Best Snowmobile Helmets With Breath Boxes

Best Snowmobile Helmets with breath boxes

Introduction

We have compiled a list of the best snowmobile helmets with breath boxes. These are designed for comfort and safety, giving you peace of mind while out on the slopes. We have also included a buyer’s guide to help you find the right helmet for your needs.
Snowmobiling is one of America’s favorite winter pastimes, but it can be dangerous if not done properly. The most important thing you can do to keep yourself safe while riding is to wear all safety gear: goggles, gloves, jacket, pants, and top them off with a quality snowmobile helmet that includes a breath box. the best snowmobile with heated shield will provide protection from head injuries in case of an accident or collision – as well as protect against cold temperatures outside when exposed.

After some exploration and thorough research, I’ve come up with 10 different snowmobile helmets with breath boxes. Each of these helmets was picked based on several criteria, which I’ll explain a bit later.

But the end goal was to ensure they have all the proper safety features. Nonetheless, let’s see what’s in store-

 

1. 509 Tactical Helmet ,Black Ops

509 Tactical Helmet ,Black Ops

The 509 Tactical Helmet managed to secure the best overall snowmobile helmet award with its ultimate polycarbonate shell. But it doesn’t end with that.

Along with the hard, protective shell, it comes with custom EPS lining to provide a snug fit for multiple head sizes. You could remove the linings too if you want to take them for a wash. It has a removable breath box and adjustable ventilation to adapt to any weather.

It had no problem getting the DOT certification meeting the FMVSS 218 Standard with its safety features. Other than that, it’s also equipped with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements. 

The best part is the helmet doesn’t constrict any part of your viewing angle. No matter which angle you’re looking at, you’ll always have a clear and broad peripheral vision.

However, the sad part is it doesn’t come with built-in visors. You’d have to opt for some goggles to protect you from those chilly winds. But that’s okay.

Without focusing on the visors, they ensured the helmet had top-notch features, protection being the first priority.

Pros

  • Lightweight helmet
  • Custom-fit EPS works for all sizes
  • The EPS liners are removable and washable
  • Meets DOT and CARB standards

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with built-in visors

2. Typhoon Dual Visor Modular Snowmobile Helmet

Typhoon Dual Visor Modular Snowmobile Helmet

The Typhoon G339 is a perfect combination of safety and style, making it the best snowmobile helmet. With the modular flip-up design, you could take off the helmet whenever you want.

And that’s not all. The actuator button offers a smooth opening and closing. Other than that, there are the added benefits of modular helmets.

However, the lenses on this helmet deserve appreciation. This helmet is occupied with a set of dual-paned face shields to prevent any kind of fog.

To make things even better, there’s a breath box too. As all the air is diverted to the lower half of the helmet, you don’t need to worry about fog at all. Moreover, there’s a quick detach system to remove the breath box.

So, if you want to take it out for a quick breath, you won’t have to go through the hassle of removing the helmet altogether.

Overall, I’d say this is a good deal for people who want a good quality snowmobile helmet without spending much. Even if you have to wear prescription glasses, Typhoon keeps that option for you with its heated visors. that’s why it’s the best breath box for snowmobile helmet.

Pros

  • Dual-pane face shield comes with anti-fog coating
  • Meets DOT safety rating
  • Heated visors keep the vision clear at all times
  • Easy closing and opening with the actuator button

Cons

  • Breath box needs some improvement

3. O’Neal 0817-504 unisex-adult full-face Helmet

O'Neal 0817-504 unisex-adult full-face Helmet

When it’s about value for money, the O’Neal 0817-504 Sierra II Helmet takes away the crown.

O’Neal has been in the market since 1970. And since then, it’s managed to win people’s hearts with its top-graded helmets and other accessories. So, it’s safe to say this model isn’t different.

The primary material used for the outer shell is polycarbonate. With this durable material that’s been proven to ensure safety, you can feel confident that your protection is guaranteed at all times.

This is why the Department of Transportation didn’t hesitate to give their DOT certification to this sturdy helmet. Along with the DOT certification, there’s also the ECE safety ratings. Whether you’re in Europe or America, don’t worry about safety ratings.

Even though there’s a face shield, it doesn’t come with any built-in visors. So, you’d have to opt for a pair of goggles. However, that’s acceptable based on the features and protection they’re offering at this price point. 

