The Best Open Face Helmets from Arai, Bell, Simpson and Sena
Evan Rally
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Let’s be honest, you’re here because you crave that wind-in-your-face feeling, that connection with your surroundings that only an open face helmet can truly deliver. But you also want to keep your precious head in one piece, right? You’ve come to the right place. We’re about to cut through the noise and help you find the exact 3/4 helmet that will make your urban rides safer, more enjoyable, and yes, even a little bit cooler.
Now, before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s address a few things that might be buzzing around in your brain:
Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s get rolling.
Top Open Face Helmet Choices
We’ve chosen to break out the best choices into two subcategories: Classic and Touring. Classic helmets have a simple, round shape and look like race helmets from the old days. Touring helmets have a more sleek, modern shape and generally suit longer touring rides better than classic shells.
Classic Picks
Best 
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Value 
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Unbeatable build quality, premium safety with Snell 2020 certification, and versatile 5-snap system for shields and visors. | Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields. |
Unbeatable build quality, premium safety with Snell 2020 certification, and versatile 5-snap system for shields and visors.
Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields.
Touring Picks
Best 
|
Value 
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Integrated Comms 
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Offers the highest level of protection in an open face, basically taking the Arai Corsair-X full face helmet and cutting off the chin. | Feature-rich with a drop-down sun visor and integrated Sena Bluetooth communication system at a great price. | Seamlessly integrated Sena Mesh and Bluetooth communication for the ultimate connected riding experience. |
Offers the highest level of protection in an open face, basically taking the Arai Corsair-X full face helmet and cutting off the chin.
Feature-rich with a drop-down sun visor and integrated Sena Bluetooth communication system at a great price.
Seamlessly integrated Sena Mesh and Bluetooth communication for the ultimate connected riding experience.
Read on for detailed breakdowns of each of these helmets
Best Classic Open Face Helmets
For those who appreciate a bit of retro flair or simply prefer the minimalist approach, the “Classic” category of open face helmets offers a blend of iconic looks and modern safety features. These helmets often feature a lower profile and a design reminiscent of the early days of motorcycling.
Best: Arai Classic-V
When it comes to build quality and safety, Arai consistently sits at the top of the heap. The Arai Classic-V is no exception. This helmet isn’t just about looking good; it’s built with the same meticulous attention to detail and high-end materials found in their full-face offerings.
Think about it: Arai uses their signature fiberglass laminate construction in this open face helmet. That’s the same tech that helps protect the heads of professional racers in Arai’s full face lids. And it’s not just marketing hype – the Classic-V boasts a Snell 2020 certification, meaning it’s been rigorously tested to meet some of the toughest safety standards out there. And that’s all while keeping weight low at 2 lbs 10 ounces (1500 grams).
But it’s not all about impact protection. Arai understands that even in an open face helmet, comfort is key. That’s why they’ve incorporated discreet forehead vents, cleverly hidden within the mesh detailing just above the brow. These vents allow for a surprising amount of airflow, keeping you cool even when you’re stuck in urban traffic.
And for those who like to customize their look, the Classic-V comes equipped with the standard five snaps. This means you can easily attach a variety of aftermarket shields, visors, and peaks to suit your style and the riding conditions. Whether you want a bubble shield for a vintage vibe or a shorty peak for some sun protection, the Classic-V gives you options.
You might be looking at an open face helmet given the typically lower price points vs full face lids, and so the price of this Arai is going to be a shocker. First I would say: do not sacrifice the protection of your head just to save a few hundred bucks! You are worth far more than that.
The Arai Classic-V offers a nice balance between impact protection and open face freedom, and that’s why it tops our list.
Unbeatable build quality, premium safety with Snell 2020 certification, and versatile 5-snap system for shields and visors.
- Comfortable fit with a compact profile
- Advanced ventilation system with hidden ports
- Premium build using Arai's strong PB-cLc shell
- Higher price point compared to similar retro-style helmets
You might be looking at an open face helmet given the typically lower price points vs full face lids, and so the price of this Arai is going to be a shocker. First I would say: do not sacrifice the protection of your head just to save a few hundred bucks! You are worth far more than that.
But if it’s between no helmet and an open face, I would say the next option might be a better fit for you.
Value: Bell Custom 500
If you’re looking for a fantastic blend of classic style, solid safety, and a price that won’t break the bank, the Bell Custom 500 is a serious contender. This helmet has become a favorite among riders for its iconic looks and comfortable fit.
