Gear & safety

Motorcycle helmets: how to choose and compare

Helmet choice comes down to shell shape versus your head shape, the certification it carries, and how much noise and airflow you can live with. Everything else is preference.

Standards and specs that matter

Minimum legalDOT FMVSS 218 in the US, ECE 22.06 in Europe and many other markets
Independent ratingsSHARP (UK, 1-5 stars) and SNELL M2020 test beyond the legal minimum
VisorPinlock-ready visors accept an anti-fog insert; check the pin type

What to look for

  • Head shape: round, intermediate oval or long oval — the wrong shell shape creates pressure points no padding fixes
  • A snug fit with no movement when you shake your head, and no hot spots after 20 minutes
  • ECE 22.06 or DOT certification, and a SHARP or SNELL rating if you want tested performance data
  • Removable, washable liner — sweat destroys comfort padding faster than anything else
  • Visor mechanism you can operate with gloves on, and Pinlock compatibility

Mistakes riders make

  • Buying a size up because the correct size feels tight in the first minute
  • Buying second-hand: you cannot see impact history in the EPS liner
  • Ignoring noise levels, then wearing the helmet less because of it
  • Fitting a dark visor for a ride that ends after sunset

Motorcycle helmets to shop now

Full Face HelmetVerified fit
Rider Gearvia MotorcycleID

Full Face Helmet

DOT and ECE certified helmet with Pinlock-ready visor.

$329.00View
Armoured Riding JacketVerified fit
Rider Gearvia MotorcycleID

Armoured Riding Jacket

CE-armoured textile jacket with removable thermal liner.

$289.00View
Summer Riding GlovesVerified fit
Rider Gearvia MotorcycleID

Summer Riding Gloves

Perforated leather gloves with knuckle armour and touchscreen tips.

$79.00View

Related parts and prices

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FAQ

Full face, modular or open face?

Full face gives the most coverage and the least noise. Modular adds convenience at a small weight and complexity cost. Open face leaves your chin and jaw exposed.

Is a more expensive helmet safer?

Not automatically. Price buys weight reduction, aerodynamics, ventilation, quietness and finish. Certification and correct fit determine protection.

When must a helmet be replaced?

After any impact, if the shell is cracked, if the liner is compressed, or once it reaches the age the manufacturer specifies — typically around five years of regular use.