Best Motorcycle Half Helmet Review Updated for 2024

Searching for the best motorcycle half-helmet?

I love the classic look of a great half-helmet.

Unfortunately, you’ll find that some half-helmets only give you just that: the classic look with no added protection.

To stay safe on the road, you need to find the best half-helmets that offer a balance between protection and freedom.

Something that gives you comfort, looks cool, and will give you that top-of-the-head protection if you go down.

When our group rode from Tennesee to Sturgis, SD, for the big motorcycle rally, most everyone rocked their favorite half-helmet.

Travis loves his half-face helmet and still uses it for shorter-distance rides.

After testing out different types of half-helmets and getting advice from other experienced riders, we have narrowed down our ultimate top picks.

The motorcycle half-helmets on this list are highly rated for their safety, comfort, features, and design.

Helping you choose the best helmet for your personal style without having to worry about lack of protection.

Let’s dive in.

11 Best Motorcycle Half Helmets

In our comprehensive ranking of the best motorcycle half helmets, we’ve carefully evaluated and categorized each helmet based on critical factors such as safety, comfort, style, and value.

We understand that riders have different preferences and needs, which is why our list covers a wide range of options to cater to various tastes.

Scorpion EXO Covert X (Best Overall)

The Scorpion EXO Covert X Half Helmet is the top pick, seamlessly bridging the gap between a half-helmet and a full-face guardian.

You can easily go from full-face to three-quarter to half-helmet and adjust the included sun visors, neck sleeve, ear covers, and face mask to suit your personal style.

With a swift transformation, this top-pick helmet effortlessly converts from a sleek half-face helmet into a robust full-face warrior, adapting to diverse riding scenarios.

This duality sets it apart, making it a game-changer if you seek adaptability.

Safety Performance:

The Covert X is engineered with advanced polycarbonate construction, prioritizing your safety without compromising agility.

This helmet boasts dual-density EPS for impact absorption and an aero-tuned ventilation system to keep your head cool during those intense rides.

The clear drop-down sun visor ensures enhanced vision under varying light conditions.

Pros: 

• The KwikWick II liner wicks away moisture
• The Dark Smoke SpeedView drop-down sun visor eliminates the need for sunglasses
• Its innovative design caters to both aesthetics and function
• Includes clear visor for night rides
• Aero-tuned ventilation system

Cons:

• The design could result in slightly more weight than traditional half-shell motorcycle helmets.

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

Bell Rogue (Best for Design)

The Bell Rogue helmet has a bold and unconventional design, offering style and substance.

The standout feature is the detachable muzzle. This face mask adds an edgy aesthetic while providing protection against harsh weather conditions.

It’s also one of the market’s quietest half-face helmets.

The speaker pockets minimize wind and external noise and are spacious enough to accommodate most intercoms. 

Safety Performance:

The Bell Rogue helmet has a lightweight TriMatrix composite shell, a detachable muzzle for added coverage, and an adjustable fit system. The retractable sun visor enhances visibility. 

Advantages: 

• The detachable and adjustable muzzle offers versatile protection against wind and debris
• The plush interior liner adds additional comfort
• Durable outer shell 

Disadvantages: 

• The unique design may not be everyone’s preference
• No ventilation up top

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

Bell Pit Boss (Best for Long Rides)

The Bell Pit Boss helmet is one of the best helmets for weekend riders.

This half helmet has a sleek look with an innovative Speed Dial adjustable fit system, ensuring a snug and secure fit for various head shapes.

Also, the speaker pockets can perfectly accommodate a Bluetooth headset and/or motorcycle communication systems.

Overall, it’s the best option for those who want to enjoy long rides with only minimal protection. 

Safety Performance:

Engineered with a lightweight and robust TriMatrix composite shell, the Pit Boss exemplifies Bell’s dedication to safety.

While maintaining a low-profile design, this helmet doesn’t compromise on impact protection, and the removable neck curtain enhances coverage.

Pros: 

• Offers a high level of comfort
• Internal padding is antimicrobial and washable
• Lightweight helmet

Cons: 

• Drop down sun visor is too tinted for some riders

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

Bell Scout Air (Best for Noise Reduction)

This Bell Scout Air helmet celebrates exhilarating freedom.

The best feature is its multi-material shell with a composite outer layer and an inner EPS liner, offering comfort and safety without compromising weight.

This helmet is undoubtedly amongst the lightest, best motorcycle half helmets for someone who wants to feel like they’re wearing nothing while enjoying the road. 

It also doesn’t give you a “mushroom head” due to its sleek, lightweight, and narrow design. Making this one of the best half-motorcycle helmets.

Safety Performance:

The multi-material shell includes a composite fiberglass outer layer for impact resistance and an EPS liner for shock absorption.

This combination is carefully engineered to meet the important safety standards of riders seeking an open-air experience.

