What are you looking for in your next off road motorcycle helmet? Additional safety, enhanced comfort, or simply wants to be the style icon in the wilderness?
I can offer you ALL of those in the next few sections of this off road motorcycle helmet review. Wondering HOW?
You will get to know every tiny but necessary detail about 7 off road motorcycle helmets widely used and highly rated by actual riders. These headgears are insanely popular for being durable, safe, and comfortable.
Unlike other review sites, I won’t brag about their endless features. Instead, I will focus more on how some of those features can make your next ride safe and stylish on the off-road tracks.
Let’s gear up for the ride with some great off road motorcycle helmets loved by real off-road riders.
Why Do You Need a Off Road Motorcycle Helmet?
I have seen so many newbies kicking the motocross motorcycles gearing up with a full-face helmet. Yes, they are one of the safest bike helmets, but not for off-road and rough terrains.
Dirt biking is a Power sport that suites dare-devil souls like you. I know you love the jumps and bumps on the muddy and rough tracks. But you need extra protection during these actions that only a off road motorcycle helmet can offer.
These off-terrain headgears are specially designed to prevent facial injuries along with any substantial impact on the head. It’s like picking a cast iron skillet for steaks. It could have been cooked in any pan, but you want the best. And only cast iron skillet can offer you that.
Best off road motorcycle helmet review
Image | Product Name | price |
---|---|---|
LS2 Helmets MX-Off Road Subverter | Check Price | |
O’Neal unisex-adult 10 SRS Helmet | Check Price | |
HJC CS-MX 2 Helmet – Ellusion (Small) | Check Price | |
ILM Adult ATV Motocross Motorcycle Helmet | Check Price | |
AHR H-VEN20 Adult Full Face MX Helmet | Check Price | |
Bell MX-9 MIPS Equipped Motorcycle Helmet | Check Price | |
6D Helmets ATR-2 Helmet – Solid | Check Price |
1. LS2 Helmets MX-Off Road Subverter
Are you looking for a high-performance helmet that can change the game on the off-road track? Well, I haven’t found any better option than the LS2 Subverter helmet for off road biking. Despite the 3-shell design, the helmet is ultra-light and fits on any intermediate oval-shaped head.
Exterior Shell Design
The helmet speaks for itself in the case of design. You will find the white color scheme goes perfectly with almost any biking outfit. Pointed peak and extended chin guard offers both style and safety from roosting or any other facial injuries.
Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) is the core of LS2’s ultra-light design. This synthetic polymer offers little flexibility to ensure balanced energy management during any impact. EPS foam interior is another factor in the management system, and you will find more detail in the next section.
Level of Protection
The LS2 comes with multi-layer protection. Right after the flexible KPA shell, you will find an energy-absorbing EPS foam layer. This layer works as a buffer to absorb the most significant part of the impact.
Whatever energy is left after the impact will be managed evenly through a polycarbonate protective layer. This layer is so efficient that you won’t feel anything on the comfortable padding.
This padding material may not endure any impact, but they deal with sweat, dirt, and whatnot.
Don’t worry at all. You can easily wash this antimicrobial, moisture-wicking padding. And of course, you can remove the paddings and adjust them.
Ventilation
One of the best things about this high-performance MX dirt bike helmet is the 35-channel ventilation system. The dirt road and tough competition can make you tense and feel sweaty. However, the heavy airflow through these channels will drive the moisture away and keep you cool.
Pros
- Lightweight KPA exterior
- 3-layer shell
- Works with almost any goggles brand
- Wide eye port
- DOT and ECE certified
Cons
- Higher price tag
- Limited flexibility of the shell
2. O’Neal unisex-adult 10 SRS Helmet
If you ask me why I have kept this O’Neal helmet in #2, the answer will be, “it comes with a perfect blend of affordability and high-end features.”
O’Neal is one of the best off road motorcycle helmets that offer ultra-lightweight and sheer comfort without making you feel uncomfortable about the wallet. How cool is that?
By the way, this is one of the best off road motorcycle helmets under $200. And the pro riders are saying that.
Exterior Shell Design
The Polycarbonate shells of O’Neal helmets are not that light as LS2. But the construction of every O’Neal headgear is much more robust than any other helmet in this review. The lack of flexibility is well-compensated with the enhanced durability of the polycarbonate exterior.
A darker color scheme and multi-colored clear coated themed design give each helmet a different personality. If you want a helmet that will tell people who you really are, there is no other better option than O’Neal. Modular design pointed peak and a robust chin guard makes you feel stronger and different.
Level of Protection
Inner paddings of this champion dirt bike helmet are ultra-plush and easy to remove. If any force is still there after penetrating the ABS shell, the soft inner paddings will immediately absorb them.
Lastly, you can wash these moisture-wicking soft liners. But you need to be very careful and stay away from any strong detergents.
