Since the turn of the millennium, retro offerings have become more popular, spanning a variety of industries, including the world of motorcycles. In response to the growing number of vintage-style production models—and the increasingly influential custom motorcycle scene with café racer or scrambler styling—many of the most respected gear manufacturers have begun releasing items visually inspired by the gear of the last century, while offering modern designs and standards safety - or what many racers would call "the best of both worlds."
With nostalgia at an all-time high, there's now more retro gear to choose from than ever before in history. However, like typical modern motorcycle gear, the overall design and protective qualities of these items can vary greatly from product to product and from manufacturer to manufacturer. So with that in mind, we've scoured hundreds of catalogs and websites from all over the planet to provide this carefully researched guide to the best retro motorcycle helmets. In addition to highlighting the best deals the market has to offer in the 3/4, enduro and full face segments, we will also touch on what aspects to consider when purchasing a motorcycle helmet.
What to Consider When Buying a Retro Motorcycle Helmet
While for most people the hunt for a new retro helmet is largely about aesthetics, there are a few other areas to consider before purchasing. Below, we'll briefly touch on the eight most important factors to keep in mind when purchasing a vintage-style helmet.
Shell Construction: The weight, strength, and impact resistance of a motorcycle helmet depend almost entirely on the type of shell it is built around, as well as the material that lines the inside of the shell (and absorbs impacts). They are typically made from composites, plastics, carbon fiber, or a combination of two or three, which are often proprietary designs. It's also worth noting that more premium manufacturers tend to produce more sizes than budget brands, which often use one or two shells across the entire size range, allowing for lighter, more comfortable helmets.
Pads and Liner: Apart from weight, the comfort of a helmet is primarily determined by the inner lining and cheek pads. Some pads are not only noticeably softer and more luxurious than others, but they also have sweat-wicking, quick-drying and antimicrobial properties. Most often, these pads are also removable and machine washable. Some helmets also feature emergency release systems for emergency medical technicians and first responders.
Safety Certifications: To give a better and more objective view of a helmet's overall protection, several official agencies have created legal safety tests and standards that helmets must meet to gain legal status on public roads. In the US for example this means DOT certification, while in Europe the ECE rating system is used. There are also additional SNELL and SHARP standards, as well as FIM certification for racing use. It's important to note that some retro style helmets, especially enduro style ones, often do not have the DOT or ECE certification required for legal street use.
Weight: The weight of a helmet depends on its size, shell and liner design, and a number of other factors. Considering that these items rest solely on our necks, light weight is very important. Fortunately, in addition to meeting modern safety standards, most new retro-style helmets also differ from true vintage helmets in their lightness, with many of today's more expensive offerings leaning towards the 1.3 to 1.8 kg weight range.
Price and Value: Spending more money will almost always get you a better, premium helmet. That being said, there are many more affordable helmets that offer good performance than their expensive counterparts.
Noise: Excessive wind noise is not only annoying, but can also harm your hearing. At 60km/h, riders are typically exposed to around 90dB of wind noise, although this rises to 110dB as the rider reaches 160km/h. For reference, an ambulance siren is about 120 dB. For this reason, it is extremely important to study how effectively a particular helmet reduces wind noise. It's also worth mentioning that full face helmets almost always provide noticeably better protection from wind noise than enduro and 3/4 helmets.
Color and Livery Options: Since style and aesthetics are a key part of retro helmets, many manufacturers of these products offer these helmets in a variety of unique patterns, designs and liveries, as well as solid gloss and matte solid color options. If you ever find yourself on the fence between two specific retro style helmets, we'd advise looking into the different paint options available, as this will often help you make your decision.
Accessories and Accessories: Many of the retro style helmets on the market can be further customized or personalized with accessories and add-ons.
This includes flip-up and convex screens, pop-up visors in a variety of colors, snap-on visors, removable chin bars, and even some anodized hardware on some of the most premium models. There are also several helmets from boutique brands that are available with custom goggles specifically designed to pair with a given full face, 3/4 or enduro helmet.
Choosing a motorcycle helmet based on head size
Since the main purpose of the equipment is protection, it is important to choose the right size of motorcycle helmet. To determine it, you should take head circumference measurements using a sewing meter. This should be done along a line that runs 1.5-2 cm above the level of the eyebrows and 7-12 cm below the crown. To ensure that everything is done correctly, it is recommended to take repeated measurements. These indicators should be written down and used each time you choose a new helmet.
This is due to the fact that the sizes of equipment from different manufacturers may differ. On average, the size chart looks like this:
- minimum size XXS – head circumference 51-52 cm;
- 53-54 cm – XS;
- 55-56 cm – S;
- 57-58 cm – M;
- 59-60 cm –L;
- 61-62 cm – XL;
- 63-64 cm – XXL.
