Arai XD5 vs Nexx X.WED3: Which Is Better for ADV Touring?
Evan Rally
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If you’re into adventure riding, you already know your helmet has to do it all—handle highways, dirt trails, goggles, Pinlocks, airflow, and long days in the saddle.
The Arai XD5 (Tour-X5) and Nexx X.WED3 both promise to be that one helmet you can count on, but they go about it in different ways.
Let’s break them down so you can figure out which one fits your style best.
Here’s the quick verdict up front to give you a sense of how these two stack up — and we’ll dive into all the details right after.
Quick Verdict: Which Lid Fits You Best?
Who should buy the Arai XD5
- Riders who prioritize premium build quality, meticulous finishing and a serviceable 5‑year warranty.
- Tourers who value a snug, round‑oval fit and want the lightest possible ECE‑22‑06–rated adventure helmet with a peak – the XD5 weighs about 1,735 g (≈3.8 lb).
- Those who spend long hours in hot climates and demand the most efficient ventilation and easily adjustable peak and visor systems.
The sequel to the legendary XD-4 helmet, this lid improves in every way from its round shell design to its versatility and comfort whether you're thrashing trails or cruising on the highway.
- Quietest ADV helmet
- Removable peak
- Tons of ventilation
- Can use with googles (visor can be removed)
- DOT and Snell approved (ECE in Europe)
- None - one of the best ADV and touring helmets
Want to see how the XD5 stacks up against another top-tier lid? Check out our Arai XD‑5 vs Shoei Hornet X2 comparison.
Who should buy the Nexx X.WED3
- Riders seeking maximum features per dollar: integrated sun visor, Go‑Pro mount, anti‑vibration shell and multiple shell sizes at a lower street price ($520–$660 for fibreglass models; $775–$900 for carbon versions.
- Owners who need versatile ventilation and weather protection but don’t mind a slightly heavier helmet (around 1,790 g/3.9 lb for fibreglass models and 1,725 g/3.8 lb for carbon).
- Riders wanting a deep comfort liner and compatibility with modern comms (Nexx’s X‑COM 3 bluetooth system integrates cleanly; X‑Foam crash bumpers also reduce collarbone injury risk).
A premium helmet at midrange price: advanced composite or full carbon fiber shell, flexible ventilation system, integrated comms, and versatile street + off-road design that doesn't require tools to switch. Long term review here.
- Big eyeport
- Lightweight
- Anti-vibration system
- So popular it's often out of stock
The Arai costs roughly $330 more than the base X.WED3 but delivers a lighter shell, quieter ride and a longer 5‑year warranty. The Nexx offers a built‑in sun visor and extra tech for the money but weighs a little more.
Specs Snapshot: Side-by-Side
| Specs | Arai XD5 (Tour‑X5) | Nexx X.WED3 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Approx. 1,735 g (3.8 lb) | ~1,790 g (3.9 lb) for standard fibreglass X‑Matrix 2 shell; 1,725 g (3.8 lb) for carbon X‑Pro versions |
| Fit/Shape & Sizing | Round‑oval head shape; three shell sizes for XS–XXL; wider base for easier on/off and egg‑shaped chin curtain reduces noise. | Intermediate‑oval fit; three shell sizes; sizes XS–XXXL. Liners are removable and washable; anti‑vibration EPS provides a plush feel. |
| Shell/Materials | Super‑Fiber composite shell (Arai’s proprietary fibre) with multiple densities; tool‑less VAS‑A visor system. Peak designed to break off for glancing‑off safety. | X‑Matrix 2 composite: multiaxial fiberglass, 3D organic fibres, aramid fibres and carbon reinforcement; carbon versions use X‑Pro carbon lay‑up. Includes X‑Foam crash bumpers for added collarbone protection. |
| Safety/Certifications | ECE 22‑06 certified and DOT in North America; Snell certification not yet published. | ECE 22‑06 & DOT FMVSS 218 with additional CCC and NBR certification. |
| Ventilation/Weatherproofing | Three intake vents (chin, 3D logo duct and brow) and five exhaust vents; inner vent gate directs air either to visor or mouth. Delta Duct 6 and AR Spoiler improve airflow; Dry‑Cool liner wicks moisture. | Seven closable intake vents and four exhaust outlets. Large chin bar intake with sliding gate; adjustable peak with extensor; improved drop‑down sun visor reduces glare (80% tint, 18% larger than previous model). |
| Electronics/Battery | N/A (no electronics built‑in). | Prepared for X‑COM 3 Bluetooth system; anti‑vibration shell reduces noise. Includes quick‑release emergency cheek‑pad removal system. |
| Warranty | 5‑year limited warranty covering defects for 5 years from purchase (max 7 years from manufacture). | 2‑year warranty against manufacturing defects. |
| Street Price (typical) | ~US $850–$950 depending on colour/graphics (as of Aug 2025; sale pricing may drop to ~$800). | $520–$660 for fibreglass models; $775–$900 for carbon or Pro versions (X.WED3 Gobi is $659.99). |
Team XD5 or Team X.WED3?
