Types of motorcycle helmets 2024

For motorcycle riders, one of the most important pieces of equipment is undoubtedly a motorcycle helmet.
Buying a motorcycle today is not as easy as it used to be. There are so many choices and different types of helmets on the market that you can’t just walk into a shop and grab the first one you see. You need to make sure the item you buy is made for your driving style.
In general, there are five types of helmets on the market, and each type corresponds to a different riding style and may function differently if it is designed for a different use. By choosing the right type of helmet, you can not only save yourself from injury in the event of a collision, but also save yourself the hassle of having to sell a helmet you never really needed.
 

Classic Full Face helmet with visor

The classic helmet with visor offers the most protection. The most distinctive feature of this helmet is the chin, which forms part of the shell and protects the face and chin in the event of a fall. Studies have shown that in motorcycle accidents, the chin hits the ground in 50% of crashes.
Classic helmets have visors that protect your eyes from dust or rain, and wind at high speeds, allowing you to maintain good visibility at all times. The helmets are equipped with ventilation openings to prevent the visors from fogging up. The classic helmet has the best noise attenuation.
It is the most common and safest type of helmet on the market.

Opening helmets

Open-faced helmets usually look exactly the same as classic helmets with a visor. However, their most distinctive feature is the ability to turn the chin guard upwards, or open the face. Because of the open face, they generally do not offer as much protection as a classic helmet. It is possible to ride with the helmet open, but it is not recommended for safety reasons. The opening helmet feature is convenient for example when making stops and provides more ventilation compared to a classic helmet.
Open-face helmets usually weigh 10-20% more than classic helmets because they have an open-face chin protection system.
Opening helmets are preferred by touring, cruising and adventure motorcyclists. Although they are usually not as safe as classic helmets, they are still considered safer than open-face helmets.
LS2 offers the best range of opening helmets. Find the right one for you here.

Adventure , dual-sport, hybrid

The newest type of helmet is the adventure helmet, which is a mix of a motocross helmet and a classic helmet. Basically, it’s a motocross helmet redesigned for street use and higher speeds. Adventure helmets look like motocross helmets but are more aerodynamic to withstand higher speeds. They have better sound insulation and also a wider field of vision compared to a classic helmet, and the visor can be opened.
It is the most versatile helmet because it offers a wider field of vision than a motocross helmet, has improved sound insulation and ventilation similar to a classic helmet. They also have a chin guard which makes this helmet safer.

Cross helmets

Motocross helmets have a wide field of vision and good ventilation. They are usually lightweight because the helmets lack a visor and other elements. Riders should wear cross-country goggles to protect their eyes, as rocks, dust and other particles can be thrown up from behind other riders on the off-road course, so eye protection is essential!
Cross helmets usually have less noise insulation than other helmets and are equipped with a large helmet brim. On some models, it is possible to adjust the position of the helmet handle;
to help prevent the sun from shining.

Open face helmets

Open-faced helmets are designed for riders on motorcycles or scooters at lower speeds. Unlike other helmets, they do not have chin protection.
The open helmet protects the head but leaves the rider’s face open to the elements.
Most LS2 helmets are equipped with a visor. The open helmet provides the most airflow.
Riders who ride classic or old-school motorcycles prefer this type of helmet for its aesthetics and airy feel. It is usually lighter than a full-size helmet (due to the lack of chin protection), but the rest of the helmet offers the same amount of cushioning as other helmets.

If you know what type of helmet you need, read our next article on how to choose the right size for you.