Best Leather Motorcycle Helmets – 2021 Review

| Last Updated: January 17, 2022

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Leather helmets were one of the first types of safety equipment people wore when motorcycles were first becoming popular.

Today, riders can embrace this vintage aesthetic and classic look by purchasing a modern version of a leather helmet.

If you are curious about leather motorcycle helmets, you have come to the right place.

Comparison of the Best Leather Motorcycle Helmets

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Features a quick release fastener
  • Has a super soft lining and interior
  • Made with a lightweight and reliable plastic
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  • Can be used with off-road vehicles
  • Made with shock-absorbing ABS
  • Has a unique vintage style
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  • Best for the Money
  • Tested and certified by professionals
  • Features a convenient chin strap
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  • Best DOT Leather Motorcycle Helmet and Best Brown Leather Motorcycle Helmet
  • Chin strap features a one touch buckle
  • Features an adjustable face shield
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  • Best Leather German Motorcycle Helmet
  • Has a UV protective finish
  • Features a soft and comfortable interior
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  • Best Vintage Leather Motorcycle Helmet
  • Includes a detachable 4 season ear muffle
  • Made with top quality ABS
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How Do I Choose a Leather Motorcycle Helmet?

When choosing a leather motorcycle helmet, there are some important factors you should take into consideration. If you have decided to go the leather route, look for the following:

Look to Make Sure the Helmet Meets the Appropriate Safety Standards

There is a big difference between a novelty leather helmet and one that is safe for the road. Just like any other type of motorcycle helmet, there are strict legal standards a leather helmet must meet to be considered safe for road use. Check for approval from the department of transportation, which will usually be listed as DOT certification. 

Look for a Helmet That Fits Securely

Always pay attention to the way a helmet fits your head. Not only will an ill-fitting helmet feel uncomfortable, but it can also be dangerous. The helmet should fit snugly and in a way that it does not move as you turn your head or traverse uneven terrain. If a helmet can easily shift out of position, it might not protect you in the event of an accident.

SOXON NTNK N325--URBAN

Make Sure You Consider the Helmet’s Overall Weight

Weight is much more important than style, especially if you plan on riding for any significant distance. While a pound or two of added weight might not feel like a big deal when you are trying a helmet on, that added weight can lead to a significant amount of strain on your neck and shoulders after a few hours. Look for helmets that are made from durable and lightweight materials underneath the leather covering.

Review of the Best Leather Motorcycle Helmets

To help you find the perfect head protection for your riding needs, we have reviewed some of the best leather motorcycle helmets on the market today.

Best Overall:
SOXON - NTNK N325 Urban

SOXON NTNK N325 Urban „Green“ · Open-Face-Helmet · Motorcycle Half-Face Jet Pilot Motor-Bike Scooter Biker Retro Chopper Cruiser Vintage Bobber · DOT Approved · Leather-Design · S

PROS

  • Available in a wide variety of colors and styles
  • Made from 100 percent vegan-friendly leather
  • Lightweight design helps reduce fatigue during long rides
  • Includes a carrier bag to protect the helmet when it is not in use
  • Quick-release fastener makes it easy to secure the helmet, even while wearing gloves

CONS

  • Open face design offers less protection than a fully enclosed motorcycle helmet

Durability and Protection

Despite the retro exterior, this helmet meets all modern safety standards, including DOT approval. The thermo-polymer shell protects the wearer while still keeping the helmet at a comfortable weight.

Weight

Due to its open-face design, this helmet only weighs 2.3 lbs, which is significantly lighter than the average DOT-approved motorcycle helmet.

Comfort and Fit

The integrated lining is incredibly soft, so users will find the helmet is very comfortable. The liner is also removable and washable, which helps preserve it over time. It is available in a range of sizes, from XS up to XL.

Style

The helmet features an eye-catching, retro style reminiscent of a World War II pilot’s helmet. It is available in a variety of color options.

Visibility

The helmet features a clear visor, which can be raised or lowered based on the wearer’s preferences.

Review

This is a great option for those looking for a classic-looking leather helmet but still want a safe helmet that offers good visibility. If you would prefer to use your goggles or sunglasses, simply raise the visor, or remove it altogether. The visor itself is also scratch-resistant and helps protect the user’s eyes from dust, bugs, and other flying debris. This versatility is really what makes this helmet stand out.

Bottom Line

This is one of the visually appealing leather helmets out there. While there are plenty of color options to choose from, we found the green and brown leather exterior perfectly captures the vintage aesthetic leather helmet wearers prefer.

