When you ride a motorcycle, your safety is paramount. Choosing the right full face helmet is not just about meeting legal requirements; it is about protecting your most valuable asset: your head. This guide will help you navigate the options to find a helmet that offers excellent protection without breaking your budget.
You will discover how a well-chosen helmet can enhance your riding experience, providing comfort and peace of mind on every journey. We understand that you want the best possible gear that offers both security and value, and this article is designed to help you make an informed decision for your next ride.
Top Picks
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Category |
Product |
Score |
|---|---|---|
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🏆 Best Overall |
95/100 |
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💰 Best Value |
92/100 |
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⚡ Best Protection |
ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip up Modular Full Face Helmet (Model 902) |
93/100 |
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💨 Best Lightweight & Comfort |
90/100 |
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🎯 Best for Beginners |
91/100 |
How We Chose the Best Budget-Friendly Full Face Helmets
To ensure you receive the most reliable recommendations, we focused on several key factors when selecting these full face helmets. First and foremost, safety is non-negotiable, so we prioritized helmets that meet or exceed DOT safety standards.
You will notice that many top reviews highlight how these helmets performed in real-world situations, offering you valuable insights into their protective capabilities. We also considered comfort, as you will be wearing this helmet for extended periods; features like proper ventilation, snug padding, and reasonable weight were important.
Price was a crucial element, naturally, ensuring these options offer exceptional value without compromising quality. Finally, we meticulously analyzed customer reviews to understand common experiences, both positive and negative, to give you a comprehensive overview of each product.
TRIANGLE Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
This helmet sounds like a solid pick for riders looking for good protection. It’s built with safety in mind, meeting DOT standards with its sturdy ABS shell and high-density EPS lining, so you can feel secure on the road.
What’s cool is it comes with both a clear and a tinted visor, making it super versatile for different light conditions – bright sun or cloudy skies, you’re covered. Plus, the ventilation system means you won’t feel stifled, keeping you cool and comfortable even on longer rides. It’s ideal for your daily commute or those weekend adventures when you just want to hit the open road.
If you’re after a reliable, comfortable helmet that delivers on safety features, this one is definitely worth a look.
What People Say
People are really digging this helmet for its great value. Riders often mention how surprisingly light it is, which makes a big difference on longer rides by reducing neck strain. They also appreciate the good airflow and the dual visor system that gives you options for different weather.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ THM
For the price paid, this helmet is wonderful. It is light, the shell size isn’t massive compared to other lids in my size and it’s rather comfortable. Wind noise isn’t terrible on the highway/interstate and airflow with vents open is plenty sufficient.
🗣️ Shannon
Love this fit. Sizing chart seems to be pretty damn accurate. Helmet is sleek and feels fairly tough for price. Helmet is also light which is nice too less strain on neck etc. will definitely be buying one for my Fiancée when she rides passenger.
Ride in Comfort
You know how important comfort is on a long ride. This TRIANGLE helmet aims to keep you happy with its plush, thick sponge lining that you can even remove and wash.
It’s designed to be breathable, so you stay cool and dry, and many folks say it feels light on their head, which really helps prevent fatigue.
Trust TRIANGLE
TRIANGLE seems to have built a reputation for delivering on safety and value. This helmet meets the DOT FMVSS-218 safety standards, which is a big green light for reliable protection. Plus, with a strong 4.5-star rating from over 2,200 riders, it’s clear a lot of people trust this brand to keep them safe and comfortable.
Why You’ll Love This Helmet
- Reliable safety with DOT certification
- Excellent airflow from multiple vents
- Adaptable vision with dual clear and tinted visors
- Comfortable and breathable removable lining
- Lightweight design for reduced neck strain
Rating: 4.5 (total: 2212+)
JQF Gear Full Face Motorcycle Helmet WS-607
If you’re looking for a helmet that really prioritizes your safety without compromising on everyday usability, the JQF Gear WS-607 is a strong contender. It’s DOT approved, so you know it meets high safety standards with its robust ABS shell and multi-density EPS.
You’ll appreciate the various vents that keep air flowing, making it comfortable whether you’re cruising on a hot day or taking a quick spin in cooler weather. Plus, with options for different visors (some models include both clear and black) and a removable lining, it’s designed for practical daily rides and those longer journeys where comfort truly matters. Consider this a reliable companion for your two-wheeled adventures.