Advantages:

• Surprisingly quiet 
• Excellent ventilation
• Easy to attach a shield
• It feels stable and protects the top of the head 
• low-profile look

Disadvantages:

• Sits higher on the brow
• Shell sizes may run small

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

Scorpion EXO-C110 (Best Lightweight Helmet)

The Scorpion EXO-C110 helmet boasts versatility and functionality.

Its half-helmet design is enhanced with a retractable sun visor that offers convenience and adaptability, allowing riders to quickly adjust to changing light conditions on the road.

The EXO-C110 also has a lightweight polycarbonate shell and dual-density EPS for efficient energy absorption during impacts. 

Safety Performance:

Outside of being an incredibly durable DOT-approved half helmet, the Scorpion EXO-C110 showcases an impressive chin strap that locks in place, accompanied by robust upper material for enhanced protection.

Advantages: 

• Suitable for all head shapes
• Two face shields come in the box
• Very lightweight

Disadvantages: 

• Louder wind noise if you travel at high speeds
• Less comfortable than other motorcycle half-helmets

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

LS2 Rebellion (Best Quick-Release Chin Strap)

The LS2 Rebellion helmet captures attention with its dynamic design and contoured pads for extra comfort.

Its signature feature is the built-in sun shield, offering instant adaptability to changing light conditions without additional eyewear.

Additionally, this helmet is prepared for Bluetooth integration, facilitating the easy setup of LS2’s LinkIn Communication System, enabling seamless rider-to-rider and rider-to-passenger communication.

Safety Performance:

Constructed with a Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell, the Rebellion is durable and offers great protection.

It uses a dual-density EPS liner that softens impact, ensuring a smoother experience during more intense collisions.

This strategic design safeguards this helmet’s vulnerable areas and enhances its shock-absorbing capabilities. 

Pros: 

• The internal sun shield provides on-the-fly convenience, protecting against glare and UV rays
• The quick-release strap ensures ease of use
• Great ventilation system
• Multi-density eps liner

Cons:

• Size runs larger than usual
• The design can cause the helmet to dig slightly into the temples 

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

HJC IS-Cruiser (Best for Perfect Fit)

This HJC IS-Cruiser is tailored for urban riding and exploration rather than extensive commuting or long-haul journeys.

Sporting a standard oval shape provides comfort for most head shapes during rides. CAD technology gives it uniform shaping for a seamless fit, eliminating concerns about gaps or tight spots.

Inside this helmet is a moisture-wicking Nylex liner that contributes to snugness and can be removed and washed.

Safety Performance:

This helmet is crafted from a lightweight polycarbonate composite, so the outer shell prioritizes impact resistance without excess weight.

The inner liner offers top-of-your-head protection.

It doesn’t offer maximum protection for the entire head like a full-face helmet would, but your skull is well-covered. 

Pros:

• Six sizes make it easy to find the perfect fit 
• Built-in visor
• Lightweight polycarbonate shell
• Plush interior lining for added comfort

Cons:

• Gives a mushroom-head look
• It isn’t ECE-approved, and it hasn’t been tested by SHARP or SNELL

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

HJC CS-2N (Best Budget-Friendly Option)

The HJC CS-2N fulfills all the essentials of a half helmet while maintaining an attractive price point. It exhibits a relatively lightweight and slim profile.

The plastic shell and Styrofoam liner effectively meet DOT standards. It has a detachable sun peak and a removable neck curtain, which adds to its safety features.

This helmet’s Nylon chin strap incorporates a double D-ring retention system for secure fastening.

Safety Performance:

As with standard half helmets, the HJC CS-2N exposes the wearer’s face and eyes to greater vulnerability from dust, pebbles, and other external debris.

However, the outer shell with interior padding does a good job of protecting the most vulnerable part of the head at an affordable price.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• The helmet’s design with generous gaps facilitates superior airflow
• Low-profile visor
• Secure d-ring strap

Cons:

• There isn’t a built-in drop-down visor like the IS-Cruiser offers
• Not suitable for all weather conditions

DOT Rating: Approved 👍

LS2 Baggar Helmet (Best for Leisure Cruising)

This LS2 Baggar helmet offers exceptional comfort, making it ideal for leisurely rides. Plus, it looks pretty badass!

Its half-shell design is perfect for summer cruising, while the added ear flaps and neck curtain ensure comfort during cooler morning or evening rides.

This helmet also works perfectly for late fall and early spring journeys.

It keeps your head cool in hot weather with good ventilation and thoughtful interior lining. The quick-lock chin strap also adds to the convenience.

Safety Performance:

This helmet’s underside features a convenient quick-lock strap that ensures a snug fit while you’re on the road.

Notably, the Bagger holds DOT, ECE, and SNELL ratings, offering comprehensive safety assurance for this timeless biker-style helmet.

Pros:

• The quick-lock strap is easy to adjust with gloves on
• It has added ventilation to the front and top of the helmet
• Suitable for Bluetooth speakers
• Sun visor snaps on and off easily
• Classic look

Cons:

• Noisy
• Not the ideal choice for sport or off-road riding

Dot Rating: Approved 👍

GMax GM65 (Best for Ventilation)

If you’re seeking a well-rounded helmet packed with functionality within a minimalist design, this GMax GM65 is your answer. Its premium-painted outer shell reflects a half helmet’s blend of comfort and performance characteristics.

