Riding a motorcycle heightens your senses. It combines thrill, pleasure, and fear. It is one of the most electrifying experiences you can ever have. However, it carries a significant risk. A lot could go wrong when on the road.
In case of an accident, you might escape with a few scratches and bruises. But also, you could sustain a serious head injury. For this reason, safety experts recommend that you must always wear a helmet. For short rides, the best type of helmet is a half open helmet. They are lighter and more comfortable and offer almost the same protection to a full helmet.
There are numerous half helmets in the market. If you are on a quest to find a safe, comfortable and durable helmet, the available options can overwhelm you. Knowing what to look for can take away the burden of wading through multiple half helmets.
In this review I will help you narrow down to the best motorcycle half helmets. And ultimately make it easy for you to make an informed purchase decision.
Let’s get into it.
The 10 Best Motorcycle Half Helmets
1. Bell Pit Boss Half Helmet
Our Top Pick For The Best Motorcycle Half Helmet
The best motorcycle half helmet is the Bell Pit Boss Half Helmet. Featuring a carbon composite shell, the Bells Pit Boss half helmet is sturdy and durable. Some of its unique features include a speed dial-adjustable fit system for a custom fit and a removable neck to keep you warm when it’s cold.
The Bell Pit Boss Half Helmet comes with an occipital adjustment at the back. When you put it on, it clamps tightly on the noggin. Its firm grip is ideal for a rider who loves to cruise at high speeds. You can comfortably do 70mph and this half helmet will remain intact. Its aerodynamic design is also commendable.
The Pit Boss half helmet has pockets on its ear pads. For those who like to use communication speakers, this helmet holds them in position snuggly. You also get an effective visor that will protect your face from the sun without interfering with your vision.
If you wear glasses while riding, the visor has enough room to accommodate them. You don’t have to sacrifice either one of them for the adventure. Additionally, this helmet is not heavy. When you are riding over a long distance, it doesn’t feel bulky or burdensome.
Our Take
Bell Pit Boss Half Helmet has the potential to last for years. It’s befitting for both male and female riders. It is ideal for minimalistic riders who enjoy the breeze hitting their face when cruising.
2. ScorpionExo Covert Half-Size Helmet
3-in-1 DOT-approved Half Helmet
The ScorpionExo is a helmet that protects you in style. The first thing you will notice is its slick looks. Its revolutionary 3-in-1 design makes it stand out in several ways. First off, the retractable sun visor will make you look like Tom Cruise in his mission impossible films.
The removable front mask is another notable feature ScorpionExo features. Its design comprises a heavy-duty polycarbonate shell coupled with a dual-density EPS. These two safety features provide maximum protection in case of an accident. Besides that, it is DOT-approved.
The ScorpionExo half helmet also delivers unparalleled comfort. The helmet has a well-padded liner for your comfort. If you are riding for many hours over a long distance, it will not dampen your experience.
Our Take
For a half helmet, the ScorpionExo has some of the best safety features. It’s versatile, looks like a modular helmet and lightweight.
3. Sena CAVALRY-CL-MB-XS Half Helmet
Bluetooth 4. 1 Ready Half Helmet
Cavalry takes it a notch further by incorporating Bluetooth technology in the Sena half helmet. You can use its intercom to keep in touch with other riders when on the road. Or listen to FM radio when riding for a long distance. As if that’s not enough, you may opt to listen to GPS directions.
The Sena Cavalry helmet boasts top-tier speakers and noise reduction features. It is designed to help you have a smooth ride. You also get an SBC codec and wide volume controls.
Apart from its communication capabilities, this helmet has formidable safety features. These include its reliable composite fiberglass shell. And its nylon D-string retention system. It is endowed with a low-profile visor to keep the sunshine at bay.
Our Take
If you are looking for a half helmet with built-in Bluetooth, the Sena CAVALRY-CL-MB-XS Half Helmet is our recommendation. It combines safety with connectivity and entertainment. As a result, it could be a faultless choice for fun-loving riders.
4. Daytona Helmets Half Skull Cap Motorcycle Helmet
One of the Lightest and Colorful Half Helmet
The Daytona Half Skull helmet is probably one of the lightest in its category. Nevertheless, it still meets or exceeds the DOT safety requirements. It fits on the head snugly and securely. For a biker helmet, it is quite comfortable.
Riding a motorcycle can be a sweaty affair. And the Daytona half skull helmet provides a solution with its moisture-wicking liner. With this helmet, you can expect total visibility while riding. Moreover, this helmet will not look like a mushroom on your head. It will compliment most of your riding gear.
Its sleek contoured half shell makes it look stylish. With this helmet, you don’t have to sacrifice looks for protection. Also, it is designed with a good allowance for wearing ear plugs. The Daytona half skull helmet has a nylon Y-strap retention system with an adjuster that allows you to position the helmet as you like. You also get a cloth drawstring bag and a head wrap with this helmet.
