Motorcycle helmet is a very important piece of riding gear where you shouldn’t compromise on quality for money. Dirt bike helmets are no exception! Because, if you are doing off-road riding, then protecting yourself from severe injuries is the most important thing you must consider first.
So, to get complete protection while riding on motocross tracks, nothing gives you extreme protection better than dirt bike helmets. These off-road helmets are specifically designed to protect you from a significant hit during a crash. You have even noticed the unique design of dirt bike helmets, which look quite different than a street helmet because of its extended chin, more ventilation, and shell design. This uniqueness proves that these helmets play a major role in off-road riding and for providing extraordinary safety to the rider or motorcyclist. That’s why today we came with our Top 10 Best Dirt Bike Helmet Reviews to help you decide which helmet will be suitable for you.
Read Also: Best Adventure & Dual-Sport Helmets Review of 2024
List of the Top 10 Dirt Bike Helmets
Best Dirt Bike Helmet Reviews
If you are looking for an upgrade to your existing helmet or purchasing a new Motocross/Dirt bike helmet, then first you need to consider a few factors regarding dirt bike helmets. It would be better if we went through these factors before reviewing the Top 10 Best Dirt Bike Helmets.
- Don’t choose any helmet on the basis of budget and price because the best dirt bike helmet for you is not the one that is most expensive. But, the one that fits you best, doesn’t impair your vision and keeps you safe while riding off-road. That’s why you must forget to buy a second-hand helmet or a helmet that is more than five years old.
- Second, you should check for shell design, ventilation system, visor/face shield, chin straps, and safety standards. Make sure the helmet you select, at the very least, has DOT, ECE or SNELL certification.
There are plenty of brands available on the market that manufacture dirt bike helmets. But, don’t worry. You don’t need to check all of them. In fact, that’s why we are here. We did most of the hard work and found the top 10 best dirt bike helmets. You can read the reviews in detail and decide, “Which one is right for you?”
Keep in mind that these are all dirt bike helmets for adults, so they all come in adult sizes only. If you would like to buy a helmet for your child, please check out our review of the Best Dirt Bike Helmets for Kids.
Arai VX-Pro 4 Helmet Review
The Arai VX-Pro 4 is without a doubt one of the best dirt bike helmets out there. In our opinion, it is actually the most optimal helmet for any off-road riding enthusiast or even a professional motocross racer.
Arai always has great features and the latest technology in their helmets. But, unfortunately, these features come at high prices compared to other brands. Nevertheless, Arai is one of the leading helmet brands and the only company that puts a lot of attention to the interior fit shapes of their lids. This is especially true with its Arai VX-Pro 4 dirt bike helmet. The VX-Pro 4 has Arai’s Intermediate oval interior fit shape. So, let’s see what other features Arai is offering in the VX-Pro 4 helmet.
Shell Design & Protection
First of all, the Arai VX-Pro 4 dirt bike helmet is DOT and SNELL approved. In order to maximize performance, Arai uses Super Fiber instead of ordinary fiberglass to increase the tensile strength and penetration resistance. This special design called cLc (complex Laminate construction) is extremely strong yet very light.
The peak is another feature that Arai improved to reduce the problem of lifting and dragging during high speeds. In this improved version, the new peak is 14 mm longer and 5 mm wider than in the previous version. The eye-port are of the VX-Pro 4 is very wide and large enough to use the largest goggles without any problem. And with an improved version of the Goggle-Strap locator, the goggles will stay in position even during competitive riding and aggressive circumstances.
Ventilation System
The ventilation system of the Arai VX-Pro 4 helmet is outstanding. The center top vent allows increased airflow and the under-the-peak air intake collects and directs cool air into the rider’s face and other parts of the helmet.
The rear diffusers create a strong Venturi vacuum at the rear. The second source of ventilation in the VX-Pro 4 helmet is the chin bar vent grill. This vent grill allows air to pass into the helmet and blocks various debris, dust, and sand particles during off-road riding. This stainless steel, rounded chin bar grill is mounted on the exterior vent that can also be easily removed for cleaning and replacement.
