Snell Approved Motorcycle Helmets

It’s telling that Snell approved motorcycle helmets wear a badge they earned through volunteered testing. Manufacturers are not required to seek out this accreditation, but the not-for-profit Snell Foundation is happy to dig deep and discover if this lid is up to snuff. If it is, then the Snell motorcycle helmet you’re considering is one that’s possibly going to save the day in the event of an accident. To those who value such ratings — and we think you should — RevZilla can help you learn more about Snell rated motorcycle helmets and then pair you up with the right one.

Uncompromising Standards

Many of us would rather not think about harsh impacts and glancing blows. Thing is, now’s the time to gear up instead of doing so after a bad spill or close call. The Snell Foundation knows all about being proactive and taking a deep dive into impact management. That latter term is “a matter of just how big a hit a helmet can take before it is completely overwhelmed,” according to foundation; we encourage riders of all backgrounds to read into the Snell M2015 vs M2020 standard for motorcycle headgear. Taking a peek at individual helmets in our inventory, you’ll see elements that dirt and street riders are going to love. Some of these lids are the lightest to earn Snell approval while others have been updated to meet the latest Snell standards, which has been updated at a five-year interval from Snell M2015. We even offer women’s motorcycle helmets both DOT and Snell approved, so the choices continue to mount. Add it all up and you’ve got premium products from the likes of Arai, Bell, HJC, Sedici, Shoei and many more.

Best of the Bunch at RevZilla

As the Snell Foundation summarizes, “DOT might be necessary but, by itself, DOT was still insufficient; if the helmet was not Snell certified, they weren’t interested.” Lucky for those discerning shoppers seeking motorcycle helmets both DOT and Snell approved, RevZilla stocks plenty of options. Be sure to check out the rest of our protective gear while you’re here and wear what’s right for road or track.

Snell Rated Motorcycle Helmets FAQ's

What is a Snell-rated helmet?
A Snell-rated helmet is one that has been certified by the Snell Memorial Foundation, a private, non-profit organization. Snell certification is a voluntary standard that is generally considered to be one of the strictest in the world, focused on high-performance and racing applications.

Is Snell better than DOT or ECE?
It's not so much "better" as it is "different." Snell (specifically the M2020 standard) focuses on high-energy impacts. It tests for this by dropping the helmet onto a hard-edged anvil and requires a very stiff shell. Learn more about Helmet Safety Ratings here.

Do I need a Snell-rated helmet for street riding?
You do not need a Snell-rated helmet for street riding, as DOT is the legal requirement in the United States. However, many riders choose a Snell-rated helmet for the added peace of mind. It's a personal choice, but you'll almost always find them on the track, as most race organizations require it.

Why do some helmet brands not have Snell ratings?
There are two main reasons. First, the Snell test is very expensive and voluntary. Second, some manufacturers disagree with the "high-impact" philosophy. For example, many modular helmets or helmets with internal sun visors can't pass the Snell test because those features compromise the shell's integrity by Snell's standards.

Where can I find the Snell rating on a helmet?
If a helmet is Snell-certified, you'll find a Snell sticker on the inside of the helmet, usually stuck to the EPS foam liner underneath the comfort padding. You'll also see it advertised on the box and in the helmet's description.