Ventilation
The helmet does not have 30+ vents for a super comfy feel, but the number of air intakes is adequate to keep your head cool and dry. Some of the vents make their way through the pulse paddings.
Are you wondering about the difference? It’s actually a magical combo of super soft and super cool foam paddings. Isn’t it awesome?
Pros
- Adjustable visor
- Affordable price
- DOT and ECE certified
- Best Lightweight dirt bike helmet
- Durable exterior
Cons
- The shell material is too rigid
- The energy management system is not efficient enough
3. HJC CS-MX 2 Helmet – Ellusion (Small)
HJC Ellusion has revolutionized the off road motorcycle helmet design with an Advanced Polycarbonate Composite shell and integrated Advanced Channeling Ventilation. Keeping the head cool and eyeing in a broader horizon is easier than before with this Ellusion helmet.
Exterior Shell Design
Composite materials are the future of shell manufacturing. As a manufacturer, HJC realized it well before and switched to Advanced Polycarbonate Composite shell from the conventional material.
Now each HJC helmet is both ultra-lightweight and super comfy.
Level of Protection
Protection and comfort are no longer any guessing game in any HJC helmet. Advanced CAD technology makes every bend and corner of the helmet optimally designed for more shock absorption, durability, and of course, comfort.
Plush Nylex interior works as a perfect buffer to distribute the force of impact. Moreover, it keeps the helmet in place without making you feel uncomfortable.
Ventilation
The design of the Ellusion helmet is genuinely out of the box. Large eye ports with a unique visor provide a maximum range of views with better protection from sunlight.
You will feel a gust of airflow from the front to back. This is the magic of Advanced Channeling Ventilation. It flushes the hot air out and lets the cool air get in. Now keeping your cool even on the hottest summer day will be more comfortable than before.
Pros
- Affordable
- Best dirt bike helmet for glasses of any model
- Wider size variation (2XS to 5XL)
- Removable and washable interior
- Polycarbonate composite shell
- DOT certified
Cons
- Larger models do not fit properly
- There is no airflow control
4. ILM Adult ATV Motocross Motorcycle Helmet
ILM ATV helmet is all about speed and mobility.
If you are a big fan of speed and maneuverability, there is no other better option than this ATV off road motorcycle helmet. Removing and attaching almost all the pieces is easy. So it’s you who can control how you want the helmet to support your head.
Exterior Shell Design
A lightweight ABS shell is the signature of this helmet. Yes, ABS may not be that durable like any composite materials, but you will love the flexibility. It will ensure the maximum endurance of the helmet.
Aerodynamic design allows the wind to pass smoothly without creating any frag on the helmet surface. You can deal with high speed and perform the trickiest maneuvers, but the wind resistance will be minimal with an ILM ATV helmet.
Level of Protection
DOT and ECE certification tells everything about the protection level of the helmet. The inner pads are soft but robust to protect your head from any impact. You will feel minimum stress from the D-ring chin strap.
Adjustable visors will protect you from sunlight no matter which angle it is located. You just have to rotate slightly for maximum comfort. Despite being one of the best budget off-road motorcycle helmet, ILM does not compromise on quality.
Ventilation
The vents on the helmet are strategically placed for maximum air intake and flush out. If you are wearing the helmet for a long, there will be no issue with sweat and moisture. The rapid airflow will keep the interior dry and cool.
Pros
- Aerodynamic design for speed and maneuverability
- Removable inner pads
- Adjustable visor
- Lightweight design
- DOT certified
Cons
- A limited number of air vents
- Limited sizes
5. AHR H-VEN20 Adult Full Face MX Helmet
There are at least two reasons to select this as one of the best off road motorcycle helmets for the money. Firstly, it is a multi-purpose helmet suitable for Motocross, Dirt Bike, and ATV. Secondly, it is one of the best-rated helmets by genuine users.
You must be feeling curious to know why riders like it so much. Let’s dig in.
Exterior Shell Design
What does a rider first look for in a helmet? In my opinion, it’s the weight and fit. AHR H-VEN helmets are lightweight due to the ABS shell. Lightweight does not mean the exterior is less durable by any means.
Futuristic color scheme and aerodynamic design also give the helmet an extra edge. So both outlook and design make it one of the most famous among all the off road bike helmets.
Level of Protection
Comfort and protection inside the helmet are nearly adequate. However, the lack of any padding on the chin guard may make you feel a bit uncomfortable. Liners followed by the shell are both comfortable and breathable. You can remove them quickly for a thorough wash.
Separate ear pads minimize the pressure on your ear. And if you want to put a compatible Bluetooth device, the ear pads will let you do so. The smaller version of this headgear is loved by the parents as one of the best youth dirt bike helmets.