Choose the Arai XD5 if…
- You value absolute quality and longevity. Arai’s five‑year warranty and hand‑built Super‑Fiber shell provide reassurance and a long service life. Components such as cheek pads and peak screws are designed to shear off in a crash to improve glancing‑off performance.
- Noise reduction matters. The XD5’s rounder shell, precise visor seal and egg‑shaped chin curtain reduce whistling at highway speeds. Riders report the helmet remains quiet and stable even at high speeds with the peak installed.
- You need efficient, controllable ventilation. Three intake vents and five exhaust ports deliver abundant airflow; the inner vent gate allows you to direct air to demist the visor or cool your mouth. The AR Spoiler and 3D logo duct increase airflow at speed while remaining easy to operate with gloves.
- You prefer a lightweight feel. At roughly 3.8 lb, the XD5 remains one of the lightest ADV touring helmets with a peak. Riders who ride all day will appreciate lower neck fatigue.
- You have a round‑oval or neutral head shape. The snug fit, adjustable crown pad and peel‑away cheek pads allow fine‑tuning; the helmet’s wide opening makes it easy to slip on/off even with sunglasses.
- You don’t need an internal sun visor. Arai’s design philosophy eschews drop‑down sun visors for shell integrity; you’ll rely on the peak, tinted outer shields or goggles for sun control.
Choose the Nexx X.WED3 if…
- You want maximum features for the money. For ~$520–$660, the fibreglass X.WED3 comes with an integrated sun visor, Pinlock‑ready shield, quick‑release cheek pads, Go‑Pro mount and a lightweight composite shell.
- You need easy sun and dust management. The improved drop‑down sun visor is 18 % larger with an 80 % tint; the adjustable peak includes an extender for low‑sun riding. The visor system can be configured with or without the peak, or swapped to goggles for off‑road sections.
- You ride with comms. The helmet is pre‑wired for Nexx’s X‑COM 3 bluetooth system; integrated speaker pockets and anti‑vibration EPS keep the unit stable and reduce noise.
- You like adjustability. Seven intake vents and four exhausts allow fine‑tuning; the large chin vent includes a slider to direct air to your face or the shield. The peak’s extensor reduces buffeting at highway speeds.
- You have an intermediate‑oval head shape or need extended sizing. The X.WED3 comes in sizes XS through XXXL and offers three shell sizes. The plush liner and X‑Foam crash bumpers make the helmet comfortable for long tours.
- You want carbon‑helmet bragging rights without paying Arai money. The X.WED3 Pro and carbon variants shave weight to around 1,725 g and add carbon‑weave styling; they retail around $775–$900.
On the Road: What Riders Really Say
Arai XD5 (Tour-X5)
- Comfort & fit: Round-oval fit with even pressure; FCS cheek pads hug without hotspots. Peel-away layers and adjustable crown pad make fine-tuning easy.
