It is startling that the latest statistics show that up to 80% of all motorcycle crashes result in a significant injury or death. An individual riding a motorcycle is almost 16% more likely to die in an accident than a driver in a motor vehicle. But what can you do to reduce the risk of injury or death when riding a motorcycle? Of course, quitting the activity is out of the question.
One of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of death when riding a motorcycle is wearing a helmet and other protective clothing. Having a helmet reduces the risk significantly by almost 30%. You may look cool riding a bike without a helmet, but it is never worth the risk.
Unfortunately, not every motorcycle helmet that you find in the stores is reliable and safe. The safer the helmet, the better it is – in other words, the safest motorcycle helmet is the best motorcycle helmet. That said, which is the best motorcycle helmet you can find?
In our research, we found the Shoei RF-SR Helmet as the best overall. Bell Qualifier Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet was in second place. Below are some of the best-rated motorcycle helmets. Check them out.
What’s the Safest Motorcycle Helmet? Top Picks
Shoei RF-SR Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
As a premium motorcycle brand and with such products as the Shoei RF-1200 helmet, you can expect this matte black helmet to be reliable and one of the safest motorcycle helmets. The DOT Certified best-quality helmet has an attractive and aerodynamic design that ardent motorcyclists and other unbelievers will find appealing.
The material of the shell is composite multi-ply organic fiber with shock absorption capabilities to protect your head in case of a crash. An additional shock absorption capability comes from the multi-density EPS liner that also makes the helmet comfortable.
What we like
- Attractive and aerodynamic design
- Only weighs 5 Pounds
- Organic fiber material to provide sufficient protection to your head
- Practical and comfortable multi-density EPS liner
What we don’t like
- A lot more color choices may be necessary
- It is a bit loud
Bell Qualifier Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Bell is undoubtedly another reliable brand in the motorcycle helmet market. But what makes this helmet the safest? Let’s see in the following Bell Qualifier helmet review.
The lightweight polycarbonate shell is a solid material that protects your head from impact. The material is durable as well, and you can expect to use a motorcycle helmet for a long time. More importantly, the helmet meets the FMVSS 218 Standard to provide sufficient protection to your head.
It comes with an optional tinted visor to protect your eyes and the face from debris and wind that may affect your vision and concentration.
What we like
- The durable and lightweight polycarbonate shell
- Attractive aerodynamic design
- Optional tinted visor
What we don’t like
- Maybe a bit louder than most people expect
ScorpionExo Covert Unisex Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
The advanced polycarbonate shell is one of the critical features that make this unisex helmet one of the most reliable and safest motorcycle helmets on the market. Other attractive and safety features include the tinted visor with the capability to retract for your convenience. It provides adequate protection against sunlight and flying debris when riding. There is an additional clear visor for use in low lighting conditions.
You can use the helmet in a three-quarter mode if you want adequate airflow into your face.
What we like
- Advanced polycarbonate shell for safety when riding
- Tinted visor for protection against sunlight and debris
- Convertible into a three-quarter mode
What we don’t like
- The helmet is a bit noisy at high speeds
AGV Pista GP R Carbon Helmet
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The DOT Certified helmet only weighs 16 pounds and, therefore, lightweight. Among the various safety features that this AGV Pista GP R carbon helmet comes with include the safety release system in the cheek pads. It also has a unique double face clown pad to enhance your safety and comfort.
The comfortable interiors provide shock absorption and are as well removable and washable. The nose guard is removable also to your convenience. A collarbone safe profile is another highlight feature that contributes to your safety.
What we like
- Lightweight and comfortable helmet
- The safety system in the cheek pads is effective
- Removable, washable and suitable interiors
What we don’t like
- The carbon helmet maybe a little loud
Bell Bullitt Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
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There is not any doubt about the quality of Bell helmets, and this unit is not any different. The low profile composite shell is robust and lightweight to ensure your comfort and safety when riding. For a personalized fit, the helmet comes with EPS sizes and three shells.
The exhaust vent, metal mesh intake, and the front chin vent all provide an adequate flow of air for comfort even in hot weather. Most users love the leather interior because it is washable and has antibacterial properties.
