Imagine this: you’re cruising down a dusty trail, wind in your hair, the open road stretching before you. Adventure biking is all about freedom and exploring new places. But when it comes to choosing the perfect helmet, it can feel like you’re navigating a maze!
There are so many styles and features to consider. You want a helmet that keeps you safe, but also one that’s comfortable for long rides and looks good too. It’s tough to know which one is the best for *your* kind of adventure. Will it protect your head if you take a spill? Is it too hot or too heavy? These are the questions that can make picking a helmet a real headache.
Don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down exactly what makes a great adventure bike helmet. You’ll learn about the important features to look for, how to find the perfect fit, and which helmets are best for different types of riding. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to pick a helmet that lets you focus on the thrill of the ride, not on whether your head is protected.
Our Top 5 Adventure Bike Helmets Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Adventure Bike Helmets Detailed Reviews
1. O’Neal Sierra Helmet
Rating: 9.1/10
The O’Neal Sierra Helmet in Flat Black, size Large, offers riders a blend of safety and comfort for their adventures. Its tough ABS shell protects your head, while the comfortable liner keeps you cool. This helmet is designed to keep you secure and focused on the ride.
What We Like:
- Durable Shell: The ABS shell is strong and will protect your head.
- Comfortable Inside: The liner wicks away sweat and you can wash it.
- Clear Vision: It has a built-in face shield to protect your eyes from wind and debris.
- Secure Fit: The padded chin strap with a double-d lock keeps the helmet firmly in place.
- Goggle Ready: A special pad on the side holds your goggle strap so it doesn’t slip.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: At 1590 grams (with a 50-gram allowance), it might feel a bit heavy for some riders.
The O’Neal Sierra Helmet is a solid option for riders who value protection and comfort. It provides essential features to keep you safe and comfortable on the road.
2. Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet (Matte Black – Large)
Rating: 8.9/10
The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet in Matte Black, size Large, is ready to take you on your next adventure. This helmet offers a blend of protection and comfort for riders tackling various terrains.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight thanks to its polycarbonate and ABS shell.
- The MIPS system adds an extra layer of safety for your head.
- You get a clear shield that’s integrated and removable, and it has NutraFog II protection to keep your vision clear.
- The helmet meets DOT safety standards, so you know it’s built to protect.
- Bell backs this helmet with a five-year warranty, which is a really long time!
- It comes in three different shell and EPS sizes, helping you find a good fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it ships with a clear shield, some riders might want to purchase additional tinted or mirrored shields separately for different light conditions.
This Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet is a solid choice for riders seeking reliable protection and comfort. It’s a helmet that’s ready for the road and the trail.
3. ILM Dual Sport Adventure Motorcycle Helmet with Pinlock Compatible Sun Visor Snowmobile ATV Dirt Bike Off Road Casco Model WS902 (Matte Black
Rating: 9.1/10
The ILM Dual Sport Adventure Motorcycle Helmet Model WS902 (Matte Black, L) offers a versatile and safe option for riders tackling various terrains. Whether you’re on a motorcycle, snowmobile, ATV, or dirt bike, this helmet provides solid protection and features designed for comfort and clear visibility.
What We Like:
- Safety First: It meets strict FMVSS-218 and DOT safety standards. The ABS shell and EPS foam work together to protect your head in case of a crash.
- Great Visibility: The helmet has a dual visor system. The outer visor is large and removable. It fits over an extra-wide opening, giving you a great view of everything around you. It’s also ready for a Pinlock 30 insert (sold separately) to prevent fogging.
- Sun Protection: An internal drop-down sunshield easily slides down to block the sun’s glare, keeping your eyes safe and focused.
- Comfortable Fit: The removable inner lining pads are designed with fewer seams. This helps prevent uncomfortable pressure points on your head.
- Adjustable Ventilation: Seven vents are strategically placed around the helmet. You can adjust them to control airflow and keep you cool.
