The Best Full-Face Motorcycle Helmets for High-Level Protection

The Best Full-Face Motorcycle Helmets for High-Level Protection

Undoubtedly, the best full-face motorcycle helmet you can put on when riding a motorbike is the safest helmet. Full-face helmets are designed not just to protect your head but your face and your jaw as well. In addition to protecting your entire face, these types of helmets are comfortable on the face, allowing you to ride safely and comfortably. 

However, not all full-face helmets are created equal. Some tend to provide better protection than others while some are more comfortable than others. There are tons of products on the market, and it is easy to make the wrong decision. 

To save you from the hassle of extensive research and making the wrong choice, we have compiled a list of the 9 best full-face helmets for you. Read on to see our top recommendations.

Best Overall

BELL Qualifier DLX

Best Value

GLX GX11

Honorable Mention

HJC CL-17

Bell Motorsports has been making great racing helmets for all types of motorsports since the 1950s. The Bell Qualifier DLX Full-Face Helmet Solid Black is one of the best protective gear from this brand. Bell has a strong tradition of making only top-notch helmets, which is obvious in the DLX helmet. This gear features a combination of lightweight design, comfort, maximum protection, transitional face shield, and road noise abatement. 

It comes with a patented Transitions photochromic face shield that gives you the flexibility to ride during the day or night without a shield change. This unit can also house the SENA SMH-10 Bluetooth unit with earphones as well as an accessible side-mount cavity. Interestingly, this gear is available in seven different sizes, from x-small to xx-large. You can also get it in six different colors and designs. 

The product is DOT approved and it meets the FMVSS-218 standard. It also meets the requirements of the California Air Resources Board. It features a Transitions Adaptive ClickRelease shield with UV protection and anti-fog. There is also a Velocity Flow Ventilation system with FlowAdjust to ensure you get fresh air always. It is highly breathable. 

The exterior of the helmet features polycarbonate/ABS shell construction, which is super lightweight and durable. It features an anti-bacteria interior that you can easily remove and wash. The interior has a padded wind collar to reduce road and wind noise significantly. 

Specs

  • Material: Polycarbonate/ABS shell construction
  • Size: Medium
  • Weight: 4.5 Pounds

Pros

  • High-quality construction
  • Available in different sizes and construction
  • Adjustable ventilation system
  • Removable/washable interior

Cons

  • A bit pricey

2. GLX GX11 Compact Lightweight Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet

The GLX GX11 Compact Lightweight Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet is a unisex helmet, which means both men and women can use it. It comes with several advanced features, providing you with a very comfortable and safe headgear. The headgear is completely safe for use and it complies with DOT standards. It features compact and lightweight to improve the level of comfort it offers. 

It is aerodynamically enhanced to minimize the air drag on the helmet. One of the most interesting things about this unit is the impact protection it offers. It features an aggressive styling that not only makes it look cool but also enhances the impact-resistance and comfort it provides. It also allows for the adequate flow of air, thanks to its ventilation panels. 

You can shutter the large lower vent for ease of use with motorcycle gloves. It comes with advanced springs that are resistant to any weather condition. You can use it in any weather condition, as it does not get rust. It provides super clear and distortion-free views, thanks to its 3D modeled shield. For easier cleaning, you can remove and wash the interior material of this unit. 

The liners and padding of this helmet help absorb sweat, ensuring the headgear is completely odor-free. You can get it in four different sizes – small, medium, large, and X-large. This means there is a size for everyone. This helmet delivers long-distance touring comfort and performance. It also comes with a one-year limited warranty. This is one of the lightweight motorcycle helmets for women to wear.

Specs

  • Material: ABS
  • Size: Medium
  • Weight: 3.1 Pounds

Pros

  • Provides enhanced impact absorption
  • Removable breath guard
  • Removable, washable, and replaceable inner material
  • Super comfortable and lightweight design

Cons

  • Runs small

3. HJC CL-17 Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet

The HJC CL-17 Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet is one of the best full-face motorcycle helmets on the market. This headgear made it to our full-face helmet reviews because of the amazing features it has to offer. Regardless of how small or large your head is, this gear has an option for you. It is available in sizes ranging from x-small to 6X-large, which is ideal for all head sizes in the world. You can also get it in more than 12 different colors and designs, which is pretty interesting. 

