Are you an adventure motorcycle enthusiast who’s always on the lookout for the best gear? Look no further! We’ve compiled 11 Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets of 2023 to keep your ride safe, comfortable, and stylish.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, these helmets have everything covered – from superior protection to extra visibility and aerodynamics. All that’s left is to pick one.
Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets This Year: Our Criteria and Results
We have done extensive research and compiled a list of the 11 Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets that will fit your needs. Our criteria included safety, comfort, quality, design, and price.
We checked customer reviews, read articles, and consulted product descriptions to find and rank some of the best helmets available this year.
Some of these helmets feature advanced technologies like shock absorption lining, an aerodynamic design for better airflow, and an adjustable strap system to give you a perfect fit.
We also made sure they all come in different sizes so you can get the right fit as well as different colors and designs to suit your personal style.
Our Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmet selection is carefully curated with riders’ safety and comfort taken into consideration.
We understand that adventure motorcycling is a unique experience that requires special protection; thus our selection provides just that with reliable materials and trustworthy brands.
No matter what type of terrain or conditions you’re riding in, our Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets will keep you safe while giving you the most comfortable ride possible.
So if you’re looking for top-notch protection plus great style, check out our Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmet selection below.
| Rank | Brand & Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Link to purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Arai XD-4 | Extremely lightweight design – At just 1.2 lbs (540 g) | Limited color options – Only comes in three colors (white, black, and silver) | Click to check price |
| Best Value |   | Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS | Features Multi-directional protection system (MIPS) which provides superior protection | Only available in a few colors, limiting your choice for customization | Click to check price |
| Also Consider |   | Klim Krios Pro | Best-in-class safety features | Bulky design | Click to check price |
| 4 |   | Shark Explore R | Has a flick down sun visor, a micro-lock buckle and decent mouth and head vents | The goggles that come with the Explore R are clipped to the side of the helmet and aren’t full wraparounds | Click to check price |
| 5 |   | Shoei Hornet X2 | Super quiet at any speed | Pretty heavy at nearly 4lbs | Click to check price |
| 6 |   | Nexx X.WED2 Purist | Weighs in at just 1kg which makes it incredibly comfortable to wear while riding | Only available with a single visor option | Click to check price |
| 7 |   | AGV AX-9 | Great field of view | Non-Closable exhaust vents | Click to check price |
| 8 |   | Scorpion EXO-AT950 | Drop down internal sun visor included | Can’t close the shield while wearing goggles | Click to check price |
| 9 |   | HJC DS-X1 | Pinlock ready Face shield | Loud at speed | Click to check price |
| Avoid these ones |   | AFX FX-41 DS | Comfortable liner and padding | Weak noise control | Click to check price |
| Avoid these ones |   | LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier | Carbon shell for best weight reduction | Very loud at speed | Click to check price |
Too many to choose from, eh? Well we’ve cut into each helmet in detail below to give you more insight as to which you should pick. Check out their descriptions below.
Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets This Year
Out of all the motorcycle gear you should never leave home without, your helmet is at the top of the list.
There is no piece of gear more critical to your safety, well-being, and comfort than your trusty head-protector. Why? Read on and find out.
Arai XD-4
The Arai XD-4 has a range of features designed to keep riders safe and comfortable while out exploring on their bike.
But, like with any product, there are pros and cons to consider when purchasing this helmet. Below we take an in-depth look at the key benefits and drawbacks associated with the Arai XD-4
Pros
- Extremely lightweight design – At just 1.2 lbs (540 g), the XD-4 is one of the lightest full face helmets on the market, making it easy for riders to wear for long periods without fatigue
- Excellent ventilation system – The XD-4 features multiple vents and channels designed to keep air flowing through the helmet, ensuring riders stay cool even on the hottest days
- Snug fit – The XD-4 is designed for a snug fit, providing superior protection and comfort while out on the road
Cons
- Limited color options – The XD-4 only comes in three colors (white, black, and silver), which may be limiting for some riders who are looking for more variety
- Costlier than similar helmets – At around $450, the XD-4 can be more expensive than other similar full face adventure motorcycle helmets
- Limited size range – The XD-4 is only available in sizes XS to XL, which may be too limiting for riders who need a larger or smaller size helmet
Overall, the Arai XD-4 is an excellent choice for adventure motorcyclists looking for a lightweight, comfortable helmet that provides superior protection and ventilation.
