In this article we talk about the lightest dirt bike helmets on the market today.
Long motos and long single track riding really take a toll on your neck and shoulders, we all wear helmets because it’s safe and we want to protect the ole brain in case of a quick exit.
Now, what if we could ditch that old heavy and crusty helmet that we have had for 20 years with a new lightweight SAFER motocross helmet?
We are talking…
The Lightest Motocross Helmet
The Lightest Enduro Helmet
The Lightest Trail Riding Helmet
Table of Contents
What does the standard motocross helmet weigh?
1400 – 1800 Grams which is 3-4lbs which doesn’t seem like a lot of weight for your neck and head but all that jarring takes a toll.
Why do you need a light motocross helmet?
To alleviate all that pressure on your neck and head.
Well,
If you are like me and have a few half-numb fingers so you went to see the doc and the first thing he asks if you have landed on your head a few times…
Sound familiar?
I have a pinched nerve in my neck that has scar tissue wrapped around it from too many head and neck impacts.
This has resulted in half numb fingers and a feeling of a needle slowly being shoved deep into my neck, which starts to show up around an hour into riding.
My 6D helmet, Fly Racing Helmet, Answer Racing helmet, and Fox Racing helmet would put too much weight on my neck and head resulting in a pinched nerve.
This sucked.
All the motocross helmets I had were too heavy.
I thought it was a fitness thing, and did lots of shoulder and neck strengthening and also stretches.
While this helped it did not take nerve pinching away.
So, had the bright idea….
What if I could find a lighter motocross helmet?
I first went to downhill mountain bike helmets. Hell, these guys hurdle themselves down some pretty gnarly terrain (Red Bull Rampage) at speeds I cannot comprehend.
While there were tons of REALLY tempting options I decided to stick with the ECE, DOT, and SNELL rated lightweight motocross helmets.
Most of the lightweight motocross helmets listed below weigh under 3lbs. Now some of these are for the medium-sized helmets so judge accordingly.
Who makes the lightest motocross or dirt bike helmet?
Lets get started with the VERY Lightest motocross helmets.
Airoh Aviator 2.2
Airoh has been making helmets forever, the Airoh Aviator is a model that I think they have stopped producing, however, if you do a quick google search it looks like you can still get them. Not sure why they dropped them from the lineup but they replaced it with the Airoh 3.0 which is heavier.
- Carbon/aramid fiber shell
- Cheek pad release system
- Multiple vents
- GoPro support
- 950 grams or 2.09 lbs
Pros and cons of Airoh Aviator 2.2
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight Design: At 950 grams for a medium-sized helmet, it offers superior comfort by reducing strain on the neck and back. | Cost: The advanced features and high-quality materials likely make this helmet more expensive than some alternatives. |
| High-Quality Materials: Constructed with 100% carbon and Kevlar, ensuring durability and safety. | |
| Uniform Shell Thickness: Unique in maintaining the same thickness throughout, providing consistent protection regardless of the impact area. | |
| Aerodynamic Shape: Aggressive and sharp design enhances performance by improving airflow. | |
| Exceptional Ventilation: Numerous intake and exhaust vents designed for optimal airflow, crucial for off-road and summer riding. |
Fox Racin V3 RS CELZ Helmet
Fox Racin V3 RS Riet MIPS Helmet
Fox Racing V3 RS Relm MIPS Helmet
Fox Racing V3 RS Skarz MIPS Helmet
Fox Racing V3 RS Black Carbon MIPS Helmet
Fox racing helmets are solid helmets and Fox racing motocross helmets can borrow from the Fox Racing downhill mountain bike helmets that they also produce. The Fox racing V3 RS carbon fiber helmet is super lightweight and has huge vents. Meets both the ECE and the DOT standards.
- Equipped with MIPS
- EPS
- Carbon fibre and FRP lightweight shell
- Carbon fibre d-rings
- Meets DOT and ECE standards
- A medium Helmet weighs 2 lbs 15 oz
Pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Mips® equipped, adding a low-friction layer between the helmet and the head for additional protection. | V3 helmets are tighter than previous models of Fox Racing helmets, which may affect comfort or fit for some users. |
| Magnetic center + two side screw visor designed to release in the event of a crash, enhancing safety. | |
| Lightweight carbon composite shell contributes to overall protection without the heaviness. | |
| Dual density EPS liner spreads the forces of impact, enhancing protection. | |
| Antimicrobial internal padding keeps the rider comfortable and fresh. | |
| Large vents with mesh screens offer superior airflow while blocking debris. | |
| EPP chin bar maintains lower weight while helping to manage energy during impact. |
KLIM F3 Carbon ECE Helmet
Klim makes snowmobile, dual-sport, adventure, and dirt bike gear. Known for its high-quality and long-lasting gear the Klim F3 Carbon is my favorite lightweight helmet. It looks good and also is more affordable than the other lightweight dirt bike helmets.
Klim meets the ECE standard and also has a unique patented chin strap that is really easy to use.