In addition to providing maximum protection, this helmet offers superior comfort to enhance your riding experience. The manufacturers made this gear with a polycarbonate compound, which is quite light. The gear is DOT and Snell compliant and it comes with a full warranty. It is highly comfortable to wear, thanks to its comfortable padding. The padding will also adapt to your face over time. 

The two most amazing things about this unit are its protection and ventilation system. It comes with a highly effective ventilation system that works with a lining to absorb moisture, keeping you dry and cool always. You also have full control over the amount of air that enters the helmet, thanks to its multiple controls. 

The shield of this gear uses an optional Pinlock lens to provide you with fog-free, super clear, and bright visions. It also features a RapidFire shield replacement system that makes it easy to replace without any tool. The shield also offers great protection from the sun. You can remove and wash the cheek pads and liners of this unit. The interior also consists of anti-bacterial fabric. 

Specs

  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Size: Medium
  • Weight: 1 Pound

Pros

  • Super lightweight and compact design
  • Available in 12 different sizes and colors
  • DOT and Snell compliant
  • Made with high-quality and safe materials
  • The interior is designed to provide maximum comfort

Cons

  • Does not keep noise out

4. Shoei Neotec II Helmet

If you have extra room in your budget for a high-quality motorbike helmet, you should opt for the Shoei Neotec II Helmet. This helmet is on the higher end of the price spectrum, but it is worth the investment. It is a highly durable headgear that will serve you for a very long time. This awesome looking and progressive flip-up helmet delivers great performance. 

Shoei designed this unit for both the road and trail. It is a futuristic hybrid that comes with some of the best, latest helmet technology. This unit is optimized to provide optimal comfort and practicality, thanks to its high-quality construction and build-material. It comes with a wider field of view, ensuring you see everything in front and around you. This gear also boasts of a great wind noise reduction mechanism, thanks to its simplified aerodynamics. 

The helmet is also ideal for long-distance journeys, thanks to its removable padding and lining that provide maximum comfort. There is also an advanced ventilation system that ensures adequate airflow to keep you comfortable and dry at all times. It also has an internal sun shield, which means you can ride in the direction of the sun without having a distorted view. The inner lining system is easily removable, washable, and replaceable. 

You can get this helmet in seven different sizes and more than 10 different colors and styles. The gear is DOT certified, and it is safe for use. It also has a very beautiful finish, and you can pick an option that best suits your suit. 

Specs

  • Material: Aerodynamic shell construction
  • Size: Medium
  • Weight: 5 Pounds

Pros

  • Advanced noise reduction
  • Optimal vision protection
  • Very easy and comfortable to use
  • Meets all safety standards

Cons

  • Very expensive

5. Scorpion EXO-R710 Solid Street Motorcycle Helmet

If you are looking to save some extra cash and still land yourself a high-quality helmet, we recommend you go for the Scorpion EXO-R710 Solid Street Motorcycle Helmet. This is a budget-friendly option that delivers superb performance. Interestingly, this affordable full-face helmet has the same features that some of the most expensive models have. 

This unit comes with an aramid and fiberglass mix shell. It has been aerodynamically designed to provide you with superior comfort. It is available in six different sizes, allowing you to pick an option that will fit you perfectly. It has dual-density EPS and certified by Snell. This gear also comes with the KwikWick II washable antimicrobial liner for maximum comfort and protection. The liner is removable and washable. 

It also features a great ventilation system to keep you cool and dry always. However, it is a bit noisy. Other than that, this helmet is great, and you will enjoy the comfort and protection it has to offer. You can get it in three different colors – black, white, and matte black. 

The shield always provides a super clear vision, and it is totally fog-free. It also has an anti-scratch hardened coating to keep it smooth and transparent always. It offers 100 percent UV protection. The equipment has EPS lining throughout the chin bar for extra comfort and protection. It has four air intake points for cool air and three exhaust vents for hot air to escape from the helmet. 

