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Warm summer days are the best time to ride. The days are longer, so you can spend more time on the road. The weather is hot and dry, so you don’t have to worry about rain.
That said, you do have to worry about combating the heat. One effective way to do that is to make sure you’re using a helmet with good ventilation.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Ventilated Motorcycle Helmets
- OUR TOP PICK: Schuberth C4 Pro Helmet
- RUNNER-UP: Arai XD4 Helmet
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: ILM-902
Comparison of the Best Ventilated Motorcycle Helmets
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How to Measure and Size a Ventilated Motorcycle Helmet
When buying any motorcycle helmet, it’s important to remember that every brand has its own sizing. To make sure you get the right fit, you have to measure your head. Use a tailor’s measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of your head. This is typically right above the eyebrows. Then, compare your head measurement to the sizing chart for the brand you’re using to get the right size.
When Would a Ventilated Motorcycle Helmet Come in Handy?
Ventilated motorcycle helmets are a good choice any time you’re on your bike in hot weather. They are particularly useful in the following situations:
Commuting
When you commute on a bike, you’re often stuck in rush hour traffic. When you’re on a motorcycle, you don’t have the benefit of air conditioning. All you have is your gear. A well-ventilated helmet lets the wind blow through and helps you stay cool while you head into work.
Cruising
Cruising is taking long, slow rides to enjoy the open road and take in the scenery. It’s supposed to be a relaxing experience if you’re touring. But in hot weather, it’s hard to enjoy the ride if the inside of your helmet is scorching hot. A good ventilation system can help.
Adventure
When you ride off-road, you’re dealing with bumps and trails and obstacles. It’s challenging, which is part of the fun. Not only do you need a good helmet to protect you in case of an accident, but you also need one that’s well-ventilated. If you’re focusing hard on the trail ahead, the last thing you want to worry about is sweat.
Review of the Best Ventilated Motorcycle Helmets
If you’re looking for a motorcycle helmet with effective ventilation to help you stay cool, here are some of our favorite products.
Best Overall:
Schuberth C4 Pro Helmet Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Adventure, Touring, Street
Materials Used: DFP Glass fiber heat-formed outer shell
Brand: Schuberth
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT
Clasp type: Ratchet
Weight: 3.91 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the Schuberth C4 Pro Helmet Best For?
The C4 Pro is a great helmet for commuting, street riding, and cruising. The aerodynamic shape ensures directional stability that’s great at high speeds. If you have the Schuberth SC1 communication system, it’s a good one for cruising, too.
Safety Features of Schuberth C4 Pro Helmet
- The EPS foam liner with multi-zone design enhances force absorption and distribution.
- The DFP glass fiber heat-formed shell uses a special resin for enhanced protection.
What Are the Components of the Schuberth C4 Pro Helmet?
- ShinyTex comfort liner. The antimicrobial and allergen-free liner is quick-drying, removable, and washable. Plus, it’s optimized for a comfortable and secure fit.
- Multi-channel ventilation system. The intricate ventilation system features inlets on the forehead and chin.
- Face shield. The extra-large face shield provides a wide, clear view.
Runner-up:
Arai XD4 Helmet
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Cruiser, Touring, Street bike
Materials Used: Super CLC shell made of carbon fiber, fiberglass, and resins
Brand: Arai
Type: Full face
Certifications: DOT, ECE, Snell M2020
Clasp type: Double D-ring
Weight: 3.66 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the Arai XD4 Helmet Best For?
The Arai XD4 is a full-face, Snell-certified helmet that’s suitable for just about any type of riding. An impressive ventilation system makes it cool enough for cruising and touring. Plus, it’s safe enough for track days and high-way speeds.
Safety Features of Arai XD4 Helmet
- An emergency cheek pad release system provides safe access to an injured rider. Emergency medical professionals can use the integrated pull tabs to remove the helmet.
- This helmet is Snell certified. This safety certification is harder to get than other certifications. Snell tests for impact and penetration protection beyond a DOT certification.
What Are the Components of the Arai XD4 Helmet?
- Vents and ports. This helmet is extremely well-ventilated. It features top diffuser ports, exhaust ports, side cowl vents, brow vents, and chin vents with intake ports.