What we like
- A personalized fit
- Composite shell for a lightweight and comfortable design
- Various vents to provide efficient flow of air
- Washable and antibacterial interior
What we don’t like
- The communication systems are uncomfortable
Biltwell Lane Splitter Motorcycle Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
One of the critical highlights in this Biltwell Lane Splitter Motorcycle Helmet is the ABS outer shell. The polycarbonate shell, together with the hinged face shield collaborates to provide adequate protection to your head and face.
The wider variety of color options is legendary, and it is a good thing for any motorcycle rider. The hand-stitched interior lining provides sufficient cushion against any shock to the head. The other features for shock absorption include the BioFoam chin bar and cheek pads.
What we like
- Polycarbonate shell and hinged face shield to provide adequate protection
- Wider variety of color options
- Hand-stitched interior lining to protect against shock to the head
What we don’t like
- The sizing of the helmet may be a little off
Shoei Excursion Neotec 2 Modular Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
From one of the safest and reliable brands, this modular helmet comes with some of the top of the range safety features. For example, the upper air intake vents, and the exhaust outlets enhance the flow of air that you almost feel like you are using an open face helmet.
The wind testing has improved the shape of the helmet to make it streamlined and reduce noise in different positions. And to ensure stability, the unit has an effective Aero Deflector.
Securing and removal of the helmet is more comfortable and it is all thanks to the micro ratchet chin strap.
What we like
- Improved airflow
- Wind testing for reduced noise
- An effective Aero Deflector for the stability of the helmet
What we don’t like
- Only ships within the United States
AGV Corsa R Carbon Fiber Helmet
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This premium-priced carbon fiber motorcycle helmet is one of the best for the fast track. The primary material on the shell is carbon fiber with a blend of fiberglass, kevlar, and carbon to make it lightweight and robust. Most people may not like the intermediate oval shape, but it provides exceptional aerodynamics and comfort. It comes in four shell sizes, and you can choose the most appropriate for you.
What we like
- Carbon fiber shell for lightweight and robust design
- Intermediate oval shape for aerodynamics and comfort
- Four shell sizes for a customiable fit
What we don’t like
- Premium-priced
- The helmet is not very quiet
Arai XD4 Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
The dual-sport helmet is probably one of the most comfortable and safest motorcycle helmets on the market. It has a wider variety of solid colors and graphics that you can choose from, depending on your preference. The unique face shield is the first thing that most people notice, and it is a source of unobstructed and clear front view.
The brow vents on the face shield provide proper airflow and prevent fogging. It does not rely on anti-fogging chemicals, and that is a good thing for your safety, and worth highlighting in this Arai XD4 review.
What we like
- Dual sport helmet
- Wider variety of solid colors and graphics
- Unique face shield for unobstructed and clear front view
- Improved airflow
What we don’t like
- Thinly padded chin strap
- The upper ventilation is not as efficient
HJC CL-17 Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
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Given the various features that this full-face motorcycle helmet comes with, we can comfortably say that it is an excellent bargain. But what about safety? Well, Snell M2010 certification means a lot towards that direction.
It comes with a grooved liner to accommodate sunglasses. Most people love the sharp angles and lines that give the helmet a modern look. Furthermore, the vents are smoothly operating to allow efficient flow of air. You will find the SuperCool interior thick padding to be very comfortable on the skin.
What we like
- Excellent ventilation
- Snell M2010 certification for safety
- Vents are smoothly operating
- SuperCool interior padding for shock absorption
What we don’t like
- Produces some whistling sounds
Shoei X-14 Brink Racing Helmet
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The introduction of Shoei X-14 Helmet came with much hype, and it is for a good reason. Its aerodynamic design has undergone extensive testing to ensure that it is comfortable for high-speed races.
Another essential feature is the Multi-Density EPS liner for improved ventilation and impact absorption. You know how vital an excellent fitting helmet is for your safety. Towards that goal, the helmet comes with up to five EPS liner sizes and four shells.
The shock-absorbing liner extends to the cheek pad cooling system and the chin pad.
What we like
- Rigorous aerodynamic testing
- A comfortable fit with five EPS liner sizes and four shells.
