Every rider knows choosing a motorcycle is one of the most important parts of being a motorist and the experience is the definition of being personalized to each.
To complement the efforts and the meticulous pick and choose done for a high quality motorcycle, you will need an equally well-performing motorcycle helmet.
And now that you have everyone’s head turning, might as well let them do a double take for the helmet too, right?
This is why we have brought to you a comprehensive guide on 10 of the coolest motorcycle helmets available, a few ways to glam up your helmet and answers to your questions!
The 10 Coolest Motorcycle Helmets to wear in 2023
Helmet companies now offer a wide variety of colorful and aesthetic options, some are kid-friendly too so young motorists can enjoy their experience as well. Here are our top picks:
1. Arai Quantum X Oriental Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
Unique Choice – Extensive Size Options
The Arai Quantum X full face motorcycle helmet is a one-of-a-kind design, perfect for kids and adults alike. Constructed of an advanced PB-SCLC shell, it flexes style and security so riders can safely race against the wind while turning heads around for a double take.
The fitting of the helmet is true to size and adjusts comfortably on the head without the need to break-in or wear out a couple times. It is aerodynamic, comes with a tinted visor to protect against harsh UV rays and plenty of vents for optimal ventilation.
Our Take:
The Arai Quantum X Oriental full face motorcycle helmet is an innovative design, providing an enhanced and improved take on basic features. Arai helmets are quite expensive but they have on offer what no other modular helmets or full face helmet has — a guaranteed survival. The safety features are top-notch, the aerodynamics are great, the ventilation is pleasant and above all the shell looks super cool.
2. HJC RPHA 11 Pro Joker Motorcycle Helmet
Best Overall – Most COLORFUL
With DC’s most powerful villain, the Joker, designed on the durable shell, HJC RPHA 11 Pro Joker is quickly becoming a fan-favorite. It is composed of advanced PIM plus technology making it exceptionally impact protective.
The ventilation is optimal, graphics are high quality and the intermediate oval weight of the helmet disperses evenly on the head making it feel lightweight while commuting or racing against the wind.
To make it better, the helmet has an integrated smoke shield and an anti-fog lens included which allows it to hold well against all weathers.
Each eye port is made wider in size so riders have an unobstructed view of the front and their peripheral. The HJC RPHA 11 Joker helmet also comes with a Rapid-fire II Shield Replacement System which is a toll-less ratchet system for replacing the face shield.
To maximize the features of the helmet, HJC introduced built-in comm pockets and took it up several notches so riders get excellent value for their expense.
Our Take:
The HJC RPHA 11 Pro Joker helmet, with high quality graphics and an even better structural design, is a statement piece. The shell sizes are perfectly fitting, the chin guard is comfortable and the safety ratings are optimal. It’s better than most expensive helmets so, if you’re looking for the right helmet… it’s this one.
3. HJC RPHA 11 Pro Anti-Venom Motorcycle Helmet
Geeky Choice – Best Anti-Fog Technology
With an Anti Venom design on the shell, the HJC RPHA 11 Pro full face motorcycle helmet is a trendy gear to have and will definitely turn heads while riding through the roads.
With PIM plus technology integrated, the helmet is comfortable to wear, light on the head and durable against impacts. The interior of the helmet is composed of a multi-cool, anti-bacterial fabric that wicks away moisture and dries the helmet quickly.
Also, the helmet includes an anti-fog shield, an anti-fog insert lens as well as a wider eye port for improved peripheral vision
Our Take:
With front-to-back ventilation, anti-fog technology and convenience, the HJC Anti Venom helmet is the coolest one to have — especially if wind noise annoys you. Not only does it come with a chin curtain, it also includes a breath deflector and glove-friendly dials at the back for convenience and comfort. HJC helmets have topped the market for years and when it comes to the coolest motorcycle helmet, this one is sure to impress!
4. BELL Bullitt Motorcycle Helmet
Retro Choice – Most Comfortable
Inspired by the old school style helmets, the BELL Bullitt full face motorcycle helmet is a low-profile, carbon fiber construction that is lightweight but impact protective and safe.
Bullitt’s ventilation is improved by front chin vents, rear exhaust vents with metal mesh intake vents for cooling during the summers and preventing heat exhaustion. This also reduces wind noise.
The leather interior is anti-bacterial, fully removable and washable for complete convenience. Also, the contoured cheek pads pull in the sides of the face for a snug and secure fit.
Our Take:
The BELL Bullitt full face motorcycle helmet is a retro style helmet, complete with features of safety and durability. It’s perfect for motorcyclists that are looking for helmets with visual appeal but nothing in neon, graphic art or worse, glitter. It’s simple, sophisticated but still, a major visionary on the road. The Bell Bullitt has been a top favorite for many motorcyclists for many years and the hype continues to live on.