Runner-up:
Fang Shan – PU Leather Helmet

PROS

  • Affordable price point
  • Numerous styles and colors available
  • Interior is roomy enough to install speakers
  • Comes with a detachable face shield and visor
  • Lightweight design ensures a comfortable ride with no strain

CONS

  • Does not have DOT approval, which means it might not be legal for road use where you live

Durability and Protection

It is made from reinforced materials, including shock absorbing ABS and EPS materials. This combination of durable and lightweight materials ensures that the user is protected. However, buyers should note that this helmet is not DOT-approved.

Weight

With a total weight of only 2.75 lbs, users will not experience a significant amount of neck or shoulder strain during lengthy rides.

Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow

The face mask features mouth vents and is also fully removable, so it is easy to maintain constant airflow with this helmet.

Style

The helmet finds the midway point between vintage and modern styles. While the exterior leather cover gives the helmet a retro vibe, the contemporary visor and face shield gives it an aggressive, modern look. It is also available in 6 different colors, each of which has a different surface grain.

Visibility

The mirrored visor is not the best, but it is fully removable so users can pair the helmet with their own goggles. While the visor does offer eye protection, it is susceptible to fogging.

Review

The helmet is surprisingly light due to the choice to construct the shell out of ABS materials. That said, this is not a DOT-approved helmet, which means it is likely not suitable for road use. If you are looking for a safe and practical motorcycle, you may want to look elsewhere.

Bottom Line

This helmet is surprisingly light due to the manufacturer’s decision to construct the shell out of lightweight ABS materials. While it looks great, you should remember that it does not have DOT approval.

Best for the Money:
Woljay Halbhelme

Woljay Leather Motorcycle Goggles Vintage Half Helmets Biker Cruiser Scooter Touring Helmet

PROS

  • Affordable price point
  • Available in four unique colors
  • Lightweight design that meets DOT regulations
  • Open face design is great for those that like to feel the wind on their face
  • Faux leather material looks great and gives the helmet a vintage aesthetic

CONS

  • Built-in visor does not drop low enough to keep the wind out of the wearer’s eyes

Durability and Protection

The helmet is constructed from a durable ABS material, which gives it considerable impact resistance. It has DOT approval, which means it is a road-legal motorcycle helmet in the United States. 

Weight

Given that this is a half helmet, it is incredibly light. The entire helmet comes in at just 2.2 lbs, which is significantly lighter than most DOT-approved motorcycle helmets.

Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow

Half helmets have an open face design, which means wearers do not have to worry about air flow or ventilation. 

Style

This helmet features a classic style and is an eye-catching, low-profile half helmet. 

Visibility

If you opt for the built-in visor, it offers partial wind and debris protection without negatively impacting visibility. If you choose to go without the visor, then consider pairing the helmet with a set of goggles.

Review

This is a great-looking leather helmet that combines comfort and top-notch visibility. The wearer’s full face is exposed, which prevents condensation and humidity buildup. In terms of comfort, the one-touch chin buckle keeps the helmet in place, and it is available in a variety of sizes, so finding the perfect fit is easy.

Bottom Line

The leather exterior looks great and helps give it that vintage look many motorcycle riders prefer. It is available in four color options, and buyers can choose between a built-in visor or a completely open model. Not only is it comfortable and safe, but it also looks fantastic.

Best DOT Leather Motorcycle Helmet and Best Brown Leather Motorcycle Helmet:
Woljay Leather 1

Woljay Leather Motorcycle Vintage Half Helmets Motorcycle Biker Cruiser Scooter Touring Helmet (XL, Brown)

PROS

  • Leather material looks great
  • Surprisingly affordable for a DOT approved helmet
  • Drop-down visor is a convenient option on windy days
  • Has DOT approval and is both legal and safe to use
  • Minimalist design is perfect for those that want a no-fuss helmet

CONS

  • Chin strap can begin to peel over time; however, the buckle works incredibly well

Durability and Protection

Woljay constructed the shell out of a durable ABS material, which gives it excellent strength and impact resistance. Despite its minimalist appearance, the helmet has DOT approval and is completely legal and safe to use on the road.

Weight

With a total weight of 2.74 lbs, this helmet is light enough that users will not experience any negative effects from using it over an extended period.

Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow

The open face, half helmet design allows for constant air circulation and prevents the condensation buildup that can make so many fully enclosed helmets difficult to wear during long-distance rides.

Style

The smooth exterior surface and stylish brown leather give the helmet an eye-catching look that is both practical and stylish

Visibility

The helmet has a built-in clear visor, which can be dropped into position to help combat oncoming wind and debris. Due to the open-faced design, air can easily circulate under the lens and prevent it from fogging up.

