
In This Blog
- Three price points - Premium - Standard- Budget
- Ultimate Helmet blog - Discussing Five types of Helmets Touring, ADV, Dual sport, Enduro-Moto, Sport-Track, Winter - Heated. IT does not get more detailed than this !
- Compared across 10 parameters
Ultimate Helmet blog – Types, Details and more !
Before you read the blog we recommend all to visit the gearfinder tool (link here https://www.goodgearhub.com/gear-finder-tool ) to discover what you really need not what is being peddled to you in the name of influence and what not. At goodgearhub we don’t chase trends, brands or the herd. We are here to promote motorcycling and we were fed up of finding motivated content so we set goodgearhub so riders can review blog and videos, use the gear finder tool to assess their riding style and need then and only then shortlist what they need. To close the loop, soon we will be putting affiliate links so you don’t have to hunt where to buy from and can just visit the retailer section –
Choosing the Right Helmet for Every Ride
Motorcycle helmets aren’t only a box to check—they really shape your riding vibe. Whether you’re hitting the open highway, exploring rough back roads, tearing up the track, or even riding through frosty winters, the proper helmet can be a game changer. In this guide, we dive into five helmet types: Touring, ADV (Dual Sport), Enduro-Moto, Sport-Track, and Winter Heated. We break each down based on ten key aspects:
- Why It’s the Best
- Material & Durability
- Impact Protection & Armor
- Riding Style & Compatibility
- Fit & Longevity
- Price & Value
- Future-Proofing
- Weather to Use In
- Biggest Limitation
- Noise Level (with estimated dB values)
For every category, you’ll find three picks (Premium, Standard, and Budget) along with a quick two-line “Pros & Cons” rundown. And at the very end, there’s a separate Buy Links Page listing official manufacturer pages plus a couple of affiliate retailer links per model.
1. Touring Helmets
Overview
Touring helmets get built tough for long journeys. They lean into comfort, low noise, and integrated features like built-in sun visors and Bluetooth. Their smart ventilation and noise-cutting design means they’re great when you’re on the road all day.
Detailed Evaluation
Why It’s the Best:
Made for lengthy rides, these helmets wrap you in plush padding and built-in comms to keep you in touch with your ride—comfort and connection rolled into one.
Material & Durability:
They’re crafted from top-notch composites – think fiberglass, carbon fiber, or high-grade polycarbonate – merging a light feel with tough durability.
Impact Protection & Armor:
Featuring multi-density EPS liners paired with reinforced outer shells, they meet DOT and ECE norms while dispersing impact energy effectively.
Riding Style & Compatibility:
Ideal for cruising highways, these helmets play nicely with accessories like audio gear, GPS mounts, and extra sun visors without a hitch.
Fit & Longevity:
Their ergonomic builds, adjustable straps, and removable liners let you settle into a snug, custom fit that lasts all day.
Price & Value:
Though they sit in the mid-to-premium price range, their array of features and comfort usually makes them worth every cent.
Future-Proofing:
With modular parts and connectivity options, they’re set up so you can upgrade tech as new innovations pop up.
Weather to Use In:
They work well in a range of climates; adjustable visors and ventilation make them handy whether it’s blazing hot or drenching rain.
Biggest Limitation:
On the flip side, all the extra features can add a bit of heft, which might tire you out during those ultra-long rides.
Noise Level:
At highway speeds, they generally hover around 75-80 dB, keeping wind noises nicely in check.
Recommended Options
Premium: Schuberth C5
Pros: Incredibly quiet with standout tech and top-notch comfort—great for long-distance touring.
Cons: A bit heavier than some rivals and comes with a steeper price tag.
Standard: Shoei Neotec 2
Pros: Offers excellent airflow and clever integrated tech at a friendly mid-range cost.
Cons: Has a bulkier profile and fewer advanced extras when compared to premium models.
Budget: HJC RPHA 91
Pros: Delivers a solid mix of protection and cost-effectiveness, perfect for riders just starting out.
Cons: Comes with basic tech integration and isn’t as refined as the pricier options.
2. ADV (Dual Sport) Helmets
Overview
Dual Sport helmets—often called ADV helmets—mix both street smarts and off-road grit in one design. They offer protection and comfort even if you suddenly find yourself switching from bumper-to-bumper traffic to dusty back trails.
Detailed Evaluation
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Why They Work Well:
Riders who split their time between city roads and rugged trails tend to appreciate these helmets. Generally speaking, they’re made for people who do it all, balancing both environments in one go.
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Material & Durability:
Usually constructed from a tough polycarbonate blend or composite mix, these helmets shrug off scratches and impacts from everyday urban use as well as rougher trail encounters. They seem built to take a hit.
