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The helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment that a motorcycle rider wears. Not only is a helmet a legal requirement, but it can also be the difference between life and death in the event of a serious collision.
The problem is that some motorcycle helmets are overly heavy, and this excess weight can cause the wearer to experience neck strain and soreness.
If you would like to stay safe but avoid the discomfort of wearing a heavy helmet, you will benefit from our light motorcycle helmet guide.
Comparison of the Lightest Motorcycle Helmets
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Considerations When Purchasing a Light Motorcycle Helmet
There are now more lightweight helmet options out there than ever before, which means you and other consumers will have a wide variety of options to choose from. If you are searching for a motorcycle helmet that offers an adequate amount of protection in a lightweight package, you will want to consider the following factors:
Find a Helmet that Meets Your Specific Needs
Beyond the helmet’s weight, you should make sure that you consider the riding the helmet is designed for and choose one that meets your specific needs.
If you are looking for a lightweight helmet that you can use for long commutes, you will want to make sure that it is quiet and offers full-face protection. A lightweight touring helmet is better suited to long rides, while those who like to take their motorcycle off-road might prefer a lightweight dual sport helmet.
Consider the Safety Rating
You should never compromise on safety just because you would prefer a lighter helmet. Make sure you do your homework and choose a helmet that meets DOT standards and any other safety requirements for the area where you live.
Photo credit: nhtsa.gov
Relevant Features and Compatibility With Accessories
Some helmet manufacturers reduce weight by stripping their helmets down to the bare bones. If you plan on upgrading your helmet with a wireless headset, aftermarket visor, or a more comfortable liner, you should make sure that the helmet can accommodate these accessories. While weight is important, it is not the only factor you should consider.
Make Sure the Helmet Fits Your Budget
Some helmet manufacturers reduce helmet weight by using expensive lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber and woven Kevlar. While these materials are great for reducing weight and maintaining strength, they can get pricey. While you should never skimp on safety, make sure you are not spending unnecessary money on a helmet you cannot afford. There are lightweight helmet options out there that are affordable and safe.
Review of the Best Lightweight Motorcycle Helmets
To help you find the perfect lightweight motorcycle helmet for your needs, we have reviewed a few of the best products on the market today. Use this guide to find a safe helmet that will not strain your neck and shoulders with excessive weight.
Best Overall:
Scorpion EXO ST1400 Carbon Helmet
PROS
CONS
Durability and Protection
Scorpion EXO combined advanced engineering with durable materials to create a lightweight helmet that meets every motorcycle helmet safety standard requirement.
Weight
With a total weight of just 1,383 grams (3.05lbs), users will experience less neck and shoulder strain than they are used to.
Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow
The helmet features Scorpion EXO’s unique aero-tuned ventilation system, which reduces interior humidity and keeps the wearer cool.
Exterior Design
The ST1400 has a streamlined exterior shell, which looks sleek and professional. It is available in glossy black color with a visible carbon weave pattern. For those who want to add some personality, it is also available in dark grey, matte black, and high-visibility yellow.
Visibility
An integrated ‘SpeedView’ sun visor protects the wearer’s eyes from wind, water, and debris. The visor uses a durable and completely transparent material, which ensures crystal-clear visibility in all light conditions.
Review
We were impressed by the durable strength this helmet offers, especially given how light it is. The aircraft-grade carbon fiber construction gives the helmet’s exterior an incredible degree of strength so users can ride with confidence, knowing that their helmet will keep their head protected in the event of a collision. In terms of comfort, the ‘AirFit’ inflation adjustment system ensures the helmet has a custom fit. The moisture-wicking interior liner is also removable and machine washable.
Bottom Line
The slim profile and carbon fiber construction make the ST1400 one of the lightest helmets out there. It is incredibly comfortable, light, and durable. It is the perfect choice for those that want a lightweight and safe helmet.
Runner-up:
AGV Sportmodular Carbon Helmet
PROS
CONS
Durability and Protection
Due to a 100 percent carbon fiber exterior shell, the helmet offers a high level of protection in a lightweight package.
Weight
The carbon fiber material reduces weight and ensures the wearer will not experience excessive strain. The titanium retention system is also 43 percent lighter than those constructed from steel.
Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow
The helmet uses a pressure-free fit to ensure it remains stable, without putting pressure on the wearer’s head. It also features excellent ventilation.
Exterior Design
The exterior shell has a classic racing aesthetic and features bright white sides and a dark carbon fiber center stripe. The exterior surface is smooth and sleek.
