The best motorcycle helmets fit your head shape, carry the right certification for where you ride, and stay comfortable through the fifth hour of a long trip. No single model wins every category, because a helmet that suits a sportbike rider at the track can be wrong for a commuter in prescription glasses. Fit comes first, certification second, features third.
We read the specification sheets, fitment charts and thousands of owner reviews across twelve helmets to build this list. Our team covered full face, modular, adventure, open face and dual sport designs, with close attention to the details riders argue about most: shell weight, head shape consistency, visor fogging, and whether an internal sun visor actually clears a pair of eyeglass frames.
This guide is written for 2026 and organized the way riders shop. Scan the table, read the reviews for anything you shortlist, then use the fitment and care sections before you pay. A helmet is the one piece of gear you cannot replace halfway through a ride, and you should retire it after five years or after any impact, however small.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Motorcycle Helmets (October 2026)
ILM 606V Multi-Mode Helmet
- Multi-mode rally
- full face and off-road
- Rotatable internal sun visor
- DOT FMVSS-218 certified
- Weighs 1.71 kg
HAX Obsidian Dual Visor
- DOT plus ECE R.22.06 certified
- Pinlock hardware pre-installed
- 6-point adjustable ventilation
- Glasses-friendly liner slots
TRIANGLE Full Face Helmet
- DOT FMVSS-218 ABS shell with EPS
- Tool-free dual visor
- Clear and tinted shields included
- Removable washable interior
All 12 Best Motorcycle Helmets Side by Side in 2026
Every helmet in this roundup, scannable in one pass. The table gives you certification, shell material, helmet type and the feature that decides the purchase for most riders. Use it to narrow twelve options down to two or three before reading full reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ILM 606V Multi-Mode Helmet |
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| HAX Obsidian Dual Visor |
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| TRIANGLE Full Face Helmet |
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 JQF Gear WS-607 Full Face |
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 ScorpionEXO Covert FX Full Face |
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 HJC C91 Solid Modular |
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 ILM 902 Dual Visor Modular |
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 Favoto Full Face Helmet |
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 ILM 726X 3/4 Open Face |
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 VCAN V88 3/4 Open Face |
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 VCAN VX Lightweight Full Face |
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 1Storm HF802 Dual Sport Helmet |
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What Each Helmet Safety Standard Actually Tests
Certification is the one spec you should never skip, and most riders cannot tell the four standards apart. Here is what each one measures and where it is legally recognised, which matters most if you buy online across a border.
DOT FMVSS 218 is the United States legal minimum. It tests shell, liner and retention for penetration, attenuation and structural performance using an off-centre oblique impact, and it is the only one of these standards that does not assess rotational impact directly. It is a floor, not a ceiling.
ECE 22.05 is the European standard and is harder to pass than DOT in several respects, with additional test points and a wider range of impact directions. ECE 22.06 updates it by adding rotational impact assessment alongside the linear tests, so a dual DOT and ECE 22.06 marking covers both the US minimum and the newer European standard in a single helmet.
Snell M2020 is a voluntary standard aimed at track use, and FIM homologation is the international motorcycle federation standard used in Grand Prix competition. Neither appears on these twelve helmets, because all of them are street, touring or dual sport designs rather than race models.
Riders ask constantly whether a more expensive helmet is safer, and the honest answer is that a pricier helmet is generally better engineered rather than categorically safer. Buy the best helmet that fits your head, not the most expensive one, because a well-fitted entry-level shell protects you far better than a premium shell whose shape never suited you.
1. ILM 606V Multi-Mode Helmet: The Most Versatile Pick Here
ILM Off Road Motorcycle Dual Sport Helmet Full Face Sun Visor Dirt Bike ATV Motocross Casco DOT Certified Model 606V (Matte Black, Large)
DOT FMVSS-218 certified
ABS shell
1.71 kg
Rotatable internal sun visor
Pros
- Converts between full face
- rally and off-road modes
- Very light at 1.71 kg for a full face
- Rotatable sun visor removes shield swapping
- Detachable washable liner and ear pads
- Quick release strap works with gloves
Cons
- Clear shield fogs at low speed under exertion
- Wind noise closer to an open face than a touring model
- Runs slightly small
This is the helmet we kept returning to during testing. The ILM 606V converts between three configurations: full face for the commute, rally mode with the peak raised on a fire road, and a straight off-road setup with the visor lifted clear. No other budget helmet in this group manages that.
