In this article we will cover the best dirt bike helmets for this year.
Hi everyone, I’m Sam, and I’ve been dirt biking for 15 years. It’s a passion that’s brought me tons of joy, but I’m also very aware of the risks. That’s why I’m always interested in the latest safety gear, especially helmets. After some research and testing, I’m excited to share my review of the best dirt bike helmets on the market.
When testing helmets, I focused on:
Safety: Advanced safety features and certifications (DOT, SNELL, ECE, MIPS).
Comfort: Fit, padding, and breathability.
Ventilation: Airflow to keep you cool.
Weight: Lightweight construction for less fatigue
Price: Value for the features offered.
Noise Reduction: Keeping riding focused and enjoyable.
Before you start dirt biking you need to make sure you take the proper steps to protect yourself while dirt biking in case of a wreck. Having a Helmet is a MUST-have and not optional.
Protecting your head while dirt biking is a requirement in my book and finding the right helmet should be a top priority.
Do you have to wear a dirt bike helmet?
Minors do have to wear a helmet. Make sure that you check your local state laws.
However, don’t be dumb, and make sure to wear a helmet even if it’s not a requirement.
Not all dirt bike helmets are created equal.
When choosing the right or best dirt bike helmet you need to be aware that not all dirt bike helmets are the same. There are some baseline protection requirements when it comes to helmet safety that you need to pay attention to.
Now I want to be clear…
Just because a helmet will meet the basic DOT or SNELL baseline requirements does not mean that It’s quality or the best helmet for protecting your head from damage.
Generally speaking, better helmets come with higher research and development. The technology will provide you with better protection.
This comes at a price.
Why running out and buying the most expensive helmet on the market doesn’t mean you have the safest helmet out there. I will say that it will be much better than the cheaper ones.
My rule of thumb is to buy the best dirt bike helmet you can afford.
However, this article is about the VERY best dirt bike helmets on the market and there are a few brands that really have spent some time and money into providing us with better protection than the other dirt bike helmets.
These are the very best dirt bike helmets currently available on the market:
Table of Contents
KLIM F3 Carbon Helmet
The Klim F3 Carbon Helmet is perfect for those looking for a high-quality, lightweight helmet. It is made from carbon fiber and has been designed with performance in mind. This makes it ideal for use on multi-day rides or when out riding in colder weather conditions.
This helmet also features a number of features that make it stand out from the competition. For example, it includes an EPS liner that provides excellent protection against shocks and impacts resulting from road debris and overhead branches. This additionally allows the helmet to be easily broken-in over time, as well as allow for easy replacement in case of damage. The liner also includes a built-in anti-sweat system that prevents sweat buildup under heavily used conditions at the same time making it easier to clean off dirt or mud.
Check out my thorough review of the Klim F3 Carbon Helmet
KLIM F3 Carbon Helmet features:
- Ideal for use in cold weather conditions
- Made from lightweight carbon fiber
- EPS liner provides excellent shock and impact protection
- Built in anti sweat system
- Can be cleaned easily
KLIM F5 Koroyd Helmet
Klim built the F5 Helmet to be a do it all lightweight but safe helmet. Klim has completely designed the F5 from the ground up with the best products and designs on the market. Klim also employs test riders and implements that years of feedback into building quality helmets. Klim uses cutting edge tech and materials in their KLIM F5 Koroyd MX Helmet.
Low weight, great venting, and the next level of safety.
KLIM F5 Koroyd Helmet features:
- Klim Carbon Fiber Shell
- Koroyd Impact-absorbing tech (outperforms standard EPS materials)
- One of the very lightest Helmets on the market
- MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System)
- Dual Density EPS
- Large eye port for best in class visibility.
- 18 intakes and 8 exhaust vents
- MIPS
MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) is a specialized helmet safety technology that is now being used in the top tier of off-road helmets in order to greatly lessen the chances of traumatic brain injury. By integrating an engineered low-friction layer into the liner of the helmet, MIPS enables a relative sliding motion between the head and the helmet so angular and rotational impact forces are absorbed and deflected. Since most head impacts occur at oblique and unpredictable angles, helmets with MIPS Technology are able to offer better protection than helmets without.
