The Lightest Full Face Helmets: Shedding Pounds, Not Protection
Evan Rally
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Nobody wants to lug around a bowling ball on their head on every ride. head every time you ride. You crave that feeling of freedom, that connection to the road, without the neck strain and fatigue that can come with a heavy helmet. You want light, but you’re not willing to gamble with your safety. Good.
Because anyone who tells you helmet weight doesn’t matter probably hasn’t spent a day in the saddle with a lid that feels like it’s made of lead.
Here’s the truth they won’t tell you:
- Lightweight doesn’t have to mean flimsy. Advancements in materials science mean you can have a featherlight helmet that still meets or exceeds the toughest safety standards.
- Every gram counts. You might think a few ounces here or there isn’t a big deal, but over hours of riding, that difference becomes monumental. Your neck will thank you.
- Weight is not everything. How that weight is distributed, and how the shell of the helmet cuts through the air also matters massively for your perception of weight and neck strain… This is why my Nexx XWed3 feels lighter than my Shoei RF-SR, despite weighing much more.
- The “best” lightweight full face helmet is personal. What works for a track day speed demon might not be ideal for a weekend tourer. It’s about finding the right light helmet for your ride.
Ready to ditch the neck workout and find a full-face helmet that feels like it disappears when you put it on? Let’s dive into the world of the lightest motorcycle helmets and find your perfect match.
Top Lightweight Full Face Helmets
After extensive research, poring over expert reviews, and considering rider feedback, here are our top picks for the lightest full-face helmets currently on the market. These helmets balance minimal weight with maximum protection and features that matter to serious riders.
Best Value: AGV K6 S
- Best For: Sport Riding and Track Days
- Weight: 3 lbs flat / 1360g
The AGV K6 S consistently tops “lightest helmet” lists, and for good reason. This helmet is engineered for minimal weight without sacrificing safety or performance. AGV has a long history in MotoGP, and that racing pedigree shines through in the K6 S.
A lightweight and aerodynamic helmet designed for ultimate comfort and protection, inspired by MotoGP technology.
- Featherlight carbon-aramid shell for reduced fatigue
- Expansive field of view with anti-fog Pinlock lens
- The lightest full face around
- Premium price tag
Key Features and Rider Benefits:
- Carbon-Aramid Fiber Shell: This advanced composite shell is incredibly light yet incredibly strong. It’s the foundation of the K6-S’s feathery weight. This lid is made in four different shell sizes so you’re never carrying around more helmet than you should.
- Five EPS Liner Densities: AGV uses a 5-density EPS liner to optimize impact absorption across different areas of the head. This advanced liner technology contributes to both safety and weight reduction.
- Aerodynamic Design: Developed in the wind tunnel and on the MotoGP track, the K6-S is incredibly aerodynamic. This not only reduces drag but also minimizes helmet lift and buffeting, especially at higher speeds. You’ll feel less strain on your neck even when you’re pushing the pace.
- Wide Field of Vision: The K6-S has a sweeping 190-degree horizontal and 85-degree vertical field of vision. This expansive view enhances situational awareness and safety, especially in demanding riding conditions.
- Excellent Ventilation: Five large front vents and adjustable rear extractors provide ample airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable even during intense riding.
The AGV K6-S is ideal for sport riders and track day enthusiasts who demand the absolute lightest helmet possible. Its aerodynamic design and excellent ventilation make it perfect for aggressive riding. While it lacks an integrated sun visor, its focus on pure performance and minimal weight is unmatched.
Best Sport Tourer: Scorpion EXO-ST1400 Evo
- Best for: Sport-Touring, Commuting, Weekend Warriors
- Weight: 3 lbs 7 ounces / 1560g
The Scorpion EXO-ST1400 Evo is a fantastic all-around helmet that prioritizes lightweight comfort without sacrificing essential features. While not carbon fiber, Scorpion has engineered this helmet to be surprisingly light for a feature-rich fiberglass composite helmet, making it an excellent choice for riders who want a versatile and comfortable lightweight option for various riding scenarios.
