Best Motorcycle Helmets in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update November 7, 2024
It is vital to use a helmet while riding a motorcycle or a scooter. This is the reason we propose you this review. Read our review ...Read more
PROS

Natural bamboo insert and ventilation openings in the goggles provide great air circulation so that your skin breathes when you wear this helmet. You can remove/attach goggles and the mask whenever you want.

CONS

The peripheral vision is somewhat restricted.

OUR VERDICT

By choosing the Shark Raw Blank helmet, you get 2-in-1 protection gear that can be used either as a full-face or an open-face helmet. Moreover, this model is designed to help you stand out from the crowd of your motorcycle mates.

detailed parameters
Safety Rank

ЕСЕ22.05

Type

Full Face

Size and Color

XS - XL sizes

4 colours

Comfort and Additional Options

Ventilation system with air vents and diffusers, Quick-release google system, Anti-scratch and anti-fog glass, Facial protection mask (detachable),  Adjustable strap Microlock™, Compatible with Sharktooth™ Bluetooth system

Design/Material

Shell: Thermoplastic

Interior: Natural bamboo fibres


Warranty

5 years

PROS

Transitions® Adaptive Shield adjusts to the weather conditions and brightness of the sun and changes the tone of the visor automatically. Click Release System and NutraFogII technology considerably improve the usability aspect.

CONS

It might take you some time to get used to contoured cheek pads. 

OUR VERDICT

The Qualifier DLX Clutch from Bell is a product of combining the technologies that provide perfect vision on the road in any weather. On top of that, two safety certificates guarantee unrivalled safety on the road.

detailed parameters
Safety Rank

DOT, ЕСЕ22.05

Type

Full Face

Size and Color

XS - XXL sizes

4 colours

Comfort and Additional Options

Adjustable ventilation system, Padded Wind Collar and Contoured cheek pads, Integrated speaker pockets, Padded chin strap with D-ring closure, Transitions™ Adaptive Shield included, NutraFog II™ shield (anti-fog, anti-scratch and UV protected), Compatible with Bell Sena SMH10 and Cardo Scala Rider Q1/Q3 Bluetooth systems

Design/Material

Shell: Lightweight polycarbonate

Interior: Polyester (moisture-wicking, removable/washable)

Warranty

5 years

PROS

Thanks to the adjustable ratchet-type chin fastener, you can set the helmet to any necessary position in a matter of seconds. Moreover, this system can be unfastened with one hand making it an incredibly convenient model.

CONS

The visor fogs up in wet weather. 

OUR VERDICT

Whether you're looking for a men's or women's, mini or large motorcycle helmet, you'll find your model in LS2 collection thanks to a great variety of available sizes and colour patterns.

detailed parameters
Safety Rank

ЕСЕ22.05

Type

Full Face

Size and Color

XXS - XXL sizes

10+ colours

Comfort and Additional Options

Fully vented, Flip-up external clear visor (anti-scratch), Adjustable ratchet-type fastener

Design/Material

Shell: Lightweight polycarbonate

Interior: Polyester (removable/washable)

Warranty

2 years

PROS

Removing a chin guard is incredibly easy thanks to the special button that you can reach with just one hand. You can also ride your bike with the chin guard opened or closed.

CONS

If you ride under the pouring rain, there's a good chance water might get under the visor.

OUR VERDICT

The Nolan Grix 9.1 Kinetic Flip Front model is exactly what you need if you tend to travel with your mates. Modular design and compatibility with communication systems will ensure that keeping in touch with your friends is going to be as convenient as possible.

detailed parameters
Safety Rank

ЕСЕ22.05

Type

Modular Flip

Size and Color

XS - XXL sizes

3 colours

Comfort and Additional Options

Advanced ventilation system, Quick release buckle mechanism, Lexan™ shield (anti-fog, anti-scratch and UV protected), DualAction™ chin guard opening system, Compatible with N-Com communication system

Design/Material

Shell: Lightweight polycarbonate

Interior: Polyester (removable/washable)

Warranty

5 years

PROS

Advanced ventilation system greatly increases the comfort level with the helmet on. Almost smooth design of the shell provides outstanding wind noise reduction.

