Best Full Face Motorcycle Helmets (for the Harley Guys)
Evan Rally
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You might think full-face helmets are just for sportbike riders – I’ve heard it before: they cramp your style, limit your vision, and squeeze your head!
And I get it. There’s something undeniably cool about the open-face freedom. But trust me on this, strapping on a full-face lid can actually enhance your ride in ways you might not expect.
Here are a few things you might not realize about full-face helmets:
- That “open road freedom” feeling? A full-face can actually enhance it. By cutting out wind noise, you can hear your bike better, enjoy your music without blasting it, and arrive at your destination feeling less fatigued.
- Style doesn’t have to take a backseat to safety. Gone are the days of bulky, boring full-face lids. You can find options that perfectly match the look of your cruiser or touring rig.
- Comfort has come a long way. Forget the claustrophobic feeling of old-school full-faces. Modern materials and designs offer incredible ventilation and plush interiors for all-day riding, without breaking your neck under a bowling ball of weight.
Think a full-face helmet isn’t for your kind of riding? Let’s explore some options that might just change your mind. We’re going to look at some of the best full-face helmets out there, focusing on what matters most to riders who love to cruise the open highway in comfort and style.
Ready to ditch the wind in your face and bugs in your teeth? Let’s ride.
Which Full-Face Helmet is Right for Your Ride?
As cruiser riders, we often value a different set of features than someone hitting the track on a sportbike. Comfort for those long, leisurely rides, a wide view to soak in the scenery, and the wind on our face. A look that complements our ride is a given.
Half helmets are a mainstay, but they don’t only lack in safety: they also lack massively in comfort.
I get it, 10 years ago there were no full face helmets that allowed you the same field of view or comfort as a half helmet. Now, a good full face is more comfortable than a half helmet.
And that’s why you’re here. Let’s dive into some top picks that cater to these needs. All of them are available in classic, understated black colorways and some also have a few badass graphic options.
Here are the best full face helmets:
- Shoei RF-1400: The ultimate all-arounder, offering exceptional quietness, comfort, and safety for any type of riding.
- Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS: Packed with premium features like MIPS and a photochromic shield at an unbeatable price point.
- Schuberth C5: The top choice for touring riders who prioritize an incredibly quiet and comfortable experience on long journeys with modular flip up chin bar.
- Arai Quantum X: Specifically designed for riders with round head shapes, providing Arai’s renowned comfort and protection.
Shoei RF-1400: Best All Around
We touched on the quietness and comfort of the Shoei RF-1400, but there’s even more that makes this helmet a fantastic choice. Our correspondent Carl has owned this helmet for almost five years now, and while he rides a Yamaha MT-07, his impressions carry over well to any type of rider. The below data is according to Carl.
The RF-1400 vents are well designed to deliver airflow across the brow, cheeks, and top of the head to keep you cool even when the sun is blazing. And the vents are easy to operate with gloves on.
The shield system is also top-notch. The CWR-F2 shield offers a wide field of vision, so you’ll have excellent peripheral awareness of your surroundings. It also comes standard with a Pinlock insert, which is like having double-pane windows for your helmet, virtually eliminating fogging no matter the weather. The shield mechanism itself is smooth and easy to use, with a secure locking system to prevent unexpected opening at speed.
If you want a visor that transitions with external light, you can pick up a photochromic shield for this lid too.
The interior liner is made from a multi-layer, 3D Max-Dry System II material. What does that mean for you? It’s super comfortable against your skin, wicks away moisture to keep you dry, and is also antimicrobial. Plus, the cheek pads are multi-layered for a snug and supportive fit that won’t get uncomfortable after hours on the road. And get this, the entire liner is removable and washable, so you can keep your helmet feeling fresh ride after ride.
The aerodynamic shape of the RF-1400 isn’t just for looks; it helps to reduce wind resistance and lift, contributing to a more stable and less fatiguing ride, especially on those longer highway stretches.
While it might have a slightly more “sporty” look than some cruiser-specific helmets, its sleek design still looks great on a variety of bikes.
- Staff pick at Revzilla
- Excellent build quality
- Thick noise-sealing cheekpads
- Airtight visor seal
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Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS: Insane Value
If you’re looking for a full-face helmet that offers a ton of bang for your buck, the Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS is a fantastic option. It packs in features you’d typically find on much more expensive helmets, making it a smart choice for riders who want excellent protection and comfort without breaking the bank.