Check out the KLIM F3 Carbon helmet review here – CLICK HERE
- ECE approved
- Carbon Fibre shell
- Triple Density EPS
- High Ventilation
- Fid Lock quick-release strap
- Weighs 1110g or 2.44lbs
Pros and cons of KLIM F3 Carbon ECE Helmet
| Pros | Cons |
| Carbon Fiber Hand-laid Shell for superior strength and lightness. | Some dirt bikers have reported that the helmet’s quality does not match its price point. |
| Shell construction process avoids deposits and imperfections, ensuring a flawless finish. | The comfort level of the helmet may not meet all riders’ preferences. |
| One of the lightest snow/off-road helmets available, enhancing wearer comfort and reducing neck strain. | |
| Lightest KLIM ECE helmet, offering top-notch protection without the bulk. | |
| Triple-density EPS provides enhanced impact absorption for increased safety. | |
| Extra Large Eye Ports for maximum vision, ensuring a wide field of view. | |
| Fid-Lock Quick Release Strap allows for easy removal and secure fastening. |
ALPINESTARS SUPERTECH M10 ALLOY MIPS HELMET
This all-new carbon fiber helmet from Alpinestars is sure to make a splash in the dirt bike and motocross helmet space. Alpinestars is well known for their high-quality dirt bike boots why not use that skill set to make a great helmet.
Made from 3K carbon fiber the Supertech M10 meets both the DOT and ECE standards. It also comes with the MIPS rating which means Multi-Directional Impact Protection System,
- Carbon shell, 3K
- EPS
- DOT and ECE
- MIPS
- Small – Medium Weighs 1240g or 2.7 lbs
- Medium Weighs 1340g or 2.9 lbs
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
| High safety standards with the integration of MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System). | Some vents lack screens or have inset screening, attracting and trapping mud, which can restrict airflow. |
| Slip layer between the EPS foam liner and interior padding reduces rotational forces during crashes. | |
| Four-part EPS liner construction offers tailored densities of protection for impact-prone areas. | |
| Clavicle relief cutout under the chinbar designed to mitigate collarbone injuries. | |
| Moisture-wicking interior with an Emergency Release System (ERS) for the cheek pads aids quick helmet removal. | |
| Visor attached with quick-release fasteners that release upon impact to enhance safety. |
Over the years Fly Racing has been rising to the top with all its motocross and dirt bike gear. The all new Fly Racing Formula Carbon Prime Helmet is going to be a hit for those wanting a lightweight motocross helmet. Made from 12K carbon fiber you also have some new technology for safety that Fly Racing calls Impact Energy cells (RHEON) and the Conehead EPS tech. The Formula Carbon Helmet also meets both the ECE and DOT helmet safety ratings.
Fly Racing Formula Carbon Prime Helmet
- ECE and DOT approved
- 12K carbon fiber shell
- RHEON impact energy cells
- Conehead EPS Tech
- Size MD/Large 1290 Grams or 2.8 lbs
CLICK HERE to check out the full article of the Fly Racing Fomula Carbon Helmet –
Pros and cons of Fly Racing Formula Carbon Prime Helmet:
| Pros | Cons |
| 12K carbon fiber shell offers lightweight with superior penetration resistance. | May not fit all head shapes comfortably, despite the advanced features. |
| Impact Energy Cells by RHEON enhance absorption of low-speed linear and rotational impacts. | Some users might find the helmet’s specific design or aesthetics less appealing. |
| Conehead® EPS Technology for efficient impact force management. | |
| Expanded volume EPS for increased impact absorption in critical areas. | |
| Clavicle shell relief zone to reduce clavicle injuries. | |
| Lightweight design with custom visor screws and titanium alloy D-rings. | |
| Comfort liner and cheek pads made of washable, moisture-wicking, anti-microbial material. | |
| Meets or exceeds ECE/DOT safety standards, ensuring high-level protection. |
Comparative Analysis of Lightweight Helmets
| Helmet | Weight |
| Airoh Aviator 2.2 | 2.09 lbs |
| Fox Racing Helmets | 2 lbs 15 oz |
| KLIM F3 Carbon Helmet | 2.44 lbs |
| Alpinestars Supertech M10 Alloy Mips Helmet | 2.7/2.9 lbs |
| Fly Racing Formula Carbon Prime Helmet | 2.8 lbs |
Conclusion:
Above is the list of all lightest dirt bike helmet carbon fiber helmets that I could find on the market today. If you feel like I missed one please comment below and I will add it to the list.
Personally, I have the KLIM F3 Carbon Helmet because it’s super light and not as expensive as the other helmets. The Airoh Aviator 2.2 is REALLY light but it’s an old model which means that it’s being replaced with the Airoh 3.0 helmet which is not as light.
(CLICK HERE FOR REVIEW OF THE KLIM F3 Carbon Helmet)
I would love to try the Fly Racing Carbon Prime motocross helmet as I have liked the Fly Racing helmets that I have had in the past.
FAQ About Lightest dirt bike helmet
What is the best weight for a helmet?
The best helmet weight is subjective; ideally, it should be light enough for comfort yet sturdy enough for safety, generally between 2 to 2.5 pounds for optimal balance.
Is 4 pounds heavy for a helmet?
Yes, 4 pounds is considered heavy for a helmet, as it may cause neck fatigue and discomfort during long rides, especially for off-road and sport motorcycle riders.
How much lighter is a carbon fiber motorcycle helmet?
Carbon fiber motorcycle helmets are typically 1 to 1.5 pounds lighter than their fiberglass counterparts, offering significant weight savings without compromising protection.
Are fiberglass helmets better than carbon?
Fiberglass helmets offer durability and cost-effectiveness, while carbon fiber helmets are lighter and absorb impact better but are pricier. Both have merits.