While it may not suit everyone due to its limited color options and size range, it still remains one of the best adventure motorcycle helmets on the market today.
Like this helmet? Click the button below to check the price.
Not quite your style? The next option might be right up your alley.
Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS
The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS has been designed to provide riders with superior protection, maximum comfort and a stylish design that can enhance your riding experience.
With its multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) technology, it ensures optimal head protection in case of an accident.
Here is a look at some of the top pros and cons of this helmet:
Pros
- Lightweight construction – The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS has a lightweight construction making it easy to wear for long periods without feeling weighed down
- Efficient breathability – This helmet provides efficient breathability and ventilation, making it comfortable to wear even during long rides
- Innovative MIPS technology – The helmet is equipped with multi-directional protection system (MIPS) which provides superior head protection in case of an accident
Cons
- Limited color options – The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS is only available in a few colors, limiting your choice for customization
- Price – This helmet comes at a higher price than other models in its category, so it may be out of budget for some riders
Overall, the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS is a great choice for riders seeking superior protection and maximum comfort.
Despite some drawbacks, this helmet offers the best features of any adventure motorcycle helmet on the market.
With its innovative MIPS technology, lightweight construction, efficient breathability and stylish design, it is one of the best options available.
If this helmet perfectly suits your style, click the button down below to check the price.
If not, the next option has quite a bit of features you might like.
Klim Krios Pro
The Klim Krios Pro is one of the best adventure motorcycle helmets on the market.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in your motorcycling journey, this helmet offers a level of protection and comfort that can’t be beaten.
But like all things, it has both its pros and cons. So let’s take a look at what makes the Klim Krios Pro so great – and not so great – for riders everywhere.
Pros
- Best-in-class safety features: The Klim Krios Pro boasts an impressive range of safety features designed to protect your head from impact during an accident. It comes with an ECE 22.05 certified shell, which is the highest safety rating for motorcycle helmets
- Lightweight design: The Klim Krios Pro is one of the lightest adventure motorcycle helmets out there, weighing only 1.81 lbs (820 g). This makes it perfect for long rides without adding too much strain on your neck or shoulders
- Versatility: The Klim Krios Pro helmet has been designed with versatility in mind, featuring air vents and a sun visor so you can customize your ride depending on the terrain or weather conditions
Cons
- Expensive: The Klim Krios Pro is one of the most expensive adventure motorcycle helmets on the market, with a price tag that can reach up to $700
- Bulky design: Although lightweight, the Klim Krios Pro has a bulky design that may not be suitable for smaller riders or those looking for a more streamlined helmet
- Limited color options: The Klim Krios Pro is only available in four colors – white, blue, black, and red – so there may not be enough variety if you’re looking for something more unique
Ultimately, if you need a reliable helmet to keep your head safe during those off-road adventures, then the Klim Krios Pro is definitely worth considering.
Like the helmet? It could be on sale right now so make sure you click the button below to check the price.
If you don’t like the helmet, there are plenty of other options below you can check out.
Shark Explore R
There’s a lot you can do with the Shark Explore R helmet. It’s rare to see an adventure helmet with both a visor and goggles. Four ways to wear it: visor only, goggles only, visor and peak, or goggles and peak.
Consider it a road helmet with a clip-on adventure feature. There’s no doubt that Shark makes the best road helmets around. It’s all-day comfy with a soft lining against your cheeks.
The buckle is easy to unclip and close, and the top of the head vents and chin bar provide decent ventilation. Also included is a neck protector that unzips from the mouthpiece and folds down to fit into your jacket. Very nice touch.
The cool thing about this helmet is how it transforms. It’s not uncommon to drive hundreds of miles on adventure trips. You don’t want to fight windblast with a peak and goggles, so go for its road-going setup.
Once you hit the rough stuff, you just screw the peak on, unclip the visor, and pop the goggles on.
Pros
- Includes full face shield, goggles and peak
- Fiberglass construction
Cons
- Sways a lot during rough rides
Ultimately, if you’re in need of a reliable helmet to keep your head safe during those off-road adventures, then the Shark Explore R is definitely worth considering.