- Ventilation & heat: Delta Duct 6 and 3D logo duct praised for airflow in both traffic and open roads; visor demist vent especially effective. Some riders note extra wind noise with top vents open.
- Noise: Frequently described as one of the quieter ADV lids. Smooth shell and chin curtain help reduce whistling. Closing brow vents further lowers turbulence noise.
- Visor & field of view: VAS-A visor has very wide aperture. Tool-free swaps for clear/tinted visors and peak removal are highly appreciated.
- Weight & fatigue: Lighter feel compared to most adventure lids. Long-distance riders report less neck strain after hours on the bike.
- Build & finish: Hand-finished quality stands out. Premium paint, plush liners, and sturdy vent mechanisms reinforce Arai’s reputation.
For more firsthand impressions, check out our review of the Arai XD‑5 / Tour‑X5, where we break down long-term fit, airflow, and noise performance.
Nexx X.WED3
- Comfort & fit: Intermediate-oval shape; feels plush out of the box. Deeper cheek pads and integrated crash bumpers add support, but round-headed riders sometimes feel forehead pressure.
- Ventilation & heat: Seven intake vents deliver strong airflow in hot climates. Riders note you must fully close vents in cold/rain to avoid drafts.
- Noise: Generally moderate noise levels at highway speeds. Some wind noise tied to angular shell and drop-down sun visor. Anti-vibration EPS and gasket improve quietness over the older X.WED2, but earplugs still recommended.
- Visor & field of view: Wide visor plus convenient internal sun visor. Sun visor lever is small with gloves; occasional fogging if Pinlock isn’t sealed properly.
- Weight & fatigue: Standard fiberglass models run ~50 g heavier than XD5 and can feel a bit top-heavy with visor extended. Carbon versions lighten the load.
- Build & finish: High quality for the price, though small components like visor screws feel plasticky compared to premium competitors.
If you’re curious how the X.WED3 performs over time, our Nexx X.WED3 adventure helmet review explores its real-world ventilation, comfort, and value.
Category Showdown: Feature by Feature
Noise at Highway Speeds
Arai’s round shell and smooth visor seal keep wind turbulence low. The redesigned peak sits closer to the helmet and is more stable than the Tour‑X4. The egg‑shaped chin curtain blocks wind from underneath and, combined with the removable neck roll, quiets the ride.
While the Nexx’s anti‑vibration EPS and rubber gasket help, the integrated sun visor and stepped shell edges create more noise.
Riders who prioritize a quiet cockpit (for listening to music or for reducing fatigue) lean toward the Arai.
Weight & Fatigue
The XD5 is one of the lightest full‑feature ADV helmets at about 3.8 lb. This matters on multi‑day trips, especially when combined with heavy ADV bikes and luggage. Nexx’s fibreglass X.WED3 is roughly 50 g heavier and sits slightly higher.
The weight difference is small in numerical terms but can lead to subtle extra neck strain over a long day, particularly for smaller riders. Carbon versions of the X.WED3 close the weight gap to the Arai but also narrow the price difference.
Ventilation in Heat
Both helmets offer excellent airflow. The XD5 uses a combination of a chin vent that splits air between the visor and mouth, a 3D logo intake, the Delta Duct 6 on top and multiple exhaust ports. Because the vent shutter controls are separate, you can fine‑tune the airflow at different speeds.
The X.WED3 counters with seven intakes and four exhausts—more overall vents but fewer options for directional airflow. Its chin vent is larger and easier to operate with gloves. The drop‑down sun visor can trap heat when down, so riders often leave it retracted until needed.
Visor & Sun Management
Arai opts against an internal sun visor to avoid compromising shell strength. Instead, riders can install a tinted outer shield or rely on the adjustable peak, which now includes an extender to reduce sun glare. This design emphasizes safety but requires planning for bright conditions (e.g., carrying a spare tinted visor).
Nexx’s integrated sun visor is convenient and easily deploys with a left‑side lever; the 18 % larger design provides better coverage than previous models. However, some riders report the visor’s mechanism can loosen over time and that it may slightly reduce airflow inside the helmet when down.