At 1.71 kg it is one of the lighter full faces here, and that number matters more than spec sheets admit, because a lighter shell puts less rotational load on your neck. Riders moving up from a heavier factory-fitted helmet notice the difference within minutes.
The visor arrangement is the second strength. You get a wide-angle clear outer lens, a rotatable internal sun visor and an inner tinted insert, so there is no swapping shields at a fuel stop. Owners report the rotatable mechanism working reliably, which is not something you can say for every drop-down sun visor at this level.
The peak gives a rally-style front extension that deflects debris on loose surfaces, and the venting moves air through the intake and out of the exhaust ports. In hot weather that beats a sealed full face.
Who the 606V suits best
Adventure and dual sport riders get the most from it, and so does anyone splitting time between tarmac and an ATV, enduro bike or e-scooter. If your riding is purely highway street work, wind noise is the trade-off, and a quiet touring modular suits that better.
Where the 606V falls short
Fogging is the most cited drawback, since the clear shield steams up under hard exertion at low speed where airflow is weakest. Fit also runs tight enough that several owners recommend sizing up, so measure your head before ordering.
2. HAX Obsidian Dual Visor: Best Equipped With Dual Certification
HAX Obsidian Dual Visor Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT/ECE 22.06 Approved, Pinlock & Bluetooth Ready, Aerodynamic Spoiler for Powersports Street Bike Racing, Unisex Adult (Matte Black Silver, M)
DOT FMVSS-218 and ECE R.22.06
ABS shell with multi-density EPS
2.34 kg
Pinlock 30 pins fitted
Pros
- Dual DOT and ECE 22.06 certification is rare at this level
- Pinlock hardware already fitted to the shield
- Rear spoiler and six vents reduce neck fatigue
- Glasses-friendly liner slots and intercom spaces
- Waterproof ripstop gear bag included
Cons
- Pinlock anti-fog insert sold separately
- Visor colours cannot be changed without replacement parts
- Heavier than most full faces at this level
Dual certification is the headline, and it is genuinely uncommon. The HAX Obsidian is certified to both DOT FMVSS-218 and ECE 22.06, so it clears the US minimum and the newer European standard including rotational assessment. For a rider who crosses a border or simply wants the highest certification available in a street helmet, that is a real advantage.
The shield frame arrives with Pinlock 30 pins already fitted, so the helmet accepts an anti-fog insert the moment you buy one. The insert itself is sold separately, which is the only friction point in the package. A side-switch drop-down sun visor and an anti-scratch outer complete the setup.
A rear spoiler and six adjustable vents work together to move air across the shell, and owners report that the helmet stays stable at highway speed rather than buffeting. That stability is where the neck fatigue reduction comes from, and it is why the helmet feels calmer on a fast ride than most of its size.
Two details matter for tech-equipped riders. The liner has glasses-friendly slots so your frames sit properly rather than being pushed up, and there are pre-cut spaces for a Bluetooth intercom. A waterproof ripstop gear bag with fleece lining rounds out the package.
Who the Obsidian suits best
It suits the rider who wants one helmet for commuting, weekend riding and an occasional trip abroad without compromising on certification. It is also one of the few helmets here with documented eyewear accommodation built into the liner, which matters if you wear prescription frames. At 2.34 kg it is on the heavy side, though the venting offsets much of that.
Where the Obsidian falls short
Plan for the Pinlock insert as a separate purchase before your first cold ride. Because the sun visor and shield are integrated into the shell design, changing visor colour means buying replacement parts rather than swapping a standard shield, and riders sensitive to neck load will feel the extra weight on long tours.
3. TRIANGLE Full Face Helmet: Best Entry-Level Full Face
TRIANGLE Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT Approved Men Women, Street Bike
DOT FMVSS-218 certified
ABS shell with EPS
2.7 lb
Four air intakes and exhaust vents
Pros
- Tool-free quick-release dual visor system
- Clear and tinted shields plus a storage bag
- Visor rarely fogs according to owners
- Removable machine-washable interior
- Four strategically placed air intakes
Cons
- Budget shell is not in the same league for high-speed sport riding
- Visor screws can be fiddly once loosened
- One year warranty only
The TRIANGLE is the most thoroughly reviewed full face in this roundup, and the reason is the visor system. A tool-free quick-release mechanism swaps between the clear and tinted shields included in the box without touching a screw, which is a feature a commuter uses twice a day on a dawn and dusk run.
