Best German Motorcycle Helmets – 2021 Complete Review

| Last Updated: January 15, 2022

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German motorcycle helmets have become a popular choice for riders who prefer an open-face helmet and minimal coverage.

We've found the best German motorcycle helmets, so you have a good idea of what helmets are worth your money. Let's hop right into our review.

Comparison of the Best German Style Motorcycle Helmets

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Made form very strong materials to last long
  • A padded liner included for better comfort fit
  • Comes with an adjustable chin strap included
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  • Best for the Money
  • Comes with an adjustable chin strap included
  • A padded liner included for better comfort and easy fit
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  • Best Low Profile German Motorcycle Helmet
  • Adaptable to different head sizes
  • Comes with the DOT approval to make it safe to use
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  • Best Chrome German Motorcycle Helmet
  • Made form very strong materials to last long
  • Fits a wide variety of head sizes
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  • Best German Motorcycle Helmet With Spike
  • Will fit many different sizes of heads
  • Made form very strong materials to last long
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  • Best Leather German Motorcycle Helmet
  • Shell is made from lightweight and durable material
  • this helmet comes with the DOT approval to make it safe to use
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  • Best DOT German Motorcycle Helmet
  • A high-density full EPS liner included for better comfort
  • Quick release chin strap for quick and easy fit
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When Would I Use a German Motorcycle Helmet?

Many people wonder why they would want to pick a German motorcycle helmet over other models. Here are three good reasons to choose a German motorcycle helmet. 

To Meet Safety Requirements

Some people use German helmets to meet legal requirements for wearing a helmet while operating a motorcycle on the highway. 

Many states require you to have some type of head protection when driving a motorcycle. Wearing a DOT approved German helmet means you don't have to deal with legality rules.

Comfort

German-style helmets don't cover your face, making them a broad choice for riders who don't like the suffocating, humid feeling of a modular or closed face helmet. 

This gear rests low on your head without being bulky or uncomfortable. Adjustable straps make it easier to get a secure, safe fit without being stuffed in an overly hot helmet.

Look

The look of a German motorcycle helmet gives you an authentic biker look of the original bikers - soldiers from World War II who started the trend of using motorcycles in battle.

Wearing a German motorcycle helmet gives you a tough, biker look that rivals the best biker movies. But beware of too much padding in your helmet, which can give you a mushroom head.

Are All German Motorcycle Helmets the Same? 

All German motorcycle helmets have the same traditional style, but they are not made the same. You have to use caution when shopping for a German helmet, as not all of them are intended for frequent use.

Many German-style helmets are designed as a novelty item, meant to give you a look and feel of a helmet, without the functionality and protective aspects to keep you safe. 

And many of these helmets are not legal to use while riding your motorcycle on the highway. Some are just props that make you look cool. 

Review of the Best German Style Motorcycle Helmets 

In this section, we're going to do a thorough review of the best German-style motorcycle helmets. We'll discuss the pros and cons, opinions of other buyers, and why we like each model. 

Best Overall:
Monaco Traders Half Helmet 5021

German Novelty Flat Black Motorcycle Skull Cap Cruiser Biker S,M,L,XL,XXL (S, Flat Black)

PROS

  • Traditional German style with a leather brim
  • Y-retention strap helps keep helmet secure in place
  • Fiberglass material offers some protection against impact
  • Contoured shape and position of the belt doesn't hurt ears
  • The liner makes the helmet more comfortable for extended periods of wear

CONS

  • Not street legal or DOT approved
  • Should not be used for protective gear

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers of the Monaco Traders German Half Helmet frequently mention the low profile design of this hat, which sits close to the head. 

The short length and widened brim make it comfortable for your ears, a feature lacking in many German-style helmets.

Some users did notice that the helmet has a bit of pull when the wind catches underneath it. You may have to wear it a little tighter than usual to keep it secure.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We appreciate the traditional German appearance of a rounded top with a slightly flared brim to rest over your ears without being uncomfortable.

The nylon Y-retention strap is adjustable so you can have a secure fit. And it's thin enough not to be an annoyance while wearing. 

We do want to point out the snap on this helmet uses a different connection than a simple push button and may take a bit of time to get used to working.

Bottom Line

If you're looking for a traditional style WWII German motorcycle skid helmet for novelty use, you're sure to appreciate the Monaco Traders Half Helmet.