- Easy to Use: It features a quick-release clasp for easy on and off. A removable chin curtain helps reduce wind noise.
What Could Be Improved:
- The Pinlock 30 insert is not included with the helmet, so you’ll need to buy it separately if you want that anti-fog feature.
This ILM helmet provides good value with its safety features and adaptable design. It’s a solid choice for riders who need a helmet that can handle different adventures.
4. LS2 Helmets Explorer Carbon Adventure Helmet (Frontier Black Blue – Large)
Rating: 9.0/10
The LS2 Helmets Explorer Carbon Adventure Helmet in Frontier Black Blue (Large) is built for riders who crave adventure and comfort. Its advanced features make it a top contender for long journeys and challenging trails.
What We Like:
- The helmet uses a lightweight carbon fiber shell. This helps reduce rider tiredness on long trips.
- It has a removable and washable liner made from technical fabric. The 3D laser-cut cheek pads offer great comfort for extended wear.
- The ultra-wide eye port provides a clear view. The Class A optically correct polycarbonate shield gives distortion-free vision.
- An integrated drop-down sunshield is included. The aerodynamic peak has air flow ports for different weather conditions.
- The dynamic flow-through ventilation system keeps you cool. Adjustable ports let you control the temperature in any climate.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the carbon fiber is light, some riders might find the overall weight a bit more than expected for an adventure helmet.
- The availability of specific colorways or sizes can sometimes be limited, making it harder to find your perfect match.
This helmet truly elevates the adventure riding experience. It’s a solid choice for those who demand performance and comfort.
5. ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Adventure Street Adult Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved (Topographic Sand X-Large)
Rating: 8.8/10
Hit the road with the ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Adventure Street Adult Motorcycle Helmet in Topographic Sand. This helmet is built for adventure, offering a comfortable and safe ride for any journey. Its versatile design lets you switch from a full-face helmet to an open-face style easily, making it perfect for both city cruising and off-road exploration. The cool topographic sand color adds a touch of rugged style to your gear.
What We Like:
- Lightweight and strong shell construction for maximum impact protection.
- Excellent airflow with a smart ventilation system to keep you cool and dry.
- Comfortable KwikWick C liner that wicks away moisture and is washable.
- Fits glasses easily with KwikFit 3D sculpted cheek pads.
- Clear vision with an anti-fog, anti-scratch EverClear shield that offers UV protection.
- Versatile with a tool-less shield system and readiness for action cameras and Bluetooth communicators.
- Meets high safety standards with DOT and ECE 22.06 certifications.
What Could Be Improved:
- Pinlock shields are sold separately, adding an extra cost.
- The speaker pockets are designed for specific sizes, so check compatibility with your Bluetooth system.
The ScorpionEXO AT960 is a fantastic helmet for riders who value comfort, safety, and adaptability. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable adventure helmet.
Choosing Your Perfect Adventure Bike Helmet
Adventure cycling takes you on exciting journeys, from dusty trails to winding country roads. Your helmet is your most important piece of gear, keeping your head safe. Let’s find the right one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an adventure bike helmet, keep these important features in mind.
- Ventilation: Good airflow keeps you cool. Look for helmets with plenty of vents. This stops you from overheating on long rides or hot days.
- Fit and Comfort: A helmet that fits well is safer and more comfortable. It should feel snug but not too tight. It shouldn’t move around when you shake your head. Many helmets have adjustable straps and a dial at the back to fine-tune the fit.
- Protection: The main job of a helmet is to protect your head. Look for helmets that meet safety standards like CPSC (in the US) or EN 1078 (in Europe). Some helmets have extra safety tech like MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System). MIPS helps reduce rotational forces on your brain during a crash.
- Visor: Many adventure helmets have a visor. This helps block the sun and keeps rain or mud out of your eyes. Some visors are adjustable, so you can move them up or down as needed.