What we don’t like
- The helmet is a bit loud
Shoei GT-Air 2 Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
The drop-down visor provides sufficient coverage and protection from the sun. Its improved ventilation scheme and the stable aerodynamics are characteristically Shoei. The multiple layer EPS liner is a good source of shock absorption and comfort when riding.
To prevent fogging, the helmet features an enlarged lower vent. The intake vents on the upper and the lower parts are easy to operate, and you can adjust them according to comfort. Other additional features include the chin curtain that minimizes noise by inhibiting the entry of wind.
What we like
- Features improved ventilation scheme and stable aerodynamics
- Multiple layer EPS for shock absorption and comfort when riding
- A shield that blocks the sun’s UV rays
- Enlarged lower vent to prevent fogging
What we don’t like
- Premium-priced helmet
Shark Race-R Pro Carbon Skin Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
The carbon skin helmet uses high-end composite fiber for the lightest and the safest skin helmet. Its vision field is broad and remains stable even at tight angles. Through the wind tunnel testing, Shark managed to produce one of the quietest helmets on the market. It does not exceed 4.5 decibels even at high speeds.
The interchangeable cheek pads help get a comfortable and safe fit.
What we like
- Composite fiber material for a robust and lightweight design
- A full field of vision for improved stability at high speeds and tight angles
- Rigorous wind tunnel testing to produce the quietest helmet
- Interchangeable cheek pads for a comfortable fit
What we don’t like
- The helmet is a bit uncomfortable for some people
Scorpion EXO AT950
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
The look and function of a scorpion best flip-up helmet with high-safety are perfect for any motorcycle enthusiast. Inside, the helmet features a cushy and antimicrobial lining that you can remove for cleaning. The headspace provides a Snug Fit, and you can be comfortable when riding for long distances.
You don’t have to worry about the warm weather as the size of the top vent is sufficient to provide proper airflow. The dual-density EPS liner is as comfortable as possible. It is exciting and provides an unmatched cooling to the riders.
What we like
- Removable and cushy antimicrobial lining
- The headspace that provides a snug Fit
- Effectively sized top vent to ensure good airflow
What we don’t like
- It is a bit louder than the competition
TORC T1 Retro Motorcycle Helmet
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
The primary material is fiberglass composite shell that makes the helmet lightweight and comfortable. You cannot complain about airflow with this motorcycle helmet as it boasts various vents that are effective. And to guarantee your safety, the helmet meets the federal (FMVSS) 218 standards.
Its Multi-Density EPS enhances airflow and provides sufficient shock absorption to protect your head. An anti-scratch and anti-fog shield gives a clear view when riding a motorcycle.
What we like
- Meets the (FMVSS) 218 safety standards
- Multi-Density EPS for sufficient shock absorption
- The shield is anti-scratch and anti-fog
What we don’t like
- The helmets run large
- The quality is not the best
What Features Make the Best & Safest Motorcycle Helmet
Every helmet should meet DOT safety standards. You can choose the helmets that meet ECE and SNELL standards as well, but the DOT should be the bare minimum.
In a choice between a full face, half helmet, and three-quarter helmet, the full-face helmets should be the ideal. They provide better protection compared to the other types of helmets.
The helmet should be well-fitting, and if it comes with adjustable features, the better. The amount of padding may vary between different types, but make sure it is sufficient to provide adequate shock absorption. A removable and washable liner is another common feature in most contemporary motorcycle helmets, and it is a good idea if you should have it.
Look for a helmet with various vents to allow adequate flow of air for comfort. The material of the shell should be robust and lightweight. Carbon fiber is one of the most popular materials on motorcycle helmet shells, and it is lightweight and sturdy.
The final factor is budget. Searching for a budget-friendly helmet is normal, but you shouldn’t focus on this too much as the safest and most reliable elements are, of course not the cheapest.
Best Motorcycle Helmet Brands that Produce the Safest Motorcycle Helmets
As a motorcyclist, it is critical to find the safest and most reliable helmet you can find. Of course, nothing comes ahead of your safety when riding a motorcycle. But what are the top brands that manufacture the best motorcycle helmets?