Visibility
The face shield provides the wearer with perfect visibility, and AGV’s unique anti-fog technology prevents lens fogging in all weather conditions. The GT3 face shield has anti-scratch properties so it will remain clear, even after heavy use. An internal light smoke sun shield also reduces glare.
Review
We liked how well this helmet protects wearers. Its oval shell shape minimizes the risk of impact injury by dispersing energy and directing it away from the wearer’s neck and collar bone. It also comes with a removable nose guard for added protection. In terms of comfort, the helmet uses an integrated ventilation system to direct air to the rider’s head without causing wind interference or excessive noise. It fits comfortably and will not cause the wearer to overheat.
Bottom Line
The carbon exterior provides the wearer with an outstanding level of protection. It fits great, feels comfortable, and catches the eye. Overall, this is a safe option for those that are looking for a lightweight helmet.
Best for the Money:
Bell Eliminator Carbon Helmet
PROS
CONS
Durability and Protection
The Bell Eliminator features a 6k carbon fiber shell, which helps keep the overall weight down and offers an incredible level of protection.
Weight
Not only is the carbon fiber shell much lighter than a standard helmet shell, but the exterior shell is also available in three sizes.
Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow
An anti-bacterial liner and contoured cheek pads ensure that the wearer has a comfortable fit. An integrated ventilation system and keeps air circulating, which helps with rider comfort and lens fog.
Exterior Design
The Bell Eliminator features a classic exterior designed to give a nod to the racing helmets of the past. Despite its classic appearance, it is aerodynamic and highly functional.
Visibility
The helmet features a ‘ProVision’ dual pane face shield with Class 1 level optics. The shield has an anti-fog treatment, which ensures it remains clear in both hot and cold temperatures. The shield also sits away from the face to make sure it is eyeglass compatible, so those that need corrective lenses do not have to worry about only wearing the helmet with contacts.
Review
What we liked the most about this helmet, aside from its lightweight construction, is how easy the manufacturers make it to find the perfect fit. Buyers can choose between five standard EPS sizes and three shell sizes to ensure the helmet is a perfect size. Precise sizing lets you trim the dimensions and overall weight by ensuring you are not adding any unnecessary bulk.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for an affordable yet lightweight motorcycle, look no further. Despite the relatively low cost, this helmet is really safe, super comfortable, and even comes with high quality, fully integrated face shield.
Best Lightweight Half Helmet:
Daytona Helmets Half Helmet
PROS
CONS
Durability and Protection
The helmet is made from durable materials and exceeds department of transportation safety standards.
Weight
With a total weight of only 1.75lbs, this is one of the lightest motorcycle helmets money can buy.
Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow
The helmet is available in eleven distinct sizes, so it is really easy to find the perfect fit. A helmet that properly fits the rider’s head will always be more comfortable than one that is too small or too large.
Exterior Design
The helmet features a classic half helmet style. It has a completely smooth exterior surface and a slight sun visor lip at the front. Given that it is available in your choice of 12 different colors, it is easy to find one that matches your exact style.
Visibility
Given that this is a half helmet, wearers do not have to worry about any disruptions to their visibility. With that said, it could be a good idea to invest in a good pair of durable sunglasses, as they will help reduce the negative effects of the wind and flying debris. They will also protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce eye strain. It does come with a snap-on visor, which can offer partial relief from the sun.
Review
One of the major advantages of choosing a half helmet is the reduced weight. Since half helmets are much smaller than full-face helmets, they are significantly lighter. For those that are looking for the lightest option out there, this helmet should meet their needs. It is so light that you will barely feel like you are wearing a helmet at all.
Bottom Line
This is a lightweight helmet that, despite its small size, is still road-safe. As an open-faced helmet, airflow remains constant, and users will not have to worry about condensation buildup or fogging. It is a great choice for those that like the look of a half helmet.
Editor’s Pick:
GDM DK-140 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
PROS
CONS
Durability and Protection
The shell is a lightweight composite poly-alloy, which offers a reasonable balance between weight and strength.
Weight
The composite material and slimmed-down dimensions keep the overall weight down, without compromising on safety.
Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow
Features five ventilation points, including the chin, rear, and forehead vents, which ensures good air circulation and prevents the wearer from overheating.
Exterior Design
The exterior shell gives the helmet an aggressive look that is reminiscent of racing helmets. It is available in matte white and black, and the buyer can choose between several different face shield colors.