If you have difficulty taking measurements, it is recommended to try on several products and select the appropriate helmet size. Preference should be given to the model that fits better to the head. This option can provide better protection. However, the helmet should not squeeze.
Helmet device?
The best 3/4 helmets in retro style
Modeled after the very first motorcycle helmets ever made, 3/4 style—or “open face”—helmets offer a distinctly old-school style that pairs especially well with standard motorcycles, cruisers, and bobbers. These helmets can also be equipped with goggles and visors.
AGV X70
Inspired by both mid-century helmets and the helmets that AGV once produced for military fighter pilots. The X70 is a minimalistic 3/4 helmet that comes in three shell sizes and a variety of unique paint designs, as well as solid colors. Adorned with 60s/70s AGV logos, the X70 also features an eco-leather and fabric interior that is removable and washable and boasts embossed AGV branding.
material : improved composite fiberglass Weight: 1.01 kg Made in : Italy Approximate cost : $200
Sena Savage
The Sena Savage looks like a regular vintage-style open-face helmet while hiding a Bluetooth connectivity system with a range of about a kilometer, Sena's signature boom-less microphone, built-in FM radio and 11 hours of playback or talk time. The Savage's three forehead snaps also accommodate an MX or cruiser-style visor, both of which are included with the helmet. This helmet is also DOT certified.
Body material : composite fiberglass Weight: 1.1 kg Manufacture : South Korea Approximate cost : $299
QUINN McQ
The QUINN McQ is a more technologically advanced and functional version of the 3/4 helmet, which boasts a Bluetooth communication system with a built-in microphone and speakers, as well as a built-in SOS signal and an automatic crash detection system. The McQ is sold with a premium matte finish in several color combinations and also includes a tinted flip-up visor and color-matched quilted lining.
material : polycarbonate, thermoplastic, ABS plastic Weight: 1.26 kg Manufacture : China Approximate cost : $299
Arai Classic-V
With the Classic-V helmet, Japanese brand Arai has taken the advanced composite laminate design with peripheral straps from its generation X helmets and used technology to create this traditional piece of protective gear. SNELL and DOT certified, this helmet also features faux leather trim, antimicrobial lining with removable cheek pads, a hidden ventilation system with three inlets and dual outlets, a goggle strap holder, and five snaps that can accept an optional face shield.
material : e-Complex laminate with peripheral belts Weight: 1.18 kg Manufacturer : Japan Approximate cost : $470
Ruby Pavillon
Boutique brand based in France, Les Ateliers Ruby makes an undeniably top-notch line of vintage-style helmets, including the company's open-face Pavillon model. Built around a carbon fiber shell, this ultra-premium model features triple-density foam padding, Napa leather lining with antibacterial lambskin, and features three buttons that allow the helmet to be combined with a range of other high-quality accessories that are made specifically for the Pavilion. . This helmet is also sold in a huge variety of hand painted colors, patterns and designs.
material : carbon fiber Weight: 860 g Manufacturer : China Approximate cost : $795
Integrals
SHARK SPARTAN BLANK BLK
A universal helmet in the middle price segment, made of fiberglass. The model pleases with powerful ventilation and has two air intakes: in the upper part and in the chin area. Both channels are easy to open and close with a gloved hand. The helmet also has two spoilers that increase the aerodynamic properties of the helmet. The lining is removable and made of microfiber that is pleasant to the touch. SHARK SPARTAN BLANK provides the ability to install the proprietary SHARKTOOTH Bluetooth system and MAX Vision pinlock. Protection from bright light is provided by a retractable inner curtain. The noise reduction performance of this helmet is below average, although it is designed with SHARK Skin plugs.
AGV K-5 S
Top motorcycle helmet in the sports and touring segment of the company. Equipped with sunglasses and an absorbent, sanitized Dri-Lex lining. The earbuds are made of antibacterial 3D Dry-Comfort material and are easy to remove and wash. The helmet differs from the younger model K-3 in the material of manufacture - here the shell is made not of polycarbonate, but of a composite with carbon fibers. It's not full carbon, but the helmet is still quite strong. The model received a pronounced spoiler and adjustable rear ventilation. The air intake in the front lower part can only be opened from the inside, which is not very convenient when driving. The visor is equipped with a micro-ventilation system for additional ventilation.
GT-AIR II
Premium universal integral from the Japanese manufacturer Shoei. The helmet is a sports-touring helmet, it has all the attributes necessary for this class, including an oversized sun visor. The helmet shell is made of multilayer fiberglass with the addition of organic resins. The model is known for its excellent ventilation, increased air circulation is provided by an enlarged opening in the chin area and 5 exhaust channels at the back. The visor is the same as the first version of the GT-AIR I, but now it can be installed in an urban position. Sound insulation for this segment is frankly weak (the helmet blocks only 5 dB). Another disadvantage of the GT-AIR II is the difficulty in installing communication systems from third-party manufacturers. The space for the headset in this model is designed specifically for the products of the partner company Sena.