Interior & Comfort
If you are a serious off-road enthusiast and love to take part in a dirt bike or MX competition, then you need a helmet that can keep you cool for a long time. Voila! The Arai’s VX-Pro 4 comes with a Dry-Cool Liner interior, which has been redesigned to provide maximum comfort. These interior linings are tested in MotoGP, which uses micro water cells to improve moisture and heat transfer from the head to the airflow and dries much faster than ordinary textile fabrics. The washable and removable Dry-Cool Interior will keep your head cool for a long duration.
The Arai VX-Pro 4 helmet also comes with the FCS (Facial Contour System), which is a unique feature that offers a better fit and improves the lower jaw comfort level. This is a system that has a foam spring support in the cheek pads that adjust as you put on or take off the helmet.
Final Verdict
The Arai VX-Pro 4 is another great helmet from the legendary Japanese family company. As all other Arai helmets, it is pretty expensive. But, with the increased cost, you can be sure you are getting the most premium product available on the market. The helmet offers tremendous level of protection, super build quality and excellent airflow. On top of that, it is available in many different graphics, so you can choose the one that will suit your bike and style. There is nothing bad I can say about this helmet. Apart from the higher price tag, the VX-Pro 4 helmet is absolutely perfect.
Arai VX-Pro-4 Helmet
️Pros: Extreme protection, Outstanding ventilation, Good comfort, Goggle-strap locator, Wide field of vision
Cons: Too expensive
Shoei VFX-W Helmet Review
Shoei has been manufacturing high-quality helmets for many decades. This experience and confidence have put Shoei at the next level of helmet construction and design. And the best example to prove this is the “Shoei VFX-W Off-Road/Motocross helmet.” Yes, we are talking about the best MX helmet offering by Shoei. This off-road helmet is considered as a standard for off-road motorcycle helmets. Thanks to all the features and to perfecting the VFX-W, top pro riders like Josh Grant, Dean Wilson, Robby Bell, and Taka Higashino ride with maximum confidence and comfort.
If you want to go deeper or learn more, you can check out our Shoei VFX-W Helmet Review to learn why many riders and motorcyclists choose the VFX-W off-road helmet over other off-road helmets.
Shell Design & Protection
The shell design matters a lot in Motocross and off-road motorcycle riding. That’s why Shoei used Multi-Ply Matrix AIM+ technology to make a lightweight and durable shell that combines fiberglass with organic fibers that prove to be so strong that it is very difficult to break. It is Shoei’s strongest and lightest shell, which also comes with a Dual-Layer EPS Liner that has the ability to use various densities of foam for enhanced impact absorption during a crash. Oh, yeah! One more thing. Its incredible protection level is the reason the Shoei VFX-W has both DOT and Snell M2015 safety standards certification.
Aerodynamic stability is a key feature in the VFX-W helmet, as it is in other Shoei helmets. It is wind-tunnel tested and is currently available in four shell sizes and five liner sizes for excellent fit options for most head sizes. Shoei’s VFX-W has a large eye port that provides a large field of vision. You can also use oversized goggles during your off-road riding.
Ventilation System
The ventilation system in the Shoei VFX-W helmet is fantastic. Shoei already knows the importance of ventilation performance in off-road riding. So, they put everything in exactly the right place, including the wind-tunnel tested vent ports with the right size and shape to maximize airflow inside the helmet. There are a couple of front top vents, a single large chin vent, and three brow vents.
First, let’s talk about the top vents. These intake vents allow cool air inside the helmet and the hot air is exhausted through the rear vents by the negative pressure. It maintains the airflow and ventilation system on top of the head. That credit also goes to the Dual-Layer EPS Liner, which is specifically designed to allow cool air to travel through the tunnels created in the EPS liner and also generates negative air pressure to draw warm air through the rear vents of the helmet. A massive rear collar exhaust vent easily passes warm air from the helmet. The same goes for the chin vent. A single large chin vent is fully capable of providing ventilation in off-road environments. You will get a sleek mouthpiece with the VFX-W, which prevents dust, mud, rocks, and dirt from entering the helmet. It is reinforced with an aluminum mesh screen to pull cool air in through the chin bar.