The GMax GM65 helmet stands out for its exceptional comfort, incorporating Coolmax moisture-wicking material in its lining to keep your head dry and cool.  

Safety Performance:

Crafted from a shell composed of thermo-plastic poly alloy, this half helmet offers top-tier protection for your head, utilizing premium materials.

A double-D helmet retention system ensures a snug fit and a well-integrated ventilation system, maintaining coolness so you don’t overheat. 

Pros:

• It comes with two visors for various lighting conditions
• Excellent airflow
• Removable and washable liner
• Very comfortable

Cons:

• It doesn’t accommodate all head shapes
• Noisy
• The pulldown visor doesn’t come down far enough for some riders

Dot Rating: Approved 👍

Skid Lid Original (Best for Comfort)

This Skid Lid Original helmet is a renowned choice among half-helmet enthusiasts.

It is beloved for its traditional and understated design that excels in warmer climates, allowing for comfortable rides even during scorching summers.

Comfort takes center stage with the Skid Lid Original, as evidenced by its interior lined with moisture-draining internal lining and EPS foam, ensuring coolness for the wearer.

Safety Performance:

This helmet’s liner and shell maintain ample thickness to secure a DOT safety rating. The Skid Lid brings together the timeless biker helmet style and sleek enhanced security and safety.

Pros:

• Versatile design and color options
• Low profile
• It isn’t bulky
• Low price

Cons:

• No airflow across the top of the head
• Noisy

Dot Rating: Approved 👍

Are Half Helmets Safe? What You Must Know

While offering an open and liberating riding experience, half helmets come with specific safety considerations.

These helmets provide minimal coverage, exposing the face and sides of the head, which could leave riders more vulnerable to facial injuries and impacts during accidents. 

Industry recommendations often encourage riders to opt for full-face helmets due to their comprehensive coverage and higher level of protection.

It’s important to note that half-face helmets are usually DOT-certified, meeting minimum safety standards.

But they may not provide the same level of protection as full-face helmets.

Riders should carefully weigh their preferences for an open feel against the potential risks associated with reduced coverage.

Overall Advantages of Half Helmets

The best half helmets offer riders a sense of freedom and connection to the environment around them.

They’re lightweight and typically provide better ventilation, making them suitable for short rides in warmer weather.

While you can easily find great, full protective helmets for hot weather due to their ventilation systems, some riders still prefer open-face helmets.

Their compact design also appeals to those who value a minimalist, unobtrusive look.

Overall Disadvantages of Half Helmets

The key disadvantage of half helmets is the limited coverage they provide.

They leave the face and sides of the head exposed, which can lead to increased risks of injuries in accidents, particularly to the face and jaw. 

Their open design also offers less protection against wind, debris, and weather conditions.

In your search for the best motorcycle half helmet, you may find it difficult to find the right size if you have a large head.

A different helmet type that is best for big heads may suit your needs better.

You should expect more wind noise than you get with full-face and modular helmets. Consider checking out the quietest motorcycle helmets for truly advanced noise control.

Consider your personal style riding preferences and prioritize safety when choosing between a half helmet and other helmet styles.

Helmet Fit and Safety Tips

Ensuring a properly fitting helmet is paramount for rider safety.

Start by measuring your head’s circumference and referencing the manufacturer’s size chart to find the appropriate size.

The helmet should sit snugly on your head without being overly tight.

Pay attention to the comfort level. Discomfort can distract from the road and lead to readjustment while riding.

Optimal airflow is essential to prevent overheating. Make sure the helmet has good ventilation, especially if you’re riding in warm weather.

Chin straps should be securely fastened and snug, with enough room for a finger to fit between the strap and your chin. 

A properly secured chin strap prevents the helmet from coming off during impact.

Visors or shields should be clear and unobstructed, allowing for a clear field of vision.

Regularly check the helmet’s components, including straps, padding, and visors, for any signs of wear and replace them if needed.

Knowing how long your motorcycle helmet is good for is so important. Always replace your helmet when it has worn out or expired.

FAQs

Here are the answers to commonly asked questions concerning the best motorcycle half helmet:

Final Thoughts

Half helmets offer a balance between freedom and safety, making them suitable for specific riding scenarios.

Among the top choices, the Scorpion EXO Covert X is the best and most versatile option. Featuring a modular design that combines an open-air feel and added protection.

Making it the top of our list for the title of the best motorcycle half-helmet. 

The Bell Pit Boss and Bell Rogue also excel with their respective features and comfort, catering to riders who value style and minimalist designs.

When choosing the best motorcycle half-helmet, consider your coverage, comfort, and safety preferences to make an informed decision to give you the best riding experience.

Keep the rubber side down, my friends. ✌️🏍️💨