A sleek and lightweight carbon fiber helmet with a sport profile but touring features like a built-in sun visor.
- Ultra-light 3K carbon fiber shell for reduced neck strain
- Drop-down sun visor for quick glare protection
- AirFit inflation system for a custom, snug fit
- Finicky visor release
Key Features and Rider Benefits:
- Fiberglass Composite Shell: Scorpion’s Advanced LG Polycarbonate shell is engineered to be lightweight and strong, offering excellent impact protection while keeping the weight down.
- Integrated Sun Visor (EverClear): The EverClear integrated sun visor offers convenient drop-down sun protection, crucial for commuters tackling dawn/dusk rides. It’s anti-fog coated for clear vision, and you get a Pinlock visor in the box (double pane window for your visor).
- Ellip-Tec II Ratchet System: This system ensures a tight seal of the helmet against the visor, crucial for reducing wind noise and keeping the elements out. It also allows for quick and easy visor changes without tools.
- Airfit® Inflation System: Scorpion’s Airfit® system allows for customized cheek pad inflation, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for different head shapes and preferences. This is a huge feature I wish other helmet brands adopted. It means you can have a snug helmet when you’re hitting the twisties hard, and then a slightly looser, more comfortable fit when you’re just logging miles on empty country roads.
- Ventilation: Adjustable, indexed front and rear vents with aero-tuned rear spoiler maximize airflow through the helmet to keep you cool and comfortable.
The Scorpion EXO-ST1400 Evo is ideal for a wide range of riding styles, including sport-touring, commuting, and weekend pleasure rides. Its balance of lightweight design, comfort features, and practical amenities like the integrated sun visor make it a versatile choice for riders who want one helmet to do it all.
While the EXO-ST1400 Evo is impressively light for a fiberglass composite helmet packed with features, it’s not as incredibly lightweight as the carbon fiber AGV K6-S or carbon versions of other helmets. If absolute minimal weight is the absolute top priority and you are willing to spend more and potentially forgo some features, a full carbon fiber helmet like the AGV K6-S or the Nexx XR3R (that we tested) might be preferable. However, for riders seeking a fantastic balance of weight, features, and value in a helmet that’s great for several different riding styles, the Scorpion EXO-ST1400 is a solid choice.
Best ADV: Klim Krios Pro
- Best for: Adventure Touring
- Weight: 3 lbs 6 ounces / 1500g
While our primary focus has been on road-oriented full-face helmets, the Klim Krios Pro deserves a mention as a standout in the adventure touring category for its remarkably light weight. If your riding takes you beyond the paved roads and onto dirt trails, the Krios Pro offers a premium, lightweight solution that won’t weigh you down during long days in the saddle.
Its weight also makes it one of the lightest helmets, period.
Lightweight adventure helmet with versatility for street, light adventure, and hard enduro riding.
- Carbon fiber shell for ultra-lightweight durability
- Quick release (no tools) shield and visor. Supports goggles.
- Big forehead vent
- Transitions photochromic face shield included
- DOT and ECE 22.06 certified
Key Features and Rider Benefits:
- Full Carbon Fiber Shell: The Krios Pro utilizes a hand-laid full carbon fiber shell. This premium material choice is the key to its impressive lightness for an adventure helmet.
- Koroyd Energy Absorbing Materials: Integrating Koroyd® technology provides advanced impact protection while contributing to the helmet’s overall lightweight design.
- Transitions Photochromic Lens Included: This automatically adjusting lens adapts to changing light conditions, offering excellent versatility for varying environments without needing to swap visors.
- Four Ride Modes: The Krios Pro is designed for versatility with four ride modes: Street, Adventure, Dirt, and Trail. This allows riders to optimize the helmet’s configuration for different types of riding. It’s also goggle-compatible with the face shield removed.