Like the helmet? It could be on sale right now so make sure you click the button below to check the price.
If you don’t like the helmet, there are plenty of other options below you can check out.
Shoei Hornet X2
The Shoei Hornet X2 offers superior protection, comfort, and ventilation – making it an ideal choice for riders who want to explore the outdoors with safety and style.
But before you make your purchase, here are some of the pros and cons of this helmet.
Pros
- Airflow System: This helmet comes with an advanced aerodynamic system designed to provide optimal airflow throughout the ride. You’ll stay cool even in hot temperatures
- Modular Design: The helmet’s modular design gives you the option to customize it with accessories like Bluetooth devices, communication systems, and more
- Safety: The Hornet X2 meets all of the safety standards set by Snell and DOT. It also features an emergency quick release system that allows you to easily remove the helmet in case of an emergency
Cons
- Price: The Shoei Hornet X2 is one of the most expensive helmets on the market – so if you’re on a budget, this might not be the best choice for you
- Visor Issues: Some riders have reported issues with fogging or scratches on their visors over time. This could be due to improper cleaning or use of abrasive materials
- Limited Accessories: The Shoei Hornet X2 is compatible with a limited number of accessories, so you may need to buy additional products in order to customize your helmet
In conclusion, the Shoei Hornet X2 offers excellent protection and customization options for riders who value safety and style.
While it can be an expensive investment, the best adventure motorcycle helmets are worth their weight in gold – especially when it comes to keeping your head safe on the road.
If you love this helmet and it fits your style, click the button below to see what it costs. Get yours now for an unbeatable price.
If you’re not satisfied with the helmet option, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Take a look at what’s available below.
Nexx X.WED2 Purist
The Nexx X.WED2 Purist is one of the best adventure motorcycle helmets available on the market today. It has a range of features that make it an excellent choice for riders looking for a helmet with superior protection and style.
So, what are some of the pros and cons of this helmet? Let’s take a look:
Pros
- Lightweight – The Nexx X.WED2 Purist weighs in at just 1kg which makes it incredibly comfortable to wear while riding. The advanced aerodynamic design also helps to reduce wind resistance when traveling at high speeds
- Maximum Protection – This helmet is made from premium materials which provide superior impact protection and comfort against extreme weather conditions like wind, rain, and snow
- Pinlock Lens – The Nexx X.WED2 Purist comes with a Pinlock lens that helps keep the visor clear, even in the worst weather conditions
Cons
- Limited Visor Options – This helmet is only available with a single visor option which means riders may have to choose between visibility and protection depending on their riding conditions
- Price – At $500, the Nexx X.WED2 Purist isn’t cheap compared to some other best adventure motorcycle helmets on the market
- Limited Ventilation – This helmet only has a single outlet vent which can be restrictive in hotter climates
Overall, the Nexx X.WED2 Purist is an excellent choice for those looking for superior protection and style in an adventure motorcycle helmet.
Its lightweight design, impact protection, and Pinlock lens make it one of the best options on the market today.
However, its limited visor options, high price point, and lack of ventilation may put off some riders who are looking for a more affordable helmet with more features.
Though it’s more like any other adventure motorcycle helmet, you might find it to your liking. Click on the button below to check the price as it might be on sale right now.
Not liking it? Check out the plenty of other options below.
AGV AX-9
The AGV AX-9 is one of the best adventure motorcycle helmets on the market.
With its aerodynamic design and lightweight construction, it provides great protection while riding in all conditions. Here are some of the pros and cons associated with this helmet:
Pros
- The AGV AX-9 has a composite shell for superior safety and crash protection
- It features an internal sun shield which can be easily adjusted to provide maximum visibility when riding in bright light conditions
- The helmet comes with a built-in ventilation system that helps keep your head cool when riding in hot weather
Cons
- The AGV AX-9 is heavier than some other helmets on the market, making it a bit more uncomfortable for long rides
- It can be expensive compared to other adventure helmets
- The emergency release system requires two steps to remove the helmet, which could prove difficult if you are injured or disoriented after an accident
Overall, the AGV AX-9 provides superior protection while riding in all conditions, and its versatile design allows you to use it for both on and off road adventures.
