The 9 most popular helmets right now

And your helmet is exactly the piece we tend to deliberate over the longest. Modular or full-face? Quiet or lightweight? So we kept it simple: we looked at which helmets you took home most often this year. The result is a top nine, neatly split across three categories. Three types of helmet, three types of rider. Chances are you’ll recognise yourself somewhere.

Full-face helmets: head in the game, visor down

The full-face helmet keeps everything out: wind, noise, cold and those insects that really sting at speed. One piece, fully closed, maximum protection. And because less wind noise means less fatigue, you step off the bike fresher than you’d expect after a long day. This is the helmet for riders who clock up the miles and keep their head in the game: the sport rider, the sport-tourer, the one who leaves nothing to chance.

1. Shark D-Skwal 3

Sharp looks, a compact silhouette with spoiler and plenty of kit as standard. You get both a clear and a tinted visor in the box, along with a built-in sun shield for when the sun sits low and a Pinlock to keep fogging at bay. The visor seals tightly, which you’ll notice in the lower wind noise. A lot of helmet, a lot of features, and accessible for anyone looking for their first serious full-face without compromising on style.

2. Shoei GT-Air 3

All of Shoei’s pedigree, built for riders who plan long days in the saddle. The lightweight fibreglass shell has been through the wind tunnel, and you hear it straight away: exceptionally quiet, especially on the motorway. The Sena SRL3 intercom tucks neatly into the shell, the sun shield is built in and the interior adjusts until the helmet fits like a glove. If you ride far and take comfort seriously, this is home.

3. HJC i71

Proof that a smaller budget won’t leave you out in the cold. Technically the i71 sits close to the pricier RPHA-71, with solid ventilation that channels warm air away, a three-position sun shield and a Pinlock included as standard. A sporty all-rounder for everyday riding, and the smartest way into this category.

Modular helmets: the best of both worlds

A modular helmet is a bit like cheating, in the best sense. Chin bar down and you have the protection and quiet of a full-face. Chin bar up at the junction, at the pump or during a quick chat with a mate, and you get some air without taking the helmet off. Dual homologation (P/J), so officially approved in both positions. The ideal companion for the tourer and the commuter who want one helmet for everything.

1. HJC i91

Accessible, versatile and no fuss. Dual homologation, a built-in sun shield, generous ventilation and a visor you swap without tools. The helmet is prepped for the Smart HJC intercom, so you’re connected to your passenger or your group in no time. A lot of helmet, little hassle.

2. Shoei Neotec 3

For years the benchmark among modular helmets, and the third generation lives up to that reputation. Light, remarkably quiet thanks to added sealing and a noise isolator, and with a wider viewport that takes in road and mirrors at a single glance. The Sena SRL3 slots in seamlessly. A helmet that keeps the tourer, the sport rider and the urban commuter happy alike.

3. Scorpion EXO-930 Evo

For riders who want versatility without raiding their wallet. Dual homologation, and the chin bar even comes off completely if you want to wear it open. The Kwikwick interior wicks moisture well and stays comfortable for anyone who sweats quickly, all backed by a five-year warranty. Three helmets in one, you might almost say.

Jet helmets: light, airy and made for the city

Sometimes you just want air. The jet helmet leaves your face free, weighs little and gives you a clear overview in busy traffic. Ideal for short rides, warm days and the daily weave through the jams. This is the helmet of the city rider and the scooter rider, of anyone who wants to keep things light and nimble. Cutting corners, quite literally.

1. HJC i31

Forget the classic little pot: the i31 is a full-blown maxi jet that, in shape and features, edges close to a modular. The long visor protects your whole face, the built-in dark sun shield works in two positions and an intercom can go in. Just as happy on the commute as on an easy Sunday ride.

2. Shoei J-Cruise 3

Proof that a jet helmet needn’t feel loud or cheap. Surprisingly quiet for an open helmet, and thanks to its light weight you can wear it all day without feeling your neck. Long visor, far-reaching sun shield and ready for the Sena SRL3. For riders who want that open feeling without giving up finish and comfort.

3. GMS Gelato

Pure riding fun with an Italian touch. The Gelato comes in a range of pastel shades, each named after an ice cream flavour, from vaniglia to stracciatella. Ultra-light, with a long visor and a built-in sun shield. A big favourite among scooter riders, and the only question left is: which scoop will you pick? The fresh, breezy entry point of the list.

Still not sure?

A helmet is chosen by fit, not from a photo. Torn between two types, brands or sizes? Feel free to drop by one of our 8 stores if you’re in Belgium. Our teams consist of daily riders whom will point you towards the right gear for your style of riding. And thanks to our Lowest Price Guarantee, you’re never ever breaking the bank.