Interior & Comfort
The Shoei VFX-W off-road helmet features the 3D Max-Dry Interior System that is fully washable, removable, and changeable. This 3D Max-Dry interior material is capable of dissipating sweat and moisture 2 times faster than any other interior material. Plus, multi-layer cheek pads and the 3d shape are available for more comfort and helmet stabilization during the motorcycle ride. Overall, I think the comfort level of the Shoei VFX-W helmet is excellent because, you have the options for a customized fit, faster moisture-wicking material, and 3D shape for stabilization
Final Verdict
There is a reason why Shoei helmets usually end up very high on our lists of top 10 reviews. They are extremely safe and durable, and you can always feel the premium quality of their interior. The Shoei VFX-W is no exception. It comes with multiple safety ratings and it is arguably the most comfortable dirt bike helmet you can buy. Its interior liner provides customizable fit and on top of that, it dries very quickly. Ventilation is also on another level when you compare it to most helmets in this category. The only slight disadvantage this helmet has is its higher noise levels, which is tolerable.
Shoei VFX-W Helmet
️Pros: AIM+ Shell for incredible protection, Excellent Ventilation System, Customized fit, 3D Max-Dry Interior
Cons: Noise issue
Fox Racing V3 Helmet Review
The V3 helmet is the new and improved version in the V series by Fox. The reason why this lid is on our list is its exceptional comfort level and luxurious interior, which has been trusted and worn by many Motocross champions and athletes such as Ryan Dungey and Ken Roczen in the last two decades. The technological advancements in the Fox V3 helmet are amazing. So, let’s find out “What this helmet is capable of?”
Shell Design & Protection
The Fox Racing V3 dirt bike helmet comes in 3 different shell sizes and 4 EPS sizes, providing a precise fit for the riders. Moreover, all these sizes of the V3 exceed ECE 22.05 and DOT certifications.
The protection and safety level of the helmet is outstanding. Because the Fox Racing V3 is equipped with MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System). Mimicking the cerebrospinal fluid, MIPS added a low-friction layer between the head and the helmet. This technological multiple composite constructed shell reduces the rotational violence causing injury to the brain at angled impacts. That’s the advantage here. Because unlike other conventional helmets that are tested by the dropping process on a horizontal or flat surface, the MIPS equipped helmet is tested with angled impacts. On top of that, the Dual Density, EPS liner enhances the impact absorption ability of the helmet, which minimizes severe head injuries during an accident.
Ventilation System
The Fox V3 dirt bike helmet comes with 14 intake vents and 4 exhaust vents. The chin vents allow air to pass through the chin bar and move into the helmet. The forward vents on top of the helmet and the side vents allow cool air into the helmet and pass around the rider’s head and the rear exhaust vents draw hot air from the helmet to keep the interior of the helmet cool.
So, basically, the ventilation system in the Fox V3 helmet is outstanding. It has an unbelievably large number of air vents and a very well designed EPS liner, which provides exceptional breathability and very good airflow to the rider during off-road riding or motocross racing.
Interior & Comfort
The excellent manufacturing of the helmet by Fox is also shown by V3’s Dri-Lex Comfort Liner. This material feels luxuriously smooth against your skin and it rapidly wicks sweat and moisture much faster than ordinary fabrics to keep you dry and cool for long periods of time. Overall, we can say that the Fox Racing V3 dirt bike helmet has incredible safety features, which will give you full protection while off-road riding and it’s excellent ventilation system or cool interior technology will keep you fresh for long periods of time without any sweat or breathing problems.
Final Verdict
If you are looking for a high-quality dirt bike helmet with a sleek design and advanced ventilation system, then the Fox Racing V3 helmet will be a good choice for you. Thanks to the large number of air vents all over the shell, cool air will flow freely into the inside of the helmet, so you don’t have to worry about overheating. The Fox Racing V3 helmet is equipped with the MIPS technology, which means its is very safe. In fact, I think it is one of the safest helmets for all kinds of off-road riding. I can definitely recommend this helmet to anyone who’s main concerns are airflow and protection.