Our Take
The Daytona half helmet is one of the smallest and lightest half helmets. It is perfect for riders who dread bulky half helmets. Furthermore, it is a good looking helmet that allows all riders to express their sense of style.
5. VCOROS Open Face Motorcycle Helmet
Half Helmet with an Integrated Visor System
VCOROS 888CF is a carbon fiber helmet that is DOT certified. This helmet is stylish and functional. Its notable features include a multi-density EPS, a quick-release buckle, and a reinforced chin strap.
What’s more, is that you can remove and wash its inner liners and pads. For eye protection, this product has an effective pull-down visor. It is a light helmet that suits riding for long distances.
This helmet is more fashionable than most average half helmets in the market. It is a good fit for racing, cruiser, street, and so on. The helmet also has a sturdy build that will give you several years of service.
If you love cruising at high speeds, this might not be the helmet for you. It tends to lift when you hit the 7Omph speed mark.
Our Take
VCOROS 888CF combines simplicity and practicality. This makes it a good fit for all riders.
6. LS2 Helmets Bagger Motorcycle Half Helmet
Helmet With Removable Neck Skirt
The LS2 helmet is another impressive simple helmet with ventilation on the crown. Its vents force air into the dome when it gets hot on the road. The helmet has a snappable sun visor that you can pull down whenever you need it.
Inside the helmet, you have the quick-lock technology, which makes it easy to open and put on. On top of that, it has a neck scarf and ear flaps for cold and windy conditions. The neck scarf is zippable. You can remove it whenever you don’t need it. Or when it’s dirty and you want to wash it.
The LS2 designers have also catered for the needs of riders who love to listen to the music. Next to the ear flaps, there is a pocket where you can put your MP3 speakers. You can tuck the wiring around the helmet. And hide it with the neck flap.
Our Take
If you are looking for a DOT approved helmet, the LS2 bagger could be a great match. It’s interior liner is washable and washable, comfortable, and practical.
7. Vega Helmets Half Size Warrior Motorcycle Helmet
The Best Fitting Helmets
When it comes to stylish helmets, Vega leads from the front. The half-size warrior motorcycle helmet from this company does not disappoint. It is not only light and small, but it also delivers a custom fit.
With this helmet, you can protect your eyes from the bright sun, dust, and debris. It is equipped with a drop-down sun shield. The helmet has a size adjustment feature that helps you achieve a custom fit for your head.
Additionally, the helmet has a moisture-wicking liner. It allows you to ride comfortably even when you become sweaty. Also, it comes with a channel EPS for cooling and safety. And a padded quick-release strap.
The warrior half helmet meets the DOT safety standards. Both men, women, and children can wear it. It is engineered with a thick high density EPS liner. This liner effectively absorbs impact.
Our Take
The warrior motorcycle half helmet is great for riders that love to feel the breeze on their face. From a safety perspective, you may not be getting full protection. However, this depends on what kind of rider you are and the kind of terrain you prefer. Otherwise, the warrior helmet ticks all the other boxes.
8. GLX Cruiser Scooter Motorcycle Half Helmet
Budget Friendly Half Helmet
If you are looking for a budget friendly unisex helmet, the GLX M14 cruiser half helmet fits the bill. On the inside, this helmet boasts a plush inner lining. This is the kind of configuration that delivers commendable comfort to the user.
The M14 cruiser has a sun shield for your eye protection. You can deploy it and retract it easily when riding. The free smoke shield can block 99% of the sun’s UV rays.
Communication with your fellow riders is crucial during group rides. This helmet is equipped with a communication system compartment.
In terms of safety, the M14 cruiser has a thick EPS foam layer. Upon impact, this foam keeps you safe by absorbing the damaging shock. Its inner liners are removable and washable.
Our Take
Apart from the basic features , the GLX unisex helmet has innovative built-in communication compartments. Riders who are always on the move can add communication devices.
9. LS2 Helmets Rebellion Motorcycle Half Helmet
Helmet With A Hypoallergenic, Removable and Washable Liner
The LS2 is an outstanding half helmet. One thing we love is its ported flow-through ventilation, which is what you need on a hot day. Also, it has a twin shield sun visor that will keep your eyes protected when on the road.
The visor offers a distinct two-stage adjustability system. When you want a little shade, you can lock it half-away. For total protection from the sun, you can open it fully.
If you value BlueTooth connectivity, the LS2 rebellion has a linking Bluetooth communication system that is sold separately.
The LS2 Rebellion is ECE and DOT approved. This is the safety standard that you need when cruising on the highway. When you hit high speeds, you will experience very little buffeting with this helmet. Its air vents will let in cool air into the dome. Also, it will prevent rainwater from entering the dome.
Due to its firm grip on your head, you can count on it not to lift during a windy ride. Its micrometric strap is reliable and gentle to your chin. You can ride for a long time without any discomfort.
Our Take
The LS2 Rebellion helmet is a good investment for all types of riders. It is affordable , reliable, and durable.