What People Say
Folks are really impressed with this helmet, especially its ability to offer serious protection, with one rider crediting it for saving their life in a crash. Many also highlight its sleek look, comfortable fit, and effective noise reduction, making for a pleasant ride.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Chillvibes
Was in a motorcycle accident 4 days ago going 55 to 60mph only the highway. I swear up and down this helmet saved me. I only have BAD road rash and a Sprained ankle. My gear saved me. My 03 katana 600cc (RIP) didn’t survive. The quality is good and it’s Comfortable. Sits right and when I put in my com link. It was great. But if you go 70+ sound variable. Just on a ride it’s great. Nice venting. Over all for a low costing helmet it’s a way to go! Once I’m healed up and back on the road. If this company reach out to me, I would love to test out or even show off more of their products!
🗣️ Me86
Sleek exterior, noise reducer, for the money, snug padding, light to wear, crystal clear face cover to ensure eye sight, dot
Riding in Comfort
When it comes to comfort, this JQF Gear helmet really delivers. Riders often mention the snug padding and how light it feels, which means less strain on your neck during those longer stretches.
Plus, the lining is completely removable and washable, keeping things fresh, and the ventilation system helps you stay cool.
Trust in JQF Gear
JQF Gear is building a reputation for reliable gear, and this helmet is a testament to that. It proudly meets the DOT FMVSS 218 safety standard, which should give you peace of mind.
With a solid 4.4-star rating from nearly 400 riders, it’s clear that many people trust this brand to keep them safe and comfortable on the road.
What Makes It Great
- DOT FMVSS 218 approved for high safety
- Lightweight ABS shell with multi-density EPS
- Multiple vents for excellent ventilation
- Removable, washable, and replaceable lining
- Available with clear or clear and black visor options
Rating: 4.4 (total: 396+)
ILM Modular Full Face Helmet
Looking for a helmet that blends serious protection with everyday convenience? The ILM Modular Full Face Helmet is a fantastic choice.
It meets DOT safety standards, ensuring you’re getting a high-resistance ABS shell and effective impact absorption. What’s really neat is the modular flip-up design, perfect for when you need a quick chat or some fresh air, plus it has a handy dual visor system so you’re ready for any light conditions. Riders appreciate the comfy, washable padding and how it manages to keep wind noise down. This is truly a versatile helmet, whether you’re commuting daily or heading out for a longer ride.
What People Say
Riders consistently praise this ILM helmet, with several mentioning it literally saved them from serious injury in crashes, highlighting its core safety. They also love its comfort features like the dual visor and overall snug fit, making rides more enjoyable.
A few point out minor issues like visor fogging or wind noise at higher speeds, but generally, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, especially for its protective capabilities.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ M. Mccanlies
I bought this helmet to take my riding lessons in 2021. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a helmet til I knew if I would continue and could learn more about what would best fit me. I went one size up, from LG->XL and it fit comfortably. Eventually, the longer I wore it, the more it hurt from pressing on my forehead. I removed the padding and used an ice cream scoop to compress the front and back of the foam. Then I was able to wear it all day before it started hurting. Size-wise, it was great. I put in speakers and still had room to wear Earpods and there was plenty of space to slide glasses in and out with the helmet on. I was even using a strap to hold my glasses in the right place with no problem. Pros: You can’t beat the price. Well built. I like the yellow because it is better for the heat but more visible than white. Spacious without being too loose. Quick release buckles are the best; can even clip it with one gloved hand (sometimes) if I forget before I take off. The face shield and shade operate easily. I even use the shade with sunglasses when heading into the sun. Cons: Main problem I encountered is the shield fogs when it rains and only solution is to crack it open a notch. Thankfully, the shield stayed in place when open. I wish there was more air flow. Can barely tell a difference between vents open and closed. I can’t comment on the noise level: 1 because I’ve had nothing to compare it to, 2 I always ride with noise canceling ear pods, and 3 my road tourer blocks most of the wind. I will say this; I gave up using the bluetooth headset because the headset wouldn’t let me raise the volume so I could hear anything above the wind noise above 60 mph. I recommend getting NC ear pods or wearing ear plugs just to save your hearing anyway. Over the years I’ve tried on other helmets, just for a fit check, Bilt, Schubert, Shoei, et al and none of them felt as comfortable as my ILM, so I never traded up. Now, The Best Part: I recently ran off the road at a curve going about 65 mph and rolled several times (I wasn’t really counting) down the ditch and the helmet stayed on and did what it was supposed to. I had no head or neck injury! (I had Bohn armor on, in case you’re interested.) The only injury I sustained was a broken Tibia and misaligned ankle from a 600 lb motorcycle landing on my ankle. I count myself extremely lucky. After that, the helmet was seriously scratched up and the shield hinge didn’t function well and one of the black vent pieces came loose. At that point, I felt I had gotten my money’s worth out of it and was more than happy to replace it. I might just replace it with the same one, though I might try on a few others in the same price range to see what feels the best. So, if you have an intermediate oval head, and you’re considering buying this, and the Cons aren’t deal breakers, I encourage you to consider it. Good for one good wreck, then replace it, and hope you never have to replace it! Read more
🗣️ Andrew Hale
I went over the handlebars at 20mph, landing mostly on my shoulder. I broke my clavicle and got road rash in six places. My head, face, and neck, were fine. I attribute that to my ILM helmet. My helmet got scratches that look like they prevented significant road rash/concussion, and possible facial/skull fracture. Regarding the helmet itself, it’s comfortable and easy to adjust/remove the strap. The sun visor is a nice feature. Read more
Riding in Comfort
You’ll find this helmet to be quite comfortable, with many riders noting the lightweight and soft padding. It’s designed so you can easily remove and wash the cheek pads and liner, which is a huge plus for keeping things fresh. While some users might need to adjust the fit slightly for specific head shapes, many can wear it all day without discomfort, and it even accommodates glasses easily.