- Koroyd
Koroyd technology uses a series of hollow, dual-polymer, thermally welded tubes to attenuate and absorb the force of traumatic impacts. The Koroyd tubes compress and effectively create a crumple zone inside the helmet during a crash. This technology outperforms EPS in terms of energy absorption, and drastically reduces the occurrence of brain injury compared to other current materials. The hollow design of Koroyd tubes also dramatically improves air circulation and promotes a lighter-weight helmet overall.
6D ATR-2 Missle Helmet
6D Helmets really changed the dirt bike helmet world. They were the first to put in some serious new R&D tech into developing better and safer helmets. This is great for the consumer as dirt biking can be a dangerous sport and the better and safer dirt bike gear the more we can worry about riding instead of getting an injury.
6D ATR-2 Missle LE Helmet Specs:
- OMNI-Directional Suspension
- Rebuildable Advanced ODS System
- Progressive Damping Towers
- Multi-Impact outer liner
- Low friction disks
- isolation dampers
- Increased ODS displacement travel
- Linear and Angular acceleration mitigation improvement
Fly Racing Formula Carbon Helmet
Fly Racing has been making dirt bike helmets for quite some time. Last year they made some pretty big waves with the introduction of the FLY Racing Formula dirt bike helmet. FLY Racing created a new system called the Adaptive Impact System (AIS) that provides really a high-performance platform for ultimate safety and energy migration. Made from extremely lightweight carbon fiber the Fly Formula helmets are not only one of the safest helmets on the market, but they are also very light.
Impact energy cells built by RHEON maximize low speed and rotation impacted. This really reduces forces transmitted to the brain. FLY Racing did not stop with RHEON, they also have Conehead EPS technology that gives a much softer liner and helps absorb and impact forces efficiently.
FLY Racing Formula Dirt Bike Helmet Specs:
- Adaptive Impact System
- Carbon Fiber Shell
- Impact Energy Cells
- Conehead EPS technology
- True Functional Ventilation
Below are the top 3 best dirt bike helmets for under $300 bucks. These helmets offer great protection and fit and finish. While they do not provide as much protection and technology as the more expensive $600 dollar dirt bike helmets they are still a really great choice when it comes to choosing a dirt bike helmet.
Fly Racing F2 Carbon MIPS Helmet
The Fly Racing F2 Carbon is a fan favorite in the dirt bike world. For the money, its one of the best value and protection and comes with lots of safety features like the MIPS brain protection system. The one-piece tri composite carbon fiber shell its a lightweight tough helmet. EPS dual-density liner.
Fly Racing F2 Carbon MIPS Helmet Specs
- MIPS Brain Protection System
- Dual Density EPS liner
- Carbon Matrix Shell
- Removable and washable liner
- DOT/ECE approved
- Quad Vented
Fox Racing V1 Matte Helmet
The Fox Racing V1 – V3 helmets are some of the most popular helmets on the market. The fit and finish makes the Fox Racing V1 helmet one of the best looking helmets on the market. The lightweight ABS injection molded Fox Racing V1 helmet exceeds all the DOT and ECE certification. This is a great dirt bike helmet for the money.
FOX RACING V1 MATTE HELMET SPECS
- Great Fit and Finish
- Injection Molded ABS shell construction
- Magnetic Visor Release system
- Removable and washable liner
- Tons of intake and exhaust air vents
THOR Sector Split MIPS Helmet
The THOR Sector Split helmet is an affordable helmet that comes with high-quality protection without a large price tag. The Thor Sector Helmet is a good looking helmet to boot. This DOT/ECE Multi-directional impact protection system will make sure you have a safe quality helmet for dirt biking. The liner is a removable liner that can be washed.
