Whether you’re a weekend rider or a pro-rider, if you’re looking to go off road, you’ll also be looking at the best off road helmets available.
All protective gear is important for off road riding, but most people will agree that protecting your head is a top priority and your helmet is your most important purchase.
If you’ve looked for a new off road helmet recently, then you’ll already know there are a lot to choose from. So how do you choose the best? In this post we’ve chosen what we think are the 11 best off road helmets, so keep reading for all the dirt and the latest prices.
Best Off Road Helmets This Year: Our Criteria and Results
Off road helmets differ from other helmets as they need to be lightweight, offer good protection and peripheral vision, and as off road riding is pretty demanding, you need good airflow to help prevent sweat dripping into your eyes.
So we’ve taken the time to do some off road helmet testing to take some of the guesswork out of it for you.
Below is a list of our top picks, together with what we did and didn’t like about each of the off road helmets we have selected. Don’t forget to click on the quick links to check the latest price on Amazon.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Quick Links | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Bell | Moto-9 Flex Helmet | One of the most popular off road helmets available. | While not the most expensive, it is on the high side. | Click To Check Price |
| Runner Up |   | Fox Racing | V3 | Equipped with MIPS. | Visor is fixed and cannot be adjusted. | Click To Check Price |
| Also Consider |   | KLIM | F5 Koroyd Helmet | Features Koroyd safety technology. | Comes in limited colors. | Click To Check Price |
| Top PickUnder $1000 |   | Shoei | VFX-EVO Helmet | Superior ventilation system. | Expensive. | Click To Check Price |
| 5 |   | 6D | ATR-2 | Features award winning ODS technology. | Extra liner makes the appearance of this helmet larger. | Click To Check Price |
| 6 |   | AlpineStars | Super Tech M10 | Lightweight design with MIPS protection. | A-Head Adjustment System may be tricky to fit. | Click To Check Price |
| 7 |   | Arai | VX-Pro4 | Features customizable cheek and temple pads. | Expensive. | Click To Check Price |
| Top PickUnder $500 |   | Bell | MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet | Great value for money. | Some reviews complain of a tight fit. | Click To Check Price |
| 9 |   | Leatt | Moto 7.5 V23 Helmet Kit | Helmet & goggles included in the price. | Only fits Leatt goggles. | Click To Check Price |
| 10 |   | Fly Racing | 2022 Adult Formula CP Helmet | Gets great reviews. | Sizing is on the small side. | Click To Check Price |
| Avoid This One |   | AFX | FX-17 Unisex Off Road Adult Helmet | Very affordable. | No innovative safety features. | Click To Check Price |
Our top picks give you a good idea about the wide selection out there. While one or two may have caught your eye already, keep on reading as we delve deeper into each of these off road helmet’s pros and cons.
But first, let’s take a look at our criteria and what you should look out for.
How We Select The Best Off Road Helmets
Wearing a helmet is not only compulsory in the majority of states in the US, but it can also make the difference in a life or death situation. So when you’re choosing the best off road helmet, you need to take the following into consideration:
Safety Certification
You may or may not have noticed an assortment of stickers at the base of the back of a new off road helmet, but what do they actually mean?
These stickers are in indication of what safety certification each off road helmet meets and where it can be legally used.
There are different helmet safety organizations around the world, but, for example, if you are riding in the USA, then your helmet must be DOT (Department of Transport) rated to be legal.
In Europe, your helmet will need to be ECE certified and if you want to compete in off road events in the UK, then you will need an ACU (Auto Cycle Union) sticker to be allowed to enter.
Weight
When compared to a regular full face road helmet, an off road helmet is usually much lighter. The lighter the helmet, the more comfortable the helmet is to wear and the less strain there is on your neck and shoulders.
This is especially true with off road riding which often includes rough terrain, jumps and difficult twists and turns.
All this bouncing around and strenuous riding means the best off road helmets need to be super lightweight, to give you the extra freedom of movement and so you don’t cause any unnecessary strain to your neck.
Comfort & Fit
Off road helmets vary in size and shape and this differs between the brands. Plus people’s head shapes vary too. So it’s crucial to find an off road helmet that is comfortable and fits you well.
Always try on a new helmet before you buy. But if you’re buying online make sure you check the manufacturer’s sizing guide and measure the diameter of your head first.
When trying on a new helmet, make sure it sits squarely and comfortably on your head. The top of the helmet’s opening should sit just above your eyebrows and there should be good peripheral vision.
