A dirt bike helmet is one of the most significant purchases a rider will make in safety equipment; thus, it should not be taken lightly. When purchasing a dirt bike helmet, certifications, shell material, EPS, shape, ventilation, and peripheral vision are all considered.
Dirt bike helmets are the best way to gain total protection while riding on motocross tracks. These off-road helmets are made to protect you from a direct strike in the event of a collision.
You may have even noticed dirt bike helmets’ distinct design, which differs from a street helmet due to the enlarged chin, increased ventilation, and shell design.
This one-of-a-kindness demonstrates how important these helmets are for off-road riding and giving the rider or motorcycle exceptional safety.
We look at some of the top manufacturers’ high-end helmet offerings in this list.
Contents
Best Dirt Bike Helmet
Shoei VFX-EVO
The Shoei VFX-EVO succeeded the long-running VFX-W as the Japanese helmet manufacturer’s top-of-the-line (and only) motocross/off-road helmet in December 2017. M.E.D.S. (Motion Energy Distribution System) is a feature on the VFX-EVO.
According to Shoei, M.E.D.S. is meant to limit rotational acceleration energy to the head in the event of an accident. The VFX-EVO is one of the most comfortable dirt bike helmets on the market, in addition to its eye-catching look.
Safety
Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) shell technology is used in the Shoei VFX-EVO.
The multi-layered composite material used in the Shoei X-Fourteen track helmet and the RF-1200 sport bike helmet are the same. It’s fiberglass, and Shoei combines it with organic fibers, designed to be lightweight and flexible to absorb energy.
Shoei has created a liner that shields the rider from spinning pressures for the first time. MEDS is Shoei’s version on the liner used by Bell and 6D. (motion energy distribution system). EQRS was added to the VFX-EVO by Shoei.
Paramedics can remove the cheek pads and, as a result, the helmet of a downed rider with less chance of injuring the rider’s neck using this procedure. Finally, the Shoei VFX-EVO features a robust double-D ring clasp that, when properly secured, should keep the helmet secure.
Ventilation
A brow vent crosses the goggle port. Two crown vents are located just above it, drawing air from the peak into the helmet. There’s also the chin bar vent to consider. This invigorates the lips and face with fresh air.
It has a washable foam filter, an aluminum screen and is detachable. The crown, top, lower, collar, and sides of the helmet all include exhausts, which are meant to provide optimum ventilation and keep you cool when riding off-road.
Many riders consider the VFX-venting EVO’s to be exceptional. Water may enter the chin bar vent if it rains, but I doubt this will be an issue if you’re working up a sweat.
You should be fine if you’re riding in the heat and working hard because the venting is excellent to exceptional.
Visor/Peak
The peak also serves as a roost protection visor, reducing lift and buffeting. Finally, the air is directed to the crown air vents. Remove a single universal screw and slide the visor down to the desired position to lower it.
Peaks can be changed to reduce lift at high speeds. It’s a good thing the peak shears off upon impact because it could cause rotational damage if it dips in and isn’t adequately secured by three polycarbonate screws.
The AIM+ composite shell now has more safety measures, such as the new MEDS anti-rotation system and the quick-release cheek pad removal mechanism (EQRS).
The peak and chin bar has also been improved. There’s also plenty of room inside for goggles, and the AIM+ composite shell has various safety measures.
It’s also well-constructed, with customers praising the aerodynamics, breathability, and comfort.
Pros
- Addresses rotational energy
- Not heavy as the prior VFX-W
- Pleasant to wear
Cons
- Not the Lightest helmet in the market
- Removing and installing the liner is a pain
The VFX-W has been replaced by the VFX-EVO, which has a new name and style and has new protective technologies.
Bell Moto-9 Flex
The Bell Moto-9 Flex is a three-layer impact liner worn by Eli Tomac, Cooper Webb, and the entire Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki squad. It is designed to disperse impact energy more evenly and prevent rotational energy transfer.
The flexible, segmented liner is also designed to provide a more adaptable, tailored fit for a wider range of head shapes, as well as great airflow throughout the helmet.
Safety
Our helmet lining protects your neck and head in low-speed, angular hits while also decreasing rotational pressures on the helmet.
When the helmet is worn, the Flex liner is meant to move in and out of the way. The Moto 9 Flex is well-suited for low-speed motocross and off-road collisions,. Thanks to its rotational strength and additional cushioning, rotational forces can be extremely painful and detrimental to the rider.
