The Best Half Motorcycle Helmet: Why You Should Consider Buying One
The first helmets in history were just open helmets, that is, half helmets. They cover only the top part of the head, leaving the entire face and jaw open. Sometimes bikers complement the half helmet with wide goggles on a tight elastic band. Helmets of this type are usually cheaper than others, and they are not particularly rich in comfort elements. Usually, this type of helmet is worn by owners of cruisers, retro bikes, and classics.
Although an open motorcycle helmet can not be called reliable, it still has its advantages, which is why it enjoys considerable popularity.
If you are looking for the best half motorcycle helmet, you have come to the right place. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of wearing a half helmet and provide reviews of some of the best models on the market. Half helmets offer a number of advantages over full-face helmets, including greater visibility and hearing, lighter weight, and increased comfort in hot weather. They also provide less protection in the event of an accident than a full-face helmet. However, they are a good choice for riders who want to be able to talk or eat without taking their helmet off. We will also discuss how to choose the right size and fit for your head. So read on to learn more about the best half motorcycle helmets!
Reviews of the Best Half Motorcycle Helmets
There are a number of great half motorcycle helmets on the market. They are different on many factors like design, safety features, and price. How to choose the right one? Let's provide reviews of some of the best models to help you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some of our top picks:
The Best Half Shell Helmet
Bell Pit Boss Half Helmet
The first helmet on our TOP-list is the Bell Pit Boss Half Helmet. This helmet is a great choice for riders who want a high-quality helmet that is packed with features. It has a carbon composite shell construction that is lightweight and durable. It weighs only 900 grams (1,9 lb). The visor is tinted and scratch-resistant, and the helmet is available in various colors. Manufacturer: USA
Another advantage of this half helmet is also a revolutionary system for quick adjustment of the helmet to the size of the head - while wearing gloves, you can easily (with the help of the adjusting wheel in the back of the helmet) adjust the helmet to the features of the head structure to achieve maximum comfort and minimize the tendency of all open helmets - not fit tightly while driving. Moreover, this neck adjustment system makes the motorcyclist feel more comfortable at higher speeds.
This helmet is DOT certified and available in five different sizes, so you are sure to find a perfect fit. It has pockets on the ear pads to hold the communicator speakers. Users note the durability of this Bell Pit Boss, even after 5 or more years of use the helmet looks and uses like it used to.
If you order your helmet online, please note that this model is rather undersized. It is also one of the more affordable helmets on our list.
- Quick size adjustment system
- Lightweight composite shell
- Tinted, scratch-resistant visor
- DOT certified
- Pockets for speakers
- Removable windshield for neck
- One of the more affordable
- The Interior is not removable for cleaning
The Best Looking Half Helmet Motorcycle (No Mushroom)
LS2 Helmets Rebellion
The first thing to note about this helmet is its stylish design. Simple at first glance, but thanks to small design elements such as aggressively designed air vents, visor, case shape, and pattern design, it turns into a stylish retro helmet with technical advantages. Made of high-performance lightweight kinetic polymer alloy (KPA) housing. Also, the dual-density EPS meets/exceeds DOT standards, providing a good degree of safety. The helmet is also very lightweight and is available in several sizes and colors.
Now for the features. A very comfortable, practical, and high-quality visor is built into the helmet. It has a two-stage sun visor that is scratch and UV-resistant. Two visor positions provide maximum comfort on sunny days.
The amount of cushioning inside this helmet is really good. At the same time, the inside of the helmet is well ventilated, thanks to the full ventilation holes. So even on the hottest days, the LS2 Rebellion will give you the best comfort. The lining inside is also hypoallergenic and removable and easy to wash.
The LS2 Rebellion features speaker pockets for easy installation of Sena's LS2 LinkIn Bluetooth communication system (sold separately) or other headsets. That way you can listen to music and talk on the phone without removing your helmet. But when you need to remove your helmet quickly and easily, the micrometric quick-release chin strap makes it easy to do so.