- Weight: A lighter helmet is more comfortable for long rides. It puts less strain on your neck.
- Coverage: Adventure helmets often offer more coverage than road helmets. They might have a lower profile at the back of your head for extra protection.
Important Materials
Helmets are made from different materials that affect their strength, weight, and how they protect you.
- Outer Shell: This is the hard outer layer. It’s usually made of polycarbonate. This material is strong and can spread the force of an impact.
- Inner Liner: This is the foam part inside the helmet. It’s typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam. EPS foam crushes when it hits something, absorbing the shock and protecting your head.
- Straps and Buckles: These keep the helmet on your head. They are usually made of strong nylon. Buckles are often made of plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a helmet great or not so great.
- Build Quality: A well-made helmet has smooth edges and strong straps. The foam liner should be evenly placed. Poorly made helmets might have rough spots or loose parts.
- Safety Certifications: Helmets that pass safety tests are much better. Always check for these certifications.
- Fit System: A good fit system makes the helmet more secure and comfortable. A poor fit system can make the helmet feel loose or dig into your head.
- Durability: A good helmet should last for several years if treated well. However, even if it looks fine, a helmet should be replaced after a crash.
User Experience and Use Cases
Adventure helmets are designed for a variety of riding styles.
- Trail Riding: If you ride on mountain bike trails, you need good ventilation and protection. The visor helps with sun and debris.
- Gravel Grinding: For long rides on gravel roads, comfort and ventilation are key. A helmet that fits well prevents headaches.
- Commuting: Even for daily commutes, an adventure helmet offers more protection and can be more comfortable than a sleek road helmet. The visor can be useful in different weather.
- General Cycling: If you enjoy a mix of riding, an adventure helmet is a versatile choice. It offers a good balance of protection, comfort, and features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Adventure Bike Helmets
Q: What makes an adventure helmet different from a road helmet?
A: Adventure helmets usually have a visor, more coverage at the back of the head, and better ventilation. They are built for rougher terrain.
Q: How do I know if a helmet fits correctly?
A: The helmet should sit level on your head, covering your forehead. It should feel snug all around, and the straps should form a “V” shape under your ears. You shouldn’t be able to move it much side-to-side.
Q: Do I really need a helmet with MIPS?
A: MIPS is an extra safety feature that can help reduce brain injury from angled impacts. It’s a good idea to consider it for added protection.
Q: How often should I replace my helmet?
A: You should replace your helmet every 3-5 years, even if it hasn’t been in a crash. The materials can break down over time. Always replace it immediately after any impact.
Q: Can I wear sunglasses with an adventure helmet?
A: Yes, most adventure helmets are designed to be worn with sunglasses. The visor can sometimes be adjusted to work with your eyewear.
Q: Are adventure helmets heavier than road helmets?
A: They can sometimes be slightly heavier due to the extra features like the visor and more robust construction, but many are designed to be lightweight.
Q: What does it mean if a helmet has a “low-speed impact” rating?
A: Helmets are tested for impacts at various speeds. A low-speed impact rating means it meets safety standards for common cycling falls.
Q: How do I clean my adventure helmet?
A: You can usually wipe the shell with a damp cloth. Many helmets have removable, washable pads inside.
Q: What is “in-molding” construction?
A: In-molding is a process where the outer shell is fused to the EPS foam liner during manufacturing. This makes the helmet stronger and lighter.
Q: Should I buy a helmet based on brand name alone?
A: While some brands are known for quality, it’s more important to check safety certifications and ensure the helmet fits you well. A well-fitting, certified helmet from any reputable brand is a good choice.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Luigi Smith, the voice behind carrepairmag.com. As a passionate car enthusiast with years of hands-on experience in repairing and maintaining vehicles, I created this platform to share my knowledge and expertise. My goal is to empower car owners with practical advice, tips, and step-by-step guides to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a beginner looking to learn, carrepairmag.com is your go-to source for all things car repair!