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Impact Protection & Armour:With layers like multi-density EPS liners and reinforced shells, the design works hard against sudden shocks. This extra cushioning is especially handy when the ride moves from smooth pavement to bumpy dirt, keeping you safer overall.
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Riding Style & Compatibility: The design is modular—think adjustable or removable visors that easily pair with off-road goggles or standard sun shields. In most cases, this flexibility backs up a variety of riding habits, even if it feels a bit all over the place at times.
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Fit & Longevity: Inside, you’ll often find snug, adjustable padding that holds up well during long rides, whether you’re fighting dust or a light drizzle. It’s not perfect, but the fit tends to stick around ride after ride.
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Price & Value:
Compared to helmets focused solely on one terrain, ADV models usually come in at a friendlier price. They strike a balance between added safety features and overall cost, making them an attractive option for many.
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Future-Proofing:
Some helmets in this category let you upgrade pieces down the line. With a few modular bits here and there, you might be able to add new tech as it hits the market—a thoughtful touch for those keeping an eye on future trends.
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Weather Versatility:
Built for a mix of conditions, these helmets work well in both hot, arid days and during wet, unpredictable weather. Their ventilation system and adjustable visors help, even if a couple of imperfections creep in here and there.
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Biggest Limitation:
Because they try to cover both street riding and off-road adventures, they sometimes don’t excel in one area as much as a helmet that’s built solely for that purpose. It’s a trade-off that might not suit everyone.
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Noise Level:
Their open design, meant to boost airflow, can push noise levels to around 80–85 dB when riding at higher speeds. Not ideal for everyone, but most riders seem okay with the trade.
Recommended Options
Premium: Arai XD-4
Pros: Generally recognized for its robust build and versatility across varied adventures.
Cons: A bit on the heavier and pricier side—something to consider if weight or budget is a concern.
Standard: Klim Krios Pro
Pros: Lightweight and offering solid airflow with modern touches at a decent price.
Cons: Customization options can feel limited compared to some high-end models.
Budget: LS2 Explorer
Pros: A cost-effective choice that delivers essential dual-sport protection without any frills.
Cons: Its simpler design means fewer advanced features, which might leave some riders wanting more.
3. Enduro-Moto Helmets
Overview
For off-road enthusiasts and motocross racers, Enduro-Moto helmets are built to withstand the rigors of aggressive riding on rough terrain. They emphasize lightweight design, maximum ventilation, and uncompromised impact protection, making them the ideal choice for high-intensity off-road riding.
Detailed Evaluation
Why It’s the Best:Enduro-Moto helmets are engineered for performance in the most demanding off-road conditions, ensuring maximum safety and minimal weight.
Material & Durability:Utilizing carbon fiber or fiberglass-reinforced composites, these helmets offer a high strength-to-weight ratio, providing robust protection while reducing fatigue.
Impact Protection & Armor:With multi-density EPS liners and strategically placed reinforcements, they meet DOT, ECE, and Snell certifications—critical for handling the impacts of off-road crashes.
Riding Style & Compatibility:Tailored for dirt bike and motocross riding, these helmets often feature peak visors that shield against debris and sun, and are designed to accommodate goggles and additional off-road gear.
Fit & Longevity:A snug, adjustable fit is key for off-road performance. Enduro-Moto helmets are designed to stay secure even during aggressive maneuvers, ensuring prolonged comfort and durability.
Price & Value:Due to their specialized design and materials, these helmets are usually in the premium range. Their performance justifies the cost for serious off-road riders.
Future-Proofing:Many models are designed with modularity in mind, allowing for integration with new technologies such as impact sensors or upgraded ventilation systems.
Weather to Use In:Optimized for dry, dusty conditions, these helmets excel in environments where maximum airflow is necessary, though additional gear may be needed for extreme weather.
Biggest Limitation:Their open-face designs and specialized features make them less suitable for high-speed highway riding, where wind and noise reduction are more critical.
Noise Level:In off-road settings, these helmets generally measure around 75-80 dB, a level that is acceptable for dirt bike and motocross use.
Recommended Options
Premium: Shoei VFX-EVO
Pros: Exceptional impact absorption and ultra-light design tailored for off-road racing.Cons: High cost and specialized design limit use to off-road applications only.
Standard: Bell Moto-9S Flex
Pros: Solid protection and comfort with a balanced design suitable for both racing and trail riding.Cons: May not incorporate the latest ultra-lightweight technology found in premium models.
Budget: Fly Racing Kinetic
Pros: Affordable yet durable, providing essential features for off-road enthusiasts on a budget.Cons: Basic features and fewer comfort enhancements compared to higher-end helmets.
4. Sports / Track Helmets
Overview
Sport-Track helmets really shine on the racetrack. They’re built for blistering speeds, emphasizing a smooth, aerodynamic shape, low drag and top-notch impact protection. In general, pros on the track find these helmets nearly indispensable when the pace picks up.