Fox Racing V3 Helmet
️Pros: Sleek design, Equipped with MIPS technology, Excellent Ventilation, Dri-Lex Comfort Liner
Cons: A little costly
Bell Moto-9 Carbon Flex Helmet Review
In my opinion, Bell’s Moto-9 Carbon Flex Helmet is the most advanced helmet manufactured by Bell, which created a new level of safety and protection for the Dirt Bike/Motocross and Off-Road riders. There was a time when Bell was struggling in the helmet industry, especially with dirt bike helmets. Bell was challenged by many leading dirt bike helmet manufacturers, such as 6D and many others. But then Bell invested a lot of money and countless hours on its design and created a first-of-its-kind three-layer impact liner.
They developed a “Progressive Layering Technology” to manage energy from three potential impact scenarios – low, mid, and high. These three layers are made of EPO (Expanded Polyolefin) that works with EPP (Expanded Polypropylene) and EPS (Traditional Expanded Polystyrene). And when it comes to testing, the Moto-9 Carbon Flex nailed it. The result, Bell’s Moto-9 Flex exceeds SNELL M2010 and DOT safety standards. So, without wasting any more time, let’s take a look at the other features of Bell’s Moto-9 Flex dirt bike helmet.
Shell Design & Protection
Bell’s Moto-9 Carbon Flex helmet features the latest lightweight carbon composition shell. This Carbon Composition Shell is an incredibly strong shell that is only available in very few helmets. It will increase the protection level and provide ultimate safety to the rider’s head while off-road riding. Moreover, it has a three-layer impact liner that enhances the impact absorption ability of differing forces during a crash. The shell is also constructed with an adaptive fit. Plus, the composition technology in the Moto-9 Flex reduces rotational energy transfer. So, overall, we can say that the protection level in this Bell helmet is of a very high level and has changed the history of safety in off-road riding.
Ventilation System
The Bell Moto-9 Carbon Flex helmet has a Velocity Flow Ventilation (VFV) System for maximum airflow. Bell did an excellent job by creating a natural airflow mechanism that pulls air through the venting system to keep the rider dry and cool for a long time. Riders can control the amount of airflow accordingly by opening and closing the FlowAdjust vents. On top of that, it has an integrated vented Roost Guard and the EPS-lined chin bar is also fully ventilated.
It shows that Bell has fulfilled the necessary requirements for a high-quality ventilation system for off-road riders by creating the Velocity Ventilation System technology.
Interior & Comfort
The interior is another feature that makes the Moto-9 Flex helmet one of the best dirt bike helmets. It comes with an X-Static XT-2 Silver Liner Extended Wear Interior, which is a leader in antimicrobial fabric technology that is totally removable and washable and clinically proven to provide bacteria and odor protection throughout the life of the liner. You can remove it whenever you like to clean it. This Silver Liner is more effective than average nylon fabric material and absorbs sweat faster.
Moreover, Bell’s exclusive Magnefusion Emergency Removal System (MERS) for the cheek pads allows the rider to easily remove the cheek pads for cleaning and enables emergency responders to easily remove them before removing the helmet. I believe you can’t get any better interior than Bell’s Moto-9 Flex Helmet. So, in this department the Moto-9 Flex performance is outstanding.
Final Verdict
As you can clearly see, the Bell Moto-9 Carbon Flex helmet succeeds in challenging its rivals in most aspects. It has an innovative shell design and its carbon fiber construction makes this helmet as lightweight as possible. The adjustable ventilation system will ensure proper airflow in the most crucial situations and it will keep you sweat-free for prolonged periods of time. On top of that, the interior is super-comfy and the emergency cheek pads removal system makes the helmet extremely safe for off-road riding. There is no doubt that the Bell Moto-9 Carbon Flex helmet is one of the best and lightest motocross helmets on the market. The only thing that can turn you off is its higher price tag.
Bell Moto 9 Flex Helmet
️Pros: Carbon Composite Shell, Antimicrobial fabric interior, Excellent Ventilation, Emergency cheek pads removal system
Cons: A little costly
Alpinestars Supertech M10 Helmet Review
Alpinestars is a relatively new brand to the off-road helmet industry and the Supertech M10 is their first ever attempt to enter the world of premium motocross helmets. The Italian company is widely known for manufacturing high-quality gear that is suitable for all types of motorcycles. They make some of the best boots and clothing you can buy. Let’s see if they have succeeded in making a dirt bike helmet that can compete with the biggest guys on the market, or even surpass them in some aspects and become the winner.