Specs

  • Material: Fiberglass and Aramid Fibers
  • Size: X-Large
  • Weight: 4 Pounds

Pros

  • Lightweight design
  • Convenient and easy to wear
  • Promotes adequate airflow
  • Provides super clear, fog-free, and sharp vision

Cons

  • A bit noisy

6. Shoei GT-Air 2 Helmet

Shoei is known for making some of the best motorcycle helmets in the world. However, the headgear from this brand are quite expensive, and you need to have additional room in your budget to purchase them, and secure them. The interesting thing is that they are actually worth the money, as they are highly functional and super durable. The Shoei GT-Air 2 Helmet is one of the best helmets this brand has made, and it is worth the investment. 

This unit comes with everything you will need in a full-face motorcycle helmet. It features an aerodynamically designed shell with an outstanding exterior design. It also has many vents for adequate airflow. There is also a drop-down internal sun shield to protect you from UV rays and provide you with a better view.

It has a Pinlock visor as well as an integrated SRL 2 Bluetooth Communication System by Sena. To provide you with a comfortable and odor-free helmet, this unit comes with a 3D Max-Dry interior that you can remove, wash, and replace easily. 

As mentioned earlier, this helmet comes with virtually everything you could need and want. It has a size for everyone, with sizes ranging from x-small to xx-large. You can also choose from the 7 different colors available. This headgear will take your touring experience to a completely new level. 

It also comes with a CNS-1 face shield and baseplate system, which helps to reduce fogging while keeping your vision crisp, clear, and sharp. It uses an all-new extended QSV-2 inner sun shield for UV protection and improved coverage. The headgear is great for cruiser/touring, street bike, adventure touring, and more. It is also DOT certified.

Specs

  • Material: Aerodynamic shell
  • Size: Large
  • Weight: 5.9 Pounds

Pros

  • Highly durable and sturdy construction
  • Enhanced performance and functionality
  • Integrated Bluetooth headphone
  • Provides great coverage and sun protection

Cons

  • Makes some odd noises sometimes

7. Arai XD4 Full-Face Helmet

If you are looking for a great adventure motorbike helmet, you should consider the Arai XD4 Full-Face Helmet. It features large cowl vents and improved aerodynamics for optimal comfort. You can use this gear as an adventure, motocross, or full-face helmet. If you are looking for a safe helmet with all the certifications, this is it. The Arai XD4 has DOT endorsements, certified by Snell as well as ECE 2015. This unit is safe to use and it also offers maximum comfort. 

 It comes with a multi-density polystyrene liner, which helps to absorb shock. The shell of this gear is designed with a Complex Laminate Construction, which is made of high-quality fibers to provide you with optimal protection. It comes with an Emergency Quick Release System for a quick sudden response. 

This unit boasts of five vents – three at the chin bar and two brow vents. It also has several vents at the top. Interestingly, you can slide all these vents. The vents in the chin bar are reinforced with mesh to deter fogging. The weight of this unit is also great, and you can get it in seven different sizes; from small to xx-large. 

You can easily remove, wash, and replace the cheek and foam pads in this helmet. However, this gear has higher noise levels, as it has more vent holes. Notwithstanding, the noise level depends on how fast you are riding and the prevailing wind condition. This is also a great option for those after aesthetics, as it is available in six different colors. This product is a bit expensive; it is in the same price range as the Shoei helmet above. 

Specs

  • Material: High-quality Fiber
  • Size: Small
  • Weight: 4 Pounds

Pros

  • Available in different sizes and colors
  • Well ventilated and shaped
  • Fully removable, washable, and replaceable interior
  • Emergency cheek pad release system.

Cons

  • It is expensive
  • A bit noisy

8. HJC CL-MAXBT II Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet

Next on the line is the HJC CL-MAXBT II Bluetooth Modular Motorcycle Helmet. It is one of the most beautiful helmets on our list. In addition to looking good, this unit is highly functional. This is also one of the most affordable helmets on the market, and its affordability did not affect its build quality. It is from a highly reputable brand in the motorcycle gear market, which means you can rely on it. The lower price tag and design of this helmet makes it a great option for beginners and those looking for entry-level helmets. 