One of the standout features of the Custom 500 is its impressive range of shell sizes. Bell offers five different shell sizes, which means you’re more likely to find a helmet that fits your head perfectly without the bobblehead look.
A proper fit is crucial not only for looks but also for safety: A helmet that’s too loose or too tight won’t perform as it should in the event of an impact, and too much extra helmet material means more rotational forces in the event of a crash. Five shell sizes is a rare offering for any helmet, especially one at this price range.
Just like the Arai Classic-V, the Bell Custom 500 offers the flexibility to personalize your ride with aftermarket accessories. The five-snap system allows you to easily attach different shields, visors, and peaks, letting you adapt the helmet to your preferences and the weather conditions.
While the Custom 500 doesn’t have integrated ventilation like the Arai, its open-face design naturally provides a good amount of airflow, which is often appreciated in urban environments and warmer climates. Some riders might find the lack of a built-in shield a drawback, especially at higher speeds. However, you can easily add a full face shield for protection against wind, rain, and debris when needed.
Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields.
- Five shell sizes for a perfect, low-profile fit
- Integrated five-snap system for shields and visors
- Lightweight design for all-day comfort
- Runs small, sizing up is recommended
Best Touring-Focused Open Face Helmets
For riders who want the open face experience with a more contemporary design and features geared towards longer rides and varying conditions, these 3/4 touring helmets offer a step up in functionality and technology while still letting the wind in.
Best: Arai Ram-X
Imagine the level of protection offered by Arai’s legendary Corsair X full-face helmet, but with the open face freedom you crave. That’s essentially what the Arai Ram-X delivers. Arai has taken their top-tier full-face technology and adapted it for riders who prefer an open design, making this arguably the most protective open face helmet on the market.
The Ram-X utilizes the same advanced shell construction and multi-density EPS liner as the Corsair X, providing exceptional impact energy management. Of course you don’t get the same chin protection as a full face helmet offers, but having the same shell is a big step up in safety.
But the Ram-X isn’t just about safety. It also incorporates features designed for comfort and convenience on longer rides. The ventilation system is remarkably effective, with multiple intake and exhaust vents working together to keep you cool and prevent fogging. The face shield offers a wide field of vision and excellent optical clarity, and it’s also Pinlock-ready, allowing you to easily install an anti-fog insert for those chilly or wet rides. You get a Pro Shade sun visor to drop down as well.
Some riders might find the aggressive styling of the Ram-X less “classic” than other open face options. However, its modern design allows it to cut through the wind, mount its sun shield and fit Arai’s stellar race-honed protection inside.
Offers the highest level of protection in an open face, basically taking the Arai Corsair-X full face helmet and cutting off the chin.
- Superior shell strength with advanced Super Fiber Laminate
- Includes clear shield, Pro Shade visor, and Pinlock 120 insert
- Excellent ventilation and glasses-friendly design
- Price may be steep for an open-face helmet
Value: Bell Mag-9 Sena Helmet
For riders seeking a versatile and comfortable open face helmet packed with features ideal for touring and urban riding, the Bell Mag-9 is an excellent and popular choice at an affordable price.
One of the standout features of the Mag-9 is its convenient drop-down sun visor. This is a fantastic addition for riders who frequently encounter changing light conditions during their rides, whether navigating city streets or cruising on longer trips. With a simple slide of a lever, you can deploy or retract the tinted sun visor, offering instant relief from sun glare without the need to swap out your main shield or wear separate sunglasses.
The Mag-9 also boasts good ventilation, a key factor for comfort on longer rides and in warmer climates. Multiple vents are strategically placed to promote airflow, helping to keep you cool and reduce fatigue. The helmet’s comfortable interior liner is also worth noting, often praised by riders for its plush feel and moisture-wicking properties, which can make a significant difference on extended journeys.
The integrated Sena system that fits this helmet is currently out of stock, but you can attach any other unit like the Cardo Packtalk Edge or Sena 60S to this helmet. In my opinion this isn’t a big deal, since you have the flexibility to choose the exact communication system that best suits your needs and budget, rather than being locked into a specific integrated option.
Feature-rich with a drop-down sun visor and integrated Sena Bluetooth communication system at a great price.
- Integrated drop-down sun visor and clear shield
- Compatible with Sena 10S Bluetooth system
- Excellent airflow with velocity flow ventilation
- Sena Bluetooth unit and clamp kit sold separately
If you’re looking for a seamlessly integrated comms system, check out our next pick: a new lid from Sena that hides all the components of a top notch motorcycle comms system inside its sleek shell.