Trusting ILM
When it comes to trust, ILM certainly makes a strong case with this helmet. It’s DOT certified, so you know it meets crucial safety requirements.
The sheer volume of positive feedback — boasting a 4.5-star average from over 13,000 ratings, including multiple accounts of it performing exceptionally well in accidents — speaks volumes about the brand’s reliability and the helmet’s protective capabilities. You can feel confident strapping this one on.
What Stands Out
- Meets or exceeds DOT safety standards for reliable protection
- Features a versatile modular flip-up function
- Equipped with a dual visor system for varying light conditions
- High resistance ABS shell for durability
- Includes removable and washable helmet liner and cheek pads
- Designed to reduce wind noise for a quieter ride
Rating: 4.5 (total: 13674+)
GLX GX11 Compact Motorcycle Helmet
If you’re looking for a full face helmet that gives you solid protection without breaking the bank, the GLX GX11 is definitely one to consider. It’s DOT approved, so you know it meets those important safety standards, giving you peace of mind on the road.
This helmet really shines with its balanced approach to comfort and functionality. You get a lightweight feel, good ventilation for those longer rides, and a visor system that’s easy to manage.
It’s a great pick for your daily commute, whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, and it looks pretty sleek too.
What People Say
Users frequently highlight the excellent value the GLX GX11 offers, especially for its quality and features at its price point. Many appreciate its lightweight feel and comfortable fit once it’s broken in, even if it feels a bit snug at first.
The dual visor system and effective ventilation are also commonly praised, though a few mention some wind noise at higher speeds. Overall, riders feel confident in its safety and sleek appearance for both daily commutes and longer rides.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ C. Pennington
I ordered this in large according to the size chart, tried it on inside my house and immediately thought it was too tight. Wore it for less than a minute and said nope. I suffer migraine syndrome, so I try not to provoke it with tight hats or helmets. I should have kept it on longer, though. I put it right back into the box and returned it. I then ordered another large by mistake thinking I got an extra large (dumb of me, I know). I got stuck with it and decided to try it on for a 30 minute bike ride. Wow! It does slide on tight around the ears, but I learned to pull the strap tight against the padding and get one ear at a time, then did the same with the other strap and two ears at a time without catching hardly at all. Problem solved. Once on my head, I actually forgot it was there when I road across town to a friends house and have her a hug. I head butted her, and again when I said sorry and tried to kiss her forehead… lol! So I found it to be super lightweight, comfortable, seemingly well made with nice materials. I took it on the highway and hear a slight whistle over 60mph, but personally I won’t be hitting the interstate often. This is my around town and work commute helmet. The reviews from others who have spilled, swear by it. I trust it, and it’s a nice helmet compared to the poorly designed helmets I’ve worn in the past. Great value! If yours feels tight but your sizing was right, try the strap method I spoke of and just go for a ride before you decide. I think a size up would have been wobbly and that would have been more of a noticeable problem. Oh, and the matte black finish matches my satin/matte black bike almost perfectly. Read more
🗣️ Jo-Jo ’77
I currently use a Daytona 3/4 open face helmet and I wanted a second full face helmet for rides when I feel especially vulnerable. Here are my pros and cons for the GLX: PROS: 1. VALUE: surprised to find such an affordable helmet at this level of quality. This is just as nice if not nicer than other full face helmets I’ve owned in the past, at a fraction of the cost. 2. WEIGHT: Heavier than my Daytona 3/4, but lighter (just over 3 pounds) than many full face helmets at this price range (4 to 5 pounds). 3. COMPACT: Huge compared to my Daytona! But not as wide as a lot of full face helmets. At least I don’t look like Toad from Super Mario Brothers. 4. SECOND TINTED VISOR: Easy to replace the clear and will leave it on even during night rides. 5. VENTS: Easy to operate and hope they stay functioning. 6. COMPANY: Headquartered in Duarte, CA, within the SGV, my old stomping grounds. Represent. CONS: 1. TIGHT: Listen to the people; this thing is snug. Supposedly larger than my Daytona (and the 1Storm I just returned), but feels just as snug, if not more so. I have big cheeks and they feel violated- got a compression headache the first time I tried it on. Would consider exchanging for a medium, but my suspicion is that it will be more comfortable once broken in. I am able to wear my glasses with it on. 2. WEIGHT: Obviously heavier than a 3/4 open face helmet (by about a pound), if that’s what you’re used to. 3. CHIN CURTAIN: I’m worried I’m going to lose this thing while riding. Plus, I have a big beard that is longer than where the chin curtain rests, defeating its purpose. Hope this is helpful. Peace. Read more
Riding in Comfort
You’ll find the GLX GX11 quite comfortable, especially after a short break-in period. Many riders note its lightweight feel (around 3.1 pounds), which helps reduce neck strain on longer trips.