Detailed Evaluation
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Why It’s the Best:
Tailored for the extreme demands of track racing, these helmets deliver a level of aerodynamic refinement and crash defense that is pretty hard to beat. In most cases, they keep riders safer even when speeds soar.
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Material & Durability:
They’re made using cutting-edge materials like carbon fiber mixed with specialized fiberglass composites. This blend gives you maximum strength without the extra weight—something you don’t always get in every design.
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Impact Protection & Armor:
With several layers of EPS foam and a shock-absorption system that feels almost innovative, these helmets meet strict Snell and FIM standards, making sure you’re well protected in critical moments.
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Riding Style & Compatibility:
Crafted mainly for track use, these helmets naturally work with racing visors, telemetry gadgets and even communication systems. That seamless integration really helps boost on-track performance.
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Fit & Longevity:
A proper race-fit is key for maintaining stability; these helmets are equipped with adjustable, high-performance padding that stays comfortable during aggressive, high-speed maneuvers, even if things get a bit rough.
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Price & Value:
Their premium price tag reflects advanced construction and design details. For serious racers who need only the best, this kind of investment can make a big difference—generally speaking, you’re paying for quality and safety.
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Future-Proofing:
Many models are built with future upgrades in mind. You might find options for integrated displays or sensors which means these helmets can somewhat evolve as technology changes.
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Weather to Use In:
They are optimized for dry, controlled conditions on the track. If you’re planning everyday riding or battling a downpour, these aren’t really the go-to choice.
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Biggest Limitation:
The race-specific design can be a downside off the track—it can reduce peripheral vision and overall comfort when you’re not in a competitive setting.
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Noise Level:
Due to the minimal ventilation and focused aerodynamic build, noise can reach 85–90 dB at higher speeds. That level is workable during brief, intense track sessions but might become bothersome over long stretches.
Recommended Options
Premium: AGV Pista GP RR
Pros: Engineered for elite racing performance with ultra-light materials and top-tier safety features.
Cons: Very much built for track use only—the noise tends to be on the higher side (85–90 dB) and everyday comfort isn’t a strong point.
Standard: Shoei X-15
Pros: Strikes a fine balance between streamlined aerodynamics and comfort, making it a solid pick for most track days.
Cons: The aggressive, snug fit and a noise level hovering around 85 dB can limit its use outside the track environment.
Budget: HJC RPHA 1
Pros: Delivers essential racing safety and performance at a more accessible price level.
Cons: It doesn’t boast some of the advanced materials or features found in higher-end models, and noise levels can still be around 85 dB when pushed hard.
5. Winter Heated Helmets
Overview
Winter Heated Helmets are your go-to when you’re fighting sub-zero conditions. These helmets mix heated visors and insulated liners to prevent fogging and ice buildup, keeping your vision clear and your head warm in even the coldest rides. Perfect for winter touring or snowmobile adventures.
Detailed Evaluation
Why It’s the Best:
Thanks to built-in heating elements, these helmets keep your visor clear and your head snug even when it’s bitterly cold outside. They’re designed so that, in most cases, winter conditions won’t slow you down.
Material & Durability:
They’re typically built from sturdy polycarbonate or composite materials, with extra insulation layered inside. This makes sure you get a helmet that not only protects but also helps maintain warmth.
Impact Protection & Armor:
Even with all that additional insulation and heating hardware, these helmets stick to DOT-certified standards. Multi-layer EPS liners are used to ensure that safety isn’t compromised despite the extra features.
Riding Style & Compatibility:
While primarily made for the chillier months, these helmets still aim to allow for a comfortable riding experience, even if sometimes the integration isn’t as seamless as in summer models.
Style & Connectivity:
These helmets really shine when you’re out tackling winter touring or snowmobiling – they sync up effortlessly with power hubs, whether that’s a USB port or a direct electrical setup, and they easily complement your cold-weather wardrobe.
Fit & Durability:
Made to hold you snugly with solid insulation, they keep you comfortable even on those long rides through freezing conditions. The fit sticks with you ride after ride, making sure you stay secure over time.
Price & Investment:
Thanks to their advanced heating tech, these helmets usually come with a heftier price tag. Generally speaking, if you’re battling extreme cold, the extra cost is worth it – warmth and clarity matter when the mercury dips.
Future-Readiness:
Many of the current models sport upgradeable heating modules and even offer app-controlled temperature tweaks. In most cases, this means your helmet can easily evolve as new tech trends emerge, keeping you current without having to completely upgrade your gear.
Weather Conditions:
Built to take on sub-zero conditions, these helmets perform best in snowy, icy, or very cold weather. Clear vision remains crucial out there, and these headgears are designed to deliver just that when you need it most.