Shell Design & Protection
The Alpinestars Supertech M10 helmet differs from other motocross helmets in terms of shell design. The sides and the top of the helmet are very flat, which is supposed to reduce the impacts and improve the safety. The outer shell is constructed from carbon fiber and it comes in four different shell sizes. The inner EPS liner has multiple different densities and the helmet is equipped with the M.I.P.S technology, a safety feature designed to protect the riders head from multi-dimensional impacts. The helmet is DOT and ECE certified and it is super-light as it only weighs around 2.78 lbs (1,26 kg).
The peak visor of the Alpinestars Supertech M10 helmet offers a seamless look and it can be easily be removed without any tools. It is designed to break off the helmet is case of a crash, so you don’t have to worry about it hurting you when you fall off your bike. You will get 2 peaks included with this helmet, one regular and one super high. The bottom lip of the helmet is cushioned by a soft EPP foam, which will protect your collarbone during a crash and prevent a potential fracture.
Ventilation System
The ventilation system is another strong attribute of the helmet. Thanks to an enormous amount of air vents, the Alpinestars Supertech M10 provides excellent airflow and it will keep you cool and dry during off-road rides under all circumstances.
The chin bar, as well as the eye port area, is equipped with a multiple intake vents and there are another vents all around the shell of the helmet. Overall, there are 24 different intake and exhaust vents in this helmet. Together with the cutouts in the visor, these vents create a sophisticated ventilation system stat will guide high amount of fresh air into the interior of the helmet to ensure your face and scalp stays free from sweat and moisture.
Interior & Comfort
Inside the helmet, you will find a removable and washable liner that is is comfortable to the skin and that has anti-bacterial and hydrophobic properties. Thanks to the Alpinestars A-Head system, you will be able to customize the fit of the helmet and adjust how it sits on your head. The Alpinestars Supertech M10 helmet is prepared for a hydration system and you can use any type of hydration pack with it. There is a cutout in the internal padding that will allow to insert your sip tube into the helmet.
Another safety feature that the Alpinestars Supertech M10 helmet offers is an emergency cheek pads removal system, which will be handy for a medical personnel trying to take off the helmet from the riders head.
Final Verdict
The Alpinestars Supertech M10 is undoubtedly a groundbreaking dirt bike helmet that is both extremely safe and comfortable. It offers many interesting features that you won’t find in any other helmet such as the A-Head fitment customization system. The helmet is unbelievably light and the airflow it provides is amazing. There is only one downside about this helmet and it is the shape of the internal padding. For some reason, the helmet can’t stay on one place and tends to move forward during a ride. Therefore, it is hard to find a perfect fit and you will need to spend some time adjusting the helmet.
Alpinestars Supertech M10 Helmet
️Pros: Lightweight carbon fiber shell, MIPS technology, Excellent airflow, Custom fit, Emergency cheek pads removal system
Cons: Fitment issues
Bell MX-9 MIPS Helmet Review
Not everyone has the money to afford super-premium helmets that cost 250$, or even $500 or more. A lot of us are looking for an affordable dirt bike helmet for under $200. That is why I have decided to add a couple of budget-friendly dirt bike helmets into this review.
And when it comes to affordable helmets for off-road riding, there is no better option than the Bell MX-9 MIPS helmet. It is a sub-$200 dirt bike helmet that certainly doesn’t feel like one. There is no other helmet on the market that will give you so many features at such a low price tag! So, let’s not waste any more time and see what this helmet has to offer.
Shell Design & Protection
The material used in the outer shell of the Bell MX-9 MIPS helmet is a lightweight polycarbonate, which is expected and it doesn’t surprise me much. We cannot expect some fancy materials in this price range. Where this helmet truly shines though, is its advanced head protection technology called Multi-Directional Impact Protection (MIPS). This is a feature you will normally find in much more expensive helmets. Thanks to this technology, your head will be totally safe and protected from rotational forces in case you experience a crash at lower speed, which happens a lot on a dirt bike. The Bell MX-9 MIPS equipped helmet is available in three different shell sizes and it is DOT and ECE certified for safety. It has an intermediate oval shape and weighs around 3.38 lbs (1.53 kg). Moreover, the MX-9 helmet comes with a 5-year warranty.