Ventilation
In my opinion, the ventilation is enough for a comfortable ride. But there is scope for improvement. A few extra vents and proper placing could have made a big difference.
However, don’t get disappointed with the airflow. The liner and padding are sufficient to keep your head dry and cool.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Removable and washable interior paddings
- Multi-purpose use
- DOT certified
Cons
- No padding on the chin guard
- Limited vents
6. Bell MX-9 MIPS Equipped Motorcycle Helmet
Do you prefer a lightweight helmet that can handle any type of direct and rotational impact? If yes, then do not hesitate to pick the Bell MX-9 MIPS helmet. This Multi-Directional Impact Protection System has revolutionized the impact and energy management process.
Don’t ignore the ventilation system. Bell MX-9 is one of the best ventilated off road motorcycle helmets.
Exterior Shell Design
The shell of this champion helmet is made with polycarbonate materials. It is lightweight and more flexible to endure any dent or impact. No matter what is your head size is, as long as you have an intermediate oval shape.
Now let’s come to MIPS. This technology’s motto is to keep your brain safe in any bike accident because you have only one! MIPS allows the head to rotate inside the helmet. It may sound simple, but this simple rotation can significantly reduce the effect of an angled impact.
Level of Protection
Bell MX-9 is famous for its multi-layer protection. After the 3-layer polycarbonate shell comes, the air channeled liner. You can remove and wash it after each use. Moisture-wicking padding keeps you comfy inside.
Chin bar saves you from roosting with an extra EPS layer. You will find the chin strap with D-ring closure equally comfortable and padded.
Ventilation
The air inside the helmet will always be on the flow for superior cooling and comfort. The velocity flow ventilation is enough to flash out any moisture and keep the interior as dry as the fresh linen.
Even the roost guard on the helmet is vented for your convenience. No wonder, pro-bikers rank it as one of the best off road motorcyle helmet for hot weather. How great is that?
Pros
- Lightweight
- MIPS technology for better impact protection
- Extra padding for comfort and safety
- Velocity-flow ventilation
- DOT and ECE certification
- 5-years warranty
Cons
- Limited shell sizes
7. 6D Helmets ATR-2 Helmet – Solid
Great things come at a cost. This phrase perfectly matches the 6D ATR-2 helmets. Yes, the price tag is high, but no other helmet can beat its features and quality. From safety to comfort, construction to design, it’s simply unbeatable.
Exterior Shell Design
How would you feel if your head is suspended inside a helmet? Let me tell you that it feels light and super cool. No matter how many bumps you face on the track or how meandering the road is, you simply won’t touch them.
The tri composite shell is highly durable and flexible to support the suspension design. Reinforced chin guard, peak, and aerodynamic design give the helmet a trendy look.
Level of Protection
The protection begins with a 3-layer composite exterior. And it is followed by double liner technology. This ODS, aka Omni-Directional Suspension Technology, keep your head suspended within the helmet with up to 6-degree protection to rotational impact.
27 isolation dampers migrate any angular or rotational forces during any impact. Both DOT and ECE certified this for dual sports. Additional chin and eye protection make this model one of the safest helmets in the market.
You will get a nose guard against roost protection. Are you worried about the chin straps? Please don’t. The titanium D-Rings enhances the straps for better grip and protection.
Ventilation
Ventilation and Dri-Lex fabric make a perfect combo to keep the interior dry and cool. Multiple vents on the front intake air and route it through the EPS liner. Rear vents release all the moisture and odor in the air.
If you are not very comfortable with the ventilation, remove the chick pads for some extra space.
Pros
- ODS technology for better protection
- 3-layer shell design
- Dri-Lex washable liner
- Any goggle will fit on it
- 3-years warranty
- DOT and ECE certified
Cons
- Expensive
- Too much padding makes it look bigger
Why Is Picking the Right Helmet Important?
SAFETY, COMFORT, and STYLE!
Yes, if you want to have all of these three under one shell, it’s essential to pick the right helmet. When I say RIGHT, it’s about the size and the material, design, and other features.
Off road biking is all about power and roughness. So you need extra protection for your face and head. Any substandard shell material will only save your wallet, not your smile.
Similarly, a conventional full-face helmet is perfect while you are on the roads. But they won’t be your buddy while saving you from roosting. A off road helmet comes with advanced features like a multi-directional impact protection system or Omni-directional suspension to keep you safe in any impact.
I can go on and on about why you should pick the right helmet. But as a rough terrain rider, you don’t have time for crap. So let me disclose some of the PROVEN secrets to picking the best off road motorcycle helmet light or heavyweight design.
These secrets or factors are not something I just made up. Veteran riders across the world rely on these to pick the best for them.