The interior padding is soft, and a big plus is that it’s fully removable and washable, making it easy to keep fresh. While it might feel tight initially, particularly around the ears or cheeks, many users find it conforms well over time and even accommodates glasses without issue.
Trusting GLX
When you’re looking for a helmet, safety is paramount, and GLX seems to deliver. The GX11 is DOT approved, indicating it meets essential safety standards.
With a solid 4.4-star rating from nearly 8,000 reviews, you can see that a vast majority of riders are satisfied. Several reviews even mention the helmet’s performance in minor incidents, reinforcing its protective capabilities.
It’s a brand that has garnered considerable trust among its users for providing reliable head protection.
What Stands Out
- Southern California design for a snug, comfortable fit
- Optimized ventilation with adjustable air intakes and exhaust outlets
- Enhanced visibility through a wide field of vision shield
- Quick-change mechanism for effortless visor replacement
- Advanced safety with GLX shell molding and Multi-Density EPS liner
- Fully removable, washable, and adjustable interior for comfort
Rating: 4.4 (total: 7884+)
ILM Model 128S Full Face Helmet
Looking for a full face helmet that balances solid protection with features perfect for off-road adventures? The ILM Model 128S is a fantastic choice. It’s DOT certified, so you can ride confidently knowing it meets important safety standards.
This helmet is designed with a lightweight yet robust ABS shell and a well-vented EPS liner, ensuring both safety and comfort on your rides. Whether you’re hitting the dirt trails on your ATV or cruising on a dirt bike, its aerodynamic design and thoughtful ventilation will keep you comfortable.
Plus, the detachable visor is a handy feature, offering flexibility for different riding conditions. It’s a great all-around option for enthusiasts.
What People Say
Riders consistently praise the ILM Model 128S for its strong performance and value. Many highlight its robust build quality and appreciate how lightweight it feels on longer rides.
While some users mention the fit can run a bit large compared to other brands, they find it comfortable once the correct size is determined. The effective ventilation and easy-to-use quick-release buckle are also frequently noted positive points.
Most importantly, several anecdotes underscore its protective capabilities, offering significant peace of mind.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Leah Carwell
My son was run over by a car in this helmet. The tire went over part of his head and this helmet didn’t crack. It looks good it’s good quality and most importantly, saved a life.
🗣️ Ryan S
This helmet was purchased for ATV riding in the Ocala National Forest. It has vents that make it incredibly breathable, and the sizing guide is accurate and true to size. I highly recommend this helmet to everyone. The quality matches the price.
Riding Comfort
When it comes to comfort, the ILM Model 128S generally hits the mark. Many users find it surprisingly light, which helps prevent neck fatigue, especially during extended use on trails. The internal padding is designed to be soft against your skin, and a huge bonus is that these pads are fully detachable and washable, making maintenance a breeze. While some reviews suggest you might need to size down from your usual, once you get the right fit, it’s reported to be very comfortable, feeling secure without being overly restrictive.
The ample ventilation also helps keep you cool, which is essential for active riding.
Reliability and Safety
ILM has built a solid reputation, and the Model 128S reinforces that trust. It holds DOT certification, which means it meets stringent safety requirements, giving you a fundamental level of assurance.