5. Icon Airflite Peacekeeper Rubatone Motorcycle Helmet
Beginner-Friendly Choice – Most Affordable
Constructed with a gold face shield and visor, the Icon Airflite Peacekeeper full face motorcycle helmet is a definite head-turner. It is composed of a tough injection-molded polycarbonate shell to protect one’s sensitive head from lasting injuries.
The interior is a layer of EPS foam with a fully removable and washable liner to keep the helmet germ-free and sanitized. Also, it has multiple oversized intake and exhaust ports installed to keep the heads cool.
The helmet proves to be exceptional through an almost animated design on the shell and anti-fog and impact-resistant face shields for a wide view of the front.
Our Take:
The Icon Airflite Peacekeeper Rubatone motorcycle helmet ticks all the boxes for a beginner-friendly helmet, it is well-ventilated, comfortable and impact protective. From the gold face shield to the safety features, this helmet is one of the coolest picks on the market. It’s great for summer days, racetracks and adv riding styles. Fit it right and it’s definitely going to become your next favorite motorbike helmet of all time.
6. ScorpionEXO Covert X Marauder Motorcycle Helmet
Stylish Choice – Most Convenient
Constructed of a Multi-layered Ultra-TCT shell and a multi-layer EPS foam blend, the ScorpionEXO Covert X Marauder full face motorcycle helmet is exceptionally durable against impacts and absorbs rotational energy well. The fiberglass and poly-resin composite combine to offer light weight and maximum strength.
The interior is made of the Kwikwick II liner that helps dry off sweat and keep the head cool in warmer weather. To protect against the harsh glares of the sun, the helmet has an internal sun visor which adjusts according to the time of day. The best part, it is also anti-fog and does not put strain on the eyes.
The shell is definitely a pleasing sight to sore eyes. The white graphic art pulls attention on the road and reflects well at nighttime, ideally serving a dual purpose which makes the ScorpionEXO Covert X Marauder helmet worth every penny.
Our Take:
The Covert X Marauder is an aggressive looking helmet by ScorpionEXO which covers all the bases for a head-turning helmet. Unlike other full face helmets on the market, this one does not feel constricting and sits rather comfortably on the head. The lightweight materials are well-made, the classic styling is perfect and it’s an all around good helmet.
7. ScorpionEXO Ellwood Dual Pane Motorcycle Helmet
Premium Choice – Most Durable
The ScorpionEXO Ellwood Dual Pane modular helmet offers the security of a full face helmet and the freedom of an open face helmet using a removable external peak visor.
Composed of advanced polycarbonate, the helmet maximizes durability using an internal layer of EPS foam and integrating a cooling Kwikwick II liner on the inside.
Ventilation is enhanced by top intake vents as well as rear exhaust vents (spoiler integrated) while the drop-down sun visor and the Everclear shield protect the rider’s face from UV rays, dust and debris.
There’s also a dual position mouth vent which helps keep the visor from fogging up when breathing and makes downhill riding a literal breeze. Perfect for winter riders, the ScorpionEXO Ellwood Dual Pane comes with a cold weather kit so every ride goes by smoothly and there’s no need to scour the market for matching gear.
Our Take:
The ScorpionEXO Ellwood Dual Pane modular helmet is packed with all the basic features in an attractive design so riders can look cool and be safe on the road. It’s the perfect pick for a narrow head shape.
8. HJC I70 Lonex Motorcycle Helmet
Editor’s Choice – Best for Sport Tourists
Constructed with the company’s exclusive advanced polycarbonate material, the HJC I70 full face helmet is sleek, lightweight, durable and compact in size.
Along with a moisture-wicking liner, the interior of the helmet features an internal sun visor to protect the rider’s eyes from harmful UV rays. It comes with a lever that can be easily operated with and without gloves.
For optimal ventilation, the full face helmet has incorporated seven intake and two exhaust vents that help draw out warm air and circulate cool air back inside, especially helpful for warmer weather.
Our Take:
The HJC I70 full face helmet ticks all the boxes of comfort, convenience and security and offers it all under an affordable price tag of $197.
9. O’Neal 5 Series Wingman Motorcycle Helmet
All-Rounder’s Choice – Eyeglass Compatible
Constructed of an advanced polycarbonate structure, the O’Neal 5 Series full face motorcycle helmet is a perfect pick for off-road motorists looking for a head-turning, high-quality, graffiti-like design on the helmet.
The interior, blended with a layer of EPS foam, is composed of a fully removable and washable padded liner with CoolMax technology integrated to keep riders cool and sweat-free during the summers. Also, multiple air vents enhance the aerodynamics of the helmet.