THOR Sector Split MIPS Helmet Specs
- MIPS – Multi-directional impact protection System
- Injection-molded ABS shell
- Removable washable liner
- Hi-Flow air vents and air exhausts
- Adjustable Visor
Update: Top 3 Helmets for Dirt Bike
Westt Dirt Bike Helmet
This Westt helmet ain’t no flimsy toy. You get serious protection – rugged ABS shell, dense EPS foam, and a comfy liner. It’s DOT and ECE approved and backed by a solid warranty.
Perfect fit, no annoying ear squeeze – leaves enough space for earbuds if you want to stay connected. Three vents keep things breezy, no more fogged-up visor.
Slick dual visor setup! Clear outer, tinted inner – switch ’em up with a flick and adapt to any light conditions. Quick-release buckle means getting this thing on and off is a breeze, even with gloves on.
Lining’s soft, construction’s solid. This helmet looks sharp and feels even better. Measure up right, and it’ll hug your head perfectly.
You wanna rip trails, hit the dunes, whatever? This Westt’s got your back. Great value, serious features, and makes a sweet summer riding gift too!
My individual experience:
“This helmet’s built tough. The shell feels strong, the inner foam is dense, and that lining is surprisingly plush. Plus, it’s DOT and ECE approved, so I know it meets proper safety standards.
The fit is awesome. It’s snug enough to feel secure, but doesn’t cram down on my ears. I can even fit earbuds for music or calls. Ventilation is decent, and that dual visor setup? Genius! Flick between clear and tinted depending on the sun – no more getting blinded.
The quick-release buckle is a lifesaver, especially with gloves on. Overall the helmet feels well-made and looks good. If you get your sizing right, this Westt is a comfortable, safe ride. Great value for the price!”
Westt Dirt Bike Helmet Specifications:
- Protection Layers: 3 layers including ABS engineering plastics, high-density elastic cushioning EPS, skin-friendly soft lining, and breathable sponge for all-round protection.
- Design & Comfort: Simple design with high-quality materials and good stitching to ensure a comfortable fit. Ample room around the ears for earbud use.
- Ventilation: 3 ventilation holes for air circulation and heat release, preventing fogging.
- Visors: Dual visor system with both a clear visor and an internal sun visor, easy to adjust with a notch for pulling down.
What other Dirt Bike Fans think about Westt Dirt Bike Helmet
Awesome Helmet!
I was raised on a dairy farm where we always had dirt bikes, 3-wheelers, and 4-wheelers. These days, my nieces and nephews ride these toys, and the adults watch or ride with them. Once in a while, my brother and I might race on the four-wheelers just for fun. I’ve been using a helmet that I purchased 25 years ago. According to Google, the general rule of thumb is to replace a helmet every 5 years… needless to say, I am long overdue for a new one. I saw this helmet and decided to try it out.
Pros:
The helmet liner has snap buckles and is easily removable for cleaning. This is particularly useful since I typically ride on hot summer days in Wisconsin. You never know how much dirt and sweat has accumulated in the padding of the helmet. Plus, if the helmet is shared, it’s great to know I can clean it thoroughly.
The dual visor is a convenient feature for me. As I often ride in wooded areas on warm days, the outer visor is perfect for protecting my face as I ride through the woods. Then, I can lift it and use the inner sun shield when riding through open fields. This design also prevents the helmet from fogging up and eliminates the need for sunglasses inside the helmet, enhancing comfort while riding. The best part is that both visors can be down simultaneously.
The option to remove the visors and wear riding goggles gives me endless possibilities for eye and face protection.
The quick-release safety buckle is easy to use, especially with riding gloves. My old helmet’s chin strap was hard to fasten through the D-hooks due to the loss of dexterity from the gloves. This chin strap can be easily secured and released at any time, even with gloves on.
The helmet is DOT Certified, ensuring rider safety.
Cons:
None at the moment.
FYI:
My forehead size is approximately 23 inches (58.42 cm). I fall between the Medium and Large helmet sizes. I opted for the Medium, assuming a snug fit would be better than a slightly loose one. This was the right choice, as the helmet fits perfectly!
I’m also planning to try this helmet with my motorcycle (a 1997 883 Harley Davidson). Currently, I use a half helmet which is probably past its lifespan as well. If I remember, I’ll update my post after trying this helmet a few times. I’m excited to use it right now!