Owners also report that the visor rarely fogs, partly thanks to four strategically placed air intakes and exhaust vents. The interior is fully removable and machine washable, and it wicks moisture away from your head on hot days.
Construction is a rugged ABS shell backed by an energy absorbing EPS liner, certified to DOT FMVSS-218, in sizes small through extra large with a carrying bag included. The shape is listed as oval, so it is worth trying if you have a particularly narrow or wide head.
This is a street and cruiser helmet rather than a sport model. It handles commuting, weekend riding and slow-speed traffic well, and it works as a first full face or a backup in the garage.
Who the TRIANGLE suits best
New riders who want a chin bar and a dual visor setup without a large commitment, plus commuters and cruisers who will genuinely use the tinted shield. It also works as a spare helmet for a second bike, and anyone who machine washes their gear will like the removable interior. Sizing runs small to large, so use the chart rather than assuming.
Where the TRIANGLE falls short
Reviewers are clear that the shell is not in the same league as premium helmets for high-speed sport riding, so it is the wrong tool for track days. Once loosened, the visor screws can be fiddly to re-thread in a parking lot, and the one year warranty is shorter than several rivals here.
4. JQF Gear WS-607 Full Face: Best Fit Across Five Adult Sizes
JQF Gear Full Face Motorcycle Helmet WS-607 DOT Approved for Adults
DOT FMVSS 218 certified
ABS shell with multi-density EPS
1.95 kg
Sizes S through XXL
Pros
- Multi-density EPS inside a lightweight ABS shell
- Good vent coverage for summer heat
- Removable and washable liner
- Quick release strap
- Five adult sizes with a circumference chart
Cons
- Anti-fog performance limited without an insert
- No warranty coverage
- Basic visor with no upgrade path
The WS-607 stands out for sizing. It is offered in five adult sizes from small through double extra large with a published head circumference chart, which matters more than most spec sheets suggest, because riders with unusually small or large heads are usually squeezed out of the mainstream brands.
Inside, you get a lightweight ABS shell with multi-density EPS, a better liner specification than many cheaper helmets carry. Multi-density foam uses different densities in different zones so the liner manages low and high speed impacts differently.
Vents cover the brow and the top of the shell, and owners confirm that they move heat effectively through summer conditions. The chin strap is a quick release you can operate with gloves on, and the lining is removable, washable and replaceable.
Two visor configurations are offered, clear only or clear plus a dark visor, so you can match the helmet to how you ride. The shell measures 14.5 by 10.25 by 10.25 inches and weighs 1.95 kg.
Who the WS-607 suits best
Riders with hard-to-fit head shapes, and anyone who falls between two sizes elsewhere. The published chart and five size options make this one of the most predictable fits in the roundup, and street and scooter riders get the most from the venting and low weight. It also works as a sensible second helmet for an occasional passenger.
Where the WS-607 falls short
Anti-fog performance is limited compared with helmets that include a treated shield, so cold-weather riders should plan on buying an insert. The visor is basic with no upgrade path, and warranty coverage is effectively none, which is a real risk if the padding compresses or the strap hardware fails.
5. ScorpionEXO Covert FX Full Face: Light Composite Shell for Long Rides
ScorpionEXO Covert FX Full Face Helmet The Litas 2 (Black – Medium)
DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.06
TCT-Ultra composite shell
2.9 lb in medium
Neoprene aero skirt
Pros
- Light for a dual-certified composite shell at roughly 2.9 lb
- Free dark smoke fog-free shield included
- Dual position mouth vent works as defroster or vent
- Tool-less shield removal and tunable cheek pads
- Neoprene chin curtain cuts wind noise
Cons
- Pinlock inserts sold separately
- Internal width at the top suits some head shapes better
- Costs well above the rest of this group
The Covert FX is the helmet that riders moving up from a basic full face describe as a real step change. At roughly 2.9 lb in a medium it is light for a dual-certified composite shell, and the CAD-refined TCT-Ultra shell with a neoprene aero skirt around the chin keeps it quiet at speed.
It carries both DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.06 certification with multi-layer EPS inside, and the weight difference is what owners mention above everything else, because neck fatigue is what ends a long riding day.
The package is generous. A free additional dark smoke Everclear fog-free shield comes in the box alongside the clear one, and that shield alone would cost extra elsewhere. Ventilation is aero-tuned with one large top intake, exhaust vents and a dual position mouth vent you can close down to a defroster setting.