Review

This helmet looks great and captures the classic aesthetic of a traditional leather motorcycle helmet. If the brown leather is not for you, Woljay also offers the helmet in black, grey, and red, as well as a unique poker-themed print. If you want a safe, affordable helmet that looks great, you cannot go wrong with this one.

Bottom Line

This helmet’s strength to weight ratio is impressive and can mostly be credited to the lightweight construction materials, which offer durability without adding excess weight to the helmet. It is a comfortable, safe, and classic-looking motorcycle helmet.

Best Leather German Motorcycle Helmet:
HTTMT - MT506-002

HTTMT MT506-002-XL- DOT German Black Leather Motorcycle Half Face Helmet Biker Pilot Goggles XL

PROS

  • Meets DOT safety standards
  • Available at an affordable price
  • Perfectly captures the traditional look of a German-style motorcycle helmet
  • Extremely lightweight design is perfect for those that want to avoid neck strain
  • Comes with vintage goggles that offer reasonable visibility, scratch resistance, and eye protection

CONS

  • Limited in terms of sizing, so it is important to consult the sizing guide before buying

Durability and Protection

The composite shell is both lightweight and durable. Its impact-resistant qualities explain why this half helmet has DOT approval. 

Weight

Its small size and composite construction mean that this is one of the lightest DOT-approved helmets you are going to find. At just 2.15 pounds, it is not surprising that it is a popular choice amongst those that prefer a lightweight form of head protection.

Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow

The open-face design keeps the wearer cool and avoids condensation buildup. A soft interior makes sure that the helmet is comfortable to wear, even during lengthy rides.

Style

This classic design is subtle, but it still packs plenty of attitudes. It is only available in black leather, which helps complete the German styling.

Visibility

Users can opt to use the helmet without eye protection, or they can choose to lower the vintage-style goggles that come included.

Review

Aside from its classic styling, the thing that stands out the most with this helmet is the goggles that come included with it. The goggles offer UV protection, and they are fully enclosed, which means the wearer will not have to deal with the irritation of oncoming wind or debris. It is also perfectly safe to use. Despite its small size and minimal coverage, this helmet is legal to use on American roads and is a great option for those that prefer a smaller helmet style.

Bottom Line

For those who enjoy the simplistic design of a classic German-style motorcycle helmet, look no further. The helmet copies the vintage style of a traditional German motorcycle helmet but meets modern safety standards.

Best Vintage Leather Motorcycle Helmet:
Hanmi Global Vintage Motorcycle Helmet + Goggles

Global Vintage Motorcycle Motorbike Scooter Half Leather Helmet Brown wlth Free Goggles and One Ganda Anti Electromagnetic Radiation Sticker

PROS

  • Extremely light
  • Includes vintage-style goggles
  • Detachable ear pads muffle noise
  • Perfectly captures the vintage aesthetic of early motorcycle helmets
  • The brown leather exterior looks great and gives the helmet a minimalist look

CONS

  • Does not have DOT approval, which means the helmet might not be legal

Durability and Protection

The helmet’s shell is constructed from a strong and impact-resistant ABS material. The interior padding adds further protection.

Weight

Given the small dimensions of this half helmet, it is incredibly light. It weighs under 2 pounds. 

Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow

The helmet features a classic, open-face design, so airflow is not an issue. Wearers will not have to worry about air circulation or condensation buildup. The earpads help muffle engine noise, useful for those who prefer a helmet that offers some ear protection.

Style

This helmet is the most traditional option on our list. It has a truly vintage appearance, and the leather exterior adds to that. The classic-looking goggles add to the vintage appearance.

Visibility

While the goggles do not offer a significant amount of eye protection, they have clear lenses, so they will not negatively impact the user’s visibility.

Review

For those looking for a helmet that will turn heads and complete a traditional motorcycle outfit, this is the perfect option. The canvas goggle strap gives the entire package a vintage military look. It is perfect for long rides in the country. However, you should know that it does not meet DOT safety standards, so it might not be a practical option for you.

Bottom Line

While this helmet looks great, it does not meet DOT standards, which means it is not rated for road use. If you are looking for a vintage-looking helmet for decorative or novelty purposes, it is an excellent choice; however, if you want something you can use on the road, you should probably look elsewhere.

Best Leather Motorcycle Helmet with Goggles:
TCMT XF270201-XL

TCMT Dot Adult 3/4 Open Face Motorcyle Helmet Retro Vintage Moped Bobber Scooter Cruiser Helmet for Men Women

PROS

  • Weighs just under 3 lbs
  • Removable liner is easy to wash
  • Faux leather surface looks great
  • DOT approval, so it is legal to use
  • Removable goggles function well and give the helmet a more complete look

CONS

  • Interior padding is somewhat stiff and takes a while to break-in

Durability and Protection

The helmet meets all DOT safety standards, which means it is safe for use in on and off-road conditions.