Integrated Comms: Sena Surge
While the look of the Sena Surge is more “classic”, its integrated comms system makes it perfect for touring. This helmet is built from the ground up with Sena’s advanced Mesh Intercom and Bluetooth technology seamlessly built into its sleek shell. Controls are almost flush to the surface of the helmet, on the left side.
The Surge offers crystal-clear communication with other Sena users via the Mesh Intercom system, which provides a stable and reliable connection even in challenging environments. It also supports Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with your smartphone for calls, music, and GPS and other riders with older or non-Sena units. The battery life is exceptional at 21 hours as well – for regular commuters, you’ll probably need to charge once a week or less.
The integrated speakers and microphone are designed for optimal audio performance while riding, and Sena even hid the microphone up inside the brow – no boom mic. The old Sena Savage used this same technology and it worked incredibly well, with very little wind noise entering the conversation.
Beyond its communication capabilities, the Sena Surge is also a well-built and comfortable helmet. Sena pulled out all the stops, opting for a high quality fiberglass composite shell instead of a cheaper polycarbonate. You also get multiple vents to bring air over the top of your head airflow and a comfortable liner that can be removed and washed. The helmet also includes a snap on sun peak for added convenience on sunny days.
While the Sena Surge is a premium option, the level of integration and technology it offers is unmatched. If staying connected and having seamless communication is a top priority for your urban rides and beyond, this helmet is definitely worth considering.
But the best part about this helmet? If you were to buy a similarly-capable Sena unit like the 50S and pair it to a similarly featured 3/4 helmet like the Arai Classic-V, you’d be out about twice as much money as buying this fully integrated unit. Huge savings.
Seamlessly integrated Sena Mesh and Bluetooth communication for the ultimate connected riding experience.
- Integrated Bluetooth 5.2 with Mesh Intercom for rider communication
- Hidden microphone that's shockingly clear
- Lightweight fiberglass composite shell for better impact absorption
- Removable and washable interior for easy maintenance
- Unable to upgrade the intercom
- Have to carry the helmet to charge it
Comparison Table
| Feature | Arai Classic-V | Bell Custom 500 | Arai Ram-X | Bell Mag-9 Sena | Sena Surge |
| Safety Rating | Snell 2020, DOT | DOT | Snell 2020, DOT | DOT | DOT |
| Shell Material | Complex Laminate | Fiberglass | Complex Laminate | Polycarbonate | Composite Fiberglass |
| Weight (approx.) | 2.65 lbs | 2.16 lbs | 3.42 lbs | 3.31 lbs | 2.43 lbs (with electronics!) |
| Ventilation | Discreet Forehead Vents | No Vents | Brow and Top Vents | Brow and Top Vents | None |
| Shield/Visor | 5-Snap Compatibility | 5-Snap Compatibility | Wide Vision Shield | Shield and Sun Visor | 3-Snap Peak |
| Removable Liner | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Communication | Comms Ready | Comms Ready | Comms Ready | Comms Ready (fits Sena 10S) | Integrated Sena Mesh/Bluetooth |
| Key Feature | Great Protection | Great Value | MaximumProtection | Great Value for Touring | Advanced Integrated Comms |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Note: Weights can vary depending on the size of the helmet.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Open Face Helmet
So, you’re ready to embrace the open road with the wind in your face? Excellent choice! But before you click that “buy now” button, let’s walk through some key considerations to ensure you pick the open face helmet that’s the absolute best fit for you and your riding needs, especially in the urban jungle.
Safety First (Always!):
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth reiterating: your helmet’s primary job is to protect your head. Look for helmets that meet or exceed safety standards in your region. In the US, the DOT (Department of Transportation) certification is the minimum requirement for a helmet to be street legal in states with helmet laws. For an extra layer of assurance, consider helmets with Snell or ECE certification, which both involve more rigorous testing. Don’t compromise on safety for style or price. A helmet that has both DOT and Snell and/or ECE certifications keeps you legal and a lot safer than a DOT-only lid.
The All-Important Fit:
A properly fitting helmet is crucial for both safety and comfort. A helmet that’s too loose can shift during an impact, reducing its effectiveness. One that’s too tight can cause discomfort and headaches. Here’s how to get the right fit:
- Measure Your Head: Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head, about one inch above your eyebrows and ears.
- Consult the Size Chart: Each helmet manufacturer has its own size chart. Compare your head measurement to the chart for the specific helmet you’re considering. Don’t assume that a size medium in one brand will fit you the same in another.
