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10 Best Motorcycle Half Helmets 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yesmotor Motorcycle Helmet Half Shell Hawk Style Helmets Compact Lightweight Open Face for Motorcycle Street Bike Cruiser Moped - DOT Approved (Matte Black,L)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,297
Safety Certifications
Fit and Comfort
Retention System

Most important from
729 reviews

Safety Certifications
The DOT certification provides solid reassurance of basic safety standards, balancing protection with a minimalist style.
Fit and Comfort
The helmet’s lightweight design makes it comfortable enough to wear for hours without feeling heavy or cumbersome.
Retention System
The quick-release strap system offers convenience and a secure fit, enhancing overall usability during rides.

The Yesmotor Hawk half helmet is a solid choice for riders looking for a lightweight and compact open-face helmet that meets basic safety needs. It is DOT approved, which means it meets essential safety standards for street use, offering a level of protection suitable for casual and cruiser riders. Weighing just around 600 grams, it feels light on the head, which can increase comfort during longer rides. The outer shell is made from ABS plastic, a standard material known for decent impact resistance. Inside, a mesh lining helps with breathability, which is important since half helmets don’t cover the whole head. However, it does not come with a visor or sun protection, so you might want to use goggles or sunglasses on bright days. The retention system is designed to keep the helmet snug and secure, though it’s a basic strap without advanced quick-release features.

Style-wise, the matte black finish and simple Hawk design appeal to riders who prefer a classic, understated look rather than flashy graphics. The helmet has received positive feedback with a strong 4.6-star rating from many users, praising comfort and fit, especially for adult riders. Although it’s not packed with extras like sun visors or advanced padding, its affordability, weight, and safety certification make it a practical option for motorcyclists who want a no-nonsense, dependable half helmet for street and cruiser biking.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,297
Safety Certifications
Fit and Comfort
Retention System

Most important from
729 reviews

Safety Certifications
The DOT certification provides solid reassurance of basic safety standards, balancing protection with a minimalist style.
Fit and Comfort
The helmet’s lightweight design makes it comfortable enough to wear for hours without feeling heavy or cumbersome.
Retention System
The quick-release strap system offers convenience and a secure fit, enhancing overall usability during rides.
#2

Yesmotor Vintage Motorcycle Half Helmet - Lightweight Low Profile Open-Face Half-Face Helmet – DOT Approved (Light Black,L)

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Retention System

Most important from
451 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Fits really good.
Retention System
Had to adjust strap pretty far and cut/burn the end.

The Yesmotor Vintage Motorcycle Half Helmet is a DOT-approved option that offers a good balance between safety and style. Its ABS shell and EPS lining provide solid protection while keeping the helmet lightweight, making it comfortable to wear on long rides. The quick-release buckle is a convenient feature, allowing for easy on and off.

Additionally, the helmet includes a washable and moisture-wicking liner, which helps keep riders cool and dry, contributing to comfort. The helmet also comes with goggles and glasses, which is a nice bonus for riders who want additional eye protection.

Its low-profile skull design adds a stylish touch, making it appealing for those who value aesthetics in their gear. However, it’s important to note that this helmet might not provide as much coverage as full-face helmets, which could be a concern for riders prioritizing maximum protection. This helmet is a solid choice for riders looking for a stylish, lightweight, and comfortable half helmet that meets DOT safety standards.

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Retention System

Most important from
451 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Fits really good.
Retention System
Had to adjust strap pretty far and cut/burn the end.
#3

ILM Half Helmet Motorcycle Open Face Sun Visor Quick Release Buckle DOT Approved Cycling Motocross Suits Men Women Model-205V (S, Matt Black)

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Visor and Sun Protection

Most important from
4676 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The helmet fits larger head sizes well, with adjustable straps providing a secure and comfortable fit even for those who struggle to find suitable helmets.
Visor and Sun Protection
The integrated drop-down sun visor offers effective sun protection without being too dark, making it practical for both day and night use.

The ILM Half Helmet Model-205V is a solid choice for riders looking for a DOT-approved open-face helmet that covers basic safety needs. Its ABS hard shell meets DOT and FMVSS 218 safety standards, which means it offers a reliable level of protection for motorcycle and other outdoor activities. The quick-release chin strap makes putting on and taking off the helmet easy, adding to user convenience. Comfort-wise, it features premium venting to reduce heat buildup on the head, which is a plus for warmer rides.

The integrated drop-down sun visor is a helpful feature that can be removed or replaced, providing useful sun protection without the need for sunglasses. At 2.7 pounds, it’s on the heavier side compared to some more modern helmets, which might affect long-ride comfort slightly. The matte black finish delivers a simple, stylish look suitable for both men and women, but the round shape and basic design might not appeal to everyone.

The helmet covers multiple vehicle types like scooters, cruisers, and dirt bikes, although it lacks some advanced comfort features like extra padding or moisture-wicking liners found in higher-end models. It serves as a dependable, budget-friendly helmet for casual riders who want a good balance of safety, sun protection, and ease of use without extra frills.

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Visor and Sun Protection

Most important from
4676 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The helmet fits larger head sizes well, with adjustable straps providing a secure and comfortable fit even for those who struggle to find suitable helmets.
Visor and Sun Protection
The integrated drop-down sun visor offers effective sun protection without being too dark, making it practical for both day and night use.

Buying Guide for the Best Motorcycle Half Helmets

Choosing the right motorcycle half-helmet is crucial for your safety and comfort while riding. A half-helmet covers the top of your head and provides some protection while allowing for more ventilation and a wider field of vision compared to full-face helmets. When selecting a half-helmet, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Safety CertificationsSafety certifications indicate that the helmet meets certain safety standards. Look for certifications like DOT (Department of Transportation), ECE (Economic Commission for Europe), or Snell. These certifications ensure that the helmet has passed rigorous testing for impact resistance and other safety features. A helmet with these certifications is more likely to protect you in the event of an accident. Always choose a helmet with at least one of these certifications to ensure your safety.
Fit and ComfortThe fit and comfort of a helmet are essential for long rides. A helmet should fit snugly without being too tight. It should not move around on your head when you shake it. Comfort features like padding, ventilation, and weight also play a significant role. Helmets come in different sizes, so measure your head circumference and try on different sizes to find the best fit. If you plan on riding for extended periods, prioritize helmets with good ventilation and comfortable padding.
MaterialThe material of the helmet affects its weight, durability, and protection level. Common materials include polycarbonate, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. Polycarbonate helmets are generally more affordable and provide good protection, but they can be heavier. Fiberglass helmets offer a good balance of weight and protection. Carbon fiber helmets are the lightest and strongest but are usually more expensive. Choose a material based on your preference for weight and durability.
Visor and Sun ProtectionSome half-helmets come with built-in visors or sun shields to protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and debris. A clear or tinted visor can enhance your riding experience by reducing glare and improving visibility. If you often ride in bright sunlight, consider a helmet with a built-in sun visor or the option to attach one. This feature can make your rides more comfortable and safer.
Retention SystemThe retention system, or the strap mechanism, keeps the helmet securely on your head. Common types include D-ring and quick-release systems. D-ring systems are considered very secure and are often used in racing helmets. Quick-release systems are more convenient for everyday use as they allow for easy on and off. Choose a retention system that you find easy to use and that provides a secure fit.
Style and DesignWhile safety and comfort are paramount, the style and design of the helmet can also be important to many riders. Half-helmets come in various designs, colors, and graphics. Choose a style that reflects your personality and preferences. However, never compromise on safety features for the sake of style. Ensure that the helmet you choose meets all safety standards and fits well before considering its appearance.

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