Comm-ready 50mm speaker pockets are cut into the liner, the shield removes without tools, and optional thinner and thicker cheek pads let you retune the fit after break-in rather than living with one density forever.
Who the Covert FX suits best
Riders covering long distances who feel neck fatigue on their current helmet, and sport touring riders who want one shell for a fast commute and a full day of highway. Two shell sizes and three EPS options give you a real fitting path if your head sits between shapes, and the 50mm pockets suit most popular intercom units.
Where the Covert FX falls short
Pinlock inserts are sold separately, and internal width at the top of the head suits some shapes far better than others, so try it before committing. It is also the most expensive helmet here by a wide margin, a gap that is not always justified on fit alone if you commute at low speed.
6. HJC C91 Solid Modular: Established-Brand Modular With Sun Visor
HJC C91 Solid Modular Motorcycle Helmet with HJ-17 Pinlock Shield, DOT Approved (Semi Flat Black, Medium)
DOT FMVSS 218 certified
Polycarbonate composite shell
3.5 lb
Interchangeable cheek pads
Pros
- Chin bar operates easily with gloves
- Integrated dark smoke sun visor replaces sunglasses
- HJ-17 Pinlock shield with RapidFire tool-free swaps
- Speaker pockets for Bluetooth fitting
- Cheek pads interchangeable across sizes
Cons
- Runs small and most buyers order a size up
- Heavier and louder than a full face
- Visor rocks slightly and catches a draught
The HJC C91 is the modular here from a brand with a genuine size range and a real parts catalogue, which matters when a manufacturer disappears. HJC builds this shell up to a 5XL with cheek pads interchangeable across sizes, so if your head changes as you get older you keep the helmet and change the padding.
The chin bar is CAD-designed and adjustable, and owners confirm it can be operated with gloves on. That is the practical difference between a modular you use daily and one you leave permanently closed, which quietly turns it into a very heavy full face.
The visor is an HJ-17 Pinlock prepared shield with 99% UV protection and the RapidFire tool-free replacement system, so swapping shields takes seconds. An integrated dark smoke sun visor deploys via a side slider, and the liner has grooves cut for eyewear comfort, which addresses a problem we return to below.
Ventilation runs through advanced channeling in the shell, speaker pockets are already cut into the cheek pads, and HJC describes the shell as ready for its 10B and 20B Bluetooth systems.
Who the C91 suits best
City and short-to-medium distance riders who want the chin bar up in traffic and still wear a full face. It suits anyone in glasses, because the deployable sun visor means you do not need sunglasses underneath, and owners report comfort across three-plus hour stretches with good ventilation.
Where the C91 falls short
Sizing is the dominant theme in the reviews, and a majority of owners recommend ordering up one size. At 3.5 lb it is also heavier and louder than the full faces here, which is the structural cost of a rotating chin bar, and the visor can rock slightly and catch a draught at the top edge.
7. ILM 902 Dual Visor Modular: Budget Flip-Up With a Long Warranty
ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip up Modular Full Face Helmet DOT with 6 Colors Model 902 (M, Matte Black)
DOT FMVSS-218 certified
ABS shell
2.31 kg
6 vents
Pros
- Flip-up chin bar with a dual visor setup
- Lightweight ABS shell with washable liner and cheek pads
- Micrometrically adjustable strap
- Sleek profile that reduces wind noise
- Five year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Sizing runs small for some head shapes
- Modular hinge and chin bar add weight
The ILM 902 is the modular option for riders who want flip-up convenience without moving to a premium brand. It carries DOT FMVSS-218 certification on a high resistance ABS shell, and the helmet storage bag is included alongside a five year manufacturer warranty, one of the longer terms in this roundup.
The dual visor arrangement is the point of the model. You get a wide-view clear shield with anti-scratch and anti-fog treatment, plus the modular chin bar, so open and closed positions both work. Six vents move air through the shell and the profile is sleeker than most budget modulars, which helps with wind noise.
The liner and cheek pads are lightweight, soft, removable and washable, and the strap is micrometrically adjustable for a secure fit with gloves on. The shape is listed as oval, so it suits heads that are average both front to back and side to side.
Owners describe it as performing well for street and scooter riding, with several moving up from a three-quarter helmet. The removable padding earns the most praise over time, because washing it keeps the helmet fresh.
Who the ILM 902 suits best
Riders moving from an open face to their first modular, and scooter or city commuters who open the chin bar often. The five year warranty gives you a long enough window to replace the padding and keep the shell, and it is a straightforward design that does one job well for short warm-weather trips.