The shell is made from polycarbonate and it features a single-button chin bar/face shield release. It comes with all the basic functionalities you need in a motorcycle headgear. It features the tool-less shield replacement system of HJC and is Bluetooth-ready. This unit also features the Advanced Channeling Ventilation System of HJC, which has constant airflow. It provides hot air exhaust and front-to-back airflow. 

This gear is available in just two sizes – x-small and xx-large. It features Advanced CAD technology to provide superior fit and comfort. The optically superior face shield is designed to block up to 95 percent of UV rays. The gear is certified by DOT and it is super safe for use. In addition to being highly comfortable, this unit weighs only 4.5 pounds, which is light. 

Specs

  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Size: X-Small
  • Weight: 4.5 Pounds

Pros

  • Stylish and comfortable design
  • Provides up to 95% UV protection
  • A tool-less shield replacement system
  • Advance ventilation system to keep you cool

Cons

  • Limited sizes to choose from.

9. ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet

Lastly, we have the ILM Full-Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet. This headgear is highly durable, and it is made with solid materials. It has a fiberglass reinforced thermoplastic composite shell, providing you with a super-strong gear that will serve you for years. It also features an EPS impact liner that does a great job of absorbing sweat. You can remove and wash it, ensuring you have an odor-free helmet. 

This unit is also safe for use and it has DOT certification. It has an inner drop-down visor and easy-open air vents for proper airflow. If you are on a tight budget, this is one of the best options to opt for. It is the cheapest full-face motorbike headgear on our list, and it is a nice entry-level option too. 

You can get it in four different sizes – small, medium, large, and X-large. It is available in seven different colors, allowing you to pick an option that suits your motorbike or suit. The ILM Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet with Removable Winter Neck Scarf is one of the best Winter motorcycle helmets on the market today.

The streamlined aerodynamic design of this helmet reduces wind noise and drag. It exceeds the safety standards of FMVSS-218. With the super lightweight design of this gear, you can wear it for a long time without feeling the weight. It is also ideal for long-distance journeys, as it provides superb comfort. 

Specs

  • Material: ABS shell
  • Size: Large
  • Weight: 3 Pounds

Pros

  • Very cheap yet functional
  • Extremely lightweight and comfortable
  • Removable inner lining and pads
  • Aerodynamically designed to reduce wind noise and drag
  • Meets the safety standards of DOT and FMVSS-218

Cons

  • Needs improvement on the ear pads

Motorbike Helmet Construction

Motorbike headgears are usually constructed from different formulations and grades of plastics. Various parts of the helmet are made with different ranges of strength and density compounds. Here are some of the materials used to make different parts of motorcycle headgear. 

Outer Shell

Many high-end motorcycle headgears are made with plastics that are high in tensile strength. They are also lightweight and adequately flexible. The outer shell of more expensive models comprises plastic material combined with Kevlar, fiberglass, or other fiber to make super protective, lightweight, and comfortable helmets. It also provides better protection from penetration, which means an object cannot penetrate the helmet in the event of a crash. 

Inner Shell

The inner shell, which is often referred to as the core, is usually a blend of foam and fabric will crush on impact. These materials provide superior comfort and protection, which is why you can find them in many helmets. The elements of the inner shell are made from Expanded Polystyrene Foam (EPS) with a strong outer shell to protect the EPS. 

Face Shield or Visor

This part of the helmet must not impede vision in any way, so polycarbonates like Lexan are the material of choice, as they are crystal clear and have some sort of impact resistance.

The Benefits of Buying the Best Full-Face Helmet

Safety

One of the major benefits of buying a motorcycle headgear is for your safety. While there is a high level of freedom to enjoy when riding without a helmet, your life is at stake. You can end up having a traumatic brain injury by not riding with a helmet on. Motorbikes do not provide structural support like vehicles, so you need the best helmet you can get to protect your brain. If someone is on the second seat, you want to make sure both of you are putting on a helmet. 

And out of all the different kinds of helmets you can get for yourself, a full face helmet gives you coverage and protection for your entire head and face.