- Cool ventilation system
- Stylish design combined with technology
- Hypoallergenic removable lining
- High-level security
- Lightweight
- Two-step sun visor
- Noisy (because of good ventilation)
- Not cheap
Best Premium Choice
Bell Rogue Half Helmet
Bell has prepared a helmet in a post-apocalyptic style. The design does look unusual, massive, aggressive, and daring. It is suitable for all those who are looking for something unusual. Available in two designs and six sizes. There are sizes for both men and women.
The Rogue is the first Bell helmet to feature the new Fidlock magnetic connection system. Designed for quick, effortless removal and attachment of accessories, like Bell's Muzzle, it makes attaching gear easier than ever. The Rogue also features a removable chin curtain and an adjustable visor that can be removed to accommodate goggles/eye protection, making this helmet ideal for dirt bike riders who ride both on-road and off-road. The interior liner is made from leather removable and easily washed.
The noise isolation in the helmet is excellent, especially considering that it is a 1/2 helmet. Very comfortable. The neck doesn't get tired from the headwind, even when you rode fast and long today. Doesn't seem to be prone to scratches.
The Rogue's shell is made of a lightweight composite, and it weighs just 1300 grams. It has a wide field of view and good ventilation. This half motorcycle helmet is DOT approved.
- Lightweight shell made of composite material
- FidLock magnetic fixing maxi
- Stylish design
- Innovative "mask", adjustable, replaceable lining
- Interchangeable insides, washable
- Communicator pockets
- D-ring closure
- More expensive than average
Best Price
HJC CS-2N
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the HJC CS-2N is a great choice. It is made of thermoplastic alloy and is available in a large number of different colors (including red, white, shades of gray, and black). This half helmet is very lightweight, only 1300 grams. It has a good ventilation system (adjustable forehead vents) and a wide field of view (there is a removable visor).
You will need a certain amount of time for the foam liner to run in. That is, over time the helmet will fit better and better on your head. The earpads are very helpful in cold weather. The helmet has a D-ring closure. Overall, the quality of the trim meets expectations: it's comfy, fluffy nilex with fleece on the inside that absorbs moisture and keeps you cool.
It is worth noting that this helmet is exactly the simplest, yet affordable and decent quality option. That is, you should not expect a high degree of protection or maximum comfort from it. The helmet is worth its money and fully justifies its cost.
- Affordable price
- There are several colors to choose from
- There are ear pads
- Simple but comfortable and practical design
- Front ventilation openings
- Very suitable in cold weather
- The simplest model possible
- The minimum degree of protection
Best Bluetooth Half Helmet
Sena CAVALRY
Looking for a Bluetooth-ready half helmet? Look no further than the Sena Cavalry! With its pre-wired design, it's easy to get started with all of Sena's great features without the hassle of installing a headset. You'll enjoy crystal clear conversations with the built-in microphone and enhanced audio quality thanks to the included half-helmet speakers and optional ear cups. You can talk on the phone, listen to FM radio, share a playlist with another cycling buddy, or connect over the half-helmet intercom while using Bluetooth 4.1 technology. Because the helmet comes with a headset already built-in, this purchase will save you a significant amount of money. Even though this half helmet is slightly more expensive than the average market price.
Moreover, the helmet provides pretty good sound quality, with a decent mix of bass frequencies. Without a visor, the music can be heard very clearly even at about 90 km/h. Very easy to use and set up: setting up Bluetooth on Android or iOS will be quite easy.
The helmet is comfortable even if you have been wearing it for several hours. A detachable sun visor is included with the Cavalry. Available in glossy and matte black.
The helmet lacks the ability to adjust the fit, so choose your size carefully. Any special ventilation holes are absent, that is, the helmet, and your head is blown as much as the half helmet suggests.
- Wired for Sena Bluetooth headsets
- Lightweight fiberglass composite shell
- Quick-release chin strap
- DOT certified
- Good enough sound quality
- Easy to use and configure
- The ear pads could be improved; they're a little flimsy
- No vents
Editor's Choice
Daytona Helmets Half Skull Cap
Daytona Helmets are developed with a sleek, slim design that possesses exceptional protection that we hope you never have to utilize. No matter what you ride, ride with peace of mind and confidence that you are protected with Daytona Helmets.