- Excellent Ventilation: Featuring fully adjustable chin and forehead vents, the Krios Pro provides ample airflow to keep you comfortable during demanding off-road riding or warmer conditions.
- Fid-Lock Strap Closure System: This magnetic closure system allows for easy and secure fastening, even with gloves on.
- Pinlock-Ready Anti-Scratch Polycarbonate Shield: Ensuring clear vision in various weather conditions, the shield is ready for a Pinlock insert (included).
The Klim Krios Pro is ideally suited for adventure touring riders who demand a lightweight helmet that performs well both on and off-road. Its versatility, excellent ventilation, and included photochromic lens make it a great companion for multi-day trips across diverse terrains and in varying weather conditions.
Best Modular: Schuberth C5 Carbon
- Best for: Touring Riders, Commuters, Riders looking for a break at the gas station
- Weight: 3 lbs 11 ounces / 1670g
If you’re a touring rider or commuter who values the convenience of a modular helmet but refuses to compromise on weight, the Schuberth C5 Carbon is in a class of its own. This helmet combines Schuberth’s renowned build quality, premium features, and surprisingly light carbon fiber construction for a truly top-tier modular experience.
A premium modular helmet with handcrafted carbon fiber construction, cutting-edge ventilation, and integrated communication system compatibility.
- Ultra-lightweight, hand-built carbon shell for maximum strength
- Integrated HD speakers and antennas supporting Sena SC2 system
- Modular chinbar
- One of the quietest modulars
Key Features and Rider Benefits:
- Carbon Fiber Shell: Schuberth utilizes a hand-laid carbon fiber shell, meticulously crafted for maximum strength and minimal weight. This premium construction is a key factor in the C5 Carbon’s lightweight modular design.
- Flip-Up Modular Design: The C5 Carbon offers the versatility of a modular helmet, allowing you to easily flip up the chin bar for conversations at stops or when riding at lower speeds (where legal).
- Integrated Sun Visor: A seamlessly integrated sun visor provides convenient eye protection in bright conditions.
- Advanced Acoustics: Schuberth helmets are known for their quietness, and the C5 Carbon is no exception. It’s designed to minimize wind noise, contributing to a more comfortable and less fatiguing ride, especially on long tours.
- Seamless Communication Integration: The C5 Carbon is pre-wired for Schuberth’s SC2 communication system, which is based on the Sena 50S. This integrated system offers seamless communication and eliminates bulky external units. The antenna for the unit is also weaved throughout the helmet’s shell for better range and connectivity.
- Customizable Fit: Schuberth’s Individual concept allows you to customize the liner and cheek pads for a truly personalized fit.
The Schuberth C5 Carbon is ideal for touring riders and commuters who demand the best in comfort, convenience, and lightweight performance. Its modular design, quietness, and premium features make it a top choice for long-distance riding and daily use.
If you’re looking for a lightweight adventure touring helmet, check out the Klim Krios Pro helmet, which weighs in at 3.4 lbs. We’re working on a review of this one.
However, the C5 is undeniably expensive. If your budget is a primary concern, the Scorpion option above or the LS2 Citation below are more budget-friendly lightweight carbon fiber options, though they lack the modular chinbar. However, for riders who prioritize modularity and are willing to invest in top-of-the-line quality, the C5 Carbon is worth the premium.
Lightest on a Budget: LS2 Citation II Carbon Helmet
- Best for: Commuting, Sport-Touring, Riders looking for light weight at a low price
- Weight: 2 lbs 14 ounces / 1300g
The LS2 Citation II Carbon Helmet costs about 30% less than the AGV K6 S while shaving about 2 ounces off its weight, bringing carbon fiber’s weight-saving benefits to a more accessible price point. It’s a fantastic option for riders who want to reduce neck strain without emptying their wallets.
A lightweight, high-performance full-face helmet designed for superior comfort, safety, and visibility.
