Buying a helmet shouldn’t be hard, right? Honestly, it’s not. But buying the right one can be a bit difficult.
We are sure you don’t need us telling you that helmets are important for protection, But half shell ones will make you skeptical about safety. All half shell helmets for motorcycles aren’t made the same though.
That’s why we rounded up the best half shell motorcycle helmet you can buy. All these are some of the top choices in the market now and will give you a balance of durability, comfort, and fit.
Durability is something all helmet manufacturers claim. But be sure to look for DOT certifications. That’s a sure-fire way to tell if it’s worth a purchase.
Why Picking the Right Half Shell Helmet is Important?
Picking the right helmet is very important for the most obvious reasons. They give you protection on the road. Yes, they might not give you full protection like a full-face helmet, but something is better than nothing.
Experienced riders will prefer half shell since they know how to handle their motorcycle. A good helmet will give you protection, and since it’s a half shell, it will also give you better airflow and be lightweight at the same time.
Having a helmet when riding a motorcycle is a must. So, be a responsible rider and get yourself a high-quality half shell helmet.
7 Best Half Shell Motorcycle Helmet Review
You’ll find a lot of junk in the market. When it comes to something as important as a helmet, you don’t want to get a shoddy one. Here are the 7 Best Half Shell Motorcycle Helmet to choose from, without worrying about quality:
| Image | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
 |
Daytona Skull Cap Half Helmet | Check Price |
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ILM Half Helmet with Sun Visor | Check Price |
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AHR RUN-C Half Shell Helmet | Check Price |
1. Daytona Skull Cap Half Helmet
As far as half shell helmets that are affordable and high-quality go, this one from Daytona checks all the boxes. It’s stylish and also gives ample protection.
That protection comes from the solid build quality. The inner part is made from expanded polystyrene, while the outer part is made from durable ABS. That gives you the best of both worlds – it will protect you from bumps and won’t be as suffocating either since it’s a half-size one.
While the protection might not be up to par as a full helmet, it’s still adequate. Another cool benefit is the comfort while wearing it. It wicks away moisture. That means if you have been wearing it for a long time, you won’t get drenched in sweat.
This one will keep you cool and comfortable, and that’s a win-win in our books. A testament to the quality is the DOT approval it has. In fact, it even exceeds the DOT safety standards.
We love the design as well. It’s sleek and comes in a matte black finish which makes it look quite stealthy.
A lot of poorly made helmets don’t fit right. You can feel a sort of pinching sensation when you’re on the road. And you don’t need us telling you that is a no-go.
Thankfully, that’s a non-issue with this one. It will give you a snug fit but won’t be uncomfortable or pinch your head. The only small gripe we have is quite a silly one. It does give you a mushroom head.
Pros
- Made from polyester and ABS which gives you ample protection
- Sleek design makes you look stylish
- Comfortable to wear and won’t give you a pinching feeling
- Moisture-wicking feature keeps you dry
Cons
- Messes up hairstyle and can cause mushroom head
2. ILM Half Helmet with Sun Visor
Want protection for your head and also your eyes with the best half shell helmet? The sun visor on this one will give you some relief from the sun.
We can sum up this one in a few sentences. It’s a quality helmet that will give you good protection, and the ventilation will keep you cool as well. On top of that, there is a removable sun visor to keep your eyes safe as well. Let’s get into a bit more detail.
The material used is the same as the previous one, which means it’s ABS. ABS is a durable and high-quality plastic that’s used in a lot of different applications. It’s lightweight too.
Which makes it the perfect material to be used in half helmets like this one. And if that wasn’t enough for you, this one is also DOT-certified. So, you can be sure it’s safe for riding.
One of the coolest features is how well-ventilated it is. The superb ventilation will keep your head cool, and you won’t feel tired while wearing it for a long duration of time either.
Trust us, this is one of those features that you didn’t know you missed till you actually experience it.
One cool quality-of-life feature is the included sun visor. So, if you happen to forget your sunglasses at home on a bright sunny day, it won’t be a problem.
Pros
- Durable build quality that will give you superior protection
- Includes a visor, so you don’t need to carry sunglasses separately
- Great ventilation will keep your head cool
- Quick-release latch which makes it easy to take off
Cons
- Visor doesn’t come down that far
3. AHR RUN-C Half Shell Helmet
If you’re looking for a helmet that’s adjustable and will fit lots of different head sizes, this is the one to get.
Let’s talk size first, then. You can get this helmet in four different sizes. The options are small, medium, large, and extra large. This means no matter which size fits you, there is an option that will work.
The size option isn’t the only impressive thing about it though. This one is DOT certified as well so you can be sure that your safety is taken care of. That safety comes from the material.
Just like most of the helmets in this list, this one uses a tough and durable ABS shell to give you solid performance. Enhancing the overall strength of the helmet is the EPS liner.