This lightweight, DOT-approved low-profile skull cap helmet without visor meets & exceeds D.O.T. FMVSS 218 safety standards for head protection against impact and other hazards of the road or trail. This Daytona helmet is a classic half helmet that has been around for decades.
1/2 shell biker helmet hugs head for a secure, snug fit that provides superior comfort. Y-strap lock retention system provides quick release with a sliding adjuster for precise positioning. Some users have commented that the strap of this helmet is the most comfortable possible. Moisture-wicking inner liner fabric help keep your head cool and comfortable for warm weather riding.
This is a great helmet for the price. It's lightweight, fits well, and has a nice finish. The Half Skull Ca helmet by Daytona is one of the sleekest and most protective helmets on the market. With its slim design and exceptional protection, you can ride with peace of mind knowing that you are protected by Daytona Helmets.
- Affordable price
- Very light and reliable in terms of safety
- Low profile
- Dot Approved
- Maximum comfort strap
- Waterproof and hypoallergenic lining
- The ear pads could be improved; they're a little flimsy
- No vents
Very affordable price
GMAX GM65
The GLX Unisex-Adult Size M14 is a dynamic and innovative helmet that exceeds DOT certification standards. It features a sun shield that quickly deploys and retracts, as well as a smoke shield that protects from 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays. The helmet also has openings for microphones or communication systems built-in. It's designed with high-impact absorbing EPS foam and a washable, replaceable microfiber inner substance. Сomes with two visors: toned and transparent.
It is not a low-profile helmet and covers the back of the head and the head area near the ears a bit more than the Daytona. The helmet is a little too heavy and big, so it's not in the top 3 of our rating. And so it doesn't fit all head types and shapes.
With a 3-position visor mechanism and premium finishes, GLX is designed to make your ride as enjoyable as possible. Available in 4 different sizes for all head shapes and sizes, this helmet will be sure to fit you perfectly! Note, that the helmet combines high-quality features and affordable cost.
- Very affordable price
- Visor and two visors included
- There are three visor positions
- Detail and premium aesthetic
- There is room for a headset
- A little big and heavier than average
- Only one color is available
Best half designed helmet
Scorpion Covert 3-in-1 Helmet
The SCORPION COVERT is an aggressive style helmet with a flip-up sun visor that integrates with a removable mask for comfort at high speeds. This visor can be lowered or raised in just one motion. The SpeedView system allows you to quickly lower the inner sun visor, which instantly takes the strain off your eyes in varying light conditions. The helmet has adjustable front vents for increased airflow. So the visor protects against the wind, and on hot days the helmet has plenty of air. The snap-on design makes it simple to remove the helmet. The flip-lock mechanism allows for quick removal while also keeping the helmet securely fastened.
The chin guard is made of a composite shell that can be removed. ULTRA TCT® (Thermodynamical Composite Technology), an all-new, ultra-lightweight composite helmet shell structure provides exceptional protection. The extra-tough shell can withstand most of the energy in a collision and yet still be extremely robust. The helmet weighs approximately 1,300g with the mask and 1,150g without it. The jaw release system seems to be of good quality.
Features a hypoallergenic removable washable lining KwikWick2™ withstand washing in the washing machine. SCORPION COVERT is not exactly quiet, but it's tolerable.
That is, the helmet offers a number of significant advantages, in addition to the fact that it is a transformer. Among them: are good fit, comfort, removable visor included, good ventilation, decent quality of materials, and assembly. A lot of available configurations at a fairly low price of the helmet are what the modern biker needs.
- Stylish post-apocalyptic design
- 3-in-1 design
- KwikWick washable interior
- SpeedView internal sun visor
- Hypoallergenic interior
- The perfect clasp
- It's not really quiet
What are the advantages of open helmets?
- The lowest cost of all existing types of helmets.
- Small weight of the product. With such a helmet, your neck does not get stiff, even during hours of travel, and you do not have to take it off periodically to rest.
- The motorcyclist has the best possible visibility.
- Nothing to restrain your movement.
- You can comfortably use goggles and masks with this type of helmet.
- A good level of ventilation - it is especially pleasant on a hot summer day.
- These helmets are quick to put on and take off.
- Without removing the helmet you can eat, drink and talk.