- Adjustable cheek pad system. The comfort liner and cheek pads use a 5mm peel-away custom layer to let the rider tailor the fit.
- Dry-cool technology. The interior lining helps keep the rider comfortable, even on long rides. Plus, it’s removable, washable, and replaceable.
Best for the Money:
ILM-902
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Street, Adventure, Touring
Materials Used: ABS outer shell
Brand: ILM
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT
Clasp type: Quick release
Weight: 3.88 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the ILM-902 Best For?
The ILM-902 is a great choice if you’re looking for a helmet for commuting or cruising. The anti-fog, anti-scratch visor provides a clear view of the road ahead. This makes it easy to see traffic or the surrounding scenery.
Safety Features of ILM-902
- The sleek, lightweight design reduces wind noise which makes it easier for the rider to focus on the road.
- A high-resistance ABS shell uses a micro metrically adjustable strap to ensure the perfect fit.
What Are the Components of the ILM-902?
- Liner and cheek pads. The helmet liner and cheek pads are lightweight and soft. Plus, you can remove them for cleaning.
- Visor. The modular visor opens easily and is anti-scratch and anti-fog. It gives you a wide, clear view of the road.
- Ventilation system. An efficient ventilation system uses front vents and two rear exhausts to keep air moving.
4. LS2 Valiant Specs
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Touring, Sport, Cruiser, Street
Materials Used: Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) outer shell
Brand: LS2
Type: Modular
Certifications: DOT
Clasp type: Quick release
Weight: 4 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the LS2 Valiant Best For?
The LS2 Valiant is a great street or commuter helmet. Flip the chin bars up to get a better look at traffic or take in more fresh air before the light turns green. Or, add a Bluetooth communication system. And it’s a great choice for touring, too.
Safety Features of LS2 Valiant
- The FogFighter treated shield is optically correct and scratch-resistant to provide a clear view.
- The proprietary kinetic polymer alloy is ultra-light and strong, yet flexible. Protection meets or exceeds DOT standards.
What Are the Components of the LS2 Valiant?
- Thermo Form foam. This technique uses heat and pressure to fuse the foam to the shell. Because there’s no glue, the fabric remains cool and breathable.
- Ventilation system. The fully adjustable ventilation keeps air moving through the helmet.
- Cheek pads. This helmet has laser-cut cheek pads that ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
5. Biltwell 0101-9937
PROS
CONS
Type of Helmet: Street, Cruising, Touring
Materials Used: Injection-molded ABS outer shell
Brand: Biltwell
Type: Full-Face
Certifications: DOT, ECE
Clasp type: D-rings
Weight: 3.45 lbs.
What Types of Activities is the Biltwell 0101-9937 Best For?
The Biltwell 0101-9937, also known as the Lane Splitter, is a good choice for street riding. This helmet is well-equipped for commuting and casual weekend rides. Add an aftermarket communication system and hit the road with some friends.
Safety Features of Biltwell 0101-9937
- The shock-absorbing EPS liner and tough ABS shell construction provide DOT-approved protection.
- Add an aftermarket device for easy communication when out on the road with a group. This is particularly useful in an emergency or when trying to keep multiple riders together.
- The polycarbonate shield provides a clear view of the surroundings.
What Are the Components of the Biltwell 0101-9937?
- Padding and lining. This helmet has a hand-sewn brushed Lycra liner. It’s made even more comfortable with diamond-stitched quilted foam padding.
- Ventilation system. The vents in the chin bar encourage airflow into the helmet. Plus, the rear outlet lets hot air escape to keep you cool in hot weather.
- Easy-open shield. The shield is easy to open and secure closed, even with riding gloves on. You can easily remove it for cleaning or to swap out an aftermarket shield.
What Makes a Great Ventilated Motorcycle Helmet?
Here are three things to look for when determining whether a motorcycle helmet has good ventilation:
Vents and Exhaust
The most important thing to consider is the number of vents and exhaust ports the helmet has. Vents are on the front of the helmet. Most helmets with a ventilation system have a vent or two at the top. Others might also have a chin vent or vents at the side of the head. The exhaust ports are located at the back of the helmet. The vents let fresh air into the helmet, and the exhaust lets the hot air out.