Best for the Money:
Excelsior Int Carbon Fiber Skull Cap

Brain Buckets German Novelty Skull Cap (S, Black Skulls)

PROS

  • Y retention strap has a quick release
  • Flared brim with braided leather accent 
  • Adjustable chin strap provides a secure fit
  • The cushioned liner on the inside adds extra comfort
  • Elaborate skull pattern designs in different color options

CONS

  • Is not DOT certified or legal for highway use
  • Novelty item only so it's not intended for protection

What Recent Buyers Report

Many buyers appreciated the detailed graphics, which give this traditional German motorcycle helmet a modern look. 

The Y retention strap has enough space to prevent pinching your ears, and the widened brim makes the helmet sit low over your forehead and ears for a comfortable fit.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We appreciate the strap design, which secures to the fiberglass helmet with steel rivets, meaning the straps won't break off or shift. 

The padded liner on the inside is a great benefit that helps make this helmet more comfortable to wear. But the fact that it's not DOT certified means it has limited use. It should never be used for protection.

The style and construction make this helmet look like a legal piece of gear so if you live in a state where there's a no law helmet, you can wear this as a way to spruce up your look, but it won't do much to protect your head if you take a spill. 

Bottom Line

For a helmet with a traditional German look with some modern twists such as the skull graphics, you're sure to enjoy the affordable Excelsior Int novelty helmet.

Best Low Profile German Motorcycle Helmet:
Daytona G1-B German Motorcycle Helmet

Daytona Helmets Half Shell German Motorcycle Helmet – DOT Approved [Dull Black] [XS]

PROS

  • Various sizes available
  • Passes DOT safety standards, so it's street legal
  • Quick-release lock allows for quick removal of the helmet
  • Adjustable Y-retention strap can be repositioned for comfort
  • Thick interior padding provides comfort and extra head protection

CONS

  • Pulls up when catching air during riding
  • Thick padding can cause a mushroom look

What Recent Buyers Report

Customers who bought this item often experienced problems with receiving the right DOT certified helmet. But those who received the correct item loved the comfort and design.

The thick pad on the inside makes your helmet comfortable to wear for long periods. But because of the padding, you get more of a mushroom head. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This helmet stood out to us because it's DOT approved, which means your helmet will be safe to wear as protective gear. 

We love the nod to a traditional German WWII helmet with the classic black matte look and the slightly flared brim that lays over your ears.

The thin adjustable strap won't get in your way, and you can tighten or loosen as needed. The quick-release snap makes it easy to get this helmet on and off without wasting time fiddling with difficult clasps.

Bottom Line

For a DOT approved German style motorcycle helmet with a traditional style, the Daytona G1-B German motorcycle helmet might be for you.

Best Chrome German Motorcycle Helmet:
ZONY Harley Cruisers

German Chrome Silver Novelty Skull Cap Half Helmet (Chrome, XL)

PROS

  • Chrome design gives a unique look
  • Cushioned chin strap provides extra comfort
  • Foam liner adds extra cushioning around the head
  • Y-straps are positioned, so they don't hurt your ears
  • Quick-release snap makes it easy to remove one-handed

CONS

  • Scratches easy
  • Not DOT certified

What Recent Buyers Report

Customers who purchased this German motorcycle helmet reported a comfortable low profile fit that doesn't hurt the ears.

While many people liked the unique chrome color that sets them apart from the mass of black shorty helmets, they did report that it was easy to scratch and damage.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We love the low profile design of this helmet that makes it sit low on your forehead without pressing down painfully on your ears. 

The thin, adjustable retention straps will help your helmet stay in place while the extra padding on the chin keeps it comfortable during prolonged use.

And the padding on the inside makes it more comfortable on your head without creating an unattractive mushroom shape.

Bottom Line

For a different look than the stock black of most German helmets, you may enjoy the chrome color of the Zony Harley Cruiser.

Best German Motorcycle Helmet With Spike:
Excelsior Int German Style Helmet

German Style Shiny Novelty Helmet with Spikes Size S,M,L,XL,2XL (S, Black)

PROS

  • Multiple size options to choose from
  • Low profile design sits low on the head and ears
  • Extra padding on the chin for maximum comfort
  • Easy release latch makes it easy to remove this helmet quickly
  • Unique spikes along the center of the crown make this helmet stand out

CONS

  • Strap may be uncomfortable on some ears
  • Not meant for protective wear - doesn't meet DOT standards

What Recent Buyers Report

Customers who purchased this novelty helmet liked the unique look of the long spikes that travel front to back along the center of the crown. 

The thin adjustable strap with extra padding around the chin makes it easy to get a secure fit, but some people may find it uncomfortable after long periods of wear.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Naturally, the first thing that caught our attention is the spikes. These pointy pieces of metal give your low profile helmet a tougher biker look. 