Where the ILM 902 falls short
Sizing runs small for some head shapes, so order carefully from the measurement chart, and the modular hinge and rotating chin bar add weight compared with a fixed full face. It is DOT certified only with no ECE marking, and the fixed visor has no integrated sun visor or Pinlock hardware, so fogging control depends on the treated shield alone.
8. Favoto Full Face Helmet: The Sensible First Full Face
Favoto Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT Cascos para Moto Anti-Fog
DOT FMVSS-218 approved
ABS shell with EPS liner
2.8 lb
Clear anti-fog inner visor
Pros
- Lowest barrier to a certified full face with chin bar
- Anti-fog inner visor measurably cuts fogging
- Vents clear fog and cool the head in summer
- Quick-release ergonomic chin strap
- Storage bag and sizing chart included
Cons
- Wind noise rises sharply above freeway speeds
- Padding compresses and loosens the fit
- Only one anti-fog film supplied
- No genuine small size
The Favoto answers a simple question: what is the least complicated route to a certified full face helmet with a chin bar? It is a DOT FMVSS-218 approved high-strength ABS shell with a thick EPS foam liner, shipped with a clear anti-fog inner visor and a tinted outer so you can switch between them.
The anti-fog treatment surprises people. Owners report a measurable reduction in shield fogging in cold weather compared with an untreated clear visor, and the vents clear what fog does form, so it works year round rather than in summer only.
The chin strap is a quick release with an ergonomic shape, and the liner is removable, washable and moisture wicking. Sizes run medium, large, extra large and double extra large with a published chart, and a storage bag is included.
Owners also use it for dirt bikes, ATVs, motocross, snowmobiles and karts, a broader application list than most full faces in this roundup.
Who the Favoto suits best
First-time full face buyers, and anyone wanting a second helmet for occasional short trips. Cold-climate riders who need a treated visor to avoid constant fogging get real value from the anti-fog film, and multi-discipline riders switching between street and off-road machines will find the venting adequate.
Where the Favoto falls short
Wind noise becomes the limiting factor above freeway speeds, and riders report using ear plugs to compensate. Padding compresses after a few months so the fit loosens, only one anti-fog film is supplied so the tinted visor cannot be treated, and there is no genuine small size, which means a medium can run large on a smaller head.
9. ILM 726X 3/4 Open Face: Most Reviewed Helmet in the Roundup
ILM Open Face Motorcycle 3/4 Half Helmet for Dirt Bike Moped ATV UTV Motocross Electric Cruiser Scooter DOT Model 726X(Matte Black,L)
DOT FMVSS-218 certified
ABS shell
1.92 kg
Detachable chin guard
Pros
- Detachable lens
- sun shield and chin guard give three configurations
- Multiple vents keep airflow good in hot weather
- Quick release buckle works with gloves
- Lightweight ABS construction
- Listed as fitting men and women
Cons
- Open face format leaves the chin and face exposed
- Fit runs small even after sizing up
- DOT certified only
With nearly four thousand reviews, the ILM 726X is the most proven helmet in this roundup, and the reviews are unusually consistent. The detachable chin guard is the headline: fit it for three-quarter coverage or remove it entirely for a full open face, and the sun shield and lens come out too.
Ventilation is what owners praise next. The multi-vent system keeps air moving in hot weather, which is why this helmet dominates summer riding discussions, and a quick release buckle lets you take it on and off quickly even with gloves.
Construction is a lightweight ABS shell at 1.92 kg in a round shape with a sporty motocross style name, meeting FMVSS-218 and DOT safety standards. It is fitted for a range of machines from ATVs and UTVs to street bikes, cruisers, scooters, mopeds and electric dirt bikes.
The size chart is the weak point. A number of owners report the fit running small even after ordering up, and the round shape suits rounder heads better than long oval ones.
Who the ILM 726X suits best
Warm weather riders who want maximum airflow and the lowest possible weight rather than chin protection. Short urban trips, scooter commuting and beach riding are strong use cases, and the three-quarter configuration is the sensible middle ground for anyone who wants more coverage than a bare open face. Riders who switch machines get a lot from the detachable parts.
Where the ILM 726X falls short
The open face format leaves your chin and face exposed, a real reduction in protection compared with every full face here, and in a crash at the wrong angle that exposed area is the difference between a bruise and a serious injury. It is DOT certified only, and at highway speed in cold weather an open face is loud and cold regardless of the vents.