Pros

  • Comfortable EPS liners wick moisture
  • Compatible for multiple sports
  • Clear face shield provides perfect viewing angles
  • Snug-fitting cheek pads keep the helmet stable at all times

Cons

  • There’s no hole for mounting accessories

4. Castle X Mode Dual-Sport SV Snowmobile Helmet

Castle X Mode Dual-Sport SV Snowmobile Helmet

The Castle X Mode is the first dual-sport helmet on this list. I, personally, have always been a fan of dual-sport helmets. These come with the protection of a full-face helmet while giving the flexibility of modular helmets.

Other than that, you also get to change the visors whenever you want. And if you’re a goggles person, that option’s open too.

Although you might not need to invest in a pair of goggles. You see, this helmet has an anti-fog shield to keep out fog. To strengthen the defence against condensation, they’ve also added a quality breath guard.

As the breath guard doesn’t let any of the air come up to the top half of the helmet, your viewing angles stay intact.

You get a pair of smoke-tinted sun visors to protect your eyes from the sun. As this a dual-sport helmet, you can customize the visors any way you want.

Pros

  • Meets DOT and ECE safety standards
  • Dual-pane face shield prevents fog
  • The vents keep the temperature balanced
  • Comfortable EPS liner lets you wear it for a long time 

Cons

  • Could’ve added a heated shield

5. Typhoon Helmets Adult Full Face Snowmobile Helmet

Typhoon Helmets Adult Full Face Snowmobile Helmet

This full-face helmet from Typhoon is the best snowmobile helmet for casual riders with a budget. With this model, you get to save some money while ensuring complete protection.

Even at this price point, they didn’t forget to meet the DOT standards. So, that’s one less thing to worry about. And it goes without saying that full-face helmets are unbeatable when it’s to protection.

However, my favorite part of this helmet is the heated shields. In this competitive market where many top manufacturers don’t include heated safeguards with even higher price tags, this is undoubtedly appreciable.

And it’d be a crime not to mention the dual-pane face shields. With both heated shields and dual-pane face shields, fogging should never become an issue, rather it’s an anti-fog snowmobile helmet.

But it doesn’t end there. This snowmobile helmet for glasses also comes with adjustable vents. Whenever you want to increase or decrease the air intake, it’ll only take a second.

Pros

  • Comes with double-pane anti-fog heated shields.
  • Vents are adjustable
  • Comes with a durable quick-release strap
  • Easy to replace face shields 

Cons

  • The breath box needs better adjustment

6. Castle X Mode Dual-Sport SV Electric Snowmobile Helmet

Castle X Mode Dual-Sport SV Electric Snowmobile Helmet

This is the second helmet from Castle X that managed to secure its spot on this list. Many of you might wonder why there are several products from the very same brand?

So, let me clear things out.

You see, Castle X tries to come up with different products for each customer segment. Even though they trim down some of the unique features to make them more affordable.

However, those features don’t mess with the basic attributes of the helmet. Although it is those features that make a helmet unique. But I’ll get to that later.

As for this helmet, I’ll be explaining how it’s different from the previous one. You can spot the most significant difference right from the name of the product.

Yes, it’s the heated shields. The slight price bump you see is mostly because of that. There’s no doubt that this helmet was already impressive. But with the heated shields, it’s quite close to perfection.

Pros

  • Dual-pane heated shields for fog prevention
  • Comfortable and well-ventilated EPS liners
  • Smooth and aesthetic matte finish
  • Made out of polycarbonate with CAD technology 

Cons

  • A bit heavy

7. Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Dirt Helmet

Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Dirt Helmet

Design-wise, the Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Dirt Helmet is one of my favorite helmets from this bunch. Anyone is bound to be impressed by the perfect blend of matte and glossy black colors of this fantastic helmet.

The best part is the MIPS system. You see, whenever there’s an impact, the inner foam liners distribute the force. That’s when the elastomeric attachment expands, letting the foam liners rotate freely near your head and the low friction liner.

Despite rotating only a few millimeters, it manages to lessen a lot of rotational force. If you didn’t know, this force is responsible for most head and neck injuries.

Other than this neat feature, there are 3 layers of polycarbonate shell to protect your head. But what’s more?

Well, you get face shields with NutraFog II technology. With this by your side, you don’t ever have to worry about fog clouding your vision.

Overall, I’d say this is an excellent 3xl snowmobile helmet for anyone willing to spend money.

Pros

  • Lightshield polycarbonate shell ensures maximum protection
  • Removable dark smoke shield with NutraFog II technology
  • Comes with 3 shells and EPS liners
  • Meets DOT and CARB requirements 

Cons

  • The top vents always stay open

8. HJC Helmets Unisex-Adult Full Face Snow Helmet

HJC Helmets Unisex-Adult Full Face Snow Helmet

Now, let’s talk about the final full-face helmet on this list, the HJC Helmets – 131-614 CS-R3SN. One thing I like about this helmet is it kept everything basic.