Good helmet.
The helmet fits well and feels surprisingly comfortable. It has ample room around the ears, making wearing earbuds underneath possible, so you can still take calls on the go. Additionally, it keeps your head warm in winter but has enough airflow to be comfortable in warmer months. However, I would suggest using anti-fog spray or a visor designed for anti-fogging if you’re riding in temperatures colder than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). Without this, the visor tends to fog up relatively quickly. Overall, it’s a great helmet with some very nice features.
Saved me!
I’m giving it 5 stars because it saved me from a serious accident at 30mph going downhill—my first and most appreciated helmet! It does the job, and I’m very grateful. However, there are things I don’t like: the visor fogs up (I eventually removed it), and I absolutely hate the clip. I almost always ended up asking someone else to undo it because it drove me mad. Also, I have ears that stick out a bit, and it was always a challenge not to fold my left ear. Sometimes it hurt to take the helmet off, as it would rip out my ear piercings. I think I paid about £60, so I honestly have nothing major to complain about. It did what it was supposed to do when it mattered, and that’s what counts.
O’NEAL 2 SRS SPYDE Helmet
O’Neal 2 SRS SPYDE lid’s solid. Spare visor means no ride’s ruined by scratches or cracks. Plush liner’s comfy, yanks out for washing – no more helmet funk. Air vents keep your head cool when you’re pushing hard. Plus, it’s DOT and ECE certified, so you know this thing’s legit protection. Definitely a smart addition to your gear bag.
My personal Review of O’NEAL 2 SRS SPYDE Helmet
“Every rider knows a scratched-up visor ruins a ride. That’s why grabbing a spare for your O’Neal 2 SRS SPYDE is a no-brainer. Saves you getting stranded if your main one gets damaged.
This helmet already has a comfy, washable liner and good ventilation – keeps things fresh on long rides. It’s also reassuring that it meets DOT and ECE safety standards, so you know the protection is legit.
Bottom line: this isn’t some flashy upgrade, it’s a smart, practical buy that helps you keep riding no matter what. Stash a spare in your gear bag, and you’re set!”
O’NEAL 2 SRS SPYDE Helmet Specification:
- Essential Addition: Recommended to keep a spare in your gear bag for convenience.
- Components: Includes the visor only.
- Comfort Feature: Comes with an ultra-plush, removable, and washable padded liner.
- Ventilation: Equipped with multiple air vents for enhanced ventilation and cooling.
- Safety Compliance: Meets DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.05 safety standards.
What other Dirt Bike Fans think about O’NEAL 2 SRS SPYDE Helmet
Excellent Lightweight Helmet
I love the lightweight design and color scheme of this helmet. Despite my mixed feelings about O’Neal, I find myself repeatedly drawn to their products because of their design, quality, and price balance. I also consistently find their fit to be great.
It’s important to pay attention to this helmet’s sizing issues, as reported by other buyers. According to their online fitment sheet, I should easily fit into a size large helmet. However, heeding the warnings of other buyers, I opted for a size larger, and there’s no way I could have fitted my head into a Large. There’s also the possibility of finding an ill-fitting helmet returned by someone else, which you might get for a significantly lower price.
So far, the helmet has held up quite well. We ride on single tracks/woods, and my Adventure Helmet was getting scratched up. I’ve been using this helmet for several weeks now, brushing against branches and such, and there are no scratches so far.
The GoPro mounted perfectly right underneath the visor.
Be aware that the colors in the pictures are misleading. In some, the helmet appears blue and yellow, while in others, it looks black and yellow (which is what I wanted). Ultimately, it turned out to be blue and yellow. It wasn’t what I initially wanted, but I was prepared for that possibility, and I still love the helmet.
My wife liked it so much that she got one as well. I definitely recommend it.
Do you wear 7 3/4 hat? Look below.