- Ultra-lightweight carbon fiber shell for enhanced aerodynamics
- Pinlock Max Vision visor for fog-free clarity in any condition
- Built-in sun shield for quick adaptability to changing light
- Long oval shape may not suit all riders
Key Features and Rider Benefits:
- 3K Carbon Fiber Shell: The Citation II Carbon boasts a lightweight 3K carbon fiber shell. This construction is the core reason for its impressive weight, offering significant reduction compared to heavier materials like polycarbonate or fiberglass at this price range.
- Integrated Sun Visor: Just like helmets in higher price brackets, the Citation II Carbon includes a user-friendly integrated sun visor. This is a crucial feature for daily riders and commuters who face changing light conditions throughout their rides.
- Pinlock Ready: The face shield is Pinlock-ready (Pinlock lens insert sold separately), a welcome feature for fog-free vision in various weather conditions.
- Comfort Liner: LS2 prioritizes comfort, and the Citation II Carbon features a hypoallergenic, breathable comfort liner that is also removable and washable, extending the helmet’s lifespan and freshness.
- Multi-Density EPS: For impact absorption, the helmet uses a multi-density EPS liner, a safety feature often found in more expensive helmets.
- Good Ventilation System: It features channeled vents, a top vent, and an exhaust port to provide adequate airflow, keeping riders comfortable during warmer rides and longer trips.
The LS2 Citation II Carbon Helmet is an excellent choice for budget-conscious riders who still want to experience the advantages of a lightweight carbon fiber helmet. It’s well-suited for daily commuting, sport-touring, and general street riding where comfort and reduced weight are highly valued. The integrated sun visor and Pinlock-ready face shield add to its practicality for everyday use.
To keep the Citation II Carbon at a budget-friendly price, some premium features found on higher-end helmets are missing. You’re not getting the build quality and noise isolation of the AGV K6-S or Schuberth C5 Carbon, but you’re still getting an ECE-rated lid that’s light as a feather.
Buying Guide: Choosing Your Lightest Full Face Helmet
Finding the “lightest” helmet is only half the battle. The best lightweight helmet is the one that fits your needs, riding style, and head shape perfectly. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the right choice:
- Prioritize Safety Certifications: Weight should never come at the expense of safety. Ensure any helmet you consider meets DOT and ideally ECE 22.06 certifications to be road legal in your region. Snell is a requirement for helmets on many tracks in the USA, and FIM is the gold standard of safety certifications.
- Consider Your Riding Style:
- Sport/Track: Aerodynamics and minimal weight are paramount. The AGV K6-S is a prime example.
- Sport-Touring/Commuting: Balance weight with features like sun visors and good ventilation. The Scorpion EXO-1400 Evo Carbon 2 and LS2 Citation II Carbon are excellent contenders.
- Touring/Adventure: Comfort, quietness, and modularity (if desired) are important, alongside lightweight construction. The Schuberth C5 Carbon and Klim Krios Pro are worth considering.
- Head Shape and Fit: Helmet fit is crucial for both comfort and safety. Try on helmets in person whenever possible to ensure a proper fit. Different brands and models tend to fit different head shapes (e.g., Arai is often considered good for rounder heads, Shoei for more intermediate oval, AGV for long oval). A proper fit should be snug but not too tight, with no pressure points.
- Features vs. Weight: Decide which features are essential for your riding. Integrated sun visors, communication systems, and advanced ventilation all add weight. Be honest with yourself about which features you truly need and which you can live without to minimize weight.
- Budget: Carbon fiber helmets are generally more expensive. Set a budget and explore options within that range. The LS2 Citation II Carbon demonstrates that lightweight carbon fiber is becoming more accessible at different price points.
- Read Reviews: Check out expert reviews and rider feedback to get perspectives on helmet performance, comfort, and durability.