We like that the straps are adjustable, but we would like to see more spacing between the Y to account for your ears. And the padding under the chin can fit awkwardly for some users.

Slight padding keeps your head comfortable but doesn't offer any impact protection. There isn't so much padding that you end up mushroomed.

Bottom Line

If you want to stand out in a crowd of black German-style helmets, you're sure to enjoy the attention you'll get with the spiked Excelsior German novelty helmet.

Best Leather German Motorcycle Helmet:
TCT-MT DOT Helmet+Goggles

TCT-MT DOT Helmet+Goggles Motorcycle German Leather Half Face Helmet W/Biker Pilot Goggles Cruiser Touring Scooter PU Leather Matte Black (Adult Medium)

PROS

  • Steel D-ring snap is easy to maneuver
  • Leather covering gives an antique look
  • Comes with goggles to protect your eyes
  • Composite helmet has UV protective coating
  • DOT certified for a safe piece of head protection

CONS

  • Polyurethane plastic construction isn't as safe
  • Not true to size - recommended to buy one size bigger than normal

What Recent Buyers Report

Many buyers reported problems with the sizing being different than they are used to, but the manufacturer does warn of this issue. If you measure correctly, you should not have a sizing problem.

Customers also reported that this helmet sat higher on their heads due to the thick protective padding, which offers extra coverage for your head during impact.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We love that this helmet comes with a pair of safety riding goggles that reduces the extra gear you have to purchase. The plastic lenses are scratch-resistant with a padded frame and a headband you can adjust to size.

We also like the leather-topped look of this classic German-style helmet. Wearing this gear is sure to get you noticed at your next rally or while cruising the streets.

The thick leather straps secure with an easy dual D-ring made of stainless steel. However, due to the latch, many users found this helmet catches air and doesn't fit tight to your head.

Bottom Line

If you like the classic look of a leather helmet and goggles, you're sure to find the TCT-MT DOT German half helmet a great addition to your riding ensemble.

Best DOT German Motorcycle Helmet:
AHR Run-G DOT Helmet

AHR German Style Motorcycle Half Helmet Cruiser Scooter Chopper Half Shell Helmet for Men Women DOT Approved RUN-G (Matte Black, L)

PROS

  • Large ear holes for extra comfort
  • Padded strap keeps face and chin protected
  • Exceeds DOT safety standards for a protective helmet
  • Quick-release buckle makes it easy to put on and off in a hurry
  • Vented EPS liner adds protection and comfort to the helmet interior

CONS

  • Not a low profile design
  • ABS material isn't as safe

What Recent Buyers Report

Users like the fact that this helmet is DOT certified, which is evident from the thick padding on the helmet's interior. 

But many people felt this helmet sits too high to be low profile and gives a mushroom head shape. In terms of style, many users felt the company missed the mark for the appropriate look for a German motorcycle helmet.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We like the fact that this helmet is legal for highway use and offers protection for your head during accidents. The leather around the wide-spaced ear straps provides comfort and security.

We also like that the clasp is quick release so you can take it off in a hurry without a bunch of fumbling fingers. And the strap is adjustable, so it fits properly. 

The thick padding in this helmet is comfortable to wear, but it causes the helmet to sit higher on your head than we'd prefer. But you're sure to appreciate this padding if you're in an accident.

Bottom Line

If you want a TOD-approved, half-face German helmet with a classic look, you might like the look and performance of the AHR Run-G. 

Why Did These German Motorcycle Helmets Make Our List? 

Each of these helmets has standard features that make them land on our list of the best German motorcycle helmets. Picking a helmet with these options ensures you get a proper helmet.

Design

German motorcycle helmets have a traditional World War II design, with a round curved head and a flared brim. 

These helmets are usually low profile, meaning they don't have a lot of weight or material. For this reason, many German motorcycle helmets do not meet DOT safety standards and intended as a novelty rather than protective wear.

Most German helmets come in a matte black color and straps to secure the helmet during use. But some versions may come in other colors, with graphics or decals, or extra accessories like spikes on top.

Durability

It's a frustrating waste of money when you buy a product that doesn't last long during use. When purchasing a German motorcycle helmet, you'll want to shop around to ensure the one you choose is worth the cost.

Most helmets are not DOT approved so they are not made as durable as you would like for a motorcycle helmet. Novelty helmets are usually flimsy materials that don't last or withstand damage.

Look for helmets made of fiberglass or composite materials, which have more durability and strength. These will get you your money's worth and keep you protected.

Comfort

The issue with many German motorcycle helmets is that they look cool but aren't comfortable. It can be challenging to want to wear a helmet that doesn't fit right. 