The Best Vintage Enduro Helmets
Inspired by the style of motorcycle helmets of the 60s, 70s and 80s, enduro-style models were once primarily popular among scrambler owners, although in recent years they have been adopted by virtually everyone. The type of rider looking for a stylish yet protective brain basket. These helmets are largely characterized by the visor, the pronounced and usually pointed chin bar, and the fact that they are almost always worn with goggles. It's also worth noting that some of these helmets are not designed for road use.
Bell Moto-3
A few years ago, when Bell was looking to create a vintage-inspired enduro model, the Californian company decided to reach into its archives and recreate a modern version of its Moto-3 model that originally debuted in the late 1970s. Retaining the look and silhouette of the original Moto-3, this modern version features a lightweight fiberglass composite body combined with an EPS foam chin pad and a removable and washable anti-microbial terry lining.
material : composite fiberglass Weight: 1.25 kg Manufacture: China Approximate cost : $240
Simpson M50
Just like the Bell helmet above, the M50 is a modern recreation of one of Simpson's retro offerings, receiving a fiberglass composite shell construction that gives it DOT certification. Produced by the American brand in two shell sizes and offered in half a dozen different matte and glossy color options, this helmet also features removable cheek pads and a five-button visor.
material : composite fiberglass Weight: 1.22 kg Manufacture : USA Approximate cost : $260
Nexx XG200
Manufactured in small batches in Portugal to ensure first-class quality control and perfect fit and finish, the Nexx XG200 helmet is made from an advanced X-Matrix shell created from a combination of multi-axial fiberglass and 3D organic fibers. Reinforced with special aramid and carbon fiber. Extremely lightweight and offering great protective properties, this helmet also features an adjustable visor, grille and ventilated chin bar and is available in some of the coolest liveries and designs on the market.
material : Kevlar and fiberglass reinforced with carbon fiber Weight: 1.18 kg Manufacturer : Portugal Approximate cost : $350
Shoei Ex-Zero
The Shoei Ex-Zero takes a neo-retro approach to enduro-style helmets and is made from the same state-of-the-art multi-layer Matrix AIM shell construction used in the Japanese team's world-class racing helmets. The pointed and pronounced grille on the helmet's chin gives off a decidedly old-school vibe with a spherical crown and flip-up visor. Weighing in at approximately 1.13kg, this item also boasts typical Shoei quality and premium finishing.
material : AIM multilayer matrix Weight: 1.13 kg Manufacture : Japan Approximate cost : $500
Rough Crafts REVOLATOR
After searching for the perfect retro helmet for a long time, Winston Yeh of Rough Crafts eventually decided to design his own helmet from scratch, resulting in the carbon fiber shell REVOLATOR. This high-end helmet blurs the line between enduro and café, loaded with premium hardware and accents, and features a special anti-bacterial coating from motorcycle jacket and gear brand Merlin. This helmet is also offered in a variety of hand-painted colors and designs.
material : carbon fiber Weight: 1.14 kg Manufacturer : Taiwan Approximate cost : $699
Open motorcycle helmets
SHARK NANO BLANK WHO
A budget model from a French manufacturer, designed for city trips. The helmet is ¾ format, which did not stop the developers from adding a valve at the top of the body for dual-channel ventilation. There is also additional ventilation in the visor - it prevents the glass from fogging up. The helmet has built-in sunglasses, and there is a rotating lever on the side to lift them up. The Micro Lock ratchet closure is not very secure, nor is the hook that holds the sun visor. The interior is removable (easy to clean), and the outer shell is made of heavy thermoplastic. The motorcycle helmet can be used with a Bluetooth headset - for this purpose, there is a special niche in the inside.
AGV K-5 JET MONO Matt
This motorcycle helmet incorporates the best developments implemented in the sports-touring integral model K-5 S. Like other models of the Italian manufacturer, the K-5 JET MONO was tested in a wind tunnel. The helmet shell is made of composite material (carbon + fiberglass), there is a ventilation system and built-in sunglasses. The lining is removable and washes well. The visor is large, completely covers the face and provides a panoramic view. The visor coating is scratch resistant. The chinstrap clasp is comfortable and has micrometric adjustment. The only design flaw of the helmet is the lack of ventilation slots in the visor; in humid weather there is a risk of fogging.
ARAI ZS-R VAS
Premium open-type semi-facepiece from the Japanese company ARAI. The helmet features a lightweight, durable Super Fiber Laminates fiberglass shell and antibacterial, pH-neutral polystyrene foam lining. The lining has a removable part for the temples of the glasses; for greater comfort, you can also remove the top layer of the temple and cheek pads. The model is ventilated; large buttons are provided in the case to control the ventilation. The shape of the helmet is smoothed, which in theory should reduce shock loads during a fall. The visor has mounts for installing an external Pro Shade sun visor and an anti-fog lens.