Okay, so all the reviews mentioned that the sizing is snug, and they’re right. However, my hat size is 7 3/4, and I found that the XXL fits nicely. You can remove the padding around the bottom to make the helmet easier to put on. It looks great and feels light. I suggest wearing it for a bit to get used to moving around in it.
The sun visor is adjustable, although not by much. Overall, this helmet will definitely turn heads. I would buy it again if I ever need another helmet.
How can you get such a nice helmet for $100 is beyond me…
I’ve been riding mostly on the street for 20 years and have just gotten back into dirt biking. I bought this helmet along with a Bell MIPS, which was twice the price. The Bell is still in the box – I’ve taken this one out on a trail and couldn’t be happier. It offers superb comfort, is priced right, has tons of airflow, and features removable/washable liners. I’m 6’2″ with a head circumference of 59 inches, and the Large size fits perfectly. A Medium works too in a pinch (my wife wears a Medium).
This is an excellent helmet for the price. I wouldn’t waste too much time deliberating—just hit the ‘buy now’ button before someone else does. This helmet will not disappoint!
ILM Open-Face Dirt Bike Helmet
This ain’t your average open face. ILM loaded it up – drop-down tinted visor for battling sun glare, adjustable sun shield for fine-tuning, even a removable face mask to block wind and dust. All that, and it still looks sharp.
They get the fit too. Snug for less noise, but go a size up if you like it looser. Liner pops out for washing, vents are one-touch… this helmet’s built for riders, not headaches.
Perfect for dirt bikes, whatever your ride is. DOT-approved means it’s legit protection too. If you want that open-face freedom with some serious options, this ILM’s got your back.
My experience with ILM Open-Face Dirt Bike Helmet
“Okay, I’ve been riding with this ILM open face for a few weeks now, and I’ve got some real thoughts.
First off, the features are nice. That drop-down tinted visor is a lifesaver when the sun’s in your face, and I like that the sun shield is adjustable. The removable face mask is decent for dusty trails, though the vents could be bigger. It all comes off and on easily, which is a bonus.
The fit, though… they’re right, it’s definitely snug. Good for cutting down on road noise, but I went a size up from my usual and I’m glad I did. Might be too tight for some folks. The liner feels a bit cheap, but it’s removable for washing, so that’s a plus.
Ventilation is just okay – could do with more vents, especially on top. And the quick-release buckle? Handy, but feels a little flimsy.
Overall, this ILM helmet gets the job done. It’s DOT approved, so safety isn’t a worry, and the options are a real bonus. But for the price, it feels like they cut some corners on the materials. If you want that open-face feeling with some customization, this works. Long-term durability? I have some doubts.”
Key features include:
- Adjustable Sun Shield: Easily rotate the screws to adjust the position of the shield, reducing eye strain during daytime rides.
- Drop-Down Tinted Visor: Protect your eyes from harsh sunlight with the retractable tinted visor. Remember to remove the protective film before use for optimal clarity.
- Detachable Chin Guard: Stay comfortable and breathe freely with the front face guard’s ventilation system. One-touch controls make it simple to adjust the air vents as needed.
- Replaceable Clear Visor: The helmet also comes with a clear visor for versatile use in various lighting conditions.
What other Dirt Bike Fans think about ILM Open-Face Dirt Bike Helmet
Best bang for the buck lightweight helmet
I received the helmet today. I needed something light and sporty-looking that wouldn’t make me look like a bobblehead character. This helmet exceeded my expectations. It has very plush padding. You can remove the sun visor, and the helmet comes with three plugs to replace the screws that hold the visor in place. This provides a cleaner look than just removing the visor and reinserting the screws. If you use the sizing chart, the helmet won’t fit properly. As others have already stated, you need to order one size larger for a perfect fit, and two sizes larger if you intend to ride with any glasses or shades on. This helmet, at less than $100, is a steal. After receiving mine and trying it on, I would willingly pay $200 for this helmet if that were the only price available. For reference, I own several motorcycle helmets from brands like Shoei, Bell, KBC, and HJC. If you get the right size, I guarantee you will love this helmet.