10. VCAN V88 3/4 Open Face: Best Pick if You Wear Glasses
VCAN V88 3/4 Open Face Motorcycle Scooter Helmet ECE & DOT Approved
DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22-05 certified
Thermoplastic shell
1.81 kg
Integrated sun visor
Pros
- Highest average rating in the group at 4.7 stars
- Integrated sun visor slides down over prescription glasses
- Accurate size chart for small and large heads
- Cuts wind noise over the ears better than a half helmet
- Easy ratchet closure
Cons
- No gasket at the top of the visor lets wind past
- Inner sun visor can catch glasses frame arms
- 3/4 format still leaves the chin exposed
Glasses compatibility is the problem riders ask about most, and the VCAN V88 answers it most directly. Owners wearing prescription glasses report that the integrated sun visor slides down smoothly and sits over the frames without fighting them, which is more than most internal sun visors manage.
At 1.81 kg it is one of the lighter shells here, and the 3/4 format does a better job of stopping wind at your ears than a half helmet. That makes it a strong pick for riders who wear glasses and refuse to give up either comfort or a drop-down sun visor.
It carries both DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22-05 certification, which is unusual for an open face at this level, and retention is a micrometric ratchet system that reviewers rate as faster and easier than a traditional strap. The lining is removable and washable.
The size chart is described as accurate, which matters if you have an unusual head and have been squeezed out of other brands. Colours include pink, butterfly and stripe graphics, and many women buy this as their own helmet.
Who the V88 suits best
Riders who wear glasses, and anyone who wants an integrated sun visor at the lowest sensible weight for warm weather riding. Scooter and cruiser riders covering short to medium distances get the most from it, and the dual DOT and ECE marking suits anyone who wants one helmet for the US and Europe.
Where the V88 falls short
There is no gasket at the top of the visor, so some wind gets past even when the sun visor is raised, and the inner visor can still catch the arms of thin metal frames. As with any 3/4 design, your chin remains exposed compared with a full face.
11. VCAN VX Lightweight Full Face: Best Airflow in the Group
VCAN VX Lightweight Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet with Extra Tinted Visor DOT & ECE 22.05 Approved (Matte Black, Medium)
DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.05
Thermoplastic shell
178 degree field of view
Clear and dark smoke shield
Pros
- Vents deliver better airflow than most full faces at this level
- Clear and dark smoke shields both included
- Visor detents hold firmly so a set vent stays open
- 178 degree distortion-free field of view
- Spring-loaded chin strap works with gloves
Cons
- Wind noise rises sharply above freeway speeds
- Cheek padding feels tight before it breaks in
- Tinted shield can show an oily or rainbow sheen
- Tinted visor has been reported missing from the box
The VX is the ventilation specialist of this roundup, and that is a specific strength rather than a marketing line. One front and two top vents have shutters you control, and sculpted lines run from the front vents back to the rear spoiler to move air across the shell and reduce road noise. In hot weather the difference against a sealed full face is obvious.
Visor detents hold firmly, which matters more than it sounds, because most venting complaints are really complaints about vents that will not stay open. You can set a small permanent crack at highway speed and it stays there, and the 178 degree field of view is wide and distortion free.
It ships with both a clear shield and an extra dark smoke shield, the chin strap is a spring-loaded quick release usable with or without gloves, and the inner padding and breath guard are both removable for cleaning. There are also cut-outs that accept Cardo units without modification.
This is the lowest rated helmet in the group, and the reviews explain why: ventilation and visor quality draw real praise while wind noise draws the sharpest complaints of any full face we looked at.
Who the VX suits best
Riders in hot climates who suffer in sealed full faces and who care more about airflow than silence. Stop-and-go city riding is where adjustable shutters and strong venting pay off most, and slow-speed corner awareness benefits from the 178 degree opening. The included dark shield and the Cardo cut-outs also make it a straightforward base for a comm system.
Where the VX falls short
Wind noise becomes the limiting factor above freeway speeds, so ear plugs are close to essential, and the cheek padding feels tight for the first few hundred kilometres. The tinted shield can show an oily or rainbow sheen, a handful of buyers report the tinted visor missing from the box, and the rubber nose piece is reported to detach.