Some models come with cushions or liners that make your helmet fit better. But the downside of this protective feature is that these liners often cause your helmet to sit higher, ruining the low profile look of a German-style helmet. 

If you choose to pick a helmet that has interior padding or liners, be sure the material is removable and machine washable, so you don't end up with a helmet that smells or causes skin irritations from being unhygienic.

Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind 

German-style helmets help you pull off the traditional Word War II look. But there are some issues with this style of helmet that we should address.

Safety

Compared to other styles of helmets, a German motorcycle helmet is the least safe. This style is a half helmet design, which means there's a material that covers your head but leaves your face unprotected.

If you choose to purchase a German-style helmet, you might also want to look into buying a quality pair of riding goggles to protect your eyes. Many people choose to buy a mask or bandana to put over their mouths to avoid eating dirt and bugs. 

The best way to get a safe German motorcycle helmet is to find one that meets the Department of Transportation (DOT) certifications. 

This certificate means that the helmet has undergone testing and has safety features such as a liner, strap, and construction with strong, durable material.

Legality

In many states in the US, there are laws regarding wearing a helmet while operating a motorcycle. For your helmet to be legal, it has to be DOT approved.

Helmets that are not DOT approved are not legal to use as protective wear while driving your bike on the highway. Therefore, you could face legal repercussions if the police stop you.

Non-DOT helmets are great for novelty uses, such as wearing in states where there are no helmet laws. Or to wear as part of your ensemble to give you the stereotypical biker look.

Types of German Style Motorcycle Helmets

There are a few different styles of German motorcycle helmets you can pick. All German helmets are half helmets, meaning they don't protect much. Let's look at the different types you can get.

Traditional

A traditional style German motorcycle helmet will be a durable material, with a low profile design that sits low on your forehead and covers your ears. 

A sturdy strap goes beneath the chin to keep the helmet in place. The flared brim makes this helmet rest comfortably over your ears and deters water from dripping into your face. 

Antique

Some German-style helmets stick to the antique style of a leather-wrapped cap with wide leather straps. These helmets bring you back to the old days during World War II.

If you want to stick to an authentic World War II replica helmet, you'll find the leather binding on the helmet adds more protection for your noggin. 

Customized

Like all products, you can find German-style motorcycle helmets that offer accessories that can help you stand out in a crowd. 

Customized features include decals, painted images, spikes, and different colors besides the traditional black. 

Novelty

Many German-style helmets are a novelty item, which means they are for looks but not full functionality. Novelty helmets are not DOT approved, nor are they legal for highway riding. These helmets work for looking the part and for short joy rides or collector items, but they won't keep you safe.

Conclusion

German-style motorcycle helmets are a popular choice for bikers who ride on choppers, cruisers, and scooters. This style of protective gear gives you the traditional World War II era appearance with a low profile shape and a kick-butt tough look. 

People Also Ask

Many people still have questions about their products. We've taken the time to respond to a few common questions people wonder before purchasing a German motorcycle helmet. Here are a few answers to help you on your shopping trip.

Are German Style Helmets DOT Approved?

Some German-style helmets pass DOT approval while others do not. You have to be careful which helmet you buy if DOT certifications are a requirement for your helmet. 

To be DOT certified, your helmet needs to undergo rigorous safety testing to ensure the helmet does its job of protecting your head. A DOT approved helmet will come with a safety certificate or sticker during purchase.

Are German Motorcycle Helmets Safe?

German motorcycle helmets are a half style, which is less safe than other helmet types because they do not protect anything but your head. 

Look for helmets that have advanced safety features like padded liners, adjustable straps, durable material construction, and DOT certifications. 

Why Do Bikers Wear German Helmets?

Many bikers like to wear German helmets due to the signature low profile look. It's also a way to pay homage to the veterans who started the trend of using motorcycles during World War II.

German biker helmets give you a lean, tough look to match the spine of steel it takes to wear a helmet that offers minimal protection during accidents.

Are German Half Helmets For Motorcycles Legal?

For a German half helmet to be legal, it has to be safety approved by the Department of Transportation, Snell, or other safety organizations. 

Helmets that do not have safety certifications are not legal for highway use. However, some states do not require you to wear a helmet, so a German half helmet is permitted in these locations.



Hi, my name’s Troy. I started riding motorcycles with Clay mid-2020 and soaking up his vast knowledge of bikes. I have been writing for a few years and decided it was a good time to start writing about what I’m passionate about - motorcycles. No matter how bad your day is, a bike will always make you feel better, that’s my motto.