CONS

The quality of the lining leaves a lot to be desired.

OUR VERDICT

Those that are seeking formidable protection but aren't ready to spend a fortune on a motorcycle helmet will surely be interested in the Shox Bullet model. Featuring a smaller price tag than the majority of its rivals, it comes with everything you would want from a quality helmet.

detailed parameters
Safety Rank

ЕСЕ22.05

Type

Modular Flip

Size and Color

XS - XXL sizes

4 colours

Comfort and Additional Options

Advanced Ventilation System (5-point), Micrometric Adjustment Buckle, Flip-system with single button operation, Multi-Positional Visor (anti-scratch)

Design/Material

Shell: Lightweight polycarbonate

Interior: Polyester (removable/washable)

Warranty

1 year

Stylish Protection

What catches your eye first when you take a look at the Shark Raw Blank helmet? Definitely, it’s the design of this model that noticeable stands out from the majority of full-face helmets we’re used to. The helmet consists of three parts – an open-face helmet, goggles, and a mask – and can be used both as open- as well as a full-face model. Let’s talk about each of the parts separately:

  • an open-face helmet is made of lightweight polycarbonate outside and natural bamboo fibres inside. This very combination of materials makes this helmet comfortable and safe to wear. The helmet adheres to DOT and ECE 22.05 safety standard certifications;
  • unlike the majority of helmets, the Shark Raw Blank is equipped with goggles instead of a visor, and as you might have already guessed, the goggles are removable. They are breathable and have a soft foam lining so that you can feel comfortable while wearing them. However, keep in mind that you might not want to use them when the visibility on the road is limited (at dusk or during the night) since they are tinted;
  • a removable mask eliminates the quantity of dust you breathe in while riding your bike but it doesn’t really protect your chin in case of an accident since this exact part isn’t certified with DOT or ECE standards.

In addition to stylish design and the ability to wear the helmet with or without removable parts, we’d also like to mention that the helmet is compatible with the Sharktooth Bluetooth system so that you could be in touch with your mates even on the road. Choose the Shark Raw Blank helmet and you’ll get a 2-in-1 motorcycle accessory that will protect you as well as allow you to look stylish on the road.

Wear Your Helmet Properly

No helmet will protect you if you choose the wrong size or wear it improperly. That’s why we want you to follow some recommendations on choosing and wearing your helmet:

  • If you have measured your head circumference and it is in between two sizes, choose the smaller one since the right-sized helmet should fit you easily. If you have a chance, it’s better to try a helmet on in a shop.
  • Once you put a helmet on, make sure a chin guard doesn’t touch your chest when you bend your head forward and does not touch your back when you bend your head backward.
  • Always fasten a chin strap tightly. Don’t make any additional holes in it. Before every use, make sure the strap isn’t damaged. If it is, you want to replace your helmet since, without this part, the helmet isn’t safe to wear anymore.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00AW5OW7A

The Synonym for Convenience

The Qualifier DLX Clutch Motorcycle Helmet from Bell is the combination of all of the modern technologies for your safety and comfort on the road. The helmet is a full-face type which means that it protects your head as well as your face and jaw. This model is equipped with contoured cheek pads to provide a perfect fit while an antibacterial interior liner prevents the appearance of the bacterium and unpleasant smell. Moreover, the liner has moisture-wicking properties providing an additional level of comfort while wearing this helmet. The manufacturer has also equipped the helmet with an adjustable ventilation system that will especially come in handy during hot and wet days to help you cool down or prevent the visor from fogging. In addition to comfortable fit, this full-face helmet boasts silent properties. This kind of structure is possible due to a padded wind collar that reduces road noise providing a quiet ride. As for the abovementioned technologies, here are some of them that make the Qualifier DLX Clutch model stand out from its rivals:

  • Transitions® Adaptive Shield can adjust to the brightness of the sunlight and lighten or darken depending on the weather;
  • ClickRelease™ system was invented for effortless shield removal and change;
  • NutraFog II™ technology is the combination of anti-fog, anti-scratch, and UV protected properties;
  • Integrated speaker pockets give you a chance to use Bluetooth stereo headsets and intercom if you like to keep in touch with your mates on the road.