However, it can be expensive compared to other helmets and its ventilation system may not provide enough airflow in extreme temperatures.
Like the helmet? It could be on sale right now so make sure you click the button below to check the price.
If you don’t like the helmet, there are plenty of other options below you can check out.
Scorpion EXO-AT950
If you’re a fan of the Bell MX9 Adventure’s price but prefer a modular helmet with some touring comforts, Scorpion’s EXO-AT950 is a great helmet for the money.
Pros
- Drop down internal sun visor included
- Easy to use modular system if you’re into that
- 5 year warranty
Cons
- Less ventilation than the other helmets on our list
- Can’t close the shield while wearing goggles
Modular systems have a huge fanbase, but options are severely limited in the adventure motorcycle helmet market.
The AT950 is pretty much the only choice out there for modular/adventure unless you’re looking to drop two or three-times as much money on a Schuberth E1.
Honestly though it’s a better helmet than the Schuberth for anyone planning on spending any real time off-road as it vents a good bit more air and weighs in at the same four pound mark.
Four pounds puts it in the same weight range as the ultra-quiet Shoei, and while the Scorpion can’t quite compare to the Shoei in that regard, it’s much quieter than other adventure motorcycle helmets at this price point.
Like this helmet? Click the button below to check the price.
Not quite your style? The next option might be right up your alley.
HJC DS-X1
HJC offers a large line-up of products from budget-friendly to premium. The DS-X1 adventure helmet can easily be converted for street or dirt-biased use.
But is it as amazing as they say? Let’s take a look at the goods and bads:
Pros
- Doesn’t require a break-in like most helmets. Works immediately
- Lightweight with a bit of wind noise cancellation
Cons
- Limited color selection: Only comes in black, gray, or silver
- Not very durable compared to other helmets on this list
The peak is easily removable with a Phillips head screw for pounding out the miles at highway speed, and the shield can be removed quickly to use goggles for off-road work.
The DS-X1 uses a polycarbonate shell and comes with a pinlock-ready shield. Closable chin vents and top vents allow air to channel through to the exhaust ports on the back of the helmet. The HJC DS-X1 is DOT rated.
If you love this helmet and it fits your style, click the button below to see what it costs. Get yours now for an unbeatable price.
If you’re not satisfied with the helmet option, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Take a look at what’s available below.
LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier
The LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier offers a great combination of lightweight, comfort and protection. The shell is constructed from carbon fiber for a strong yet lightweight design.
The inner lining also provides added cushioning and comfort to help reduce fatigue during long rides.
That’s good and all, but what are the pros and cons? Take a look:
Pros
- Lightweight: The LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier is a lightweight helmet, weighing in at just 1450 grams. This makes it comfortable to wear over long distances and allows for greater maneuverability while riding
- Comfort: The LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier features an inner lining that provides extra cushioning and comfort to keep your head feeling its best during long rides. It also includes ventilation slots that help keep the air flowing as you ride
Cons
- Expensive: The LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier is one of the pricier adventure motorcycle helmets on the market, with prices ranging up to $500
- Limited protection: While the LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier offers great protection against impacts, it does not offer a large range of protection from the elements
Overall, the LS2 Explorer Carbon Frontier is a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight, comfortable and protective adventure motorcycle helmet.
While it may be expensive, it doesn’t sacrifice on quality or protection. With its strong carbon fiber shell and inner lining cushioning, you can be sure that your head will feel its best as you ride through any terrain.
Is this helmet more your type? Click on the link below to check the price because it’s sure to be on sale right now.
If not, the last option below may pique your interest.
AFX FX-41 DS
The AFX FX-41 DS offers excellent protection and comfort, making it a great choice for riders who are looking to go off-road and stay safe while doing so.
But as with all things, this helmet comes with its own pros and cons. See them below:
Pros
- The helmet is equipped with an advanced ventilation system that helps keep your head cool in even the hottest conditions
- It has a lightweight design that won’t weigh you down on long rides and makes it easy to maneuver through tight terrain
- Stylish exterior shell looks great and can be customized with decals or other accessories to add your own personal touch
Cons
- The helmet does not come with an integrated sun shield, so riders will need to purchase one separately if they want added protection from the sun’s rays
- The helmet may also be a bit too bulky for smaller riders, as it is designed with an oversized fit in mind
- The price tag of this helmet is on the higher end, so it may not be affordable for all budgets
Overall, the AFX FX-41 DS offers plenty of features that make it a great choice for adventure riders.