You can use this helmet when riding lots of different two-wheelers whether you own a bike, scooter, chopper, or even a cruiser. And the best part is you will look good doing it.
We love the design of this one actually quite a lot. It’s a very classic and retro-looking design. Some would even say it’s something Captain America would wear. And hey, if a helmet is good enough for the Captain, then it’s good enough for us.
Getting it off your head is also a breeze. There is a quick-release strap that you can open with just one hand. And it will also keep the helmet secured in place on your head when you need it to.
Pros
- Durable ABS build with EPS liner will give you good protection
- Comfortable to wear so you won’t feel uneasy on long rides
- Lightweight and won’t strain or fatigue you
- Easy quick-release strap makes it convenient to take off
- Pretty stylish design which makes you look cool
Cons
- A bit lacking in neck protection is
4. Daytona Half Shell German
If you like that classic look, this one from Daytona is one masterpiece – at least in the design and looks department.
We love the clean lines and minimal look of this Daytona model. It gives off a classic and old-timey vibe which is quite rare in modern helmets. People who love this kind of style will absolutely awe over it, and we don’t blame them.
The design may give you an old-school vibe, but its features are high-end enough to blend in with our time. Some modern features and materials make this one just as durable as the other helmets on this list.
Let’s start with some solid information first. Yes, This Daytona German half shell helmet is DOT certified. Honestly, when it comes to the safety and durability of this thing, that’s all you need to know basically.
DOT has a pretty rigid safety standard. When a helmet passes it, it stands for something, you know? Nonetheless, the outer material is the same old affair. You have tough ABS protecting the outside and expanded polystyrene on the inside.
All that protection doesn’t come at the cost of comfort either. Since it’s from the same brand as our first helmet, you can expect more or less the same features. There is no pinching sensation when wearing this or when riding at high speed.
The fit is snug but comfortable. That means you won’t worry whether it will fly off your head, but it doesn’t have a vice grip on your head either. And the good ventilation is a plus.
Pros
- Classic looking design that’s hard to come by
- Superb protection and DOT certification
- Comfortable to wear and doesn’t give you the pinching feeling
- Different sizes available which make it accessible for everyone
Cons
- Not everyone will like the design
5. VCAN Cruiser Helmet with American Flag
Want to show your love for your country while being protected while riding? This one has your name written on it. We love the minimal design and the cool US flag styling on it. This helmet screams patriotism.
It would have been a shame if a helmet with the American Flag on it wasn’t built well, wouldn’t it? Don’t worry, though. That isn’t the case here, at all! The outer shell is made from ABS and thermoplastic resin.
These two materials together give you great rider protection no matter what weather you ride it in. We mentioned whichever weather for a specific reason.
This one features a zippered neck skirt. That means it will keep your neck safe from cold winds during the winter. And you can use it during the summer too! The only small gripe we have with it, though is it’s easy to scratch.
Don’t worry about getting the right size. There are a lot of options to choose from. It’s available from small up to XX-large. Another quality of life feature is the visor that gives you some relief from the harsh UV rays when riding on a bright sunny day and the comfortable fit.
The inside has very lush padding, which makes it super comfortable to wear. And given that it’s not particularly heavy, this one makes for a cool and comfortable helmet.
By the way, you can get this in different finishes as well. You don’t have to get the US flag version
Pros
- Cool design with the American Flag
- ABS and thermoplastic resin materials give you solid protection
- DOT certified so you can be sure of its performance
- Integrated visor makes it easy to ride in the sun
- Zippered neck skirt keeps you comfortable during winter
Cons
- A durable build is fine but it’s easy to scratch
6. Gladiator Novelty Skull Cap
Simple, classic, and tough. That’s this helmet from Gladiator. We are going to be honest here, it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that some of the other helmets in this list do. But it still is a cool little helmet.
First up, you don’t need to worry about size and fit. There are a lot of options available. Size ranges all the way from small to XX-large.
Then there is the cool design. You can get this one in two different color finishes – matte or gloss. We like the matte one since it just looks more premium and attracts fewer fingerprints. But that doesn’t mean the glossy one is bad. It’s all your personal preference.
It’s made from fiberglass and will absorb some elements while riding. The ride protection is okay for the most part. We wouldn’t trust our lives with it if we are being honest.
One thing it has going for it is how comfortable and lightweight it is. The inner lining is soft, so you won’t feel any sort of pressure on your head while wearing it. And there is a nylon strap that can be easily adjusted as well.
All these are fine and dandy, but we would have been more comfortable with this helmet if it had some kind of DOT certification. That’s one major problem we have.
Pros
- Cool design that’s pretty classy looking
- Durable outer build that uses fiberglass
- Comfortable to wear and has soft inner linings
- Comes in lots of sizes which will work for almost everybody
Cons
- Doesn’t have any sort of DOT certification
7. WCL Beanie Half Shell Helmet
As our last helmet, we decided to include this lightweight half shell motorcycle helmet from WCL. You will notice that the design is quite similar to our first helmet, but there are some unique and cool things about it too.