- Try It On: If possible, try on the helmet before purchasing. Wear it for a few minutes. It should feel snug but not uncomfortably tight. There shouldn’t be any pressure points.
- The Roll-Off Test: With the helmet securely fastened, try to roll it off your head by grabbing the back of the helmet and pulling upwards and forwards. If the helmet comes off, it’s too loose.
- Check for Movement: Once buckled, try to move the helmet from side to side and up and down. Your skin should move with the helmet. If it slides easily, it’s too big.
Consider Your Riding Style and Environment:
Think about how and where you’ll be using your open face helmet most often:
- Urban Commuting: For daily rides in the city, features like good ventilation, a wide field of vision, and perhaps a drop-down sun visor can be particularly beneficial. You might also prioritize lighter weight for stop-and-go traffic.
- Short Pleasure Rides: If you’re mainly taking leisurely rides around town, style and comfort might be your top priorities.
- Longer Tours: For extended journeys, consider helmets with better ventilation, more robust shield options, and perhaps compatibility with communication systems. The Arai Ram-X, for example, is designed with touring in mind.
Key Features to Look For:
Open face helmets come with various features. Consider which ones are important for your needs:
- Face Shield/Visor: A good quality face shield provides protection from wind, dust, debris, and insects. Look for shields that offer UV protection and are scratch-resistant. Some helmets offer compatibility with Pinlock inserts to prevent fogging. Consider the type of shield you prefer – full coverage, half coverage, or none (requiring separate eyewear).
- Sun Visor: An integrated drop-down sun visor is a fantastic feature for urban riding, allowing you to quickly adapt to changing light conditions without needing to carry an extra tinted shield or sunglasses.
- Ventilation: While open face helmets inherently offer more airflow than full-face options, the design and placement of vents can still make a significant difference in comfort, especially during hot weather. Look for helmets with adjustable vents that allow you to control airflow.
- Communication System Compatibility: If you plan on using a Bluetooth communication system, check if the helmet is designed to accommodate speakers and microphones. Some helmets, like the Bell Mag-9 (non-Sena) and the Sena Surge, offer integrated or easily compatible options.
- Retention System: The chin strap is what keeps the helmet securely on your head. Look for a comfortable and easy-to-use retention system, such as a Double-D ring or a micrometric buckle. Double-D rings are considered the safest and are often found on higher-end helmets.
- Liner: The inner liner of the helmet should be comfortable, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Many helmets feature removable and washable liners, which is a great feature for hygiene.
Shell Material:
Motorcycle helmet shells are typically made from materials like polycarbonate, fiberglass, or carbon fiber.
- Polycarbonate: Often found in more budget-friendly helmets, polycarbonate offers the bare minimum in impact protection
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass shells are generally lighter and stronger than polycarbonate and are often found in mid-range helmets. Fiberglass distributes impact energy more effectively than plastics.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber is the lightest and strongest material but also the most expensive. Helmets with carbon fiber shells offer excellent protection with minimal weight, but they’re rarely offered in open face styles.
Comfort is King (Especially for Longer Rides):
Even the safest helmet won’t do you much good if it’s so uncomfortable that you don’t want to wear it. Pay attention to the quality of the interior padding, the weight of the helmet, and the overall feel when you have it on. If you plan on longer rides, a few extra ounces of weight can make a noticeable difference over time.
Style and Aesthetics:
Let’s be honest, looks matter! While safety and fit should be your top priorities, you also want a helmet that you like the look of. Open face helmets come in a wide variety of styles, from classic retro designs to more modern and aggressive looks. Choose a style that reflects your personal taste and complements your motorcycle.
Budget Considerations:
Open face helmets range in price from more affordable options to high-end models. Determine your budget beforehand and then focus on finding the best helmet within that range that meets your safety and feature requirements. Remember that investing in a good quality helmet is investing in your safety.
Try Before You Buy (If Possible):
While online shopping offers convenience, nothing beats trying on a helmet in person before you buy it. If possible, visit a local motorcycle gear shop where you can try on different models and sizes. This will give you a much better sense of the fit and feel of the helmet.
Read Reviews from Fellow Riders:
Before making your final decision, take some time to read reviews from other motorcycle riders who have purchased and used the helmet you’re considering. Their real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into the helmet’s comfort, performance, and durability.
By considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect open face helmet that will not only keep you safe but also enhance your riding experience in the city and beyond. Happy and safe riding!