Comms‑Ready Fitment
Both helmets offer speaker cut‑outs and removable cheek pads. Arai’s interior is straightforward for third‑party systems like Cardo or Sena but lacks built‑in wiring.
Nexx designed the X.WED3 to work seamlessly with its X-COM 3 Bluetooth unit, using anti-vibration EPS to reduce speaker resonance. It’s a clean, integrated setup, though some riders may still prefer the flexibility of using different comms systems.
Build/Finish & Serviceability
Arai helmets are hand‑made in Japan and undergo multiple inspections; the XD5’s Super‑Fiber shell and interior feel premium. Replacement parts (vents, visors, peaks) are readily available, and the helmet is serviceable—Arai will refurbish it during the five‑year warranty.
Nexx helmets are made in Portugal and also carry a quality finish but not at the same level of refinement. The X.WED3’s two‑year warranty is shorter; after that period, replacement parts may incur cost.
Dollars to Features: Worth the Step Up?
At roughly $850–$950, the Arai XD5 sits in the premium tier. What do you get for the extra outlay compared with the Nexx X.WED3?
- Lighter shell and lower fatigue: The XD5’s Super‑Fiber construction and simplified vent system shave weight. On multi‑day trips, a few hundred grams make a difference in neck and shoulder comfort.
- Superior ventilation control: Arai’s vent architecture allows you to choose where the air goes. The inner vent gate and separate brow vents help keep the visor fog‑free in rain or high humidity.
- Premium finish and longer warranty: Paintwork, interior fabrics and vent actuation feel more robust, and the five‑year warranty with serviceability covers repairs through most of the helmet’s lifespan.
- Quieter ride: Many riders report the XD5 is noticeably quieter, especially when the brow vents are closed and the chin curtain is used. Less wind noise means less fatigue and better comms audio.
Meanwhile, the Nexx X.WED3’s price—$520–$660 for the fibreglass model and up to $900 for carbon—makes it attractive for riders who need features but have a limited budget.
- Built‑in sun visor and mount: Eliminates the need to carry an extra tinted shield; the adjustable peak and Go‑Pro mount add practicality.
- Comparable protection: The helmet still meets ECE 22‑06 and DOT standards and uses advanced composites.
- Value per feature: Even at $660, the X.WED3 undercuts the Arai by roughly $200–$300 and includes convenience features that Arai omits (sun visor, quick‑release cheek pads). Carbon variants get close to Arai pricing but also narrow the weight gap.
Other Helmets Worth a Look
Shoei Hornet X2: Another premium ADV helmet that slots between the Arai and Nexx in price. It offers an intermediate‑oval fit, robust ventilation and an efficient peak design. It lacks an internal sun visor but is quieter than the Nexx and lighter than most modulars.
Shoei Hornet X2 Adventure Helmet delivers the perfect blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability for serious adventure riders.
- Lightweight AIM+ shell for superior protection and aerodynamics
- Advanced ventilation system for optimal airflow in all conditions
- Emergency Quick-Release System for enhanced rider safety
- Runs small, sizing up is recommended
Bell MX‑9 Adventure DLX MIPS: A more budget‑friendly alternative (~$250) with integrated MIPS slip‑plane technology and a Transitions photochromic visor. Heavier than the Nexx and noisier than the Arai but great value for dual‑sport riders.
Lightweight ADV lid with MIPS safety and a ProTint face shield—comfortable, well-ventilated, and ideal for long, mixed-terrain riding.
- Very comfortable for long rides
- Excellent airflow keeps head cool
- ProTint shield adapts to changing light
- Includes MIPS for added impact safety
- Shield lacks a finger tab for easy opening
- Peak can rattle at highway speeds
ScorpionEXO‑AT960: A modular adventure helmet with a drop‑down sun visor and removable peak. It weighs more than both the Arai and Nexx but offers the convenience of a flip‑up chin bar for touring and is priced around $300–$400.
