Best Full Face Motorcycle Helmet: Our Top 9

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When it comes to choosing the best full-face motorcycle helmet, there are many factors to consider. While it may be tempting to recommend the helmets that we think are the best, it’s important to consider what is actually selling well and, more importantly, which of those helmets have received the best reviews from real customers.

After all, who better to ask about the performance and quality of a helmet than those who have actually owned and used one?

To determine the best full-face motorcycle helmets, we extensively researched the most popular models currently available on the market.

We analyzed sales figures and customer reviews to understand what riders are looking for in a helmet and what they like and dislike about different models.

By taking this approach, we were able to compile a list of the full-face helmets that not only sell well but also have a proven track record of meeting the needs and expectations of riders.

This is what we found.

Best Premium Full Face Helmet Under $1000

#1. Arai Regent-X

An Overview of the Regent-X’s Key Features

Before jumping into my full evaluation, let’s run through some of the Regent-X’s vital stats and main selling points:

• Intermediate Oval Head Shape: Suitable for most riders in the US with oval or intermediate oval head shapes.
• Composite Shell Construction: Made from super fiber laminate composite, not cheaper polycarbonate.
• Weight: Tips the scales at 3 pounds 7 ounces, average for high-end lids.
• Safety Ratings: DOT and Snell M2020 certified for street and track use.
• Premium Shield System: Features Arai’s excellent Vas-V brow vents and strong side pod release mechanism.
• Ventilation: chin, brow, top, and rear exhaust vents channel airflow through the helmet.
• Interior: Comfortable if basic antimicrobial liner, with pockets for speaker installation.
• Professional Fit: Uses 5 shell sizes and 5 EPS liners for a tailored fit.
• Price: At around $580, it’s cheaper than higher-end Arai offerings.

With proven Arai quality and protection at an attractive price point, the Regent-X packs impressive credentials for a mid-range lid. But does its performance justify the cost? Let’s analyze the facts in more detail.

Putting the Regent-X’s Materials and Construction Under the Microscope

Arai is renowned for its meticulous hand-built production process and exceptional materials. As the company’s “entry-level” model, does the Regent-X live up to these lofty standards? Here’s what my hands-on inspection revealed:

• The composite shell uses Arai’s Super Fiber Laminate Construction rather than cheaper polycarbonate. This complex blend of carbon, fiberglass, and aramid fibers provides lightness and strength.
• Five different EPS foam liners are engineered to flex and absorb energy through multi-stages, offering progressive impact absorption.
• The Regent-X may not offer emergency cheek pad removal, but the 5-piece headliner and cheek pads provide a precise custom fit.
• Interior comfort is decent, though the liner materials are basic compared to premium Arias. The anti-bacterial fabric helps control odors and sweat buildup.
• On the outside, the sleek yet angular styling projects sporty aggressiveness with integrated vents and spoilers. Overall, the shell exudes sturdy Japanese craftsmanship.

In terms of materials and construction, Arai clearly didn’t cut corners with the Regent-X. The helmet lives up to the brand’s reputation for design excellence and stringent quality control.

Ventilation – Does the Regent-X Flow Enough Air?

During long rides, proper airflow is crucial for comfort, concentration, and stamina. Does the Regent-X move enough air to prevent an oppressive sauna environment? Here’s how the venting system performs:

• The chin vent offers a 3-position adjustment to dial in airflow onto the shield and chin.
• Arai’s signature Vas-V brow vents channel air right onto the temples through internal ducts for cooling without turbulence.
• Top vents use smallish 2-position switches to adjust intake through 10 mm channels, while the rear exhaust vents are fixed open.
• The chin curtain and neck roll provide further options for controlling airflow inside the helmet.

Overall, the Regent-X falls short of Arai’s range-topping lids for customization and maximum airflow. But the system circulates adequate wind for comfortable riding in warm weather, especially around town. I did find myself wanting more ventilation during high-speed highway stints, though.

Safety Credentials – Is the Regent-X Ready to Save Your Brain?

Let’s move on to the critical question for any helmet review – how much protection does it offer in a crash? Here’s an analysis of the Regent-X’s safety credentials:

• Achieves a Snell M2020 certification for rigorous high and low-speed impact resistance during motorsports use.
• Also passes DOT FMVSS 218 standards for motorcycle safety in North America.
• The smooth, one-piece EPS liner avoids weaknesses from segmented construction.
• Five shell sizes and interior pads provide a tailored fitment around the head for optimal energy displacement.
• The flush side shell design leaves minimal protrusions to compromise the EPS and liner.
• At around 3.7 pounds, it finds a good balance between stability and comfort during an accident.

The Regent-X ticks all the essential boxes for a safe street helmet. The Snell testing data provided ample proof of its protective abilities across a variety of impact scenarios. I’m confident it will perform reliably in an unavoidable get-off.

Face Shield Protection From Wind and Debris

A sturdy and optically-sound face shield is equally crucial for protection and comfort. Here is how the Regent-X’s Vas-V shield holds up:

• The shield features strong, flexible injection-molded construction to resist cracking and abrasions.
• It seals tightly against the long base plate gasket to block wind and noise infiltration. No flutter at speed.
• The side pod release system is low profile yet highly secure once locked. The tether prevents dropped pods.
• While the mechanism takes practice, its design minimizes EPS intrusions near the rider’s head.
• The shield offers excellent optical clarity free from waviness and distortion.
• Pinlock posts allow anti-fog inserts to be installed to eliminate fogging issues.

The Vas-V system provides exemplary face protection and optics, if not the quickest shield changes. I experienced zero issues with fogging, wind noise, or dust entry on my testing.

How Does the Regent-X Fit, Feel, and Function In the Real World?

Spec sheets and lab testing only reveal part of the story. To fully rate the Regent-X, I needed to spend extensive time on the road with it in real-world conditions. Here are my impressions after logging over 1,000 miles of saddle time:

• The intermediate oval shape accommodated my head shape very comfortably without any tight spots.
• Wind noise levels remain low thanks to the airtight seal around the base of the helmet. No buffeting either.
• The lightweight shell balances low