With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 3,300 reviews, it’s clear that a vast majority of users are very satisfied with their purchase. What truly stands out are the testimonials from riders who have experienced spills or impacts, with the helmet performing admirably and, in at least one highly impactful case, potentially saving a life.
This real-world performance strongly backs up the brand’s commitment to protection.
Key Features
- DOT certified for exceptional safety
- Lightweight ABS shell with high-density EPS liner for comfortable protection
- Sleek aerodynamic design with excellent ventilation
- Inner pads are detachable and washable for hygiene
- Visor offers sun protection and is easily detachable
Rating: 4.6 (total: 3380+)
FAQ
How Do You Ensure You Get The Correct Size For A Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet, And Why Is It So Important?
Getting the right fit is absolutely crucial for both your comfort and, most importantly, your safety. To start, you should measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows and around the largest part of the back of your head.
Compare this measurement to the helmet manufacturer’s specific size chart, as sizes can vary between brands. When you try on a full-face helmet, it should feel snug all around your head, with no pressure points that cause discomfort.
Your cheeks should feel a slight squeeze, and the helmet shouldn’t twist easily when you try to rotate it. It might feel a bit tight initially, but padding often breaks in over time, molding to your head for a custom fit. Remember, a helmet that’s too loose won’t offer proper protection in a crash, and one that’s too tight can be distracting and uncomfortable on long rides.
What Essential Safety Certifications And Durability Aspects Should You Prioritize When Choosing A Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet?
When looking for a full-face helmet, your primary concern should always be safety. You absolutely must look for a helmet that is DOT certified (Department of Transportation), as this indicates it meets minimum safety standards for crash protection in the United States. Many helmets also carry ECE certification, which is a European standard recognized globally for its rigorous testing. These certifications ensure the helmet can withstand impacts and distribute force effectively, protecting your head.
For durability, consider helmets made with an ABS shell, which is a strong, lightweight plastic commonly used in helmet construction due to its good impact absorption properties. A well-constructed helmet should feel solid, without flimsy parts, and have a secure retention system like a reliable buckle. Durability also extends to how well the helmet holds up to regular use and minor bumps, ensuring it remains protective for its lifespan.
How Do Ventilation And Visor Features Contribute To Your Riding Experience With A Full-Face Helmet, Especially On Varying Rides?
Ventilation and visor features significantly impact your comfort and safety during rides. Good ventilation, often through multiple adjustable vents on the chin, forehead, and top, allows for crucial airflow to keep you cool in warmer weather and reduce fogging on your visor.
Without adequate airflow, your visor can quickly fog up, severely impairing your visibility, especially when stopped or in humid conditions. Look for helmets that offer removable, washable padding, which helps with hygiene and comfort by wicking away sweat.
For visors, a clear, optically correct main visor is standard, but many helmets also include a drop-down internal sun visor for convenience in changing light conditions. Some visors feature anti-fog coatings or are Pinlock-ready, which are excellent for maintaining clear vision.
While some wind noise is inevitable in any helmet, well-designed full-face helmets will minimize it, allowing you to focus on the road without excessive distraction.
Best Buys
When considering the best buys among these options, it truly depends on what you prioritize in a full-face helmet. If youre seeking a great balance of features and affordability, youll find the JQF Gear WS-607 to be an excellent value.
However, if convenience and adaptability are paramount for your riding style, you might consider the ILM Modular a superior investment.
Wrapping Up
Investing in a quality full face motorcycle helmet is a crucial decision for any rider, and finding one that offers both superior protection and affordability is achievable. This guide has presented you with top options that balance safety, comfort, and value, ensuring you can ride with greater confidence. By choosing a helmet from this selection, you are not just buying gear; you are investing in your own safety and enhancing your overall riding enjoyment. Remember, a good helmet is your first line of defense, and with these choices, you can protect yourself effectively without overspending.
| Product | Image | Rating | Weight | Number Of Vents | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TRIANGLE Motorcycle Helmet |
 |
4.5/5 (2,212 reviews) | 2.7 pounds | N/A | Plastic |
| Full Face Motorcycle Helmet WS-607 |
 |
4.4/5 (396 reviews) | 2.09 kilograms | 3 | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
| ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Helmet |
 |
4.5/5 (13,674 reviews) | 4.5 pounds | 6 | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
| GLX GX11 Compact Motorcycle Helmet |
 |
4.4/5 (7,884 reviews) | 3.1 pounds | 7 | Faux Leather, Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
| ILM Adult Dirt Bike Helmet Model 128S |
 |
4.6/5 (3,380 reviews) | 4.22 pounds | N/A | Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
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