10. Bell Custom 500 Helmet
Helmet With Built-In Speaker Pockets
Unlike its predecessors, this Bell Custom 500 helmet tends to be more contoured to the head. It is an open-face lightweight fiberglass composite shell. If you want carbon fiber, you can also get it.
Whether you enjoy riding a scooter, street sport motorcycles, or off-road bikes, you are likely to fall in love with the Bell Custom 500 helmet. This product is also DOT-approved. And its multi-density EPS liner is removable and washable.
The Bell Custom 500 helmet enhances the rider’s experience by reducing buffeting and wind noise. You can put on your shades with this helmet without any qualms. It also comes with ear caps that accommodate communication systems and earbuds restfully.
On the interior, the designers apply a quilted non removable quilted diamond. Consequently, the helmet looks stylish both on the outside and the inside. You can fit a speaker system in there and listen to music and communicate with other riders.
Our Take
The Bell Custom 500 feels a lot safer and more enclosed. At high speed, it can be a little noisy. But if you don’t ride fast, it is a perfect match.
How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Half Helmet for You
Full helmets provide the best protection for riders, however, they are bulkier and pricier. Half helmets hang in the balance between safety and freedom. With an open-face helmet, you will enjoy a lot more breeze on the road. But what should you look for in a half helmet?
The Perfect Fit
When you are buying a half helmet, make sure to get the perfect fit . If it fits well it will not distract you on the road. You will not have to keep adjusting it while riding. A comfortable half helmet contours well on your head. It is not too tight for your liking.
From a safety perspective, a helmet that fits well offers better protection. It will not cause a headache and it’s quieter allowing you to focus on the road. The helmet should also match the shape of your head. Otherwise, wearing it can feel awkward.
Helmet Weight
The weight of the half met is another important aspect to consider. If it feels bulky, you are likely to feel tired easily. Consequently, it could cause neck pains. A previous experience with helmets can determine the type of weight that could work for you. But generally, heavy helmets are not the best. They take the fun out of the riding experience.
Comfort Features
Thanks to technology, helmets are getting more comfortable. You want to invest in something that fits snuggly. Beyond that, you appreciate other innovative features such as bluetooth connectivity. You don’t want to risk getting distracted by your phone while on the road. Long rides can become boring. A helmet with speaker pockets enables you to enjoy music while on the go.
Safety Ratings
You will not want to buy just any brand. A helmet with good safety ratings offers better protection. The kind of safety ratings you should look out for include the DOT certification. The United States Department of Transportation recommends this safety standard for all riders.
There is also the ECE22.05 standard; this is set by the U.N Economic Commission for Europe. It is the acceptable helmet safety threshold in Europe.
We also have the Snell (M2015) helmet safety standard. A non-profit US organization introduced this standard after the death of Peter Snell, a world-famous race car driver. His demise was a result of head injuries he sustained in a race car accident. If you are to buy a motorcycle half helmet, ensure that it has at least one of these certifications.
Price
At the end of the day, you want a quality helmet that you can afford. Establish a budget and then take some time looking for the right helmet. So long as it is comfortable and it meets the aforementioned safety standards, you are good to go.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are motorcycle half helmet unisex?
All helmets are compatible with both male and female riders. What matters is the shape and the size of the rider’s head. However, they all fit the same whether it is a man or a woman wearing it.
Do you need a full helmet for a motorcycle?
It all depends on your taste and preference. If you like to feel the breeze on your face, a half helmet is ideal. In terms of safety, the full helmet wins over a half helmet hands down. Moreover, some head injuries are fatal. So, having some protection is better than.
Is it possible to listen to music when driving a motorcycle?
If your motorcycle does not have a stereo, investing in a helmet with Bluetooth connectivity could be great. Some half helmets also have speaker compartments and a comms system. These features allow you to play music from your phone when riding a motorcycle.
How heavy should your motorcycle half helmet be?
Helmets should be lightweight. A helmet that weighs 3 to 3.5 pounds is ideal for most riders. Anything heavier will put some unwanted pressure on your head and neck. Also, a bulky helmet can dampen your riding experience.
If you find a great helmet that is somewhat heavier, ensure that its design distributes the weight accordingly. It should feel comfortable in your head.
Final Thoughts
Riding a motorcycle without a helmet is a bad decision. Anything can happen while you are on the road. And in case of a crush, you want to ensure that your head is well protected. Some bruises on your legs and hands could be bearable, but most brain injuries are irreversible.
With a myriad of motorcycle half helmets in the market, you might struggle to find the right one. If you’ve read this guide carefully, you are now a step closer to finding a great product. We have listed some of the leading half helmets for you. Whichever one you choose among them could impress you.
Mark Anderson is a trusted expert with over 25 years of riding experience. At 56, his deep knowledge of long-distance touring and participation in major motorcycle rallies makes him a reliable source for gear recommendations on ProtectiveGearz. Mark’s decades of firsthand experience ensure his advice is authoritative and valuable to riders seeking expert guidance.