In addition, the helmet should feel nice and snug, but not too tight; you should be able to slide in a finger or two. Plus if it’s too tight, it may give you a headache after a while.
However, if the helmet moves around or easily slips out of place, it is too big and you will need to go down a size.
Ventilation
As off road riding is a pretty demanding and physical sport, you will get hot and sweaty, no matter the conditions. This is where good ventilation comes in.
The best off road helmets have wide eye openings to allow maximum airflow through the helmet and various systems for built-in ventilation.
Good ventilation prevents fogging, whether you are in hot or cold weather. It’s critical in hot weather to allow cooler air to flow through your helmet and to take the hot air away.
Plus in cooler conditions the ventilation will allow for moisture to escape and to prevent condensation building up and fogging-up your goggles or visor.
Design
Design covers a range of variables such as materials used, the finish and other aesthetic qualities.
As long as your off road helmet meets the safety requirements, is strong and reliable, fits you well and has good ventilation there’s no reason you can’t pick a helmet that fits your particular style or even your favorite color.
Brand Reputation
Look for brands that are continuously pushing new innovations for off road helmets. Brands like Arai, Alpinestars, Bell and Shoei are all continuously pushing the boundaries with new designs and safety features.
In addition, good brand reputation means it’s a brand people trust. You don’t want to take chances on no-name brands with something as crucial as your personal headgear protection.
Customer Reviews
While the Mudbike team has tried and tested all the off road helmets mentioned and more, who better to trust than the very people who have bought, and tried and tested the off road helmets themselves?
We look at customer and professional reviews on the various different platforms including Amazon, dirt bike websites and adventure rider forums.
So there you have it, our criteria and tips about what to look for in the best off road helmets. So let’s dive in and take a closer look at our top picks.
Best Off Road Helmets Of 2023
We’ve tried to include a wide choice of the best off road helmets to suit both you and your pocket. No matter your budget you’re sure to find an off road helmet that works for you, so keep on reading to find out more.
Top Pick – Bell Moto-9 Flex Helmet
Advantages:
- One of the most popular off road helmets available
- Bell offers a 5 year warranty
Disadvantages:
- While not the most expensive, it is priced on the high side
- Only 2 visor screws, which means the visor can move around when riding
The Bell Moto-9 Flex is one of the most popular helmets worldwide and is worn by some of the top teams and pro off road competitors. And with good reason.
This lightweight MX helmet features a first of its kind 3 layer impact-resistant shell made from different densities of carbon composites. What this means is that it’s one of the safest off road helmets on the market.
Other features include a Velocity Flow Ventilation system for maximum cooling and a fully adjustable Flying Bridge Visor with air intake vents.
In addition to this excellent ventilation system the Bell Moto-9 Flex features Bell’s own Flex Energy Management interior liner which gives a more personalized fit for different head shapes, and which makes this one of the most comfortable off road helmets available today.
Interested? Then click on the link below for the latest deal on Amazon.
No need to jump in and buy the first one, we’ve got plenty of more options.
Runner-Up – Fox Racing V3
Advantages:
- Equipped with MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System)
- 4 shell and EPS sizes for best in class fit
Disadvantages:
- Visor is fixed and cannot be adjusted
- Price is on the high side
Fox Racing is one of the most popular brands for off road helmets and other MX protective gear and the Fox Racing V3 helmet does not disappoint.
This top of the line helmet from Fox is equipped with MIPS which adds a low-friction layer of extra protection between the helmet and your head. So if you’re worried about safety then this helmet is for you.
Other technologically advanced features include Multi Composite Technology (MCT) shell construction which blends carbon and FRP resins to provide a light, yet rigid external shell, and a dual-density Varizorb EPS liner which provides protection by spreading the forces of impact across a wider surface area.
This helmet also has excellent ventilation and a magnetic visor release system which allows the visor to detach in the event of a crash.
Sound good? Then follow the link for all the info and the latest price.
Still not quite ticking all the boxes? Then read on for some more options.
Also Consider – KLIM F5 Koroyd Helmet
Advantages:
- Features Koroyd & MIPS safety technology
- Lightweight
Disadvantages:
- Comes in limited colors
- Not the most expensive, but it is on the high side
KLIM is a global leader in designing and manufacturing innovative technical riding gear for both the snowmobile and motorcycle rider.
The KLIM F5 Koroyd Helmet is an updated version of the already technical F5 and gets its name from its innovative safety feature, Koroyd.