Our Take:
The O’Neal 5 Series full face helmet for off-road motorists is an exceptionally comfortable, cooling and securely fitting helmet. It is perfect for daily use, travels up the murky mountains or racing through tough terrains along with fellow motorists.
10. O’Neal 2 SERIES Leather Black Slick Motorcycle Helmet
High Quality Choice – Most Lightweight
The O’Neal 2 Series full face motorcycle helmet is a sleek-looking, durable ABS exterior helmet that is also lightweight and does not cause headaches even after wearing it for hours.
The interior of the helmet is stitched with ultra-plush fabric for enhanced comfort and is also fully removable and washable for complete convenience.
To keep riders cool during the summers, the visor is engineered to be height adjustable and plenty of vents are installed around the helmet to circulate air in all parts of the head.
Our Take:
This full face helmet by O’Neal looks sleek and fits well.
Tips On How To Make Your Motorcycle Helmet Go From Drab To Fab
If you’re here reading this guide, chances are you are not looking for boring motorcycle helmets so, we have compiled a list of easy, no-fuss things you can do to turn your helmet glam. Also, we have taken careful steps to bring you this guide where your safety isn’t compromised
Make Your Helmet Colourful
The #1 tip and the easiest way to turn heads around is to get a colored helmet, most helmet manufacturers now offer multiple options from printed motorcycle helmets to neon colors.
You could also paint it yourself and ride around with a one-of-a-kind helmet. Here’s how to do it:
- Take a damp cloth, some soap and clean all dust, debris and oil from the shell of the helmet.
- Get a light-grit sandpaper and lightly run it across the helmet to remove the manufactured paint.
- Now that you have a clean canvas, sketch out a design, pour out your paint and make it as colorful as you want.
Customise Your Helmet
If painting isn’t your forte, try your creative hand at using pre-made elements like glitters, decals, lights or even stickers on motorcycle helmets.
If you’re a night rider, your utmost priority must be having your helmet visible to other riders so here are some steps you can take to ride safely when it gets dark.
- Get a bright or neon-colored helmet, helps riders be visible to other motorists, drivers as well as friends when riding in a group — especially with a full face helmet.
- Wrap reflective tape or vinyl around the helmet as letters, numbers or random designs, to improve visibility range. They are inexpensive, available everywhere and can be done in-store too.
- Look for helmet-friendly LED lights that can be adjusted to fit over or under the helmet and are weatherproof so come rain or hail, visibility won’t be affected.
If you’re into decals or stickers, make sure they are weatherproof, do not weaken the strength of the helmet’s shell and are durable against falls. Also, make sure to clean your helmet off any debris or dust before you paint, stick or add something to the shell — especially with a carbon fiber shell.
Get Your Helmet Engraved
There are tons of options available to customize your motorcycle helmet and one of the easiest ways to get a significantly personalized helmet is to have it engraved.
Sketch, print or look for a design that speaks to you, make sure it is durable and won’t adversely affect the helmet’s impact protection then get it engraved from a graphic designer or an authorized helmet print shop. Make sure not to get cheap helmets, they do not do well with heat. Not every helmet can be customized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I add to make my motorcycle helmet more visible at night?
Look for a high-viz helmet, preferably in neon colors that has some kind of reflective tape around it. If you’d like to go the extra mile, add LED lights to your motorcycle helmet or get a same-colored neon uniform to match with the helmet. This will help you be more visible.
What kind of paint works best on motorcycle helmets?
According to experts, acrylic and spray paints hold well against impacts, are weatherproof and do not wear out fast. You could also use an airbrush for a smooth color application. Painting is also an affordable way to customize a motorcycle helmet which is why it is the most preferred personalisation method.
Can I remove the DOT sticker from my motorcycle helmet?
No, as safety standards like DOT in the USA, ECE in Europe and SNELL globally are required by the law for on-road use of motorcycle helmets, removing the sticker can get you alerted to a law enforcement officer and ultimately fined. If you have a novelty motorcycle helmet, there must be a DOT sticker provided separately.
Final Thoughts
Everybody has an aesthetic they love and since, for most motorists, riding a motorcycle is a passion, it is only fair to have the helmet customized and looking cool for the world to see.
Helmet manufacturers now offer trendy prints like the Joker or the Venom, colorful designs and even kid-friendly accessories like cat ears, glitters or cartoons, to cater to a wide variety of audience and make their experience more enjoyable.
For a one-of-a-kind piece, there are many ways to customize a helmet and most of them are quite affordable. In fact the most they can cost is $10!
So, what are you waiting for? Get yourself a cool helmet and stand out from the crowd.
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.