A do-everything helmet, it's as comfortable on trails as the highway - though not as solid as premium competitors like the Arai XD-5. One of the rare modular ADV helmets, it's also it's DOT and ECE approved.
- Modular chinbar (rare in ADV helmet)
- Removable peak
- Decent airflow
- Drop down sun shade
- DOT and ECE 22‑06 approved
- Susceptible to visor leaks and fogging in heavy rain
- Sun peak vibrates noticeably at highway speeds
Looking for more dual-sport lids? Check out our roundup of the best adventure helmets, ranked for ADV, dual-sport, and long-haul riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Arai XD5 run small or large?
It fits true to size for Arai’s round‑oval shape. The adjustable crown pad and peel‑away cheek pads allow fine‑tuning, but riders with very long or narrow heads might find it snug around the temples.
Can I remove the peak on either helmet for highway riding?
Yes. Both helmets use tool‑less peak systems. On the Arai, simply remove two side screws to convert it to a road helmet. The Nexx’s peak comes off with two thumb screws and exposes the visor’s locking tabs.
How do the visors perform in rain?
The Arai’s VAS‑A visor has a robust seal and, with the Pinlock installed, remains fog‑free. The Nexx’s shield also accepts a Pinlock (included) but some riders report minor leaks at the side pods in heavy rain. Make sure the visor and peak screws are tightened after cleaning.
Is the drop‑down sun visor in the Nexx easy to replace?
Yes. Nexx sells replacement sun visors in clear or smoke tints. The mechanism is held by a single screw inside the chin bar and can be replaced in minutes.
Are either helmet’s interiors washable?
Both helmets have fully removable and washable liners. The Arai uses a moisture‑wicking Dry‑Cool fabric; the Nexx uses soft X‑Mart Dry foam pads. Always air‑dry liners and avoid harsh detergents to preserve the materials.
Can I use third‑party comms systems with the Nexx?
Yes. While the X.WED3 is designed around the X‑COM 3, you can install Cardo or Sena units. Use the speaker cut‑outs and route the wires behind the cheek pads. If you plan to add a boom mic, ensure it doesn’t interfere with the drop‑down sun visor mechanism.
Not sure your comms unit will fit?
Sometimes the perfect helmet comes with a catch—it’s designed around a specific Bluetooth unit. That can make it tough if you prefer something different. With an adapter from Tubs Jackson, you can get a factory fit for any comms units on helmets you actually want to ride in.
Tubs Jackson is a weird name, I know, but I have their adapter in my Nexx X.WED3 helmet and it’s rock solid. Much nicer than reaching way back to where I had the sticky mount before. I wish I’d thought of this idea.
Tip: Get FREE SHIPPING just by buying here or using code BETTERONTHEROAD at checkout.
Wrapping Up…
Choosing between the Arai XD5 and Nexx X.WED3 comes down to how you ride and what you value most. The Arai shines in premium comfort and finish, while the Nexx emphasizes flexibility and affordability without giving up much in performance.
Either way, you’re getting a helmet designed to keep pace with real-world ADV touring.
Best for Quiet Touring
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Best for Airflow Versatility
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The sequel to the legendary XD-4 helmet, this lid improves in every way from its round shell design to flexible shield that always fits, goggles or not. | A premium helmet at midrange price: advanced composite or full carbon fiber shell, flexible ventilation system, integrated comms, and versatile street + off-road design that doesn't require tools to switch. Long term review here. |
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The sequel to the legendary XD-4 helmet, this lid improves in every way from its round shell design to flexible shield that always fits, goggles or not.
- Quietest ADV helmet
- Removable peak
- Tons of ventilation
- Can use with googles
- DOT and Snell approved
- Heavier than lightweight ADV lids (~1814 g)
- Visor fogs in heavy rain without Pinlock
A premium helmet at midrange price: advanced composite or full carbon fiber shell, flexible ventilation system, integrated comms, and versatile street + off-road design that doesn't require tools to switch. Long term review here.
- Big eyeport
- Lightweight
- Anti-vibration system
- So popular it's often out of stock