Comparison Table
| Helmet Model | AGV K6-S | Scorpion EXO-ST1400 Evo | Klim Krios Pro | Schuberth C5 Carbon | LS2 Citation II Carbon Helmet |
| Shell Material | Carbon-Aramid Fiber | Fiberglass Composite | Full Carbon Fiber | Carbon Fiber | Carbon Fiber |
| Approx. Weight | 3 lbs / 1360g | 3 lbs 7 ounces / 1560g | 3 lbs 6 ounces / 1500g | 3 lbs 11 ounces / 1670g | 2 lbs 14 ounces / 1300g |
| Special Features | Wide Vision, Race Focus | Sun Visor, Airfit custom fitting | Koroyd Impact Protection | Modular, Sun Visor | Budget Carbon Fiber |
| Riding Style Suitability | Sport, Track Day | Sport-Touring, Commuting | Adventure Touring | Touring, Commuting | Budget-Conscious Street |
| Price Range | Premium | Mid-Range | Premium | Premium | Budget |
| Buy Now | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Note: Weights are approximate and can vary slightly depending on size and manufacturing tolerances. Always check manufacturer specifications for precise weights.
Why Go Light? The Benefits Beyond Just Comfort
It’s obvious that a lighter helmet is more comfortable, especially on long rides. But the advantages extend beyond just avoiding a sore neck. A lighter helmet can actually improve your riding experience in several ways:
- Reduced Fatigue: Less weight on your head means less strain on your neck and shoulders, leading to less fatigue on longer journeys. This translates to better concentration and safer riding, especially at the end of a long day.
- Improved Agility: A lighter helmet feels less cumbersome, allowing for quicker head checks and more natural movements. This is particularly beneficial in city riding or on twisty roads where you need to be nimble.
- Enhanced Aerodynamics: While weight and aerodynamics are different, lighter helmets are often designed with better aerodynamics in mind. Less weight can contribute to a helmet feeling more stable at higher speeds, reducing buffeting and wind noise.
- Greater Enjoyment: Ultimately, a comfortable and lightweight helmet makes riding more enjoyable. You can focus on the road and the scenery, rather than being distracted by discomfort.
What Makes a Helmet Light?
Before we jump into specific helmet recommendations, let’s understand what influences helmet weight. It’s not just magic; it’s a combination of factors:
- Shell Material: This is the biggest weight determinant.
- Polycarbonate: The most budget-friendly option, but also the heaviest. Offers decent protection but requires a thicker shell to meet safety standards.
- Fiberglass Composite: A step up in terms of weight and strength. Fiberglass shells are lighter than polycarbonate and offer good impact absorption.
- Carbon Fiber: The king of lightweight materials. Carbon fiber is incredibly strong and stiff for its weight, allowing for very light yet highly protective shells. Expect to pay a premium for carbon fiber helmets.
- EPS Liner Density: The Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) liner inside the shell is crucial for impact absorption. Denser EPS generally offers better protection but adds weight. Advanced helmets use multi-density EPS liners to optimize both protection and weight.
- Features and Accessories: Integrated sun visors, communication systems, and complex ventilation mechanisms all add weight. Stripping down features can significantly reduce weight, but you might sacrifice convenience.
- Helmet Style: While we’re focusing on full-face helmets, it’s worth noting that open-face or half helmets are inherently lighter because they simply have less material. However, as safety-conscious riders, we’re prioritizing full-face protection here.
We’re laser-focused on full-face helmets because, let’s be honest, when it comes to safety, there’s no substitute for complete coverage. You can always shave weight by opting for less helmet, but we’re not about compromising protection.
Final Thoughts: Ride Light, Ride Safe
Choosing the lightest full-face helmet is about more than just bragging rights. It’s about enhancing your comfort, reducing fatigue, and ultimately improving your riding experience.
Whether you’re a track day addict, a weekend warrior, or a daily commuter, there’s a lightweight full-face helmet out there that will feel like a breath of fresh air. Do your research, try on helmets, and prioritize safety above all else. Once you find that perfect lightweight lid, you’ll wonder how you ever rode with anything heavier.
Now go out there, ride light, and ride safe!