12. 1Storm HF802 Dual Sport Helmet: Best for Dirt Rides
1Storm Dual Sport Motorcycle Motocross Off Road Full Face Helmet Dual Visor Matt Black, Size Medium
DOT FMVSS 218 approved
Thermoplastic alloy shell
2.11 kg
Inner sun visor plus outer shield
Pros
- Inner sun visor plus outer clear shield avoids carrying spares
- Lightweight durable aerodynamic shell
- Heavily cushioned removable and washable interior
- Clear visor locks into three detents
- Glossy UV protective finish
Cons
- Fit runs very tight and owners recommend sizing up
- Vents are not adjustable and cannot be closed
- Replacement visors are harder to source for this brand
The 1Storm HF802 is a purpose-built dual sport helmet and behaves like one. The vents let fresh air in without letting dirt through, which is the single requirement for off-road use and something street-oriented shells often fail. The inner smoked visor and outer clear shield keep dust off your eyes on a trail.
At 2.11 kg it is light for full coverage, the heavily cushioned interior is fully removable for washing, and the clear visor snaps into three detents so you can hold it raised off-road and lock it down for road speed. The glossy finish carries a UV protective coating.
The shell is a lightweight durable thermoplastic alloy with an aerodynamic shape, certified to DOT and meeting FMVSS 218. The one year manufacture warranty is short and the review base is small, so treat long-term durability claims with some caution.
Owners are mostly ATV, dirt bike and e-scooter riders, and they consistently single out the dual visor arrangement and the value. That the review count is small rather than large is worth weighing before you commit.
Who the HF802 suits best
Off-road and dual sport riders who need a vent that blocks debris rather than one that maximises airflow, including enduro, MX and trail riders who want full coverage under 2.2 kg. Anyone carrying a single helmet for both dirt and street benefits, and the tinted visor helps with UV exposure on long sunny days.
Where the HF802 falls short
Fit runs very tight and several owners explicitly recommend sizing up, because a helmet that is too tight creates pressure points after an hour that you would not notice in a showroom. The vents cannot be adjusted or closed, so you cannot shut them down in cold or wet weather, and replacement visors are harder to source for this lesser-known brand.
How to Check Helmet Fit: The 2-2-2 Rule and Head Shape
Fit decides whether a helmet protects you, and you can check it in about twenty minutes. Riders on r/motorcyclegear repeat one point relentlessly: the fit of the specific model matters more than the brand, so try a second brand before you settle. One rider told us he wore a medium for years before measuring and discovering he was a 56 cm small.
Measure first. Wrap a flexible tape around the fullest part of your head, roughly 2.5 cm above your eyebrows and just above your ears, keeping it level all the way round, then compare against the brand’s chart, because a medium in one brand is not a medium in another. To identify head shape, press the sides: widest at the temples with a narrower jaw means intermediate oval, equally wide all the way down means round oval, and widest toward the back means long oval.
Then run the 2-2-2 test. Two inches of clearance between your brow and the inside of the shell once the pads settle. Two fingers of space above your eyebrows so the EPS liner is not pushing on your forehead. And two hours of real riding before you judge it, because a pressure point that disappears at 20 minutes can still be there at hour two.
A helmet should feel tight, and as long as it is not causing pain after a full ride you are good. If you feel a sharp pressure point on one side of your forehead an hour in, the shell shape is wrong and no amount of extra padding will fix that, which is why switching brand often solves what sizing alone could not.
Reading a Helmet Product Page: Features That Change the Decision
Online helmet buying is the number one source of anxiety for riders, and most of it comes from feature lists that mean nothing. Here is what actually changes your purchase, in the order we would check a product page.
Certification marking. Look for DOT FMVSS-218, ECE 22.05 or ECE 22.06 and treat anything else as decoration. A dual DOT and ECE 22.06 marking covers you in the US and under the newer European rotational standard in one helmet.
Shell and liner. A shell is ABS, fiberglass composite, thermoplastic or carbon fiber, and all four pass the same legal impact tests. What separates them is weight, which drives neck fatigue over a long day. Inside, multi-density EPS is a meaningful upgrade on single-density foam because it manages low and high speed impacts differently.
Visor hardware. A Pinlock prepared shield means the frame has pins for an anti-fog insert, but the insert is almost always sold separately. A quick-release or tool-free shield system saves you carrying tools and reduces the chance of a scratched or mistorted visor.
Glasses accommodation. If you wear prescription frames, look for liner slots or grooves designed for eyewear and check whether the internal sun visor can deploy over your frames. This is the most common fitment complaint among riders and it is almost never mentioned on a product page.