Koroyd is a unique next generation energy absorbing technology, which is an additional layer of safety to the multi-density EPS foam within the helmet core. It crushes on impact in a controlled manner which spreads the energy of a collision.
This together with the MIPS system makes this KLIM off road helmet one of the safest on the market.
Click on the link below for the full specs and the latest price on Amazon.
If you don’t like this one, there are more options below.
Best Off Road Helmets Under 1000 Dollars
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for and have the cash to splash? Then keep reading for our selection of the best off road helmets under $1000.
SHOEI VFX-EVO Helmet
Advantages:
- Superior ventilation system
- Features an emergency quick release system (EQRS)
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Lots of wind noise for such an expensive helmet
The SHOEI VFX-EVO is a premium MX and off road helmet that is stylish, comfortable and safe.
This helmet is designed with SHOEI’s exclusive Motion Energy Distribution System (MEDS) which helps to absorb impact in the case of a fall or crash.
In addition this off road helmet features superior ventilation with sixteen intake and exhaust vents that work together with EPS lined air channels to regulate air supply within the helmet. This means that there is plenty of airflow to keep you cool even on the toughest of rides.
Riders and racers alike will also enjoy the sweat absorption of the Max-Dry inner liner which is easy to remove and is washable.
The SHOEI VFX-EVO offers many additional features making it well worth the money for both amateur and professional riders alike.
Click on the link below for the latest price on Amazon.
While we covered some of the top brands, there are more below.
6D ATR-2
Advantages:
- Features award winning ODS technology
- Good peripheral vision
Disadvantages:
- Extra liner makes the appearance of this helmet larger
- One of the most expensive helmets listed
6D Helmets is a relative newcomer to the off road helmet scene, but they have been making waves with their unique designs and innovative safety features.
The 6D ATR-2 is the company’s flagship off road helmet and is the first to feature their award winning ODS technology.
This advanced Omni-Directional Suspension system is a fully active, in-helmet suspension and kinetic energy management system. This means that, in case of impact, this helmet is designed to protect the rider’s brain better than more traditional helmet designs.
While this helmet is priced on the high side it has many additional features including excellent ventilation, good peripheral vision and emergency quick release cheek pads that make the extra bucks worth it.
Make sure you click on the link below for a list of all the features and the latest price on Amazon.
Don’t make any decisions yet, there’s still more to come!
Alpinestars SuperTech M10
Advantages:
- Lightweight design with MIPS protection
- Emergency Release System (ERS) for emergency cheek pad removal
Disadvantages:
- A-Head Adjustment System may be tricky to fit.
- Visor is fixed
Alpinestars has been in the business of designing and manufacturing motorsport clothing and protective gear since 1963. However, it wasn’t until 2018 that they released their first helmet, making them the only company that protects the rider from head to toe.
The Alpinestars Supertech M10 was 5 years in the making and comes with a collection of impressive features.
Firstly, it’s made with carbon composites, making it one of the lightest off road helmets on the market. You can feel the difference when you wear it over long periods of riding.
In addition, there are two patented features which include the A-Head Adjustment System and, just like the Fox, a visor quick release system.
The A-Head Adjustment System is a unique feature where the rider can fine tune the fit by tilting the helmet backwards or forwards or by raising or lowering the helmet fit. Some riders will love this feature, but while unique, it can be quite tricky to get it right.
This helmet comes with plenty of other features including excellent ventilation, MIPS and ERS, making it well worth the price.
Sounds good? Then make sure you follow the link below for the latest price on Amazon.
Sounds too fancy? Then read on for some more options below.
Arai VX-Pro4 Off Road Helmet
Advantages:
- Features customizable cheek and temple pads
- Interior components are all replaceable
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Ventilation not as good as some of the other top brands
Arai is a Japanese brand that has been around since the 1950s and is a world leader in premium motorcycle helmets. The Arai VX-Pro4 has been around since 2014 and with good reason.
It’s a strong and durable helmet that uses Arai’s traditional composites rather than carbon or other more modern materials.
Contributing to the higher price is the fact that each Arai helmet is meticulously handcrafted by a team of craftsmen and women. From the laminate layers to the interior lining you can be sure of exceptional quality.
One of the nice things about this premium helmet is that all the interior components are replaceable. So while this is an expensive helmet, you have the option to revamp ‘tired’ parts without having to fork out for a new helmet.
This is an extremely comfortable helmet, however, it does lack the innovation of some of the other top brands.