Visibility
Uses a flush-fit face shield with the perfect curve for visibility. The shield is scratch-resistant and offers full protection against UV rays. Not only does it come with a standard clear visor, but you also get a tinted visor, which is perfect for those sunny days. A quick-release shield system allows users to switch between visors in less than a minute which helps on long-distance rides where the brightness will change throughout the day.
Review
This is an incredibly light helmet that still offers a reasonable level of protection for the wearer because the exterior shell meets all legal safety requirements, but weighs significantly less than similarly priced helmets. We also like that a removable and washable interior liner allows the user to keep the helmet looking and smelling fresh.
Bottom Line
If you want a lightweight and safe helmet, this is a great option. Not only does it comfortably protect the wearer’s head, but it also comes with nice added features, like two different visors.
What Are Light Motorcycle Helmets Made From?
Lightweight helmets typically use different materials than normal motorcycle helmets. The following are just some of the construction materials you will find when you are searching for a lightweight motorcycle helmet:
Carbon Fiber
High-end motorcycle helmets use carbon fiber for the exterior, which reduces the weight of the helmet. Carbon fiber is incredibly strong and lightweight. The only problem is it is expensive, which is why you see carbon fiber helmets at the high end of the price scale.
Woven Kevlar
Like carbon fiber, Kevlar is incredibly strong yet surprisingly light. Some helmet manufacturers reduce the weight of their helmets and improve the overall strength by adding woven Kevlar to the surface shell.
Thermoplastic Materials
Thermoplastic materials, like polycarbonate and ABS, can offer a good balance between weight and strength. These materials can also be mixed with fibers and carbon resins to reduce their weight and increase their strength.
Look for helmets that use high-quality thermoplastic materials if you are looking for a lightweight helmet at an affordable price.
Scorpion EXO-ST1400
Price Points of Light Motorcycle Helmets
Just like any motorcycle helmet, lightweight helmets vary in price depending on many factors. Brand, build material, overall quality, and the design impact the price. To help you know what to look for, we have broken down lightweight masks into three basic prices.
$50 - $100
Helmets in this price range are considered entry-level. It is difficult to find a lightweight helmet at this price point unless you are willing to go with a half helmet. As the name suggests, half helmets do not cover your full head, which means they are much lighter than full-coverage helmets. While you lose eye protection and some other safety features, there is no denying that they are very light.
$100 - $500
Helmets in this price range are mid-range helmets. You will typically find lightweight helmets in this range use composite materials, like ABS thermoplastics. This range is a good place to start if you are searching for a lightweight helmet at a reasonable price.
Over $500
Once you exceed $500, you can start looking at some of the higher-end options. Lightweight motorcycle helmets in this category often use expensive materials, like Kevlar and carbon fiber. They drastically reduce the helmet’s overall weight while remaining safe and extremely durable.
Photo credit: HiConsumption.com
Who Should Not Buy a Lightweight Motorcycle Helmet?
If your budget is low, you should probably focus on safety and visibility overweight. This is particularly true for beginners. You can always upgrade your helmet after you have been riding for a year or so, but will always regret the decision if you chose an unsafe helmet simply because it was lighter than another option.
Some lightweight options, like half helmets, reduce the overall weight by shaving off part of the helmet. If you are new to motorcycle riding, you should always opt for a helmet that offers full coverage. Again, do not choose a helmet with less protection simply because you want something lighter.
Conclusion
A lightweight helmet is a great way to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders. If you regularly commute long distances on your motorcycle, it could be worth investing in a lighter helmet. All of the helmets we reviewed above are lighter than most helmet options, but they are still strong enough to keep you protected. Just make sure you are choosing a helmet that fits properly and meets your needs.
People Also Ask
Are Lightweight Motorcycle Helmets Safe?
As long as a helmet has been tested and meets all of the legal safety requirements, it will be safe. Safety and head protection should always be your number one priority when searching for a new motorcycle helmet, so check to make sure the helmet meets and exceeds all of the legal requirements for where you live.
How Much Does a Motorcycle Helmet Weigh?
Motorcycle helmets typically range in weight from as little as 2lbs up to 7lbs.
Photo credit: Toozla.com
What Accessories Add Weight to a Motorcycle Helmet?
Face shields, speakers, sun visors, and additional padding will all add weight to a motorcycle helmet.
What Types of Motorcycle Helmets Come in Lighter Weights?
Just about any type of motorcycle helmet, you can think of will be available in a lightweight version. Helmet manufacturers recognize that all types of riders prefer helmets that do not weigh down their heads, so they have begun offering carbon fiber and composite versions of every style.