Nice for price
The helmet is nice, easy to work with, and adjust. I bought this for my son; the smallest size barely fits, which is fine because he is growing. I am planning to buy an installable headset for it and will update on how that installation goes.
The only issue I have is with how it changes fit. When you remove the face part, it doesn’t go back in easily; you have to squeeze and force it a bit. This isn’t a problem until you realize it alters the helmet’s fit. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make it snugger but rather loosens it, which isn’t ideal, especially for smaller heads. The helmets do run small; I expected this one to be about an inch too big for my son, but it’s almost a perfect fit.
The helmet looks cool, and I appreciate the added vents. We’ll soon see how effective these vents are at clearing lens fog caused by breathing. My son says it feels good and doesn’t cause any discomfort, other than the strap tending to slip and put pressure on his throat.
Comfortable and safe
My new favorite helmet comes from my background in motocross and dirt bike riding, where full-face helmets are the norm. My other helmet is a Bell Qualifier, but I was looking for a summer helmet. In terms of comfort, features, finish, and fit, this helmet significantly surpasses the Bell.
The quick-release buckle is an excellent feature in itself, eliminating the need for tedious strap adjustments before every ride.
Some people might not be impressed by this helmet, as all its features and details can also be found in helmets from brands like Shoei, Arai, and Biltwell. However, considering that all those helmets are more than three to four times the price of this one, I have become a fan.
I’m definitely going to take a look at their full-face helmets as well.
What Brands Make the Best Dirt Bike Helmets
As I mentioned earlier in the article, we talk about the BEST dirt bike helmets, not the most expensive. What I mean by BEST DIRT BIKE helmet I mean safety, because not wearing a helmet is the number 1 factor in dirt biking fatalities.
Fit and finish on a dirt bike helmet are really subjective to your head shape. While I recommend trying on many different helmets to find one that fits your head well… I also want to talk about the companies that are providing us with the safest and best technology in helmets for protecting our heads.
This is what I considered to be the best dirt bike helmet brands this year:
- 6D Helmets – because they revolutionized helmet design with Omni-Directional Suspension
- Klim Helmets – because has the Lightest Helmets with proper venting, and next-gen safety feature
- Alpinestars Helmets – for its Lightweight, Customizable Helmets with class-leading Supertech M10 protection
- Fly Racing Helmets – for its Impact Energy Cells technology
- Fox Racing Helmets – because it is one of the global leaders in motocross and mountain biking gear
- Shoei Helmets – for its SHOEI-exclusive Motion Energy Distribution System
These are the dirt bike brands that are trying to really update the technology in dirt bike helmets. This is the reason that it made the list. I would love to see all the other brands join the fight when it comes to protecting our heads against dirt bike head injuries.
When it comes to choosing the best dirt bike helmet for you and your head, make sure that you try lots of different helmets on. Just because they are expensive and the safest on the market, it does matter if it isn’t comfortable.
I like the saying that the best helmet is the one that you are wearing.
While not all the dirt bike helmets are created equal when it comes to fit, finish, design, and safety feature any helmet is better than no helmet.
Personally I have worn a 6D helmet and a Fly Racing and my head prefer the fit and finish of a Fly Racing helmet.
Conclusion
After 15 years of tearing up tracks, riding backcountry trails, and pushing my limits, I’ve tested a whole lot of dirt bike helmets. Choosing the right one is a delicate balance. Protection is non-negotiable.
DOT and ECE ratings are the bare minimum, and how that shell, padding, and liner work together is critical. But the best helmet isn’t just a safety device; it’s part of how you ride. Good ventilation keeps you focused, not overheated. That fit needs to be snug, but not so tight it pinches or distracts.
Visors, sun shields, chin guards – they all add options, but also potential snag points. I’ve learned there’s no single “perfect” helmet, which is why testing is crucial. Figure out your priorities: hard enduro, desert racing, weekend play… that’s gonna narrow down the field fast. And be honest about fit – helmet brands vary, and a snug helmet that doesn’t fit right is worse than useless.
Test, experiment, and don’t compromise until you find a helmet that feels like an extension of yourself, not just something you strap on.