Such protection can be in the form of a half helmet, which is considered in this half helmet review, and also in the form of 3/4 motorcycle helmets. Brutal choppers prefer half helmets, but scooters - three-quarter models. The disadvantage of both types of helmets is low protection. However, they are appreciated for their lightness, comfort, and good audibility. Because of the good visibility, these helmets are used for learning to drive.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Half Helmet for You?
Remember that the choice and purchase of motorcycle helmets may take a little longer than you thought. But it is better not to rush in this business, because a comfortable and correct motorcycle helmet is a guarantee of your health and protection on the road. Below we tell you how to choose a helmet half, and what criteria you should pay attention to.
Material quality
Pay special attention to the materials, as their quality determines the level of protection. The helmet consists of several layers: an outer shell, a layer of impact-absorbing foam, and soft inner padding. The shell is usually made of fiberglass, thermoplastic, polycarbonate (pressed ABS plastic), or carbon fiber.
The foam layer is designed to absorb impact and protect your head from injury. Manufactured mainly from polystyrene foam, this foam material is very similar to Styrofoam but denser. The foam padding, the middle layer, is what absorbs the impact and changes its configuration after a fall. As a result, it is no longer useful, so reusing the helmet is contraindicated.
The inner padding provides comfort and cushioning. It is made of soft materials such as velour, cotton, or Coolmax. This layer also has antibacterial properties to prevent the growth of bacteria. When buying, check if the inner lining is hypoallergenic. Also, whether it can be removed (for washing).
Size and fit
Half helmets should fit snugly on your head without being too tight. They should not obstruct your vision or impede your hearing. To find your helmet size, measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows with a tape measure. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller size. But be sure to read customer reviews: it is possible that the motorcycle helmet has its own characteristics of the size grid. How to correctly measure the size of the helmet, we described in detail in this article.
When trying on a helmet, fasten the chin strap and try to move the helmet from side to side and up and down. The skin on your forehead should move with the helmet. If the helmet does not fit snugly, it will fly off your head in a fall. Also, make sure that the helmet does not press on your temples or ears. If this happens, try on a larger size or another model of motorcycle helmet.
Certification
Always check the safety ratings of any helmet you are considering purchasing. The American safety standard for public roads dates back to 1985. It is a Department of Transportation standard monitored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Manufacturers tell regulatory agencies that their helmet meets the DOT standard. If a helmet is found to be out of compliance during an inspection purchase and subsequent test, the manufacturer will face heavy fines and a recall. When buying a motorcycle helmet, consider whether the one you choose has the appropriate certification.
At the same time, there are other types of certification. In particular, internationally recognized are the Snell standards. Snell certification is not mandatory, it is voluntary, but the criteria for accreditation are stricter than the DOT.
Glasses
Some models of half helmets have streamlined protective glass. It may have a special coating to protect against scratches. They may also have a sunshade. Check it, before buying.
Fasteners
When choosing a half helmet, pay attention to the fasteners as they largely determine safety, as they will prevent the helmet from coming off the head at the crucial moment. Automatic fasteners are similar to car seat belts in principle and are easy to use. The clasp with two D-rings is the most secure. This is the clasp used in racing helmets.
Color and style
Of course, many people choose their helmets by color and appearance. If you are one of these people, think about the style of your bike. Open half helmets in this case are not particularly diverse, but there are individual brands and models that offer a high level of style.
Affordability
Of course, the price of a motorcycle helmet is also an important factor in choosing. The main thing here is not to save on your safety. A good half helmet will cost you around $100-150. If you find something cheaper, think twice before buying it: it's probably not worth your life.
Conclusion
What is the best 1/2 helmet on the market?
- Bell Pit Boss and LS2 Rebellion according to our review. We also looked at the most budget options helmets, models with Bluetooth, as well as various designs and construction.
The best option for a half motorcycle helmet is the one that meets all safety requirements, is comfortable for you to wear, and fits your budget. Be sure to measure your head before purchasing it to ensure a good fit. Also, check reviews from other riders to get an idea of how the helmet performs in real-world conditions.
We hope that our article helped you understand what a half helmet is and how to choose the right one. Remember that your safety on the road depends on it. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
We will be happy to help you! Ride safe!