The most important piece of safety equipment you should get for riding a two-wheeler is a helmet. If you don’t like the bulky appearance of a helmet on your head, you might opt for a low-profile helmet.
Low-profile helmets avoid the mushroom head appearance as they’re designed to perfectly fit the contours of your head, regardless of their material or brand. They are also lighter and more comfortable than other half or full-face helmets.
Low-profile helmets come in a wide range of designs, styles, and features, making it difficult to find exactly what you’re looking for. After doing comprehensive research and comparing the features of multiple motorcycle helmets, we have compiled a list of some of the best low-profile motorcycle helmets you can get for yourself. Continue reading to find out which one best suits your riding style.
Best Low Profile Motorcycle Helmets
We’ve got you detailed reviews of 12 of the best low-profile helmets! Heads up: we’ve also got you a few DOT-approved helmets to help you make a choice with peace of mind. Let’s dig in.
1. Twister 360 Beanie – Fiberglass Reversible Helmet
One of a Kind Choice – Most Reliable
The Twister 360 low-profile helmet has a fiberglass coated shell offering lightweight durability and improved temperature resistance.
There’s a thin layer of EPS foam underneath which absorbs sweat, supports the head against impact, and adjusts the fitting personalized to the head.
It can be worn with the brim forwards to shield the eyes from the sun or backward like a ball cap so the helmet doesn’t lift at high speeds.
Our Take:
The Twister 360 low-profile helmet is true to claim, true to size, and perfect for a day out in the sun or a ride in the quiet night.
2. Blister 180 Fibreglass Low Profile DOT Helmet
Value Choice – Most Lightweight
The Blister 180 helmet is designed using high-quality fiberglass that is rigid against impact but also feels like you’re wearing wind on your head while riding.
A layer of EPS foam underneath the shell absorbs shock and improves comfort for the rider while the quick-release chin strap makes sure the helmet doesn’t fly off in the wind.
Also, the Blister 180 can actually be adjusted forwards or backward on the head which allows for a better fit and improved safety.
Our Take:
The Blister 180 fiberglass helmet is one of the thinnest and lightest weighing helmets on the market and they still managed to get DOT approved. This alone shows how durable and impact protective the helmet is.
3. Blister Beanie SOA Style With Carbon Fiber Look
Stylish Choice – Most Durable
The Blister SOA style helmet is constructed with a strong ABS shell that is glossed for a carbon fiber look. So, it is durable, lightweight, impact protective, and looks great in the sun but does not cost more than a standard low-profile helmet.
Also, a thin layer of EPS foam is stretched out underneath which helps maximize the safety of the helmet. The chin strap is smooth against the skin and can be used with thick winter gloves on.
Our Take:
The Blister SOA style beanie helmet is the perfect choice for riders looking for a low-profile headgear that not only looks stylish while riding but also keeps them safe on the road and feels light on the head.
4. Twister 2.0 DOT Approved Reversible Beanie Helmet
Premium Choice – Best-Fitting
The Twister 2.0 reversible low-profile helmet is designed with an ABS shell for incredible durability against impact and a layer of EPS foam underneath to maximize safety and absorb shock.
It has a visor-like brim that helps keep the sun’s glare away from the face and when worn backward, the helmet reduces wind drag and improves aerodynamics – perfect for a forward-tilt riding position.
Our Take:
The Twister 2.0 is an incredible hybrid of the company’s most-hyped designs which means its performance is 2x of what it was previously and at such an affordable rate, helmets like these are hard to come by.
5. Blister Original Low Profile Micro DOT Beanie Half Helmet
Editor’s Choice – Most Comfortable
The Blister Original Beanie helmet is constructed with a tough ABS shell that absorbs impact well and does not leave a scratch to sight.
To maximize safety, the helmet is equipped with an inch of EPS foam on the inside which absorbs shock from the impact, lightens the load, and enhances comfort.
The safety strap is secure and does not tangle with stubble
Our Take:
The Blister original beanie helmet is perfectly named – it is as small, light, and easy to wear as a beanie is. Also, it fits well after it has had time to break in. Not to mention, it comes with a lifetime warranty!
6. Twister Original – DOT Approved Reversible Beanie Helmet
Unique Choice – Most Versatile
The Twister original reversible helmet is outfitted with a fiberglass-coated ABS shell which improves impact absorption and removes extra weight from the helmet.
It is reversible i.e can be worn forwards with the visor down to protect against the sun’s glare or backward with the visor up to reduce wind drag at high speeds.
The chin strap is quick-release, meaning the helmet can be worn and removed easily. It does not tangle with stubble or sweat.
Our Take:
The Twister reversible beanie helmet is a one-of-a-kind style low profile helmet that not only has an exact fitting but also looks stylish, works best both ways, and even has a visor attached! At this price point, it’s definitely a must-have.
7. Micro DOT Mayhem German Style Motorcycle Helmet
Reliable Choice – Best for Daily Wear
The Micro DOT Mayhem low-profile helmet is designed with a lightweight ABS shell in a German-style structure so it looks stylish when speeding past other riders and is safe too.
