Top 10 Motorcycle Half Helmets [DOT Rated, No Mushroom Head]
Evan Rally
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Tired of looking like a bobblehead while cruising down the highway? You want that wind-in-your-hair freedom without getting pulled over?
We get it.
Safety is not the priority here, it’s freedom and style. That said:
- A DOT sticker is a must to land on our list – if it’s not DOT approved, it’s no different in the eyes of the law to no helmet at all.
- Get the right shape for your head – Most of the helmets on our list are for intermediate oval head shape, which is most common – and we’ve noted when they’re not. But if most helmets aren’t fitting you well, then try a long oval (if your head is longer front to back) or neutral / round oval (if your head is more round). See our helmet sizing guide for how to measure your head.
- None of these helmets have that mushroom-head look – but also keep in mind your head shape. For example the Street & Steel Open Road is for round heads, so many reviewers say it has a mushroom head look – but that’s likely because they have intermediate oval head shapes!
These are the top contenders in the world of brain buckets – the ones that keep you legal and looking good. You may want to pick up the best motorcycle earplugs as well, because these lids are not going to block your ears from any wind, road, or engine noise. Tinnitus is a *****.
Which is the best helmet for you? Here are our picks:
- Sena Cavalry 2: A classic, slim half helmet with an integrated Mesh Intercom system, hidden speakers, and no boom mic for seamless communication.
- Bell Rogue: Features a distinctive German military-inspired shape and an adjustable, removable face mask for added style and wind protection.
- Bell Scout Air: One of the lightest DOT-approved half helmets available, thanks to its advanced Tri-Matrix composite shell.
- Bell Pit Boss: Offers a bit more coverage around the ears and includes a convenient internal drop-down sun visor.
- Street and Steel Oakland: Comes equipped with a user-friendly, retractable internal sun visor, eliminating the need for separate sunglasses. Long oval head shape.
- HJC IS-Cruiser: A reliable and comfortable half helmet that provides excellent value for its affordable price point.
- Street & Steel Open Road: A no-frills, traditional half helmet designed with a low profile to minimize the mushroom head look. Round oval head shape.
- BILT Falcon: A solid and budget-friendly entry-level half helmet option for new riders or those seeking an affordable choice. Round oval head shape.
- MicroDOT Blister: Designed with an extremely low profile to look as close to a novelty helmet as possible while still being DOT-rated.
- Crazy Al’s Beanie: Noted for being one of the smallest and lightest DOT-approved beanie-style helmets on the market, prioritizing a minimal appearance.
Sena Cavalry 2
The Sena Cavalry 2 is the best selling half helmet on Revzilla, and for good reason: Sena is packing a high quality lid (fiberglass shell) that’s DOT rated with a top of the line comms and music system all into a shell with no visible speakers or boom mic.
A sleek half-shell helmet with fully integrated Bluetooth and noise-reducing audio features.
- Premium fiberglass shell with aerodynamic design
- Built-in speakers and hidden mic for seamless communication
- Mesh 2.0 supports group chats with up to 24 riders
- DOT approved, low profile, Bluetooth ready
- Wind noise reduction is limited above 60 mph
This helmet essentially gives you Sena’s standalone Spyer RT1 mesh communication system built right in. Think about it – the RT1 unit alone would set you back around $220. For just an extra $130, you’re getting that same mesh magic fully integrated into a DOT-approved fiberglass helmet. That’s a sweet deal.
Beyond the numbers, the Cavalry 2 is designed with convenience in mind. No more fiddling with installing a separate Bluetooth unit. It’s all there, right out of the box. Just charge it up with the included USB-C charger (supports fast charging!) and you’re good to go. The updated Mesh system connects to up to 24 riders, and can be used to take calls, listen to music and get GPS directions pumped right to your ears.
The speakers are cleverly tucked away just above your ears, and surprisingly, they pump out decent sound. You can easily chat with your riding buddies or make phone calls, and Sena’s ANC noise cancelling tech actually cuts out wind noise so well you can speak clearly on the highway without shouting over the wind.
And that’s all without a boom mic – the mic on this lid is built into the brow of the helmet. This mic worked super well on the original Sena Cavalry half helmet and Sena Savage open face helmet, and they’ve improved on it in the Cavalry 2.
Plus, the top liner snaps out easily if you ever need to replace it or wash it – rare in a half helmet. The previous version of this skid lid was a hit, and with these upgrades, the Cavalry 2 looks set to follow in its footsteps.
Bell Rogue
The Bell Rogue definitely stands out from the crowd with its design taking inspiration from German military helmets, and the inclusion of a removable Bane-style face mask. This isn’t a safety-rated face shield, but it does offer some protection from wind, dust, and the occasional bug. Or just scare the neighbors.
The Rogue features a lightweight composite shell and a comfortable interior. Some riders might find the mask a bit restrictive, especially in hot weather. However, it’s easily removable if you want more airflow. Plus, that unique look is a definite conversation starter wherever you go.
A bold half-helmet look with the comfort and added coverage of a ¾ design.