With its advanced ventilation system and lightweight design, it provides excellent comfort and protection while you’re out exploring off-road trails. However, its larger sizing and expensive price tag might be prohibitive for some riders.
So make sure to keep these factors in mind when deciding if this is the best helmet for your adventures.
This is probably the cheapest, high quality adventure helmet on this list. So if you find it to your liking, better click that button below as you can probably get it for a better bargain today.
Still not to your liking? Let’s take one last look at our top 3 picks and see you find what you like over there. Read on below.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Helmets Per Section
Still not sure which of the best adventure motorcycle helmets to get? Look no further. We’ve spent countless hours researching and testing helmets to bring you our final results and picks for the best helmets per section.
Whether you’re after a lightweight lid or something with more protection, we have all your needs covered. Read on to find out what makes each helmet stand out from the rest and our top picks.
| Rank | Brand & Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Link to purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Arai XD-4 | Extremely lightweight design – At just 1.2 lbs (540 g) | Limited color options – Only comes in three colors (white, black, and silver) | Click to check price |
| Best Value | | Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS | Features Multi-directional protection system (MIPS) which provides superior protection | Only available in a few colors, limiting your choice for customization | Click to check price |
| Also Consider | | Klim Krios Pro | Best-in-class safety features | Bulky design | Click to check price |
If you hadn’t noticed earlier, we’ve already listed down our top three picks at the top of the first table, but here it is again to help you pick.
There are clearly a lot of helmets in the market but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to. Click the link on the helmet that you’re most interested in to check the price because it’s bound to be on sale this time of the year.
People Also Ask
Which is the best adventure motorcycle helmet?
The best adventure motorcycle helmet is the Arai XD4 due to its lightweight design, advanced air ventilation system with an adjustable chin bar ventilation, and dynamic shell shape that is designed to deflect energy in a crash.
It also features an emergency release system for quick removal after a crash. This makes it the perfect choice for any adventurer looking for quality protection and comfort on their ride.
Which adventure motorcycle helmet is the quietest?
The quietest adventure motorcycle helmet is the Shoei Hornet X2.
It features an advanced aerodynamic shell design to reduce wind and air resistance, as well as triple-density EPS liner for sound insulation.
Its integrated neck outlet venting system ensures maximum ventilation and minimum noise levels. Its outer shell also has minimal exterior protrusions to improve airflow efficiency while keeping sound levels low.
The interior padding is also designed to provide extra comfort while reducing noise transmission.
Which adventure motorcycle helmet is best for touring?
The best adventure motorcycle helmet for touring is the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet.
This motorcycle helmet features an advanced polycarbonate shell construction, which provides superior impact protection.
It is also equipped with MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System), which helps reduce rotational forces in a crash, protecting the head and brain from potential injury.
The MX-9 also offers excellent ventilation with adjustable intake ports and 13 exhaust vents to keep you cool on long rides, as well as ample interior padding for comfort and fit customization that can be adjusted with just one hand.
With its combination of safety features, protection and comfort, the Bell MX-9 Adventure Helmet is an ideal choice for any type of touring adventure.
Do adventure motorcycle helmets expire?
Yes, adventure motorcycle helmets expire due to wear and tear or changing safety standards.
You should check the manufacturer’s instructions for details on when your helmet needs to be replaced.
Additionally, helmets should be regularly inspected for any signs of damage that might affect their safety performance.
Why are adventure motorcycle helmets expensive?
Adventure motorcycle helmets are expensive because they provide a stronger level of protection than standard helmets, which includes features such as extra padding, more ventilation and improved face shields for enhanced visibility.
They also often include additional features like communication systems, built-in headphones to muffle wind noise and longer chin straps for better comfort on long rides.
How often should you replace adventure motorcycle helmets?
Adventure motorcycle riders should replace their helmets at least every five years, and preferably sooner if the helmet is damaged or shows signs of wear and tear. Additionally, it’s good practice to inspect a helmet for any damage after each ride.
Also read: What Is the Difference Between Adventure and Road Helmet?