I mean, from the design to the performance, there’s nothing fancy about it. But don’t get the wrong idea.

I like how it sticks to the basics. The ACS ventilation is nothing fancy, but it gets the job done. Then there’s the polycarbonate shell. However, I do appreciate that they didn’t choose a cheaper material for the body.

However, there’s one thing I both like and dislike. It’s the framed dual lens shield. I’ve always loved dual-pane shields for their fog preventing capabilities.

But I’ve never been a fan of framed lenses. But this is a personal preference. So it’s not a big deal.

Pros

  • Simple and pleasing design
  • Comes with RapidFire shield replacement system
  • The outer is made out of polycarbonate
  • Dual-lens face shield prevents fog

Cons

  • The lenses aren’t easily replaceable

9. Castle X Electric Modular Snowmobile Helmet

Castle X  Electric Modular Snowmobile Helmet

Next up, we have the Castle X EXO-CX950. With its premium features and modular design, it grabbed its position as the best premium snowmobile helmet.

The patented LG polycarbonate shell is capable of withstanding impact, as you’ve never seen before. Moreover, the modular design offers you to use the helmet for various purposes. 

Other than that, there are the KwikWick II EPS liners. These unique linings suck in all the moisture, making sure you don’t have trouble wearing it for a long time.

But they didn’t stop there. The double-pane lenses are heated and they’re equipped with anti-fog technology. And to top it off, the adjustable breath box will give you a snug fit so that no air can get through.

Pros

  • Aero-tuned EPS liners for maximum ventilation
  • Comfort liners come with anti-microbial attributes
  • Double-pane heated face shields for fog prevention
  • Advanced adjustable breath box

Cons

  • A bit expensive

10. Typhoon Helmets Adult Snocross Snowmobile Helmet

Typhoon Helmets Adult Snocross Snowmobile Helmet

Put yourself on the back! You’ve gone through this long journey and came to the final entry of this list, the Typhoon Helmets Adult Snocross Snowmobile Helmet.

This helmet and goggle combo is the perfect choice for people who are only starting snowmobiling. Even though there are no advanced features, for a newbie, it’s more than enough. 

While they didn’t include any in-built visors, the goggles that come in the package do the job without any hassle. In fact, these are dual-lens goggles with a layer of anti-fog technology.

Moreover, they’ve also put in a breath box. So, don’t worry about fog constricting your goggles.

Although I can’t guarantee how well this is going to hold up in those chilly days. I mean, sometimes heated shields, too, can suffer from those extreme situations. In comparison to that, this one probably won’t hold up that efficiently.

Pros

  • Comes with an adjustable breath box
  • Lightweight shell
  • Goggles have double-pane anti-coating
  • You get a free balaclava

Cons

  • The design needs some improvement

Types of Snowmobile Helmets

Snowmobile helmets come in 4 different types based on their face shapes and usability. You might’ve already seen most of these. But you need to know the differences to understand what’s better for you.

1.  Full-face Helmets

Full-face helmets are the most common type of helmets for snowmobiling. Apart from snowmobiling, they’re also a popular choice for sports such as mountain biking, BMX, etc. The design of these helmets is simple, with a seamless shell covering another protecting shell.

The best part about full-face helmets is that they give you complete protection. No matter which side the impact comes from, these helmets will have your back.

You see, the seamless design allows the helmet to withstand severe impacts. This is more applicable for jawlines as these helmets are perfect for protecting jawlines.

Other than that, all full-face helmets come with a built-in visor. However, you can switch the visors whenever you want. At the end of the day, you wouldn’t want to wear clear visors on a sunny day, right?

2.  Modular Helmets

As the name suggests, modular snowmobile helmets with breath box come with special features allowing you to remove ¾ part of the helmet. However, this modular design reduces the overall strength of the helmet.

You can’t expect a modular helmet to be as powerful as a full-face helmet. So, the question is, why do people still use it?

Well, there are 2 reasons. Despite having a modular design, these helmets provide 99.99% protection against most impacts. So, there’s no need to worry about that.

Let me explain the other point with a story. Suppose someone had an accident and he was wearing a snowmobile helmet with breath box. When the medical crew comes to rescue that person, they don’t have to remove the entire helmet.

By opening the lower part of the helmet, they can get access to the face and airways. With medical emergencies, the faster you can get help, the better it is.