The Best Retro Full Face Helmets
Vintage-style full-face helmets—often also referred to as "cafe racer helmets"—take their inspiration largely from the racing helmets of half a century ago and, as such, have fairly aerodynamic shapes and closable face shields. And, as the category name suggests, these helmets pair perfectly with cafe racer motorcycles.
AGV X3000
With the X3000 modeled after the iconic Italian brand's racing helmets from the 1970s, AGV has managed to squeeze the latest safety standards into an unmistakably vintage-inspired design with an offset push-button lock on the asymmetrical visor. The interior of this premium café lid boasts a full-grain leather and suede lining, while the exterior of the helmet is offered in a variety of solid colors, as well as some replica paint schemes from legendary racers such as Barry Sheene and Giacomo Agostini (the latter of which is here it is seen).
material : improved composite fiberglass Weight: 1.3 kg Made in : Italy Approximate cost : $380
Shoei Glamster
This café racer helmet from Shoei is inspired by the retro superbikes and racing helmets of the 1980s. In addition to the state-of-the-art Matrix+AIM shell and multi-density EPS lining, this helmet also has a number of other fully modern features such as a UV protective visor equipped with a Pinlock EVO anti-fog insert and an emergency quick-release system for rescuers.
material : multilayer matrix Weight: 1.2 kg Manufacture : Japan Approximate cost : $560
Arai Rapide
Inspired by the racing models of the 1980s, the Arai Rapide, also known in some markets as the "Concept-X", takes on an old-school look that retains the Saitama-based brand's signature design language and, not least, world-class safety features. Backed by Arai's standard fifty-year warranty, the Rapide also comes with the typical array of top-tier features that grace the rest of Arai's pricey offerings, such as an emergency release system, multiple intake and exhaust ports, a pin-lock visor sold with an insert, and a 3D sliding latch system. which was first developed for use on F1 helmets.
material : e-Complex laminate with peripheral belts Weight: 1.58 kg Manufacturer : Japan Approximate cost : $635
Veldt Fullface
Created by co-founder of Les Ateliers Ruby in the legendary motorsport ground that is the Isle of Man, Veldt is an exceptionally high-end boutique helmet brand that creates retro-inspired modular helmets using the finest materials. Put together using titanium hardware, the helmet is built around a 3/4 style carbon fiber shell that can be equipped with carbon chin bars, visors and face shields, including a lockout on the FullFace model.
material : carbon fiber Weight: 1.3 kg Manufacturer : Isle of Man Approximate cost : $820
HEDON Heroine Racer
Since our founding in 2011, HEDON has been making some of the best old-school style helmets you can buy, combining vintage aesthetics with modern materials and vintage craftsmanship. Boasting the perfect fit and finish only made possible by hand-crafting, the ECE-certified Heroine Racer helmet features a carbon fiber and glass fiber composite shell that is finished with an antimicrobial Merlin lining. Genuine calfskin trim and brass hardware throughout, including the HEDON plate that adorns the helmet's forehead. This racing cafe style model is also available in a huge variety of hand-applied designs and patterns, as well as several limited edition options.
material : carbon fiber and fiberglass composite Weight: 1.28 kg Manufacturer : England Approximate cost : $915
Which brand of motorcycle helmet is better to choose?
To decide which motorcycle helmet is best, you should first study existing brands. Let's look at the companies that are in greatest demand:
- GSB - offers products for owners of scooters, all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles. The helmets meet quality standards.
- MadBull is a company from Russia that offers equipment of decent quality. The products help maintain the health of extreme sports enthusiasts. In production, the company uses modern equipment, materials, and innovative technologies.
- Vcan is a Chinese company that offers a large selection of motorcycle equipment suitable for scooters, motorcycles, and various motor vehicles.
- MT Thunder is a Taiwanese company that produces gaming furniture, computer accessories, and power supplies. The brand produces products that are distinguished by fashionable design and innovative solutions.
- Michiru is a brand from Japan that offers a line of modern motorcycle equipment. The company's catalog includes motorcycle jackets, gloves, helmets, and accessories.
- Thor Motocross is an American brand founded by 4-time World Motocross Championship winner Torsten Hallman in 1968. Thor has a wide range of equipment for both men, women and children. They produce clothing for off-road sports, motocross boots, helmets, goggles, etc.
- Shoei is a brand from Japan that produces motorcycle helmets. The products are safe and modern in design.
- Roof is a French company that began its activities in 1993. Develops original models of motorcycle helmets using innovative technologies.