For starters, it has a strong build quality which will give you good protection from bumps. It’s made from ABS and uses dense foam to give you good cushioning.
And there are different sizes as well. So, you don’t have to worry about fit. Comfort is one thing that WCL has taken care of pretty well too!
It’s lightweight, and the inner material is also very comfortable. So, you won’t feel like it’s pinching you tight. And it won’t tire your neck either since it’s so lightweight. Keep in mind though, that there is a bit of a break-in period.
You need to give it a couple of rides before it starts to get truly comfortable. It will conform to your head, and once the break-in period is over, it’s all good from thereon.
The design is minimal for the most part. As you can probably tell, we are a fan of matte helmets here. And this one fits the bill perfectly. We love the clean look and the super convenient chin strap you get as well.
That makes it easy to take off with just a push of a button. Overall, we like this helmet quite a lot, and it gets an easy recommendation from us. And yes, unlike the previous one, this one is DOT certified.
Pros
- ABS construction makes it very durable and will give you proper protection
- A lightweight helmet which means it won’t strain your neck
- Pretty comfortable to wear for a long period
- DOT-certified which ensures its quality
- Easy to open strap makes taking it off super easy
Cons
- Has a bit of a break-in period
Before You Buy What to Look for in a Half Shell Helmet
Before you just go and pick the first product from this list, you need to know the specific features you need to look for. While you can just pick any of the helmets we reviewed here and be in perfectly good hands, it’s still best to keep these features in mind first.
Build Quality
Durable build quality is a must when shopping for half shell helmets. A helmet’s job is to protect you from bumps and accidents. And being well-built is the way it will do that.
Look for materials such as ABS. These are pretty lightweight and very tough as well. That means you get the best of both worlds. You won’t tire yourself wearing the helmet and also get the much-needed protection.
Comfort and Ventilation
Speaking of not getting tired while wearing a helmet, you also need to buy a comfortable one. An uncomfortable helmet will not only make it tough to concentrate while riding your motorcycle, but it can also be quite an irritating thing. Look for soft and comfortable inner linings.
Proper ventilation is also important. Otherwise, you will feel hot and become a sweaty mess within minutes. If you happen to live in a hot place, that’s going to be a problem.
Size
Then there is the size of the helmet itself. You certainly need one that will fit you right. This is the easiest to figure out. Brands have different sizes available. So, pick one that fits your head.
DOT Certification
A DOT certification is solid proof of the helmet’s quality and reliability. Helmets are important and can save lives. They are very much worth it, and getting one with a DOT certification is an absolute must.
Design
The design will be more of a subjective matter. There are helmets with all sorts of designs and finishes. Some are glossy, some are matte, and some even have country flags printed on them.
It doesn’t hurt to get one that looks good to you since you will be the one wearing it. Plus, a cool-looking helmet can also be a way to show off your personality as well. Pick one whose design you like.
Price and Brand
When it comes to price and brand, we suggest not to cheap out on it. Getting a good-quality helmet will be an investment. Make sure you pick one that has all the things we mentioned above and fits within your budget.
Picking a brand is easy. All the ones we mentioned here are very solid and reputed names in the industry. You can go with anyone, and you will be satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best half shell helmet?
You really can’t go wrong with the Daytona models. All of their helmets are built to last and are DOT certified. They balance all the features that make a good half shell helmet perfectly well. So, Daytona is the way to go.
How to be sure what size I need?
Helmet manufacturers will have a size chart. Measure the width of your skull and compare the size to the size chart from the company. Make sure the fit is snug and not too loose. But you don’t want it to be too tight either.
Can a camera be mounted on a half helmet?
You can mount a camera on any helmet if you have the right accessories and camera. But to be extra sure you can check the manufacturer’s website.
Are helmets a must in every state?
No, they aren’t. You can check your own state’s laws regarding motorcycle helmets. But of course, it’s always best to wear one for your safety.
Do I need to wear glasses?
Not always. Some helmets will have built-in visors. But in most cases, these aren’t adequate. If you want complete protection and also save your eyes from the sun’s glare, you can wear sunglasses with helmets too.
Wrapping Up
There you have it. Now that you know which is the best half-shell motorcycle helmet, you can be safer on the road. Remember that the best one is the one that works for the particular head size you have.
If you’re yet to decide, we recommend the Daytona models as the most promising overall best half shell helmet. You’ll get features like durability, comfort, fit, and certifications when buying one from them. That way, whichever model you buy from the models we’ve mentioned from Daytona, you’ll get a top-notch one.
Jason, a helmet enthusiast, is the owner of HelmetsAdvisor.com shares his innovative idea that helps people get the proper knowledge of helmets and their accessories to go ahead!
Helmets are usually life-saving elements to run! That's why, an expert on helmets, Jason built this site to express his gathering knowledge and first-hand user experience over decades.