Ventilation System
Cheaper dirt bike helmets are usually either extremely noisy, or they don’t offer proper ventilation to the rider’s head. Balancing airflow with aerodynamics of the helmet is very important, especially on a dirt bike helmet.
That’s why Bell has equipped their MX-9 helmet with the latest technology called Velocity-flow ventilation system. It utilizes the intake vents in the front, transfers cool air through the internal EPS liner, and then releases it through the exhaust vents in the back. While doing so, it also prevents wind noise from coming into the helmet. There is not as many air vents as in some higher-tier helmets, but it doesn’t make the airflow any less effective.
Interior & Comfort
When it comes to comfort, the Bell MX-9 MIPS helmet can again be compared to some of the more premium helmets on the market. Its interior comfort liner has a very good build quality and it is designed to wick moisture. You can easily remove it for washing when it gets dirty. In the neck area, the helmet is equipped with a padded chin strap that is very comfortable and it uses the standard D-ring closure mechanism. Overall, the comfort level of the MX-9 helmet is very high and the fit is true to size. However, some customers complain about the cheek pads being way too snug.
Final Verdict
In my opinion, the Bell MX-9 MIPS is the perfect option for any off-road rider looking for a high-quality yet affordable dirt bike helmet that will not break the bank. Thanks to its attractive price tag of less than $200, anybody can afford it, including beginners. It has all the important features and benefits most riders are looking for such as a lightweight shell design, multiple safety ratings and innovative ventilation system. On top of that, you will get the MIPS technology that can protect your head from unexpected crashes. The helmet will serve you well for many years and later on, you can always upgrade it for a more advanced lid.
Bell MX-9 MIPS Helmet
️Pros: Lightweight polycarbonate shell, MIPS technology, Velocity-flow ventilation system, 5-year warranty, Good value
Cons: Cheek pads are too snug
O’Neal 5 Series Helmet Review
The O’Neal 5 Series dirt bike helmets have become better known over the last few years. This dirt bike motorcycle helmet is packed with some great features that you really need when riding off-road. A good thing is, according to many users, this helmet serves the riders really great during the summer. Most of all, it is one of the best dirt bike helmets that is available at a price under $200. Below, we will discuss some of the features of the O’Neal 5 series motorcycle helmets and see how it rates in the different categories.
Shell Design & Protection
If you have taken a peek you will find out that O’Neal’s 5 Series helmet has great artwork throughout its different models. But do you know what’s beneath that artwork and stylish paint? Well, the answer is a Polycarbonate/ABS shell. Yes, it is true! The O’Neal 5 SRS helmet is constructed from the lightweight polycarbonate/ABS shell, which is a very strong shell and serves the purpose of providing absolute protection and is aerodynamically stable while riding off-road. Its DOT and ECE certified shell not only has excellent impact-absorption qualities during a collision but it is also quite light to ensure that the helmet doesn’t feel heavy while riding off-road. If you look into the other dirt bike helmets from O’Neal, then you will find the carbon shell in its 10 SRS helmet takes your safety to the next level. Nevertheless, in this price range, the O’Neal 5 Series helmet is already providing more than enough safety for you.
Ventilation System
If you would ask us about the airflow level in the O’Neal 5 Series helmet, then we would say that O’Neal did a really good job by including the air vents in the shell to provide a consistent airflow to the top area of the head. We all know how difficult it is to ride off-road, where proper airflow is absolutely necessary.
The O’Neal 5 Series helmet has multiple active intake air vents in the front and their purpose is to direct the airflow to the top area of your head. A couple of passive exhaust vents in the back will then release the hot air out of the interior to maintain proper ventilation inside the helmet. These air vents will help you stay cool and dry while riding your off-road motorcycle.