Snocross Helmets

Snocross helmets are kind of like MX helmets. Designwise, I’d say they resemble full-face helmets. However, there’s a big difference.

Unlike full-face helmets, these don’t have a built-in visor. You’d have to get yourself some goggles for protection. With no visors, wind-breaking can become a complicated issue.

So, if you want to go for these, make sure to look out for a model that has deflectors. That way, you’ll keep the wind away from your nose.

Although they do have an advantage over other helmets. As they don’t come with visors, you’ll never have to see fog on your goggles.

Dual-Sport Helmet

Dual-sport helmets took the best parts of all helmets and came up with this unique design perfect for snowmobiling.

The outer shape is almost like a snowcross helmet with the protection properties of full-face helmets. Unlike snowcross helmets, these come with built-in visors.

However, you get the option to remove those whenever you want. You could go for goggles too if that’s your preference.

Best Snowmobile Helmets with breath boxes

How to Choose the Best Snowmobile Helmets?

Knowing only about the types of snowmobile helmets isn’t enough when you’re trying to choose a top-notch snowmobile helmet. That’s why I’ve come up with 5 different factors you should look out for.

Lenses

Even though a helmet’s primary concern should be about protecting the head, let me explain why lenses are a crucial factor. Suppose you’ve bought a fantastic helmet, although the lens keeps getting fog on it.

If that’s the case, there’s a high risk of falling into an accident. That’s why I’d suggest you go for anti-fog technology. Even though you’d have to spend a bit more money, the end result is worth it.

This type of setup goes hand to hand with snowcross helmets. With those, you’d only need a pair of anti-technology goggles, and that’s it.

However, snocross helmets are not at all suitable for colder days. Even if you wear a balaclava, the sweating makes it uncomfortable after a while. But they’re great for regular days.

Other than that, some full-face helmets or dual-sport helmets let you choose whatever kind of lens you want. So, depending on the weather condition, you could select whichever is better.

That said, you’ll find 3 kinds of options when choosing a lens for a snowmobile helmet-

Dual-Pane Lens Shield

These lenses are kind of like dual-pane windows. With 2 lenses acting as an external and internal lens, there’s a little gap in between. This gap insulates the heat, resulting in zero patches of fog.

You’ll mostly see these lenses on full-face and dual-sport helmets. However, you should remember that not all full-face or dual-sport helmets come with these lenses.

Heated Shields

As the name suggests, heated shields heat the lenses to prevent fog. These have a heating strip providing warmth to the lens. It works by connecting a wire to the snowmobile’s battery.

But it’s not as complicated as you might think. You could think of it as connecting a plug.

Thanks to their effectiveness, they’re becoming more and more popular every day. However, these can leave a big hole in your pocket.

Framed and Frameless

Nowadays, you don’t see that many framed lenses. Even though older models used these lenses, most modern models prefer to go with frameless lenses.

Apart from the outdated design, framed lenses are known to block viewing angles. In comparison to that, frameless lenses are a lifesaver.

Other than that, you get to change the lens whenever you want. So, that’s a plus point. 

Breath Guard

Breath guards work as a barrier to channel air from your mouth. With a breath guard, the air is forced to stay in the lower part of the helmet. That way, the fog doesn’t get near your eyes, resulting in fogless visors.

However, the air doesn’t stay inside the helmet. Almost all helmets come with several vents. When there’s air, it passes through the vents in no time. Before there’s a chance of condensation, the vents take care of the situation.

This is why you should always lookout for a model that has breath guards. Without one, you’d have to lift the visor to let the air out.

It’s hazardous to open the visors when you’re riding a snowmobile. I mean, you’ll be keeping one hand on the handle, another on the helmet. You never know when something bad can happen.

Apart from all that, you’ll notice that most breath guards use a velcro strap to fit correctly. However, some models use metal strips(like surgical masks)to make a custom fit.

Pair up a breath guard and dual-pane or heated shield lens, and you’ll be good to go for a long time. Nonetheless, its undeniable breath guards keep out all cold winds from a rider’s face.

Ventilation Ports

When it’s about ventilation ports, the more, the merrier. You see, your head can generate thermal energy that transforms into heat. With a helmet on, that heat has nowhere to go. So, the helmet sucks in all the heat.

Without a ventless helmet, this heat can make wearing the helmet quite an uncomfortable situation. As it doesn’t take long for the heat to expand, the fog starts showing up. And we all know how dangerous fogs are for a snowmobile rider.