We’d also like to point out the maintenance aspect of this helmet. The removable and washable interior of the helmet makes its cleaning an effortless process while a storage bag that comes in the box will help you keep the helmet in good condition when it’s not in use.

Maximum Safety

Choosing the Qualifier DLX Clutch motorcycle helmet, you can be sure you get a really safe piece of motorcycling equipment. The thing is that the helmet has two safety certificates – DOT and ECE22.05. Although DOT is considered to be an American standard while ECE22.05 a European one, they have some common as well as different features. Yet, both standards prove that the helmet has sturdy chin straps, possesses great impact absorption properties, has passed a drop test, can boast great peripheral vision, and is suitable to use under different environmental conditions. In addition to great safety features, the Qualifier DLX Clutch is one of the lightest motorcycle helmets reviewed here. Thanks to the lightweight polycarbonate shell, this model weighs 1.5 kilos.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00UAFI1LU

Most Stylish Motorcycle Helmets

If you’re looking for a universal helmet, one of the models in the LS2 collection might come to your liking. The first thing that catches an eye when you take a look at the specifications of LS2 helmets is a wide choice of sizes. The helmets are available in the XXS-XXL sizes, and the manufacturer advises you to choose your size in accordance with the following table:

SIZE HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE:

XXS 51-52 cm,
XS 53-54 cm,
S 55-56 cm,
M 57-58 cm,
L 59-60 cm,
XL 61-62 cm,

XXL 63-64 cm

In addition to a great variety of sizes, you can also choose one of approximately ten colours to emphasize your personal style. Thanks to these very features – numerous sizes and patterns to choose from – the LS2 helmets deserve to be called universal and suitable for both men and women. In our review, we’d like to represent this collection on the example of the F351 Flutter Pink Purple Women’s motorcycle helmet. This full-face model has all the features to provide your safety with the maximum comfort. The first thing that’s worth mentioning is a soft comfort liner and an adjustable ratchet type fastener that make the helmet fit your head comfortably. One more thing that adds to the usability of the LS2 F351 helmet is a flip-up external clear visor that allows you to put on/off glasses effortlessly if need be. By the way, the visor is made with the application of anti-scratch technology that provides great visibility even after long use. Good ventilation is a must for safe and convenient helmet use, and this helmet can boast great airflow thanks to the rear outlet vents. As you can see, the helmets of LS2 collection possess all the features you expect a good helmet to have. And what’s more important, they are wallet-friendly so you won’t have to spend a fortune on your safety.

More Accessories You Need on the Road

  • Motorbike cover will help you protect your steel horse when you have to leave it outside for several hours or even for a night. Putting over a waterproof cover will protect your vehicle from rain as well as from direct sunlight.
  • Motorcycle gloves are another protective accessory that can reduce damage caused to your hands if you have an accident. Gloves can also be used during cold seasons to keep your hands warm.
  • Balaclava will come in handy during cold seasons, too. Moreover, wearing a balaclava is a nice solution if you’ve bought a helmet one size bigger than you actually need.
  • Motorbike side bag attached to your vehicle will allow you to have all the things you need during a trip close at hand.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00BBVOCII

Maximum Comfort From Experienced Manufacturer

Having been on the market since 1972, Nolangroup definitely knows what kind of helmet you need to feel safe while riding your two-wheeled vehicle, and the Nolan Grex G9.1 is a great representative of that knowledge. The helmet corresponds to the ECE22.05 safety standard (a European standard valid in 47 countries) and will meet the expectations of the most demanding users. The Nolan Grex G9.1 is a modular flip model and as its name implies, the bottom part (also known as a chin guard) of the helmet can be flipped up. The helmets of this type allow you to have a snack, smoke a cigarette, or talk to a friend without removing a helmet – quite a useful feature if you are going on a long trip and will need to make stops from time to time. To flip up the chin guard, you only need to push the red button you’ll find in the centre. And to keep the guard in one place and prevent it from moving down, turn a switch on the side of your helmet to a P position (it is initially set to a J configuration). In addition to the chance to be used both as a full-face and open-face helmet, the Nolan Grex G9.1 also boasts great ventilation system. Proper airflow inside the helmet is provided with two front air intakes and one rear extractor. The helmet is also equipped with the Vision Protection System that ensures the safety of your eyes during some of those sunny days. Finally, don’t overlook that the Nolan Grex G9.1 is fitted with removable and washable padding that adds to the simplicity of helmet maintenance.