How to Pick the Best Off Road Helmet? (buying guide)
Exterior Material
Shell or the exterior of the helmet can make a difference between a good and excellent motocross helmet. Off road bike helmets endure stricter conditions than any full-face or half helmet. So it is essential to pick an off-road helmet based on the exterior material.
Polycarbonate, KPA, Kevlar, thermoplastic alloy, fiberglass, and carbon fiber are the most durable choices as shell materials. Carbon fiber and fiberglass are on the high-end side, while the rest is more affordable.
Comfort
Durable liner and softer padding make any dirt bike helmet a comfortable one. As the helmet itself faces numerous bumps, jumps, and sharp turns, so comfort is a significant factor for the rider. Soft and durable padding and the liner will absorb impact more efficiently.
Size and Fits
No matter how healthy and comfortable the helmet is. If it does not fit on your head, do not worry. Each of the major helmet manufacturers has a size chart. And you can use that as a reference to pick the right size.
If the helmet feels slightly loose or tight, do not take any risk. Go for the next size.
Airflow and Ventilation
Heavy sweating comes with almost any Power sports, and off road biking is not different from it. Do you want to stay calm and dry even after covering the most challenging tracks? Then pick a helmet with adequate ventilation that can be controlled too.
Adequate ventilation will keep you dry and cozy. And control over the ventilation pattern will make you open or shut the air intake according to your need. I am sure you won’t like a storm inside the helmet when it’s cold outside.
Safety and Protection
Modern-day off road motorcycle helmets come with numerous safety features to save you from any impact. One of the most advanced and famous is the MIPS technology. The acronym stands for Multi-Directional Impact System. Another favorite protection technology is the ODS or Omni-Directional Suspension system.
All of these protection technologies reduce the rotational forces inside the helmet and minimize any impact.
Certification
Suppose you use the helmet in the US. In that case, the DOT certification is essential for the safety and integrity of the helmet. The seal is not merely a monogram. It ensures the helmet meets all the criteria to offer you the optimum protection in any impact.
SNELL certification is more rigorous than the DOT. And, of course, SNELL-certified helmets will cost you more than DOT-certified ones. Sometimes, you prefer safety over the cost, and SNELL will be the right choice there.
For Europe, the ECE certification will ensure the safety and integrity of the off road bike helmet. So make sure you check the back of the helmet for all the safety certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Safest Off Road Motorcycle Helmet?
In my opinion, you can call a off road motorcycle helmet safest only if it fulfills the following.
- Proper Size
- Durable Exterior
- Adjustable Interior
- Adequate safety features
- DOT, SNELL, or ECE certification
The design and color scheme can come later. But a off-road bike helmet will be the safest only when these features will be there in the helmet.
All the 7 helmets in the review are highly rated by the real-life riders because they found those headgear safe. So you can also rely on those for maximum protection on any rough terrain.
What Is The Best Off Road Motorcycle Helmet?
It is not an easy task to pick only one. In fact, I have at least a few on my radar as the best in their group. And I have categorized them according to some of the features that you should find worth considering.
- 1Strom BMX Motocross Helmet for Adults – Best Overall
- Bell MX-9 Matt Black MIPS Helmet – Best for Safety
- HHH Motocross MX DOT Helmet – Best Budget Helmet
- O’Neal Off-Road Style Unisex Helmet – Best in User Ratings
What Size Off Road Motorcycle Helmet Should I Get?
The answer is both comfortable and enigmatic. It’s easy because you should get a first bike helmet that fits on your head. But the perplexing part is whether the headgear should be tightly placed or loosely fit on your head.
Veteran riders prefer the helmet to snuggle on the head, chin, and chicks. If you feel too much tightness or too much air between your skin and the foams, something is not right. Use the manufacturer’s size chart. They will tell you your perfect size.
Are Off Road Motorcycle Helmets DOT Approved?
All the best off road helmet is DOT approved. If you are riding in any tracks of the US, the DOT certification is essential for you. This seal from the Department of Transportation ensures the helmet is up to the mark.
SNELL certification is more rigorous than that of the DOT. If you have SNELL along with DOT, that helmet will be the safest option for you.
Why Off Road Bike Helmets Have a Peak?
Off road bike helmets have peaks or visors that offer protection from the sunlight either by blocking direct sunlight or providing shade. This extended visor or peak also safeguard the rider’s eye and face from flying debris or muds, aka ‘roost.’
The peak in the dirt bike headgear enhances the outlook and makes it look more stylish.
Final Verdicts
Have you found the perfect headgear for your next ride on the off-road tracks? I am sure you have already chosen one. Let me know how comfortable it feels. Besides, you will feel the difference in your fellow rider’s eye.
Why won’t you? The style of the helmet already makes you a fashion icon on the track.
No matter if the best off road motorcycle helmet costs you a few extra bucks. At least you don’t have to compromise with comfort, safety, and style anymore.
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.