That’s why vents are there. With proper ventilation all around the helmet, you’ll have a constant flow of fresh air, balancing the helmet’s temperature.

Apart from all these, you’ll find vents in mostly 3 parts of the helmet; the front, top, and sides. Depending on your weather condition, the vents can open up 2 or 3 positions.

Weight

When choosing a snowmobile helmet, it’s always better to go for the lightest model. With a more lightweight helmet, you’d have less chance of severe injuries. You should consider this as a serious matter. Many people suffered from severe injuries only because they had a heavy helmets.

However, you could step up the safety with a neck brace. No, it’s not a medical neck brace. This one connects to the bottom of your helmet, ensuring it doesn’t move while you’re snowmobiling.

Safety Rating

While snowmobiling is a fun sport, it’s no doubt that many people suffered injuries from this. That’s why you must lookout for the best safety features in your helmet.

Although models with better safety will cost you a bit more money. But ask yourself this; is your life more important than money?

That said, here are 3 safety ratings you’ll find in snowmobile helmets-

DOT

DOT means Department of Transportation. This certification is the minimum safety rating for any kind of helmet. If your preferred helmet doesn’t have a DOT certificate, I’d advise you to look for another one.

Snell

Snell is an independent safety rating measured by the Snell Memorial Foundation. Unlike DOT, helmets don’t need to have a Snell rating. In fact, the current SNELL M2020 rating is only for street purposes.

ECE

ECE or Economic Commission for Europe is the safety standard for Europe. More than 50 countries in Europe use this standard for safety rating. To get the ECE rating, a helmet has to meet ECE 22.05 standard. 

How to Fit a Snowmobile Helmet Properly?

Riding a snowmobile in winter is quite a thrill. The chilled wind with the adrenaline rush of snowmobiles makes these experiences lifetime memories. However, accidents can happen at any time in such sports.

In snowmobiling, most of the injuries happen in the head and neck area. But you can minimize the damage by wearing a properly fitted helmet, and here’s how to do that-

Step 1: Measure Your Head

Before you make the final decision, it’s better to know beforehand about your head size. Simply put a measuring around your head and note down the measurements.

However, you should make sure the tape stays a little above your eyebrows.

How To Size a Snowmobile Helmet Correctly if You Can’t Try It On

Step 2: Try on the Helmet

You’ve got your new helmet and can’t wait to go outdoors. But my suggestion would be to do some tests before that.

The best way to do that is to chew gum while trying out a new helmet. With those movements, you’ll immediately know if the fit’s right for you or not.

Other than that, helmets shouldn’t tilt when you move around your head. It should have a snug fit all around. Although make sure it’s not too tight.

Step 3: Check out the Fitting Features

If the helmet’s primary fit is okay, you can start testing these fitting features. However, remember not to clasp the straps when you do these tests-

  • Check if there’s a gap between the inner linings and your brows. On a snug fit, there shouldn’t be one.
  • There shouldn’t be a gap along the line between your brows and temples.
  • The cheek pads should feel comfortable.
  • The top pad should sit in a secured manner.
  • Your viewing angles should be regardless of which direction you’re looking at.

FAQs on Best Snowmobile Helmets

Question: Are modular helmets the safest choice?

Answer: Modular helmets let you access the lower half without fully opening the helmet. While this is handy during rescue missions but it’s not suitable for safety. The hinge that makes the helmet modular is also the reason behind the lack of protection. With a severe impact, these might not hold up that well.

Question: Do DIY breath guards work?

Answer: The thing is, breath guards, come with precise measurements. So, making it a DIY project is a waste of both time and money. The money and effort you’d be giving to make a breath guard would be the same as getting a new one.

Question: Should I wear anything under my helmet?

Answer: Even if you wear something under the helmet, it won’t be that effective. Top-graded snowmobile helmets already come with all the necessary insulation you need. If you need to wear something for the cold, get yourself a balaclava.

Final Verdict

When you’re buying a snowmobile helmet with breath boxes, never compromise with the safety features. Snowmobile helmets are designed to safely protect your head and face from injury in case of a fall or accident on the slopes. You should always go for the best possible product at an affordable price when it comes to protecting your most valuable asset-yourself. This is why we recommend these snowmobile helmets that have all of the essential safety features including breath box and neck protection.

I’m telling you to buy the most expensive one but try to bring a balance. At the end of the day, it’s your life, your safety.

Nonetheless, I’ve tried to provide you with a round-up solution for snowmobile helmets. I hope this guide helped you to find the best snowmobile helmet with a breath box. 

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Owner | Website

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.

By Jason

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.