Speaking of safety, the layer of EPS foam absorbs shock while the chinstrap holds the helmet in place and reduces wind drag.
Our Take:
The Micro DOT Mayhem low-profile helmet is perfect for riders that want a German-style helmet that is officially certified for on-road use and durable against impact.
8. Twister with Carbon Fibre Look – Reversible Beanie
Recommended by Experts – Best Quality
The Twister 2.0 low-profile helmet is most loved for its carbon fibre-inspired ABS shell construction that is rigid against impact and highly protective of the head but also looks incredibly stylish and does not overheat.
It has a layer of EPS foam underneath that supports the fitting of the helmet and it is uniformly distributed so whether it is worn forwards to block the sun out or backward to reduce wind drag, the helmet is snug.
Our Take:
The Twister 2.0 carbon fiber-inspired design is going to have you running for your money with its incredible features that perform as well as they claim and quote a price that no competition offers.
9. Bell Scout Air Helmet
Premium Choice – Most Durable
Bell’s Scout Air Helmet features an innovative in-mold design that provides a low profile and elegant appearance.
This helmet is made with a Trimatrix composite shell and has an EPS liner on the inside, making it a light and durable helmet that meets or exceeds both DOT and ECE certification standards.
The shell extends down over the ears to provide better coverage than the other half helmets. There’s a recessed section on the interior where you could install speakers for your communication device.
Bell provides 5 different shell sizes and 5 different EPS liner sizes for this helmet, which means you’ll get the slimmest and lightest configuration possible, regardless of your head shape and size. The D-ring retention straps and light padding inside provide a secure and comfortable fit.
To protect your face and eyes from the sun and other elements while riding, you can choose either clear or smoked full auxiliary shields.
Our Take:
The Tri-Matrix shell structure of this low-profile helmet makes it both lightweight and sturdy. Despite its powerful functionality, it is one of the lightest helmet available, weighing only 900 grams, so you won’t have to worry about neck pains after a long ride.
10. Bell Pit Boss Half Helmet
Easy to Maintain – Best for Summers
The Bell Pit Boss helmet is a low-profile, DOT-approved helmet that features a lightweight Tri-Matrix exterior shell, made with a combination of three materials: carbon, Kevlar, and fiberglass composite. This tough and durable shell protects the head by absorbing high-impact energy.
This is a neutral head shape helmet, comes with a Speed dial fit system in the back that allows for a customized fit and helps to keep the helmet in place to minimize lift and slippage when you are riding at high speed, a feature not seen on other models.
The Bell Pit helmet has a detachable visor, a drop-down internal sun shield to protect the rider from harmful UV rays, and ear flaps with speaker pockets for audio enhancement.
The neck curtain has two functions: it keeps you warm in cold weather and it hides the speakers for your headset.
The Bell helmet is a quieter helmet as it decreases wind resistance and eliminates road noise.
Our Take
The three-shell structure adds to the overall helmet weight but also enhances protection. This bell pit boss helmet is the appropriate choice for you if you need something for hot summer days that also protects your ear and neck in chilly winters without giving the mushroom head appearance.
11. Sena CAVALRY Bluetooth Helmet
Optimal Choice – Great Networking
Sena Cavalry is a high-tech, low-profile Bluetooth motorcycle helmet with built-in audio and communication technologies.
It features a lightweight fiberglass shell and an aerodynamic low-profile detachable visor.
The most up-to-date Bluetooth 4.1 version is included in this ground-breaking helmet, allowing riders to enjoy all the great benefits of Sena’s communication devices without the hassle of using a headset.
You can easily take calls directly from your helmet with the built-in microphone and hear music louder and clearer than ever before owing to the built-in half-helmet speakers on both sides, as well as optional ear cups to increase the audio volume if needed on the open road.
For maximum functionality, the Cavalry Half Helmet is designed with Advanced Noise Control, Wind Noise Reduction, as well as 10 hours of talk time.
Also, you can easily modify device settings to play FM radio or to access any quick tutorial by just pairing your Cavalry helmet with the Sena Headset App available for both Android and iOS.
Our Take
Sena cavalry is one of the most cutting-edge low-profile motorcycle helmets due to its top-notch sound quality and Sena’s Advanced Noise Control Technology. This is the Bluetooth motorcycle half-helmet that every rider craves.
12. Scorpion EXO-C110 Helmet
Value Choice – Best Ventilation
The Scorpion EXO helmet features an advanced polycarbonate external shell which makes it an extremely lightweight helmet. It also provides built-in sun protection with its speed-view drop-down sun visor that you can open and close at the touch of a button. It’s also anti-fog and scratch-resistant.
A quick-wicking, detachable, and antibacterial dual-density EPS lining stretches down to cover the lower back of the head.
This helmet has an aero-tuned ventilation system that generates a suction to draw hot air out from exhaust ports at the back of the helmet and enables the cool air to circulate throughout the helmet.
