet FAQs And Answers

The answers to these frequently asked questions will help address any other queries you might have about finding the best motorcycle helmet for your riding needs or just about bike helmets in general.

Do Motorcycle Helmets Expire?

Yes, motorcycle helmets have an expiration date. Not only do crashes and other forceful impacts make them less effective, but the materials used to make them deteriorate over time. 

That’s why riders are advised to replace their helmet every five years even if they haven’t been in an accident.

What Is The Best Motorcycle Helmet Brand?

Some of the best-known motorcycle helmet brands are Shoei, Arai, HJC, and Bell. These brands have built a solid reputation for making high-quality helmets that are comfortable to wear, meet high safety standards, and offer a wide array of styles.

What Kind of Helmet Can I Use For Riding A Motorcycle?

You can use any kind of motorcycle helmet for riding a motorcycle but only if it meets the safety standards required by your local government. A helmet is not required in some parts of the world, but we advise that you always wear one no matter where you are.

What Is The Best Type Of Motorcycle Helmet?

Each type of motorcycle helmet has its advantages and disadvantages, but full-face helmets are by far the safest. Even though they are bulkier and more cumbersome than the other types, full-face helmets provide the most protection for your head, face, and neck. 

Other helmets tend to be more svelte, lightweight, and stylish, which may be reason enough to opt for one; however, striking a good balance between safety, functionality, and style is often the best course of action.

Final Thoughts

A motorcycle helmet can be the difference between life and death, so never ride without wearing one.

The HJC CL-17 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet came out on top as the best motorcycle helmet, winning us over with its incredible combination of quality materials, aerodynamic efficiency, and built-in features. Our budget pick, the Vega Rebel Warrior Half Helmet, is a durable, very affordable option with solid features.