- Lightweight composite shell with aggressive styling
- Removable muzzle for added comfort and wind protection
- Built-in speaker pockets for easy audio setup
- DOT approved, low profile, aggressive look
- Muzzle offers no real impact protection
Bell Scout Air
Want a helmet that feels like it’s barely there? The Bell Scout Air is one of the lightest DOT-approved half helmets you can find. This feathery feel is thanks to its advanced Tri-Matrix composite shell. Less weight means less strain on your neck during long rides – a definite plus for those cross-country adventures.
Because it’s so light, some might wonder about its stability at higher speeds. However, Bell has engineered this helmet to be surprisingly stable, even when the wind picks up. The low-profile design also helps minimize wind resistance. It’s a minimalist helmet, so don’t expect a lot of bells and whistles, but if lightweight comfort is your top priority, the Scout Air is a winner. You might miss a built-in sun visor, but a pair of good riding sunglasses will solve that.
The Bell Scout Air also won the lightest half helmet on our review of the lightest motorcycle helmets on the market.
A lightweight, low-profile helmet that blends half-helmet freedom with open-face protection.
- Composite Tri-Matrix shell for durability and safety
- Five shell sizes for a sleek, proportionate fit
- Includes two peak visors for versatility
- DOT approved, low profile, ultra-light
- Runs small; sizing up is recommended
Bell Pit Boss
The Bell Pit Boss offers a bit more coverage than some other half helmets, extending down a little further around the ears. This can provide a slightly more secure feel and a bit more protection from the elements. It also features an internal sun visor, which is incredibly convenient for those rides where the sun is constantly in your eyes. Just flip it down and keep on cruising.
While it offers more coverage, it’s still a low-profile helmet designed to avoid that mushroom head look. Some riders might find the fit a little snugger due to the extra coverage, but this can also translate to a more stable and secure feel at highway speeds.
A lightweight half helmet built for comfort, sun protection, and all-day cruising.
- Ultra-light TriMatrix shell blends Kevlar, carbon, and fiberglass
- Speed Dial fit system ensures a snug, lift-free ride
- Drop-down sun shield and removable neck curtain for added versatility
- DOT approved, low profile, sun visor
- Limited face protection compared to full-face options
Street and Steel Oakland
If you’re tired of carrying around an extra pair of sunglasses, the Street and Steel Oakland has you covered. This half helmet features a built-in, retractable sun visor that you can easily flip up or down with the flick of a switch. This is a fantastic feature for riders who frequently encounter changing light conditions.
The Oakland offers a classic half helmet look without being too bulky. While it might not be the absolute lightest option on the market, the convenience of that drop-down sun visor is a huge plus for many riders. You might need to experiment with different sunglasses if you prefer riding with the visor up, but having that integrated option is a game-changer for sunny days.
Keep in mind this helmet will have a long oval fit, meaning it’s longer front to back than your typical helmet.
A sleek, shorty-style helmet with a low-profile visor and retractable sun shield for ultimate West Coast style.
- Lightweight design for all-day comfort
- Retractable drop-down sun visor for added convenience
- DOT approved for safety and reliability
- Sun visor may interfere with glasses
HJC IS-Cruiser
Looking for a reliable and comfortable half helmet without breaking the bank? The HJC IS-Cruiser is a solid option that offers good value for its price. HJC is a well-known helmet manufacturer with a reputation for producing quality gear, and the IS-Cruiser is no exception.
It features a comfortable interior liner and a decent fit for most head shapes. While it might not have all the fancy features of some of the higher-end options, it gets the job done and keeps you legal. Some riders might find the styling a bit more basic compared to some other helmets, but its simplicity is also part of its appeal. It’s a no-nonsense helmet that focuses on comfort and functionality.
Stripped-down style meets everyday comfort in this no-nonsense open-face lid.
- Easy-to-use pull-down sun shield—no levers or mechanisms
- Plush, moisture-wicking interior with washable liner
- Lightweight shell with solid intermediate oval fit
- DOT approved, low profile, sun shield
- Runs slightly small—consider sizing up
Street & Steel Open Road
Sometimes, you just want a classic, no-frills half helmet, and the Street & Steel Open Road fits that bill perfectly. This helmet offers a traditional look and feel without any unnecessary extras. It’s a straightforward, DOT-approved brain bucket that gets the job done.
It’s designed to be low-profile to minimize that mushroom head effect. While it doesn’t have a built-in sun visor or integrated comms, it’s a comfortable and affordable option for riders who prefer a simple and timeless style. You’ll definitely need sunglasses for sunny days, but that’s part of the classic open-road look, right?
Keep in mind this helmet will have a round oval fit, meaning it’s shorter front to back than your typical helmet. You’ll see some reviews complaining about the “mushroom head” look of this helmet – it’s likely because they are fitting their narrow intermediate or long oval head into a round oval shell!
Stripped-down, classic cruiser style for riders who want nothing but the basics.
- Ultra-affordable without sacrificing DOT safety
- Lightweight and minimal for a true open-air feel
- Comfort-padded straps help prevent ear irritation
- No sun visor or internal shield
BILT Falcon
The BILT Falcon is a great entry-level half helmet for riders who are just starting out or who are looking for an affordable option. BILT is Cycle Gear’s house brand, and they often offer good quality gear at competitive prices. The Falcon is no exception.