The retention straps have button snaps that allow you to install speakers in rear flap pockets. Furthermore, a unique chin strap retention design prevents the helmet from rolling forward off your head.
Our Take
The Scorpion EXO-C110 helmet’s built-in sun protection comes in light and dark tints, as well as blue, amber, ruby, and silver colors. This helmet will not only make you look good, but it also keeps your head cool on long rides thanks to its subtle contemporary design and excellent ventilation system.
How to Choose the Best Low-profile Motorcycle Helmet?
When choosing a low-profile helmet, you have to consider some important features to make sure that you choose the right helmet for your riding style to protect your brain properly. This guide will help you pick a helmet that best fits your riding needs.
Shell Material
The outer shell of the helmet should be made of a solid and sturdy material that can transfer the force of an impact across a larger area of the helmet without splitting or getting pierced.
The low-profile helmets are constructed by using either basic thermo-plastic (ABS or polycarbonate) material or complex composite fiber material which is a mixture of different fibers such as Kevlar, fiberglass, and carbon fiber.
Generally, composite fiber helmets are more durable yet expensive than helmets having a thermoplastic outer shell.
Helmet Weight
One of the most significant factors to consider is the weight of the helmet. The weight variation of a helmet is primarily determined by the price, size, and style of the helmet. Because the rider has to wear the helmet even for long durations, the weight of the helmet must not be too heavy for the rider’s head.
A lighter helmet will provide more comfort than a heavier one. Your neck muscles may become stressed if you wear a heavy helmet which can cause headaches, neck pain, back pain, as well as other injuries.
Size and Fit
Each person’s head is different, and not all helmets are created equal. The best motorcycle helmet for you is one that fits snugly and comfortably around your head.
The helmet fit highly depends on the size and shape of the shell, either round or oval. It’s better to know your head shape and size in advance before buying.
Remember, one size does not fit all. A helmet only does its job if it’s worn in the correct size. If a helmet is too small, tight, or big on your head, it will not only make your ride uncomfortable, but it’s also dangerous. Your life will be saved if you wear the proper size helmet.
Visor
A visor is necessary to protect the rider’s eyes from the sun, rain, dust, and other elements. Since some riders choose to ride without visors, many low-profile helmets come with drop-down visors. These adjustable visors can be easily raised and lowered when riding. This means you can turn the visor out of the way when it’s not in use to avoid unrestricted vision.
But keep in mind, a tinted visor can be a little dark on cloudy days and downright dangerous for nighttime riding.
However, some light-tint (usually yellow) visors are also available which enhance night vision.
But keep in mind, that a tinted visor can be a little dark on cloudy days and downright dangerous for nighttime riding.
However, some light-tint (usually yellow) visors are also available which enhance night vision.
Inner Foam
Aside from improving comfort, the helmet’s inner form’s main function is to provide better impact energy management to prevent brain damage. EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) is one of the most widespread foams used in low-profile helmets. EPS foam’s superior ability to absorb impact energy and its extreme lightweight make it the best material for use in helmets.
It is preferable to choose a helmet with a high density of EPS because the higher the EPS foam’s density, the better the protection it provides.
Safety Standards
Your helmet must be DOT certified, the most essential certification issued by the US Department of Transportation, which makes your helmet legal to use on the roads. To make things easy for you, all the helmets we reviewed in this article meet the DOT safety FMVSS218 standards so you can easily pick any one of them without worrying about your head safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to wear a Low-Profile Helmet?
If a low-profile helmet has DOT certification, then it is safe to wear for road biking.
A DOT certification ensures that a helmet contains all of the necessary safety features. Such as, its thick inside lining is made of a durable material that’ll cushion your head and absorbs impact energy, while the outside shell is constructed of a sturdy material that can withstand high-impact force.
How do I know which helmet size I should select?
To know the right size for your helmet, you simply need to measure the circumference of your head. Wrap a soft measuring tape or a string around your head about half an inch above your eyebrows down to the back of your head to get your right head size.
Don’t forget to compare your head size with the sizing charts provided by the helmet manufacturer, as each helmet manufacturer has a different sizing chart for their helmets.
Are low-profile motorcycle helmets legal?
low profile helmets approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) are legal to use in every state.
Final words
Riding on two wheels can only become a fantastic experience if you are well protected and safe. Therefore, you need to invest in protective riding gear, most importantly a helmet.
Low-profile road bike helmets that are DOT-certified are a reasonable and good choice whether you ride a motorbike for fun or need a helmet for everyday commuting. Pick one from the list above and have a great time riding.
Brad Mitchell is a seasoned motorcycle enthusiast with over 16 years of riding experience. He’s spent countless hours on the open road, particularly favoring scenic routes aboard his trusted Harley-Davidson. Brad’s laid-back approach to life and riding gives him a unique perspective on motorcycle gear and safety, which he shares through his in-depth reviews and expert advice on ProtectiveGearz.