Additional layers of protection are added to the helmet to reduce energy transfer. Additional layers lengthen the distance a strike must travel before impacting your head, improving the liner’s ability to absorb, disperse, and reduce impact stress.
Ventilation
How does the Moto 9 Flex ventilation compare to that of other helmets? With so many layers within the liner, you’d think the helmet wouldn’t provide much airflow or ventilation. Riding aggressively, particularly during training and competition, might cause your helmet to overheat at the pro level.
The Moto 9 Flex has nine unique vents to keep the rider well-ventilated and allow them to breathe and cool down rapidly. The comfort liner’s various perforations and vents allow air to flow freely from the front to the back of the helmet.
Visor/Peak
Bell gives riders a level of visibility compared to other high-end features. The big holes on both the top and bottom of the mask, as well as plenty of room in front for goggles of any size, make seeing out of the eye-port a breeze.
If money isn’t an issue and you want a high-tech, pro-level helmet, seek one that keeps you safe and comfortable. Because it blends safety and comfort, the Bell Moto 9 Flex is our top pick for pro-level helmets.
Pros
- High-quality finish
- Lightweight (1300g)
- Robust
- Comes with a quick, padded carry case
- Stylish lid with a curved shell form
- Soft padding ensures a perfect fit
Cons
- Only two lateral screws
- The shell brings the chin-piece close to your mouth
Instead of using a single layer of EPS, the Moto-9 Flex employs a three-polymer system to give a ‘progressive’ energy management system that can absorb low, mid, and high energy levels.
6D ATR 2
The 6D ATR-2 is the top-of-the-line dirt bike helmet from the Brea, California-based firm. It was first released in February 2018. The ATR-2 is equipped with sophisticated Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS), which improves linear and angular acceleration mitigation performance. The “Brow Rib” and “Cervical Protection Zone” are two other important safety features of the ATR-2.
Safety
This helmet is designed to keep its rider as safe as possible, as has been said previously. The first line of defense is the thick outer shell. The solid outer liner (basically an inner shell) gives additional protection. This is due to the presence of dampening towers on both the outer and inner linings, which absorb energy from collisions and other potential harm before it reaches your brain.
The front brow rib protects the face and eyes. The rear Cervical Protection Zone, on the other hand, shields the neck from backward and sideways vibrations.
This is a highly secure helmet. Both the DOT and the ECE have tested and certified this helmet. It hasn’t, however, been SHARP tested.
Ventilation
The ventilation in this helmet is fantastic. Other helmets may have a few ports and vents here and there, but D6 appears to have gone nuts and crammed ventilation points into every available space.
The ATR-2 has 15 ventilation points, including nine intake and six exhaust ports. The result is a helmet that is well ventilated and comfortable to wear. The ports and exhausts can be mixed and matched to provide the right support and comfort for the situation.
Visor/Peak
Visibility has never been an issue with the ATR-2. Because of the open-face design, there is enough room for whatever goggles you might choose to bring. A detachable sun visor keeps the brightness from the sun out of your eyes and is easily installed and removed with a few screws.
This helmet is generally designed for the most dedicated and serious of bikers. Because of the advanced technology incorporated in the ATR-2, you get a lot more for your money, but it’s well worth it.
Pros
- Lightweight
- No issue of Sore Neck
- Huge Visibility Range
- Washable/removable Pads for lining/emergency release
- System of Air Gap Ventilation
- Warranty: 3 Years
- The paint quality and matte finish
Cons
- The snap clasp on the chinstrap’s end isn’t as easy to fasten as others
- It would not be inside the cheek pad if the strap were a half-inch lower
- With gloves on, it can be difficult to clasp rapidly.
You can buy it from Amazon
Arai VX-Pro 4
In the early 1950s, Arai began producing helmets. In July 2014, the VX-Pro4 superseded the VX-Pro3 as the Japanese company’s premier motocross/off-road helmet, approximately half a century later. While absorbing impact energy is crucial, Arai feels that preventing or reducing impact energy from entering the helmet is where additional performance can be achieved.
As a result, the VX-Pro4, as well as all of Arai’s helmets, are egg-shaped. The round and smooth design of Arai’s helmets, according to the company, allows them to “flash off” objects. Glancing off, according to Arai, is the capacity to release as much energy as possible without stopping or snagging on an impediment rather than putting it directly into the helmet.
Safety
The VX PRO-4 has a SNELL rating of 2015 and complies with DOT safety rules for maximum riding safety and security. There are three massive chin vents on the front, one in the center and two on the sides. They’re all fairly substantial.