Weight

Both the shell and the interior liner are as light as possible. When combined with the fact that it is a half helmet, the result is an incredibly light motorcycle helmet.

Comfort, Ventilation, and Airflow

As a half helmet, it offers constant air circulation, which helps keep your head and face cool. It features a soft and snug interior for comfort. A padded neck lining also ensures the helmet is comfortable to wear during long rides.

Style

It copies the traditional styling of a classic German motorcycle helmet. The detachable goggles complete the vintage look. 

Visibility

The goggles are surprisingly clear and offer decent visibility in most riding conditions. While they are not tinted, which can be an issue on bright days, they do protect the eyes, add style, and offer great visibility.

Review

What we liked the most about this leather helmet are its low profile and slim width. In addition to giving the helmet a sleek exterior, the aerodynamic design also limits the effects of oncoming wind, avoiding neck strain and excessive noise in bulkier helmets.

Bottom Line

This is an eye-catching helmet that offers excellent visibility, a lightweight design, and safety. For those who want to capture the look of a classic motorcycle helmet, the black leather material looks great and adds to the vintage styling.

What Size of Helmet Do I Need?

The size of the helmet you will need will depend entirely upon the dimensions of your head. Most brands provide straightforward sizing guides. One of the easiest ways to ensure your new helmet will fit properly is to measure your head using a flexible tape measure.

How Should a Leather Motorcycle Helmet Fit?

Helmet sizes are similar to baseball cap sizes. Once you have your dimensions, simply consult the sizing guide and choose the appropriate size. Remember, fit is one of the most important factors when it comes to finding a safe and comfortable helmet. Helmets that shift as you ride are not just annoying; they are less safe than those that are secure.

HTTMT MT506-002 Helmet Size Guide

Safety Considerations for Leather Motorcycle Helmets

When choosing a new leather helmet, there are several factors you should take into consideration:

Fit

Ensure that your new helmet properly fits you. A helmet that is not secure can slide out of position, which could obstruct your vision. It also makes the helmet less effective when it comes to protecting your head during accidents.

Check to See if the Helmet Meets Safety Standards

All helmets are assessed to make sure they meet the minimum legal safety requirements. If you want to make sure that your helmet is safe, as well as legal to use, make sure that it has all of the relevant safety approvals for where you live. For Americans, this means checking to see if the helmet has DOT approval.

Photo credit: TheHogRing.com

Check for Damage

While this is less of a concern when buying a new helmet, it is still worth checking the exterior of any helmet you are about to use for wear and tear. You should question the integrity of a helmet if it has any surface cracks or signs of damage.

Make Sure the Buckle and Strap Have a Secure Hold

The strap will hold the helmet in place, which is particularly important in the event of a collision or crash. Unless your helmet stays attached to your head, it is worthless and offers you no protection.

Motorcycle Helmets Leather Covered vs Not - Is One Better?

If you are torn between a leather-covered motorcycle helmet and one that is not, you might be wondering if one offers advantages over the other. The truth is the differences mostly come down to personal preference. Leather helmets were once considered a safe option, but most of the helmets you see today simply apply a leather cover to the exterior surface of the helmet for fashion purposes.

If you prefer a vintage style, you should probably consider a leather-covered helmet. 

On the other hand, if the style is less important to you or you prefer a more contemporary-looking helmet, you should avoid leather-covered helmets.

Is a Leather Covered Motorcycle Helmet Safer?

Leather-covered motorcycle helmets are not any more or less safe than those with a leather cover. The safety a helmet offers the wearer is determined by the shell and padding, not the surface cover. .

Again, leather covers are all about style, so you should not choose a leather-covered helmet just because you think it is safer than a similar non-leather-covered helmet.

Fang Shan PU Leather Helmet

Conclusion 

If you are drawn to the vintage style of a leather-covered helmet, there are plenty of options to choose from. All of the leather helmets we reviewed above offer their unique advantages. Just make sure before you decide that the helmet you choose fits, falls within your budget, and meets your safety needs.

People Also Ask

What is the Leather Tab on the Back of a Motorcycle Helmet?

With most helmets, this tab connects the interior liner and padding to the outer shell.

Are Leather Motorcycle Helmets DOT Approved?

DOT approval will vary from one helmet to the next. The only way to know if a leather helmet is DOT approved is to check with the manufacturer. Most helmets will plainly state if they have DOT certification.



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.