Visibility

There is a huge difference between a car and a motorcycle. A car has a full windshield to protect you from elements. Whereas, when riding a bike, all the debris, dirt, wind, insects, and tiny rocks will constantly hit you in the face. This can result in reduced visibility and distorted view, which is dangerous. A full-face motorbike helmet has a shield to protect you from all these elements, allowing you to ride smoothly and safely. 

Visible to Other Motorists

Most motorbike headgear on the market come are designed with vibrant colors or luminescent accents so they don't only look good but also make you visible to other motorists. This is very important in conditions where visibility is obscured, such as in heavy darkness, dense fog, or storms.

full face helmet

Factors to Consider When Buying a Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet

When buying a full-face motorcycle helmet, there are many things you need to put into consideration. There are many motorbike helmets on the market, and picking an option that will keep you safe, comfortable, and suits your needs is very important. Here are some vital things you need to consider when buying a full-face helmet. 

Safety Features

Remember, you are not buying a helmet for fancy, but rather for your safety. There is nothing like the freedom of riding without a covering over your head, but you need to put one for your safety. As such, the safety features of a helmet is the very first thing you should consider before buying it. 

Before you pick an option, you should familiarize yourself with the certifications and ratings of the bike, if any. If you want a helmet that offers excellent protection, then you should make sure it has ECE, DOT, or Snell certification. 

Some models even come with all these certifications. Helmets with these ratings offer superior protection to your chin and head. Rated helmets are usually more expensive, but they are worth it, as they guarantee you maximum safety and protection. 

The material used to make the shell of the helmet also plays a role in the level of safety it offers. The most protective shells are made of polycarbonate or fiberglass. In all, you need a strong shell that will provide maximum protection in the event of a crash. You also want to make sure it is certified by ECE, Snell, or DOT.

Ventilation

The ventilation of the motorbike is another vital thing you need to consider. Full-face headgears need adequate ventilation. Since it has a full-face design, most of its portions will remain closed during the ride. Without proper ventilation, chances are your air will be spoiled due to the heat and sweat. Full-face helmets come with different ventilation systems, and the ventilation depends on the brand as well as the design of the gear. 

You want to make sure you choose an option with a great vent system. It should have multiple ventilations. There should be dedicated vents for the inflow of fresh air and others for the outflow of hot hair. The gear should be able to keep you cool and dry regardless of how fast and far you ride. 

Padded Comfort Layer

The padded comfort layer is the area that your face rests against when you put on the gear. It is usually made of open-cell foam and it is covered in a second cloth material. This layer is designed to keep you comfortable while providing your face with a conducive place to rest on. It is also designed to wick away sweat and to keep you dry while riding. 

This layer can accumulate a lot of sweat, which can smell. To avoid this, you should go for an option that allows you to remove, wash, and replace the lining and pads. Some manufacturers also offer different comfort liner shapes, which means you can replace the one in the helmet with another one that best fits your head shape. 

Weight

When it comes to full-face helmets, the lighter the better. Lightweight options favor aerodynamics such as drag, lift, and thrust. The helmet should not be heavy on your head; you should be able to wear it for a long time without feeling the weight. It should also allow you to move your head very well without any strain. 

Sizing and Fitting

To enjoy a comfortable ride in a helmet, you need to make sure it fits very well. You should avoid under-sized headgears just because you want to save some money. The helmet should fit perfectly without struggling to put it on. To get the right fit, you need to measure the circumference of your head. An oversized headgear is also not good, as it could be dangerous in the event of a crash. 

Conclusion

There you have it! Those are the best full-face motorcycle helmets according to professionals and experienced riders. When buying a helmet, finding the right fit and option that provides maximum protection is very important. The helmet should also have DOT, ECE, or Snell certification. 

From the full face helmet reviews on this guide, our top recommendation is the BELL Qualifier DLX Full-Face Helmet because it meets and exceeds several safety standards including the DOT. It is highly durable, protective, and comfortable. 

joshua mattie

Joshua D. Mattie

My motorbike addiction began with 50cc at 5 years old. I rode motocross as a teenager & into my 20's when I worked as a mechanic. This helped me to see the light—sportbikes & cruisers became a passion. Now I'm building BikersRights to be the #1 resource for everything on 2 wheels!