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Best MOTORCYCLE HELMETS

OF 2025

A motorcycle helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment for riders. Full stop. No debate. However, there are quite a few core types out there and they come in a dazzling array of designs, colors and intended uses. That said, it’s always best to choose the right one for the riding you’ll be doing.

There's limited crossover between lids, which makes it all the more important to get the one made with you and your bike in mind. So what’s the best motorcycle helmet for that next adventure? We’ve researched and ridden with all the top lids on the market to bring you this list of our favorites, from the track to the trails to the interstate in-between.

The Arai Regent-X is what happens when top-tier safety meets all-day comfort. Our top pick for premium street bike helmets, this lid is handcrafted with Arai’s PB-cLc shell. This design is engineered to glance off impacts while staying lightweight. The Facial Contour System (FCS) offers a snug fit by using a foam spring support in the cheek pad that compresses and rebounds without excessive pressure. Arai’s Free Flow System (FFS) ventilation keeps air moving to reduce heat and wind noise, while the VAS shield system improves aerodynamics and impact dispersion with a sleek, low-profile design. Built with an intermediate oval fit, it comfortably accommodates most riders. With premium airflow, noise control, and Arai’s legendary craftsmanship, this is the street helmet for riders who want first-class comfort with world-class protection.

The AGV K1 S redefines what riders can expect from a budget-friendly sport bike helmet, delivering features typically reserved for premium models. Its aerodynamic shape, advanced ventilation system, and integrated spoiler are all derived from AGV's wind tunnel-tested Corsa R and Pista GP R helmets, ensuring optimal performance and stability at speed. The helmet's shell and spoiler work in harmony to enhance airflow and reduce drag, providing a smoother ride. Inside, the K1 S offers a comfortable fit with a removable and washable liner, allowing riders to maintain freshness after long rides. With a wide field of vision and compatibility with a range of visors, the AGV K1 S stands out as a top contender for riders seeking high-quality features without breaking the bank.
The Alpinestars Supertech R10 Carbon Helmet is the ultimate track-day weapon, blending cutting-edge aerodynamics, featherlight carbon fiber construction, and race-ready comfort. Designed for peak stability at high speeds, its aerodynamic shell and race spoiler help you slice through the air with ease. The A-Head fitting system lets you fine-tune the helmet’s height and angle for a personalized fit, while 11 strategically placed vents keep airflow optimized when the heat is on. With 220° lateral and 57° vertical vision, you get an unmatched view of the track and your competition. If you’re chasing podiums or just pushing limits on track days, the Supertech R10 Carbon is built to give you the edge.

The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Carbon Helmet proves you don’t need a premium price tag to get race-ready performance. Built with a lightweight carbon fiber shell, it offers top-tier protection without the bulk. Its aerodynamic design and race spoiler keep you stable at high speeds, while aero-tuned ventilation ensures you stay cool under pressure. The AirFit system lets you fine-tune the cheek pads for a snug, personalized fit, and the Elliptec II quick-release face shield provides a wide, clear field of vision. For riders looking for a budget-friendly helmet that doesn’t skimp on performance, the EXO-R1 Air Carbon is a top contender for track days and beyond.
The Schuberth C5 is the premium modular helmet that combines advanced features with everyday practicality. Modular helmets offer flexibility that a standard helmet can’t. The Schuberth C5 takes the modular format a step further with an aerodynamically optimized shell, reducing drag and enhancing stability at high speeds. The one-touch integrated sun visor offers quick relief from glare, while the multichannel ventilation system keeps you cool when the ride heats up. We’re especially impressed by the integrated antenna and pre-installed speakers, which means the C5 is plug & play prepared for an SC2 communication system. If you’re after a helmet that combines comfort, versatility, and top-tier features, the Schuberth C5 is the best modular option out there.

The Sedici Sistema 3 is the budget-friendly modular helmet that gives you premium features without the hefty price tag. Want versatility? The quick-release chin bar lets you easily switch between full-face and open-face, so you can ride your way. It’s lightweight, aerodynamic, and designed to keep you cool and stable, no matter the speed. Plus, with a wide field of vision and an integrated sun visor, you'll get clear views and protection from glare without fumbling for your shades. If you’re looking for a helmet that combines safety, comfort, and convenience at a killer price, the Sedici Sistema 3 is a no-brainer.
The Leatt 9.5 ADV V25 Carbon Helmet is the premium choice for adventure riders seeking top-tier performance and comfort. Crafted with a lightweight carbon matrix shell, it offers exceptional strength without the bulk. The helmet features a Pro-Fit elastic comfort liner that adapts to your head shape, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit. Its large ventilation channels provide optimal airflow, keeping you cool during long rides. Designed with neck brace compatibility, it enhances safety and mobility. The helmet comes equipped with a photochromic shield that adjusts to changing light conditions, reducing glare and improving visibility. Additionally, it includes Velocity 4.5 Iriz Goggles and a Pinlock 120 MaxVision XLT Antifog insert, ensuring clear vision in various conditions. For riders seeking a helmet that combines advanced technology, comfort, and versatility, the Leatt 9.5 ADV V25 Carbon Helmet stands out as the best premium ADV helmet.