Shoei Helmets is undoubtedly at the top of the pack when talking about premium quality motorcycle helmets. Established in 1959, the Japanese company uses carbon fiber and Kevlar in their helmets to make them durable, robust, and comfortable. And even though it is not such a large company, they are the Lamborghini in the helmets industry. You get the idea.
Another fantastic brand that deals with helmets only is HJC Helmets. They have been in the market since 1971, and they make high-quality, affordable, and robust helmets for motorcycle riders. The company is continually improving on helmet technology to enhance the safety of riders.
The story about helmets can never be complete without mentioning Bell Helmets. They are another company that best describes what reliability is all about and of course, safety. Since its establishment, these guys have demonstrated top-notch innovation when it comes to motorcycle helmets. Bell helmets make a wide range of helmets for various activities such as ATV riding, motorcycling, and snowmobiles.
Bell helmets have a fantastic ventilation system that makes them even more comfortable.
Among other brands, you can rely on AGV, Arai, Shark, ScorpionExo, Nolan, Vega, O’Neal for best-quality helmets.
Types of Motorcycle Helmets: Which is Safer?
There are various models of motorcycle helmets, and each of them is appropriate for a particular motorcycle riding activity. But what do we mean by that?
One of the most reliable and safest motorcycle helmets is full-face helmets. They cover the whole part of the head and around the neck. Full face helmets have various safety features that most other types of helmets lack, such as a chin bar. As a learner, it would be best to choose a full-face helmet for the best safety.
Modular helmets are usually three-quarter full face, and they often open up. The main features of a modular helmet include a visor to protect your eyes and the face. The helmet also has the same materials as the full-face helmet to provide adequate safety and protection when riding.
The extra hinge or modular helmets adds a bit of weight to them.
Unlike the modular helmets and full-face helmets, the open-face does not have a chin bar. But apart from that, the other distinguishing feature is the open face with only the top part and sides covered. The three-quarter helmets are popular among cafe racers and scooters. You will also find them with cruisers wanting to feel the wind as they ride the motorcycle.
And even though they do not provide coverage, the three-quarter helmets offer the same safety as the full-face helmets.
The half helmet only covers the top and maybe the back of your head only. The helmets leave your face uncovered, and they provide unmatched airflow. Half helmets are popular among motorcyclists who consider themselves cool, and those who want to experience the thrill of motorcycling.
Read more: BEST Motorcycle Half Helmets & Open Face Helmets in 2022
Best selection may vary based on your necessity. If you’re fond of off-road biking, a dirt-bike helmet is an inevitable option. Or, if you want a helmet for your children, the selections will be far more different.
Should You Replace Your Helmet Once Crashed?
It mostly depends on the material of the helmet. For example, EPP foam quickly recovers from a significant amount of shock to it. If you don’t see any dent on the helmet after a crash, then there may not be a reason to worry.
Look for any cracks on the foam, and replace the helmet if you find some. Even though it may not be necessary, most manufacturers will recommend a replacement every five years. Check the sticker that it comes with.
But generally, you should replace the helmet after a crash because of several reasons. For example, a substantial impact on the shell may cause some damage to the foam and other protective features, and the helmet may not be as safe as before.
DOT, Snell or ECE – What’s the Better Safety Standard for Helmet?
The most common safety standards are SNELL and DOT. SNELL certification is optional, while DOT is a federal requirement. ECE, on the other hand, is the European version of the standards. The most rigorous is as you would expect, ECE, and quite common in most racing organizations.
SNELL standards are quite high, but they may be the most reliable compared to DOT.
Do Motorcycle Helmets Save Lives?
Chances of death or a significant injury reduce by up to 30% when you have a helmet on after a motorcycle crash. At a minimum, every motorcyclist should have a helmet are they save lives.
Concluding Remarks
The safest motorcycle helmets are a critical element for motorcyclists. Safe motorcycle helmets protect your head in case of a crash, and you can live to tell the story, and that’s the main idea. The above suggestions will help you make the best choice so that you can enjoy riding your motorcycle for a long time to come.
Make sure to check our other guides & reviews:
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