A motorcycle helmet is not an accessory — it is your first and last line of defence in a crash. The right helmet combines protection, fit and suitability for your riding style. Never buy a helmet without ECE certification; riding one on public roads is illegal in the EU. For a full-face or open-face helmet that fits properly, see also our women-specific helmet guide or the complete helmet buying guide.
💡 Core rule: The helmet that fits your head shape and riding style best is the right one — not the most expensive. A €200 helmet with a perfect fit protects better than an €800 helmet that pinches. Always combine your helmet with a complete motorcycle jacket from our motorcycle gear cost guide for a full overview of your complete kit.
The Four Helmet Types — Which Do You Choose?
Every helmet type has specific pros and cons. Your choice depends on how and where you ride. Also read our best motorcycle helmet guide for an in-depth comparison of specific brands and models.
Maximum protection for motorway and sport
Fully encloses chin and face. Offers the best aerodynamics and noise reduction. The standard for serious motorway riders and sporty riders.
Pro: Best impact protection, optimum wind quietness.
Con: Less practical for city rides with lots of stop-and-go.
Flexibility for touring and commuting
Folding chin bar for communication or a snack without removing the helmet. Combines the best of both worlds for the versatile rider.
Pro: Opens at a standstill, full protection while riding.
Con: On average 200–300g heavier than a comparable full-face.
Light and open — city and scooter
Open face, light and breathable. Popular with scooter riders and commuters. Offers no chin protection — combine with a chin strap for more safety.
Pro: Light, easy on and off, good visibility.
Con: No chin protection on impact.
Off-road and adventure
Designed for dirtbike and adventure riding on unpaved terrain. Used with motocross goggles instead of a visor. Not suitable for high speeds on the motorway.
Pro: Maximum ventilation, light, unobstructed view.
Con: No visor protection, unsuitable for the motorway.
Helmet type per riding situation
| Riding situation | Recommended helmet type | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Motorway / long distance | Full-face helmet | Acoustics, aerodynamics, full protection |
| City + motorway mixed | Flip-up / Modular | Opens at red lights, full protection while riding |
| City / scooter / commuting | Open-face (Jet) | Light, airy, easy on/off |
| Adventure / off-road | Off-road / Enduro | Ventilation, motocross goggle compatibility |
Safety Standards — ECE 22.06 Is the Standard
Since June 2023, ECE 22.06 has been the mandatory European safety standard for new motorcycle helmets. It replaces the old 22.05 standard with stricter tests and additional rotational impact assessment. Riding without an ECE-certified helmet in the EU is illegal on public roads. For full-body protection, combine the helmet with CE-certified protectors in your jacket and pants.
💡 Always check the sticker: Every helmet should have an ECE 22.06 sticker on the inside. If it is missing, or if it only says 22.05, you are looking at an old helmet or an illegal product — walk away.
| Standard / System | Description | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| ECE 22.06 | Mandatory EU standard for all new helmets. Stricter than 22.05. | Yes — mandatory |
| SHARP (1–5 stars) | Independent crash-test database. 5 stars = best protection. | Yes — check sharp.dft.gov.uk |
| MIPS | Reduces rotational forces from angled impacts. | Recommended |
| DOT (USA) | American standard — less strict than ECE. Not equivalent to the EU norm. | Not sufficient for Europe |
Fit — The Most Important Factor
A helmet that does not fit well does not protect well. And an uncomfortable helmet does not get worn — and a helmet you do not wear does not protect. Follow these steps for the right fit.
How to determine your helmet size
- 1 Measure your head circumference with a measuring tape at the widest point: about 2.5 cm above the eyebrows and above the ears. Note it in centimetres.
- 2 Compare with the brand-specific size chart. A size M at Shoei is not the same as M at HJC — every brand has its own proportions.
- 3 Test the pressure evenly. Put the helmet on and press lightly. Even pressure everywhere, no pressure points at the temples or forehead.
- 4 Test the rotation. Turn the helmet left and right. With a well-fitting helmet, your head moves with it. If the helmet rotates while your head stays still — it is too big.
- 5 Wear it for at least 10–15 minutes. Pressure points that appear after 5 minutes become unbearable after 30 minutes of riding. In doubt? Choose the smaller size.
Budget — What Do You Get Per Price Tier?
Entry-level
Polycarbonate shell, CE 22.06, basic ventilation. LS2 Stream Evo, HJC i10, Nolan N60-6. Suitable for commuters and beginning riders.
Mid-range — the sweet spot
Better padding, Pinlock-ready visor, improved ventilation. AGV K3, HJC RPHA 70, Shoei J-Cruise 3. The best price-quality ratio.
Premium
Composite shell, weight under 1,400g, premium lining. Shoei NXR2, AGV K6 S, HJC RPHA 11. Noticeably lighter and quieter.
Top class
Carbon monocoque, under 1,300g, race aerodynamics. Shoei X-SPR Pro, Arai RX-7V Evo, AGV Pista GP RR. For the rider who makes no compromises.
Top Brands — Who Makes What?
| Brand | Origin | Best for | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoei | Japan | Best acoustics, premium class, long oval head shapes | €300–€1,200+ |
| HJC | South Korea | Every budget, intermediate oval, excellent price-quality ratio | €100–€700 |
| AGV | Italy | Race technology, design, intermediate oval | €200–€900 |
| Schuberth | Germany | Best noise reduction, touring flip-up | €400–€900 |
| Arai | Japan | Hand-built, long oval, premium segment | €500–€1,500+ |
| LS2 | China | Best price-quality ratio under €300 | €80–€300 |
Not sure which helmet suits you?
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Also read
- → Best motorcycle helmet 2026: complete buying guide with brands and models
- → CE protectors explained: what do Level 1 and Level 2 mean?
- → Motorcycle jacket vs. one-piece suit — which fits your riding style?
- → Choosing motorcycle boots: EN 13634, types and fit
- → Start the AI-powered GearPilot advisor
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