Interested? Then click on the link for the latest price for this off road helmet on Amazon.
Wallet can’t stretch that far? Then read on for some of our less expensive picks.
Best Off Road Helmets Under 500 Dollars
You shouldn’t take chances with your helmet, so you should get the best you can afford.
However, if you’re a novice rider or you just can’t afford a premium helmet, don’t worry we’ve got you covered with the best off road helmets under $500. So keep reading for our top picks.
Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet
Advantages:
- Great value for money
- Lightweight polycarbonate
Disadvantages:
- Some reviews complain of a tight fit
- Ventilation not as efficient as premium helmets
The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Helmet is one of the best options for under $500. Simply put, there is no other ‘cheaper’ helmet that offers so many features.
This go-anywhere helmet is a dual helmet that can be used both on and off road. The visor can be lifted up to slip in a pair of goggles, or remove it altogether for riding the trails.
It’s a lightweight helmet that is equipped with multi-directional impact protection (MIPS) which is a safety feature normally reserved for more expensive helmets.
In addition, top brand Bell has included the latest ventilation technology, known as Velocity Flow ventilation into this lower-end helmet.
It uses the front air intake to bring cool air through the inner EPS liner and then out through the rear vents. Although there are fewer intake and exhaust vents than in other more expensive helmets, the ventilation is still effective.
Sounds good? Then click on the link for the full specs and the latest price on Amazon.
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Then keep reading for more of our top picks.
Leatt Moto 7.5 V23 Helmet Kit
Advantages:
- Helmet & goggles included in the price
- Injected polymer compound shell comes in three sizes
Disadvantages:
- Only compatible with Leatt goggles
- Limited colors available
The Leatt Moto 7.5 V23 Helmet Kit is the latest offering from this South African brand and has many features of their top end models, all at a more affordable price.
Instead of carbon this ‘wallet-friendly’ helmet is made from an injected polymer compound and the shell comes in 3 sizes for a better fit. At 2.76 lbs it’s a super lightweight helmet that you won’t mind wearing all day.
The safety features, normally found only on their premium models, include 360° Turbine Technology which is a viable alternative to MIPS and reduces the risk of brain injuries by up to 30%, four-density impact foam, removable liner and a high-level of ventilation.
The 7.5 off road helmet also features a breakaway visor plus an emergency cheek pad which, in case of an accident, can be removed to help take the helmet off without causing the rider any further injuries.
Don’t forget to click on the link below – you won’t believe all the features included in this off road helmet, and at an unbeatable price.
Narrowed things down for you? Don’t stop reading, we’ve still got a couple more for you.
Fly Racing 2022 Adult Formula CP Helmet
Advantages:
- Gets great reviews
- ECE/DOT approved
Disadvantages:
- Reports of the sizing being on the small side
- Not as lightweight as some other brands
The Fly Racing Formula CP Helmet offers the same level of protection as Fly Racing’s top end off road helmet models, but at a much more affordable price.
At almost 4 lbs it’s not as lightweight as some of its competitors, but the comfort liner and quick release cheek pads make this helmet comfortable enough to wear for longer periods.
The Fly Racing Formula CP Helmet’s polycarbonate alloy shell construction gives excellent penetration resistance and is backed up with impact energy cells made from the latest RHEON™ technology.
Finally, this helmet features Fly’s True Functional Ventilation system (TFV).
This means that when you’re riding, air is forced through multiple air intake vents, then passed through aligned vent channels in the EPS and exits out multiple rear exhaust vents, creating superior ventilation, equal to the top models.
But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for more information and the latest price.
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Then read on for our final pick.
AFX FX-17 Unisex-Adult Off-Road-Helmet
Advantages:
- Very affordable price
- Made from poly-alloy plastic making it lightweight and strong
Disadvantages:
- No innovative safety features
- You get what you pay for
While we include the AFX FX-17 as one to avoid, it really comes down to what type of riding you plan to do.
As a serious off road pro, we would suggest buying the best off road helmet that you can afford with all the additional innovative safety features. However, if you’re just starting out and don’t want to fork out for an expensive helmet yet, then this one will do the job.
It’s made from poly-alloy plastic, which makes this helmet lightweight but strong. While this helmet doesn’t include any specific safety features it does meet or exceed both ECE and DOT motorcycle helmet safety standards
Where this helmet does excel is in its ventilation system. It features 11 points of ventilation with chin, side, forehead top and rear vents for good airflow.