It provides basic DOT-approved protection and a comfortable enough fit for shorter rides. While it might not have the premium features or the super-low profile of some of the more expensive helmets on this list, it’s a solid and reliable option for the budget-conscious rider. You might eventually want to upgrade to a helmet with a lighter and stronger fiberglass shell, but the Falcon is a good starting point.
Keep in mind this helmet will have a round oval fit, meaning it’s shorter front to back than your typical helmet.
Cruiser-style open face lid with extra comfort and removable features.
- Zip-off neck and ear guard adds versatility
- Surface-mounted vents for airflow
- Lightweight with stylish matte or lacquer finish
- DOT approved, low profile, open-face
- No internal sun visor
MicroDOT Blister
Okay, let’s talk about style. If you want a half helmet that’s as close to a novelty helmet as you can get while still being DOT-approved, the MicroDOT Blister is a top contender. This helmet is specifically designed to have a very low profile, minimizing that dreaded mushroom head look. As the provided data mentions, style is the primary focus here.
The MicroDOT Blister features a full liner, which makes it more comfortable than some similar low-profile options. It’s a popular choice for riders who want to be legal but prefer a minimalist look. Keep in mind that with such a small profile, protection is minimal, but it does meet the legal requirements. It’s perfect for short, casual rides around town.
You can find the Blister and all of MicroDOT’s helmets below.
Ultra-low-profile beanie-style helmet with a sleek color-shifting finish.
- Smallest DOT-certified beanie helmet available
- Lightweight—less than a bottle of water
- Color-shifting paint: black to midnight purple
- Quick-release strap for easy use
- Most sizes currently on backorder
Crazy Al’s Beanie
If the MicroDOT Blister is close to a novelty helmet, Crazy Al’s Beanie takes it a step further. This is often touted as one of the smallest and lightest DOT-approved beanie-style helmets on the market. The goal here is to have the absolute minimum visible helmet while still being legal.
However, as the provided data points out, the lining isn’t as comprehensive as the MicroDOT Blister, with some foam exposed. Some riders have also reported wind lift at higher speeds. But if your top priority is having the smallest possible profile and you mostly do low-speed cruising, the Crazy Al’s Beanie is worth considering. Just be aware of the trade-offs in comfort and potential stability.
Crazy Al’s signature low-profile lid, made to kill the mushroom-head look.
- Truly the smallest and lightest DOT helmet available
- Crazy Al’s exclusive ComfortCore SureFit tech for better fit
- Quick-release strap included
- Free ear pads with purchase
- Made from thermoplastic (not fiberglass or carbon fiber)
Comparison Table
| Feature | Sena Cavalry 2 | Bell Rogue | Bell Scout Air | Bell Pit Boss | Street & Steel Oakland | HJC IS-Cruiser | Street & Steel Open Road | BILT Falcon | MicroDOT Blister | Crazy Al’s Beanie |
| |  | |  | | | | | | |
| Specialty | Integrated Comms | Face Mask | Very Light | Sun Visor | Sun Visor | Budget | Budget | Budget | Super Slim | Super Slim |
| Weight | 2 lbs 4 oz | 3 lbs (w/ mask) | 1 lb 15 oz | 2 lbs 7 oz | 2 lbs 3 oz | 2 lbs 10 oz | 2 lbs 8 oz | 2 lbs 4 oz | < 2 lbs | < 2 lbs |
| Sun Visor | No | No | No | Yes (Internal) | Yes (Retractable) | No | No | No | No | No |
| More Coverage | No | Yes (with mask) | No | Yes (around ears) | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| DOT Approved | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fit | Intermed Oval | Intermed Oval | Intermed Oval | Intermed Oval | Long Oval | Intermed Oval | Round | Round | Intermed Oval | Intermed Oval |
| “Mushroom Head” Look | None | None | None | None | None | Maybe | None | Maybe | None | None |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Half Helmet
So, which brain bucket is right for you? Here are a few things to consider:
- Your Riding Style: Are you a long-distance cruiser, a weekend warrior, or just doing short hops around town? If you ride frequently or for long periods, comfort and features like integrated comms or a sun visor might be more important.
- Your Priorities: Is style your number one concern? Or are you looking for the most coverage possible in a half helmet? Be honest with yourself about what matters most. Remember, we’re focusing on style and minimizing that mushroom head look here.
- Fit is Key: No matter which helmet you choose, make sure it fits properly. It should be snug but not too tight, and it shouldn’t move around on your head. A poorly fitting helmet can be uncomfortable and even dangerous.
- DOT Approval: Since we’re aiming for legal street helmets in the USA, make sure any helmet you consider has a DOT sticker.
- Read Reviews: See what other riders are saying about the helmets you’re interested in. Their experiences can provide valuable insights.
Popular Alternative: Local Dealerships
Another tip for finding the exact style you’re after is to check with your local Harley-Davidson dealership. Sometimes, they stock specific half helmets that cater to the preferences of their customers. They might even keep certain styles tucked away, focusing on selling more protective (and often more expensive) full-face options. It’s worth asking them directly what half helmets they have in stock.