Padding
No matter how good the ventilation system is, it won’t work well without the proper padding. If the padding is too thick or doesn’t have air channels, the air won’t be able to flow through properly.
Helmet Style
Not all helmets have ventilation systems. Some, like a half helmet, don’t need them since so much of the face is open to the air. That said, these helmets aren’t as safe as full and modular helmets that protect the face.
Full and modular helmets should have an effective ventilation system. Plus, with a modular helmet, you can lift the chin bar and visor when you need more air.
ILM vs 1Storm Motorcycle Helmets - Comparison Overview
ILM and 1Storm are two popular helmet brands. Both make affordable modular helmets, but how do they compare? Let’s take a look.
Visor
Both the ILM and 1Storm modular helmets have a dual-lens design with an outer visor and a pull-down sun visor. This is a great feature as it makes riding in the sun much easier, especially if you forgot your shades.
Lining
The removable and washable inner lining is a nice feature because it helps you keep your helmet clean and fresh. Both ILM and 1Storm have a washable inner lining.
Ventilation
Again, the two brands are evenly matched. Both have four front vents, with two on the top and two at the bottom. They each have two rear exhaust ports, too.
Extras
1Storm modular helmets have a space for a Bluetooth communication device. The ILM helmet we reviewed here does not.
Safety
ILM and 1Storm are both DOT rated for safety.
Advantages of Investing in a Quality Ventilated Motorcycle Helmet
It makes sense that investing in a quality ventilated helmet is a good idea. But there are some distinct advantages to having one that you might not realize.
Makes Commuting Easier
Sitting in the hot sun in bumper-to-bumper traffic is annoying enough in a car. But, it’s even worse on a bike where you don’t have the benefit of air conditioning. Having a well-ventilated helmet while commuting makes the ride into work more comfortable.
Makes Long Rides Easier
Wearing a helmet while riding is the most important thing you can do to stay safe. That said, on long rides on hot days, it’s tempting to take your helmet off to get some relief. By keeping you cool, a well-ventilated helmet can help you resist the temptation of removing it.
Safer
Riding in the heat can also be dangerous. If the temperature gets too hot, it can lead to heatstroke or dehydration. Prevent problems by wearing a ventilated motorcycle helmet. You should also stop for regular breaks and stay hydrated.
Conclusion
Wearing a ventilated helmet is one thing you can do to stay cool on a hot day. It’s tempting to go without one, but the right helmet keeps you safe and cool at the same time.
People Also Ask
Choosing the right motorcycle helmet isn’t easy, especially when you’re looking for one with good ventilation. Here are some of the most common questions that come up when people are looking for the right helmet.
Are Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmets Better?
Carbon fiber has proven to be one of the best and safest materials for a motorcycle helmet. Why? Because of how the atoms are aligned. Carbon fiber is primarily made up of carbon atoms. It is the way these atoms bond in relation to the fiber that makes the material so strong. Carbon fiber is very shock absorbent and distributes force evenly, making it safer in an accident.
Should a Motorcycle Helmet Squeeze Your Cheeks?
It should be snug on your cheeks, squeezing slightly. A motorcycle helmet should never hurt or pinch. But, it does have to be snug enough to stay in place or it won’t protect you as much as it should.
Why Are Schuberth Helmets So Expensive?
A big part of why Schuberth helmets are so expensive is because of the time and effort put into designing them. Schuberth is constantly innovating. They test ideas using an in-house wind tunnel, acoustics lab, and climate rig. The brand also uses high-quality materials and focuses on safety and comfort.
Do Motorcycle Helmets Loosen Up?
Yes, over time, motorcycle helmets loosen up. This is primarily because the inner foam and lining break down and form to the shape of the wearer’s head. Eventually, the fit will become too loose and the helmet will need replacing.
How to Prevent Breath Fog in a Motorcycle Helmet
One of the best things you can do to prevent fogging inside your helmet is to open the vents all the way. Cool air from the outside comes in and pushes the warm air from your breath out the rear exhausts. You can also use a fog-preventing spray or cloth on the visor.