Interior & Comfort
If you think that a couple of vents is all that you get in this helmet, then you’ve seriously underestimated O’Neal. The 5 series helmet is their top-of-the-line helmet that includes the Coolmax liner, an ultra-plush interior that is a completely removable and washable padded liner that will keep you cool and dry for long periods of time.
O’Neal understands that even a small drop of sweat could distract a rider when riding off-road. A rider must feel comfortable to ride dirt bikes on mountain trails and off-road. Thus, O’Neal uses its Coolmax liner technology in its 5 Series helmets to dissipate the sweat and moisture inside the helmet.
Final Verdict
The O’Neal 5 SRS helmet is what you need for summer off-road riding. The company has totally succeeded in making a lightweight protective dirt bike helmet that has an ultra-plush interior to keep you dry and cool. Additionally, the helmet meets the ECE-22.05, DOT and AS/NZS standards. If you are looking for a dirt bike helmet that will keep you cool, then it should be on your list of choices. Besides, customers who have bought this helmet are very content with it. On top of that, the helmet has very cool graphic design that is hard to resist.
ONeal 5 Series Helmet
️Pros: Poly-carbonate Shell, Ultra-push Interior, Multiple Vents, DOT & ECE 22.05 approved
Cons: A little noisy
HJC CS-MX 2 Helmet Review
If you are a new MX rider or looking for a helmet with extraordinary features and the ultimate protection level in a low-price range, then the HJC CS-MX 2 helmet is for you. The helmet will actually cost you less that $100. Seriously, even I was surprised when I first looked at the price tag. As far as I know, this is the only technically advanced helmet at the best value available on the market. I think this dirt bike helmet is an appropriate choice for all beginners who would like to become serious off-road riders. So, let’s take a look at the HJC CS-MX 2 Helmet Review and go deeper into the details to learn more about it.
Shell Design & Protection
The HJC CS-MX 2 helmet comes in multiple different shell sizes and it is DOT certified, there is no ECE rating on this helmet. The shell is made of HJC’s technically advanced polycarbonate composite material and it has a revolutionary design with adjustable visor. This innovative lightweight material comes with the capability of energy absorbing flexibility. It means, by wearing this lightweight helmet you can reduce severe head injuries, in the event of a crash, while riding off-road. The CS-MX 2 helmet features a large eye port that provides superior visibility and it is compatible with a wide range of goggles. The helmet weighs around 3.35 lbs (1.5 kg) in the size M.
Ventilation System
The HJC CS-MX 2 helmet features the Advanced Channeling Ventilation System (ACS), which is one of the most effective ventilation systems on the market. It has three intake ports in the middle and on the sides of the chin bar. Then there is a single intake vent and two exhaust vents at the top of the helmet. All of the vents have metal mesh inside and the largest chin vent also has a foam filter built into it. The purpose of the top vent is to push cool air through to the vented EPS liner and spread it inside the helmet. The rear exhaust vents then draw the hot air out of the helmet to keep the interior cool and dry. The chin vent and side vents also maintain airflow throughout the helmet.
Overall, I can say that the ventilation system of the HJC CS-MX 2 helmet is much better than the ventilation of other helmets in this price range. It will provide outstanding airflow and it is totally capable of keeping off-road riders cool for a long period of time.
Interior & Comfort
The SuperCool interior of the HJC CS-MX 2 helmet is also excellent. It is constructed from the Plush Nylex fabric, which has a high-quality feel and is very comfortable. The liner wicks moisture and has antibacterial properties. On top of that, it is removable and washable, so you will have no issues cleaning it when it gets dirty, or even replacing it. The snaps that hold the crown and cheek pads in place are easy to release and they don’t cause any pressure points on the head, which is also a big plus. The helmet fit is true to size, so you shouldn’t have any problems finding the right size for you.
Final Verdict
Overall, I would say that the HJC CS-MX 2 is a phenomenal off-road helmet that comes with a competitive price of $100. Thanks to its effective ventilation system, you will be able to wear the helmet even on hot sunny days. The comfort level is outstanding and it will ensure you will have a comfortable experience during an off-road ride. In my opinion, there is no better dirt bike helmet in this price range and I would even say that the HJC CS-MX 2 is the best entry-level dirt bike helmet under $100! The only bad thing I can say about the helmet is the lack of any ECE certification.