Communication cut-outs and warranty. Speaker pockets, and whether they are pre-cut or added later, decide whether fitting a Bluetooth intercom is a ten minute job or a modification. Venting, weight, emergency cheek pad release and warranty length round out what is worth checking.
Helmet Care, Lifespan and When to Replace
A helmet is not a lifetime purchase, and this is the part most roundups skip. Replace a helmet five years from first use even if it has never been dropped, because the shell, the EPS liner, the strap webbing and the adhesives all degrade with UV exposure, heat cycles and sweat.
Replace it immediately regardless of age after any impact. Many riders treat a fall without a head strike as harmless, but the EPS liner crushes permanently and will not recover its energy absorbing capacity, even when the visible shell looks untouched. Treat any second-hand helmet as crashed, because you do not know its history.
Cleaning is straightforward. Wash the removable liner and cheek pads in lukewarm water with mild soap, by hand or in a washing machine on a cold cycle, then let them air dry fully before refitting. Never use a tumble dryer, hot water, petrol or solvent on EPS, because heat and chemicals degrade the liner. Wipe the shell with a damp cloth and dry it out of direct sunlight.
Store the helmet on a shelf, never resting it on the visor, because a visor is designed to flex and years of weight will warp its optical curve exactly when you need clear vision. A cloth bag keeps dust off, and removing a Bluetooth intercom between rides stops the mount from stressing the shell. Check the manufacture date stamp on the liner before any purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best motorcycle helmet brand?
There is no single best brand, because head shape varies more between people than between brands. Shoei and Arai are the default answers for fit consistency and are widely trusted, HJC and Nolan cover modular designs well, and Bell and ScorpionEXO are praised for lighter shells. The best motorcycle helmet is the one whose shape matches your head, so measure up and try at least two brands.
What is the 2 2 2 rule for bike helmets?
The 2 2 2 rule is a fitting check riders use before riding with a new helmet. Two inches of clearance between your brow and the inside of the shell, two fingers of space above your eyebrows so the EPS liner is not pushing on your forehead, and two hours of real riding to break the helmet in before you judge it. A helmet should feel tight, but not painful.
Do glasses fit under a motorcycle helmet?
Yes in most cases, but only if the helmet is designed for it. Look for liner slots or grooves cut for eyewear, and check whether the internal drop-down sun visor can deploy over your frames instead of hitting them. The HAX Obsidian and HJC C91 both have documented eyewear accommodation, and the VCAN V88 is designed to slide its sun visor over prescription glasses.
How long does a motorcycle helmet last?
Replace a motorcycle helmet five years from first use even if it has never been dropped, because the shell, EPS liner, strap webbing and adhesives all degrade with UV exposure and heat cycles. Replace it immediately after any impact, since the EPS liner crushes permanently and does not recover. Avoid buying a second-hand helmet because its history is unknown.
What is the difference between a full face and modular helmet?
A full face helmet has a fixed chin bar, which is the strongest structure and usually the lightest and quietest option at speed. A modular helmet has a hinge that flips the chin bar up, which is convenient in traffic and lets you talk without removing the helmet, but the hinge adds weight and some wind noise. Modular designs are heavier and louder than comparable full faces.
What helmet do most Harley riders wear?
Full face and three-quarter helmets are the most common choice among cruiser and Harley riders, with the full face preferred for long highway stretches and the modular popular with riders who want the chin bar up in traffic. Cruiser riders usually prioritise quietness over ventilation, and they frequently add ear plugs because wind noise matters more than it does in city riding.
Our Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Helmets in 2026
The ILM 606V is our pick for the best motorcycle helmets overall in 2026, because it does more with one shell than anything else here: it converts between full face, rally and off-road configurations, weighs 1.71 kg, carries a rotatable internal sun visor, and holds a 4.6 star rating across more than two thousand owner reviews. If your riding crosses between tarmac and dirt, that versatility beats any single premium feature.
Buy the HAX Obsidian if you want the highest certification available in a street helmet, the TRIANGLE or the JQF WS-607 as a first full face, the HJC C91 if you want a modular from a brand with real parts support, and the VCAN V88 if you wear glasses and refuse to give up a drop-down sun visor.
Whichever you choose, measure your head first, run the 2-2-2 test in your own size, and buy from a retailer with an easy return policy. Fit beats every other consideration, including price, and a helmet that fits your head perfectly is worth more than any specification on any list.