The Bell MX-9 Adventure Mips Helmet is the budget-friendly choice for adventure riders who don't want to compromise on safety or comfort. Equipped with the Mips (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), it offers enhanced protection against rotational forces during impacts. The helmet features an integrated, removable face shield with NutraFog II anti-fog coating, ensuring clear vision in various weather conditions. Its two-point adjustable peak allows for customization to suit different riding styles and preferences. The Velocity Flow Ventilation system keeps air flowing, helping to keep you cool and comfortable on your adventures. With a lightweight polycarbonate shell and removable, washable liner, the Bell MX-9 Adventure Mips Helmet combines affordability with premium features, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious riders seeking quality and performance.
The 6D ATR-3 is the ultimate premium dirt bike helmet that’s all about top-tier protection and comfort. Featuring Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS), it’s like a shock absorber for your brain, absorbing impacts and keeping you safe from all kinds of hits. Its Air-Gap ventilation system makes sure you stay cool even when the trail’s heating up, and the removable, washable comfort liner keeps things fresh after a muddy ride. With a lightweight design and a clavicle cutaway for extra crash clearance, it’s built to keep you comfortable without weighing you down. Whether you’re racing or just out having fun, the 6D ATR-3 gives you the peace of mind to ride hard and ride fast.

The Fox Racing V1 helmet is the best bang for your buck when it comes to dirt bike gear. It’s packed with safety features like Mips, which helps protect your head from those gnarly rotational impacts, and a visor designed to release in case of a crash—keeping you safer on the track. The lightweight polycarbonate shell offers solid protection without weighing you down, and the removable, washable liner means you can keep things fresh even after the muddiest rides. Plus, with a wide field of vision and adjustable ventilation, you’ll stay cool and sharp while tackling the trails. If you’re looking for a helmet that delivers top-notch safety, comfort, and style—all without breaking the bank—the Fox Racing V1 is your go-to.


Frequently Asked Questions

Are expensive motorcycle helmets better than cheaper motorcycle helmets?

Yes, but two helmets with the same safety rating should offer similar protection in the event of a crash. Expensive helmets generally offer more features, less weight, reduced noise, and improved fit and finish. They will also use better shell materials like fiberglass and/or carbon fiber. High-end helmets will have more shell size options, and they may offer different interior pads (or adjustable interior pads) to dial in the perfect fit.

Can a motorcycle helmet be repaired?

It is not possible to repair the shell or liner of a motorcycle helmet. However, manufacturers offer spare parts for items like face shields, dirt helmet peaks, Pinlock inserts, air vents, and other trim pieces that can be replaced without altering the helmet’s ability to protect you.

How should a motorcycle helmet fit? Do they break in?

A motorcycle helmet should be snug, but not uncomfortable. Looking in a mirror, you’ll want to see what we call “chipmunk cheeks”, where the foam cheek pads are pushing up on your cheeks a bit to indicate a good fit. A helmet that is too loose will not be able to fully protect you from impacts. Any pain or pressure points? Try another size, or another helmet model, and see if they clear up. Helmets will break in by around 10 to 15 percent in the first 10 to 15 hours of riding.

Which motorcycle helmet is quietest?

Full face street helmets are the quietest option. Modular helmets have small gaps where the chinbar attaches, which can create wind noise. ADV helmets have peaks and pronounced chinbars that catch wind. Race/sport helmets put function over comfort, and dirt helmets are so specialized that they make no attempt to be quiet. Prolonged exposure to loud noises like wind blast or engine sounds can damage your hearing over time, so ear plugs are a great investment alongside a quality helmet, regardless of what you ride. Keep in mind that attachments like action cameras and Bluetooth communicators may add more wind noise by blocking the flow of air around the helmet.

Can I put a Bluetooth communicator on any helmet?

Almost all of today’s helmets are compatible with Bluetooth communicators. To make installation even easier, look for helmets with built-in speaker pockets. These cutouts in the helmet’s foam liner allow the Bluetooth unit’s speakers to be recessed, giving your ears more room for comfort. Some helmets come prewired to accept specific Bluetooth communicators. Simply plug the unit into a little compartment in the helmet, and you’re all set. Others have the Bluetooth unit pre-installed so there is no installation necessary. Which is the best for your buck? We've got that completely covered right here!

What is the best helmet for glasses?

If you wear prescription eyeglasses, we have good news for you. Lots of today’s motorcycle helmets include cutouts to accommodate the arms of your glasses so you can slip them on easily. These cutouts also reduce pressure to the side of the head when the helmet is on.

What about half helmets or three-quarter helmets?

These helmets are the least restrictive, but they are also the least protective. We recommend helmets with face shields and chinbars for their protection and comfort. All the same guidelines for safety ratings, head shapes, expiration dates, and maintenance still apply.


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