Ride and Communicate

Modern motorcycle helmets are often compatible with various communication systems, and the Nolan Grex 9.1 is not an exception to this rule. Why might you need such a system in your helmet? Well, maybe it’s because with a communication system integrated into your helmet and synchronized with your smartphone, you have a chance to:

  • communicate with your passenger;
  • communicate with your motorcycle mates at the distance of about 800 metres;
  • listen to your favourite music;
  • manage GPS directions.

The Nolan Grex 9.1 is compatible with N-Com communication systems specially developed by Nolangroup for X-lite, Nolan, and Grex helmets. N-Com systems can not only provide you with the ability to use your helmet for the aforementioned purposes, they also ensure a great quality of radio signals thanks to the minimum aerodynamic impact. Don’t hesitate to choose the Nolan Grex 9.1, equip it with one of the N-Com communication systems, and let your every ride turn into an exciting adventure.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00DP2GUDG

Reasonable Price That Doesn’t Affect Quality

What is the best helmet for the motorcycle that you can actually afford if you’re on a tight budget? If you ask us, we’d say it is the Shox Bullet Front Flip model. This helmet costs twice or even three times less than its more expensive rivals but it has all of the features that will ensure your comfort and safety. The first feature of the Shox helmet we’d like to point out is its advanced polycarbonate construction that makes this model lightweight and strong at the same time. The helmet weighs only 1650 g so you almost don’t feel it when it’s on. It’s also convenient to adjust the helmet when you’ve already put it on. Micrometric adjustment buckle under your chin allows you to properly fit the helmet with no effort at all. One more thing that can be adjusted in the Shox helmet is its ventilation system. It consists of five openings, three of which (one in the centre of the chin guard and two in the front upper part) can be opened and closed whenever you wish. Finally, don’t forget that this helmet is a modular flip model so the chin bar section can be flipped up with a single movement. And of course, the Shox helmet is safe to use. You can be sure of it since the helmet was thoroughly tested and got DOT and ECE22.05 certificates.

All in all, the Shox Bullet Front Flip helmet is a great choice if you want to ensure your safety on the road and can’t afford a more expensive model. You will definitely find your own size among XS-XXL sizes offered by the manufacturer.

Great Visor – Great Vision

One of the most important parts of a motorcycle helmet is definitely its visor that influences your safety as well as adds to the usability of your helmet. As for the visor of the Shox Bullet Front Flip helmet, it has an anti-scratch coating that protects it from annoying tiny marks that appear on its surface with time. However, to ensure good condition of your visor, you should not only choose the one with a protective coating but also use it wisely. And by that, we mean proper helmet storage in a bag that comes in the box as well as regular cleaning with non-abrasive solutions. Also, as the helmet has European safety standards, its visor provides proper visibility including 105° peripheral vision from the midline of the helmet. One more advantage of this helmet is a chance to wear (sun)glasses underneath. It has become possible due to the modular type of the helmet that allows you to put on your glasses effortlessly and with much more convenience compared to the full-face models.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00B6ZTDL0

Infographics


What Is a Motorcycle Helmet?

The following review is aimed at comparative analysis of motorcycle helmets which are popular among bikers, speed lovers and used in motor racing.

Motorbikes are not the safest means of transport, that is why an owner of an iron horse has to be ultimately protected from injuries.

The helmet is one of the most important safety gears of each and every rider because statistical data proves that in most of the accidents a rider hits his head. Therefore, protection level of the helmet must be maximal to ensure your head and brain safety. Moreover, some of the helmets are designed to bring fun and enhanced comfort to riding. Style of riding designates the overall protection level needed, and there are cases when a rider cannot get away only with a helmet. In such cases, a rider should also take to account a specific protection suit, gloves, and boots.