The Arai VX-PRO 4’s circular chin bar is one of the model’s most distinctive features. In the event of an accident, the purpose of a chin bar is to break out and away from your face, rather than to collapse inward on your face or chin. The exterior of the mask is made of sturdy materials that will not collapse against the rider’s face, offering an extra layer of protection and comfort.
Ventilation
The chin vents are built-in. Arai has greatly enhanced the airflow on the PRO 3. The majority of motocross riders ride with their vents open. As a result, Arai turned off all of the vents. They also come with an outside back shell to keep debris from the ventilation system.
There are eight passive vents on the outside of the helmet (not including the front mask vents). The extra vents on the back of the helmet suck warm, moist air out, allowing cool air to circulate to the front, sides, and top of the helmet, keeping the rider cool.
Cool air circulates throughout the helmet thanks to the comprehensive vent system. To improve airflow into the mask, the back of the breath guard can be removed. If you don’t need as much airflow, you can easily open or close the breath guard inside the mask.
Visor/Peak
Looking attentively under the visor’s peak, you can notice a grated space underneath it. This area has been designed to absorb direct sunlight to prevent glare and stray light. Another unique aspect of the Arai VX-PRO 4 is that it protects the rider’s eyes while boosting overall visibility.
In a collision or accident, the visor or peak easily breaks off. The mask’s peak can be adjusted up and down to improve visibility or prevent sun glare.
Overall, this is a fantastic dirt bike helmet. Arai has gone to great lengths to make the VX-PRO 4 a top-notch and comfortable helmet. This helmet’s outstanding ventilation and ability to customize the comfort and fit are two premium features that many riders will appreciate.
Pros
- It has a peak design that gives exceptional comfort
- Superb visibility
- Highly ventilated
Cons
- Not rated for “SHARP.”
Alpinestars Supertech M10
Supertech M10 by Alpinestars Before the 2018 Anaheim 1 Supercross press conference, Alpinestars presented the Supertech M10, its first motocross, and off-road helmet. The Supertech M10, on the other hand, would not be available for purchase until September 2018.
According to the company, the Alpinestars Supertech M10 helmet is the result of more than five years of research, development, and testing. It makes use of two patented systems: the A-Head Fitment System and a visor release system that allows the visor to release with the proper amount of force in an accident, independent of the angle of impact.
Safety
Inside the helmet, MIPS-like technology aids in the separation of the liner and shell. MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection Systems) are increasingly becoming standard on dirt bike helmets, which can help prevent concussions.
Although this is true, wearing a helmet does not guarantee that you will not suffer a concussion, so don’t rely on it alone to protect your head. Alpinestars used R&D in other areas to make the M10 one of the safest helmets ever seen. This model has more features than other models, and it will still be useful if you have an accident on the road.
Ventilation
Years of research and development by Alpinestars have paid off in this case. This helmet has a massive 19 intake and five exhaust vents, ensuring excellent ventilation. Riders have put the M10 through its paces in temperatures as high as 115°F without adding a single pound of water weight.
The curvature of the visor also helps with ventilation inside the helmet, making it ideal for desert riders. Fans of sand and rocky terrain will appreciate how well the Supertech keeps their heads cool during their adventures.
Visor/Peak
Because of its wide field of view, the M10 is a great choice for motocrossers of all ability levels. Furthermore, the A-Head adjustment system allows you to fine-tune the fit of your goggles while also controlling the distance your helmet rests on your skull.
Alpinestars has ensured that you have a broad enough field of vision to see clearly while off-roading. There are no blind spots or impediments to contend with when you’re riding.
Fans of Alpinestars will be pleased to learn that the brand has released a high-quality dirt bike helmet for sale. This is an excellent product with four different shell sizes and a carbon fiber frame. Despite some criticism of the design, Alpinestars knew exactly what they were doing when designing the M10.
Pros
- Innovative E-2 MIPS Easy Release Peak Constructed with Lightweight Carbon Fiber Shell
- Great Ventilation with the A-Head Adjustment System
- Ready to use with an eject
Cons
- It’s quite noisy at high speed.
Conclusion
When seeking to buy a dirt bike helmet, there are many things to think about. Choosing a terrific helmet in 2022 will be challenging due to the abundance of genuine diamonds.
After reading this article, I am convinced that you will choose the best dirt bike helmet for your needs and riding style. That is, after all, why we produced this list of some of the best dirt bike helmets.