This helmet also features a removable and washable inner liner and removable cheek pads making it easy to keep the inside clean.
If you’re looking for an entry level option then click on the link below for the latest price on Amazon.
So there you have it, our top 11 picks for the best off road helmets available on the market today. We’ve tried to cover a wide selection of price points so you can choose an off road helmet that fits your budget.
Still unsure which to buy? Then read on for our final results.
Summary: Our Final Results And Picks For The Best Off Road Helmets
Each of the best off road helmets listed in this article have their pros and cons and different price tags. If you’re still unsure which to pick, we’ve narrowed it down even further for you and put together a summary of our top 3.
Check out our final selection below and click on the links for the latest price on Amazon.
| Ranking | Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Bell | Moto-9 Flex Helmet | This helmet ticks all the boxes, scores high on safety plus it’s not the most expensive. | Click To Check Price |
| Runner Up | | Alpinestars | SuperTech M10 | Lightweight design with MIPS safety technology and many other features. | Click To Check Price |
| Best Budget Option | | Leatt | Moto 7.5 V23 Helmet Kit | Both helmet and goggles are included in the price. | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly a lot of off road helmets in the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to.
Click the link on the off road helmets that you’re most interested in to check the price because, you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
People Also Ask
What helmets do pro motocross riders wear?
Pro motocross riders wear helmets from the top brands that are packed with the latest technology and safety features. Every year off road helmets are evolving, with brands bringing out new models every season.
The motocross pros look for MIPS technology or the equivalent, good ventilation (the more vents and exhausts the better) and other high spec safety features.
Top brands like Shoei, Bell, Airoh and Alpinestars are used by pro motocross riders as they are continuously developing their motocross helmets to the highest of standards.
Can you wear an off road helmet on the road?
Yes, you can wear an off road helmet on the road as long as the helmet meets the same safety requirements that road helmets do.
Both road and off road helmets are made from the same materials, however, they are designed differently.
Off road helmets are designed to be used at lower speeds and so they have larger eye ports or openings and usually use goggles as eye protection instead of visors.
If you’re riding in hot weather and anticipate low speeds then an off road helmet may be preferable to a road or street helmet. There is better air flow, plus the inners of off road helmets are removable and washable so it’s easier to keep your helmet clean.
Why are off-road helmets different?
Off road helmets are different from road or street helmets because they are designed for a different purpose.
All motorcycle helmets are designed to protect the rider’s head, to maintain good visibility and to protect from the elements like the wind.
However, off road helmets are also designed for slower speeds in rough terrain. As off road riding can be pretty hard core, an off road helmet should be open to reduce sweating, with wide eye openings for good ventilation and good peripheral vision.
A peak is often desirable to deflect the sun’s rays and to protect against dust, dirt, branches and other natural obstacles. And goggles are used as eye protection instead of a visor.
Do off-road helmets expire?
Off road helmets do not have a set expiry date, but most manufacturer’s and safety organizations recommend replacing them after every 3 – 5 years of normal use.
This is because a helmet wears over time. The foam padding can become compressed causing the helmet to become too big, the outer shell can become brittle and the glues, resins and adhesives used to stick your helmet together can lose their effectiveness.
Most brands of off road helmets will have a sticker on the inside of the helmet with the recommended expiry date which is normally 5 years after the date of manufacture. However, this is a guideline only.
If your helmet has been in an accident or dropped from a significant height you should replace your helmet straight away.
In addition, how you maintain your off road helmet will also play a part. Always make sure you clean your helmet regularly, handle it carefully and store it away properly to prolong its life.
Summary: Our Final Results And Picks For The Best Off Road Helmets
Each of the best off road helmets listed in this article have their pros and cons and different price tags. If you’re still unsure which to pick, we’ve narrowed it down even further for you and put together a summary of our top 3.
Check out our final selection below and click on the links for the latest price on Amazon.
| Ranking | Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Bell | Moto-9 Flex Helmet | This helmet ticks all the boxes, scores high on safety plus it’s not the most expensive. | Click To Check Price |
| Runner Up | | Alpinestars | SuperTech M10 | Lightweight design with MIPS safety technology and many other features. | Click To Check Price |
| Best Budget Option | | Leatt | Moto 7.5 V23 Helmet Kit | Both helmet and goggles are included in the price. | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly a lot of off road helmets in the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to.
Click the link on the off road helmets that you’re most interested in to check the price because, you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