First, it comes packed with a photochromic shield that automatically darkens in sunlight. That usually costs $200+ to add to a helmet, and Bell threw it in the box for you with a helmet that costs just a bit more. These transitions shields are a huge convenience when you’re dealing with spring rains or sunsets.
The inclusion of MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) adds an extra layer of safety by helping to reduce rotational forces in a crash – a big benefit in a street helmet this cheap.
Bell has also designed the Qualifier DLX MIPS with speaker pockets, making it easy to install an intercom system so you can chat with your riding buddies, make a call or listen to music.
While it might not be the absolute quietest helmet on the market, it offers a comfortable fit and good ventilation, making it a solid choice for both shorter cruises and longer tours. Nothing a good set of earplugs won’t solve anyway.
It’s not the most aerodynamic helmet on the market, but if your bike has a windscreen that’s not going to matter as much. You’ll get less buffeting that you get around your naked head anyway! Despite its feature-rich design, the Qualifier DLX MIPS manages to keep its weight reasonable, preventing unnecessary neck strain – as relayed by our contributor Buzz of the Armchair Bikers TV team, who has had multiple neck injuries in the past.
With Mips force-reduction safety tech and a photochromatic visor that changes with the sun, this lid punches way above it's budget weight class.
Our Review: Our contributors at Armchair Bikers TV recently reviewed the Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS – you can read their impressions here.
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Schuberth C5: Best for Touring
If you’re logging serious highway miles (road trip to Sturgis, anyone?) the Schuberth C5 is like a palace for your head. Schuberth somehow nailed a design that reduces wind noise better than most full face helmets, yet also has a modular chin bar that you can flip up at stops to get a breather or take a drink.
The Schuberth C5’s claim to fame is its unparalleled quietness. The shell is constructed from fiberglass reinforced with carbon fiber, resulting in a strong yet relatively lightweight helmet (around 3.8 pounds).
Schuberth’s shell shape technology, developed in their own wind tunnel, includes a refined neck roll, optimized shell shape, and sound-absorbing materials to achieve that remarkably low noise level of 85 dB at 100 km/h on a naked bike. On a cruiser, especially with a windscreen, you can expect an even quieter ride, reducing fatigue and allowing you to fully appreciate your surroundings (and the rumble of your engine).
Ventilation is another area where the C5 excels. It features a dual intake on the chin (both upper and lower sections are adjustable), a large adjustable top vent, and rear exhaust vents. What sets it apart is the inclusion of replaceable filters in the intake vents, keeping dust and insects out of your helmet – a significant benefit for those long rides on varied terrain.
The integrated sun visor offers seamless protection from bright sunlight and can be easily deployed or retracted with a glove-friendly slider. The visor itself is optically correct and provides excellent clarity. The C5 also comes standard with a Pinlock insert for fog-free vision in all weather conditions.
The modular functionality of the C5 is incredibly convenient for touring. The chin bar can be easily opened with a single hand and locks securely in place in both the open and closed positions.
Inside, the lining is made from a soft, breathable, and quick-drying material. Schuberth offers a wide range of sizes and even allows for customization with different cheek pad and headliner thicknesses to ensure a perfect fit for any head shape.
The C5 is also designed with integrated speaker pockets, microphone positioning, and pre-installed antenna for Schuberth’s SC2 communication system (from Sena), although it’s also compatible with other aftermarket options. Finally, the Schuberth C5 exceeds the latest ECE 22.06 safety certification, which no half helmet passes!
While the C5 carries a premium price tag, the investment translates to an unmatched level of quiet, comfort, and innovative features specifically designed for the serious touring rider. It’s an investment in your long-term riding enjoyment over the next 5+ years.
The quietest touring helmet money can buy, kitted out with all the features you expect for those long days in the saddle.
- Modular flip up chin bar
- Drop down sun visor
- Space for integrated comms unit
- Many colorway options
- DOT certified, with ECE in EU
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Arai Quantum X: Best for Round Heads
All of our earlier picks are built with intermediate oval head shapes, the most common in America. However, especially for Latinos and Asians, you may have a more round head shape that just won’t be comfortable in an intermediate oval, no matter what size you get.
You’ll always feel pressure points on the temples, feeling like your head is in a vice grip, with too much room at the front and back.
Not with the Arai Quantum X. In this lid you get a top notch design built for comfort, visibility and safety but fit to round heads.
The Quantum X features Arai’s VAS (Variable Axis System) Max Vision Shield, which provides a wide field of vision and excellent clarity. It’s also Pinlock-ready, ensuring fog-free vision. The shield mechanism is designed for smooth and easy changes.