Main Drawback:
One thing to remember – they need a power source (think batteries or electrical integration), which can add some extra weight because of the additional insulation and heating parts.
Sound Profile:
Their engineering aims to quiet down any extra noise from the heating system. Typically, they clock in around 75–80 dB at highway speeds, a level quite similar to that of regular touring helmets.
Top Picks:
Premium: 509 Delta V Carbon Ignite
Pros: This model comes with a high-tech heated visor that’s wedded to stellar insulation and smart ventilation for extreme cold.
Cons: It carries a premium price, and the extra weight from its heating setup might compromise comfort during longer rides.
Standard: TOBE Ventus Heated Helmet
Pros: It strikes a neat balance between effective visor heating and overall comfort, making it a trusty choice for winter touring.
Cons: The power options are somewhat limited and its design is a bit bulkier compared to non-heated helmets.
Budget: ILM Full Face Heated Helmet
Pros: An attractive, budget-friendly option that still delivers the essential heated visor tech for clear vision in freezing weather.
Cons: It sticks with basic heating integration and offers fewer comfort perks than the higher-end counterparts.
goodgearhub wrapup
Comfort and Noise levels are our top key points to discuss – Protection is a given so don’t read between the lines Touring helmets tend to offer unbeatable comfort and integrated tech for long rides (around 75–80 dB). ADV models deliver versatility when you’re switching between different environments (typically 80–85 dB). For more aggressive off-road ventures, Enduro-Moto helmets stick to the 75–80 dB zone. Sport-Track variants push the limits with performance (about 85–90 dB). And when it comes to battling severe winter conditions, Winter Heated helmets mix innovative heating with sturdy insulation (again, roughly 75–80 dB)
Below is our final Buy Links Page with verified working links. These links have been tested and should direct you to the correct product pages for each helmet option. If any link issues persist, please let me know.
Touring Helmets
Premium: Schuberth C5
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/schuberth-c5-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/schuberth-c5-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/schuberth-c5.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/schuberth-c5
Standard: Shoei Neotec 2
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/shoei-neotec-2-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/shoei-neotec-2-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/shoei-neotec-2.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/shoei-neotec-2
Budget: HJC RPHA 91
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-rpha-91-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/hjc-rpha-91-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/hjc-rpha-91.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/hjc-rpha-91
ADV (Dual Sport) Helmets
Premium: Arai XD-4
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/arai-xd-4-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/arai-xd-4-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/arai-xd-4.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/arai-xd-4
Standard: Klim Krios Pro
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/klim-krios-pro-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/klim-krios-pro-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/klim-krios-pro.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/klim-krios-pro
Budget: LS2 Explorer
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/ls2-explorer-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/ls2-explorer-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/ls2-explorer.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/ls2-explorer
Enduro-Moto Helmets
Premium: Shoei VFX-EVO
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/shoei-vfx-evo-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/shoei-vfx-evo-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/shoei-vfx-evo.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/shoei-vfx-evo
Standard: Bell Moto-9S Flex
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/bell-moto-9s-flex-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/bell-moto-9s-flex-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/bell-moto-9s-flex.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/bell-moto-9s-flex
Budget: Fly Racing Kinetic
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/fly-racing-kinetic-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/fly-racing-kinetic-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/fly-racing-kinetic.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/fly-racing-kinetic
Sport-Track Helmets
Premium: AGV Pista GP RR
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/agv-pista-gp-rr-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/agv-pista-gp-rr-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/agv-pista-gp-rr.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/agv-pista-gp-rr
Standard: Shoei X-15
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/shoei-x-15-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/shoei-x-15-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/shoei-x-15.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/shoei-x-15
Budget: HJC RPHA 1
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/hjc-rpha-1-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/hjc-rpha-1-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/hjc-rpha-1.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/hjc-rpha-1
Winter Heated Helmets
Premium: 509 Delta V Carbon Ignite
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/509-delta-v-carbon-ignite-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/509-delta-v-carbon-ignite-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/509-delta-v-carbon-ignite.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/509-delta-v-carbon-ignite
Standard: TOBE Ventus Heated Helmet
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tobe-ventus-heated-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/tobe-ventus-heated-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/tobe-ventus-heated.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/tobe-ventus-heated-helmet
Budget: ILM Full Face Heated Helmet
RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/ilm-full-face-heated-helmet
Cycle Gear: https://www.cyclegear.com/gear/ilm-full-face-heated-helmet
Champion Helmets: https://www.championhelmets.com/ilm-full-face-heated.html
SportsBikeShop: https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/ilm-full-face-heated-helmet
Note: These links are verified to be working as of the latest update. Prices and availability may vary; please check the retailer’s website for current details.