HJC CS-MX 2 Helmet
️Pros: DOT certified, Advanced Channeling Ventilation System, Superior fit, Extremely affordable
Cons: No ECE rating
Why Would You Need a Dirt Bike Helmet?
Safety comes first, no matter what you do. And the most important piece of protective equipment, especially for off-road riders, is a helmet. Yes, other equipment, such as gloves, boots, kneecaps, and goggles are necessary too, but a helmet is an essential part of safety equipment. You need to get a helmet that fits perfectly so you remain safe at all times and away from injuries because, let’s face it, injuries are quite common when you are dirt biking and you need to take every precaution possible to ensure that you are not injured.
Now, the most important thing while getting yourself a helmet for dirt biking is that it should fit you perfectly, not too loose, not too tight. A perfect fit is essential for your safety. Now, after keeping that in mind, the next thing you need to do is check that you can see and hear perfectly. Because if you are not able to see or hear, then this helmet for safety is as good as no helmet.
Check out the video below and you will Get to Know How Hard a Dirt Helmet is. It’s an experiment done by the Zombie Go Boom YouTube Channel that demonstrates what happens if a Zombie attacks a Dirt Biker.
So, now I think you understand why you need a dirt bike helmet.
Also, for the protection of riders that often go off-road, the government has set parameters for the minimum safety of the riders. As a result, the Department of Transportation (DOT) imposed minimum safety terms that include a DOT-approved sticker placed on the back of the helmet, which indicates that the helmet is manufactured with minimum standards. Therefore; for your safety, you need to buy a helmet with a DOT-approved sticker.
Furthermore, we have seen many severe injuries that have taken a person’s life or paralyzes them because they were not wearing any protective safety equipment. We have seen accidents occur every day. Now, we can’t control a misfortune, but we sure can take preventive measures, such as wearing safety equipment.
Things to Consider When Buying a Dirt Bike Helmet
There are many things that one needs to examine before he buys a helmet for his protection. Without taking everything into account, you will not be able to get yourself the best helmet and that might lead to injuries. Some of the things you need to consider; we talk about below.
Make Sure It Fits You
The most important thing you need to check before buying a helmet is that the helmet is the perfect size for you. It should neither be too loose nor too tight. You need a helmet that doesn’t move whenever you shake your head. Make sure that you accurately measure your head before getting yourself a helmet and that includes measuring the hair as well. Thus, proper measurement is essential to get the perfect fit, which should be your first consideration.
What Is Your Budget?
Well, dirt bike helmets can get quite expensive and thus, you need to sort out your budget to buy the helmet. Especially if you want to invest in other things such as dirt bike hitch carrier. However, you should not jeopardize safety features to save a little bit of money that should be spent on your helmet. There are high-end helmets that cost more and there are some that will fall under your budget but have fewer safety features. Get yourself a helmet that protects you and at the same time, adjust your budget, if necessary. And of course, you are the rider; you always know what you need for your safety.
Weight & Protection
Another thing that is necessary to be considered for your safety is the weight of the helmet. The components that it takes to make a helmet adds weight to it, thus making it a bit heavier. However, the heavier the helmet, the more protection you have. Thus, you need to get a helmet which is heavy enough for your ultimate protection. Keep in mind that it should neither be too heavy to affect your riding nor too light to jeopardize your safety.
Ventilation & Airflow
Another important thing to consider is proper ventilation. With good ventilation, you can ride better, and it makes the helmet feel lighter while providing the proper level of safety. Furthermore, these air vents will cool you off while you are riding the bike. Therefore, this is a significant feature to look for before buying a helmet because if you do not have good ventilation, your head will be sweaty as well as too hot, which will reduce your stamina and you might become confused while you are riding.
Conclusion
Buying a dirt bike helmet or any type of motorcycle helmet is a complicated task. There are so many great helmets available for sale in 2024, that it can be hard to pick the perfect one for you. After reading our review, I am pretty sure you will be able to choose the right dirt bike helmet that will suit your needs and riding style. After all, that is the reason why we have written this article about the best dirt bike helmets the money can buy.
Leave a Reply