Inside, the Quantum X features Arai’s FCS (Facial Contour System) cheek pads, which offer excellent support and a comfortable fit that contours to your jawline. The interior liner is made from a high-quality, soft, and breathable material that feels great against your skin. It’s also fully removable and washable. A unique feature of Arai helmets is the inclusion of Peel Away Temple Pads, allowing you to fine-tune the fit even further for maximum comfort.
The shell is constructed using Arai’s Peripherally Belted SNC2 Shell, which is incredibly strong and designed to glance off impacts, reducing the energy transferred to your head. Despite its robust construction, the helmet weighs in at a comfortable weight (around 3.7 pounds).
Ventilation – as on any Arai – is superb, with 5 intake vents and multiple exhaust ports. This system is designed to keep you cool even during slow rides in warm weather. The vents are designed for easy operation with gloves.
Arai’s commitment to handmade quality and meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the Quantum X. While it might not have all the flashy gadgets of some other helmets, its focus on core principles – a comfortable and secure fit, exceptional protection, and quality construction – makes it a standout choice.
Arai helmets tend to be on the pricier side. However, their reputation for quality and longevity often makes them a worthwhile investment.
Arai Quantum-X Helmet delivers premium protection and comfort for riders with a round-oval head shape.
- Snell 2025 and DOT approved for top-tier safety
- Advanced ventilation system for superior airflow
- Removable, odor-resistant liner for a fresh, customized fit
- Premium price may not fit all budgets
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Comparison Table
| Feature | Shoei RF-1400 | Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS | Schuberth C5 | Arai Quantum X |
| Riding Style | Street, Touring, Cruiser | Street, Touring, Cruiser | Touring, Cruiser | Street, Touring, Cruiser |
| Key Feature | Super Quiet | Mips safety liner | Quiet and Modular | Fits Round Heads |
| Safety Rating | DOT, Snell M2020 | DOT | DOT, ECE 22.06 in EU | DOT, Snell 2025 |
| Sun Visor | None (photochromic visor sold separately) | Transitions Photochromic | Integrated | None (photochromic visor sold separately) |
| Noise Level | Excellent | Good | Exceptional | Good |
| Ventilation | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Modular? | No | No | Yes | No |
| Head Shape | Intermediate Oval | Intermediate Oval | Intermediate Oval | Round |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Your Full-Face Helmet Buying Guide: Beyond the Picks
Choosing the right full-face helmet involves more than just picking one from a list. Here are some key factors to consider to ensure you make the best decision for your specific needs and riding style.
Fit is King (and Queen): We can’t stress this enough. A properly fitting helmet is the most crucial aspect of safety and comfort. Just like in our main helmet guide, measure your head accurately and try on several helmets to find the one that feels snug all around without any pressure points. Remember that different brands and models have different internal shapes. What fits one person perfectly might be uncomfortable for another.
Comfort for the Long Haul: If you’re a touring rider, comfort is paramount. Look for helmets with plush liners, good ventilation, and a weight that won’t cause neck fatigue on long rides. Cruiser riders might also prioritize comfort, especially if they enjoy longer day trips.
The Sound of Silence (Almost): Wind noise can be a major source of fatigue. If you value a quiet ride, look for helmets that are specifically designed to minimize noise through aerodynamic shaping, good seals around the visor and neck, and quality internal padding.
Ventilation Matters, Especially in Warmer Climates: Whether you’re cruising through the desert or touring in the summer heat, good ventilation is essential to keep you cool and prevent fogging. Look for helmets with adjustable vents that allow for good airflow.
Style That Speaks to You: While safety and comfort are the top priorities, let’s be honest, style matters too. Luckily, there are plenty of full-face helmets available that offer both protection and a look that complements your bike and personal style. Don’t be afraid to choose a helmet that you actually want to wear.
Safety Certifications Still Apply: Just like any other motorcycle helmet, make sure the full-face helmet you choose meets or exceeds recognized safety standards like DOT and ECE 22.06. Snell certification is also a good indicator of rigorous testing. DOT means almost nothing, since manufacturers can self-certify and the standard only tests top of the head impacts. Keep this in mind when picking your next lid.
Embrace the Full Face
Hopefully, this guide has shown you that full-face helmets aren’t just for one type of rider. They offer significant benefits in terms of safety, comfort, and reduced fatigue for touring, cruiser, and Harley riders as well. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can find a full-face helmet that not only protects you but also enhances your riding experience. So go ahead, ditch the wind and embrace the full face – your head will thank you for it.