There is certainly a permissible norm of the alcohol, which is not critical to the organism. And, in order to determine whether you are allowed to ride/ drive or not, we propose to consider our review of the breathalyzers. It can easily show the level of alcohol in the blood and protect you against the risk.

Best Motorcycle Helmets

What Features to Compare

Selecting the best helmet, you should know, what style of riding and activities it will be used for.

Basing on this, pay your attention to types of motorcycle helmets and protection level. Type of a helmet predetermines the safety level and outer look of the product. The integral helmet is a full-head helmet with an integrated chin protector and a visor. Some models are criticized for lack of ventilation. At the same time, such construction of a helmet guarantees the best protection for a rider because in 35% of crashes rider hits with his chin. Modular helmet is a full-head helmet with a high safety level. The specific aspect of a modular helmet is that the whole front part of it can be thrown over (not only the visor). This feature is beneficial comparing to integral helmet and allows to eat/drink/smoke without taking off the helmet. Weak points of this type of a helmet are the high price, big weight, and a greater level of aerodynamic noise. Next type of helmets is the cross helmet. Cross ( Offroad) helmet is a sort of integral helmet for cross races with enhanced safety level. Genial arc is reinforced and pulled forward to relieve breathing. Modifications of such helmets can either include visors and a peak or not. And the last type of helmets is “shorty”(half-helmet). Shorties are meant for low-speed riding and have no genial arc and visor, so the safety level is minimal.

Comfort and additional options are meant to ensure convenient functions of a helmet, which help to regulate the size, replace parts, to adjust the helmet to weather conditions. As an example, a pin lock will exclude weeping of your visor thereby your viewing angle will not be restricted. A removable Tinted visor will also be a handy thing, so you will not need to wear sunglasses under a visor.

Design as a point of aesthetic pleasure is an important thing for a rider. The matter is that you buy a helmet for yourself, and you are going to wear it, so you would like it to look great. It would be logical to mention that there are upscale helmets with Bluetooth garniture, which gives the rider an opportunity to make phone calls and receive messages without the help of hands. Motorcycle helmets with Bluetooth option cost more but bring extra convenience to a life of a true road warrior. In case you are a woman, you should consider women's motorcycle helmets. This type differs in construction from a regular men's helmets, so dear female riders, check ladies motorcycle helmets!

Did you know?

Although motorcycle helmets are undeniably the main protective gear for motorcyclists, you can still encounter different myths that try to assure you wearing a helmet is not only useless but even dangerous. Well, let’s have a look at some of these myths and try to find out the truth:

Myth: Motorcycle helmets (especially full-face ones) affect your peripheral vision.

Truth: Well, one should admit that watching the world through a full-face helmet might seem somewhat awkward at first. But several rides in your new protection gear will work magic and you’ll forget about that initial discomfort. As for peripheral vision, it is not affected by a helmet if you choose the one that has a safety certificate. Whatever helmet you choose, DOT or ECE certified, you can be sure you will receive great visibility since these safety standards require a motorcycle helmet to provide 210° vision which is enough to control the situation on the road.

Myth: Motorcycle helmets reduce traffic noise, and thus, increase the risk of dangerous situations on the road.

Truth: Helmets are actually made to reduce noise, albeit not the traffic one but the noise of the wind. Even if you buy the "quietest" motorcycle helmet, you’ll still be able to hear traffic noise. Moreover, you’ll hear it better since wind noise won’t disturb you.

Myth: Helmets can protect your head but they cause neck and spine injuries. 

Truth: Some people believe that helmets add weight to your head and if you have an accident, there is an increased chance to injure your neck with additional weight. Well, let's think about that for a second. And what if you have your 2-kilo helmet on and turn your head carelessly? Isn’t there a risk to injure your neck? Probably, there is. Actually, there is a risk of injury even if you turn your head without an additional weight. As for the helmets, their role in accidents, and connection to your neck, they are created to provide great impact absorption to ensure protection for your head as well as neck and spine.

Myth: Wearing a helmet provokes careless behaviour on the road.

Truth: It is believed that if a person wears a helmet and feels fully protected, he/she stops being afraid of anything. Some people believe that motorcyclists in helmets go over speed limits and create dangerous situations on the road. But what about car drivers who don’t wear helmets but still break the speed law? Unfortunately, there is no scientific data on the connection between wearing helmets and driving recklessly but no one can prove the opposite either.

Myth: It’s not necessary to wear a helmet if you ride short distances since there is almost no risk of getting into an accident. 

Truth: Well, that is a rather dangerous philosophy. If it takes you no more than 5 minutes to get to the store, it doesn’t mean that you won’t meet other drivers on the way. It also doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to control your vehicle properly during these 5 minutes. It doesn’t mean that there isn't a chance that some part of your motorcycle will fail you. Road, as well as life in general, can be unpredictable, so relying on good luck isn’t the most sensible decision. Your safety depends on you, so take care of it and wear a helmet. 

FAQ:

Q: Can I wear glasses/ sunglasses with a helmet?
A: Speaking of glasses, it’s possible to wear them with a helmet, and customers with poor eyesight claim that wearing them under the helmet doesn’t cause any discomfort. However, if you wear glasses all the time, it’s better to check on your own whether it’s comfortable for you to wear them with the helmet on before making a purchase since it might be somewhat challenging to put them on if you have a classic motorcycle helmet. As for sunglasses, we would recommend buying a helmet with a tinted visor instead, which is a more convenient solution.

Q: How do I know what helmet size to choose?
A: The manufacturers create a great number of helmets, from mini motorcycle helmets (for kids, for example) to large ones. To choose the right size, it’s important to know your head circumference first. To learn it, you need to measure the curve of your head around its widest part (in the line connecting the areas just above eyebrows and the ones above ears) with a soft measure tape. Once you've done with it, look into the size chart provided by the manufacturer and find the helmet size based on your result. If you have doubts about making the right choice, refer to the seller or the manufacturer for assistance. Still, the best way to buy a helmet of a right size is to try the helmet on in a shop.

Q: How often do I need to replace a helmet?
A: It goes without saying that if you had an accident, which resulted in damaging your helmet you need to replace the helmet as soon as possible. Even if you were never involved in an accident and have been using your helmet properly, you still need to replace it after some time. In general, it’s recommended to buy a new helmet every three or five years depending on how often you use it. As soon as you feel your helmet doesn’t fit snugly anymore, or the cheek pads and fasteners are thinner than before, it’s time to look for a new head protection equipment.

Q: How do I maintain proper condition of my helmet?
A: To prolong the service life of your helmet, it’s important to store it at a moderate temperature and avoid exposing it to adverse conditions. Keeping your helmet in a storage pouch when not in use will provide its protection from scratches. Also, note that using strong detergents or cleaning agents for washing your helmet causes a detrimental effect on the helmet materials (both internal and external) reducing its protective properties. So, it’s recommended to wash your helmet only with a mild soap.

Q: Why isn’t it recommended to paint my helmet on my own?
A: It might seem surprising but painting a helmet on your own can negatively influence its protective properties. The paint you use may contain aggressive chemicals capable of ruining the materials on the outer side of the helmet, it’s better to leave the task to professionals.

Q: How do I clean a visor?
A: Similar to other helmet parts, its visor needs to be treated with care, so cleaning it with a mild solution and a soft cloth is a sensible decision. You can also resort to a special visor cleaner for even better results.

Sources:

1. Chris Kraus Motorcycle Helmets 101, RevZilla. June 20, 2013.

2. Andrew Raven How To Pick The Right Motorcycle Helmet, GEICO. October 12, 2015.

3. How to Buy a Motorcycle Helmet, wikiHow.

4. How to Choose a Full Face Motorcycle Helmet, eBay. May 21, 2015.

5. Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Motorcycle Helmet, Superstore. January 27, 2016.

6. Dominik Hussl What To Look For When Buying A Motorcycle Helmet, Streetdirectory.

7. Safety or Style? Things to Look for When Buying Helmets, eBay. June 9, 2014.

8. AndrewT Picking the Best Motorcycle Helmet - A Buying Guide to Helmets, MotoSport. July 10, 2013.

9. Motorcycle helmets: the law, GOV.UK.

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