Best Scooter Helmets 2025: Stay Safe & Stylish in the City (Open-Face, Modular & More)
Evan Rally
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A few years back, I was riding to work every day on a clunky old scooter with a helmet that felt like a wind tunnel and fogged up the second I stopped. Loved the ride, but man, the helmet made it a pain. That’s when I started looking for lids that actually make the commute better.
If you’re new here, I’m Evan Rally. I ride every day (I don’t own a car), geek out over gear, and know what it’s like to dodge traffic with a double shot of espresso in your system. This guide’s for anyone who wants their ride to work to feel less like a chore and more like the best part of their day.
Quick Note on Scooters: This guide is for riders using motor scooters (think Vespas, Yamaha Zumas, and small-displacement scooters under 300cc).
If you’re zipping around on a stand-up e-scooter (like a Lime, Bird, or Segway), this guide might be overkill, but if you’re curious about real protection and want to upgrade your setup, we’ll go through some open-face helmets in our review that you could also check out.
Here are our top picks for you motor scooter riders:
Classic 
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Rebel 
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Versatile 
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Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields. | A modern, aggressive helmet that seamlessly transforms between full-face and open-face styles. | A lightweight modular helmet with features and build quality (like stainless steel visor components and seamless face shield gasket) of much more expensive lids. |
Iconic style, comfortable fit with 5 shell sizes, and great adaptability for aftermarket shields.
A modern, aggressive helmet that seamlessly transforms between full-face and open-face styles.
A lightweight modular helmet with features and build quality (like stainless steel visor components and seamless face shield gasket) of much more expensive lids.
Now, before we dive into gear picks, let’s bust a few common scooter helmet myths:
- That super-cheap helmet online? It might look the part, but without proper safety certification (we’re talking DOT or ECE 22.06 minimum), it’s offering little more protection than wishful thinking in a spill.
- Open-face freedom feels fantastic, absolutely. But choosing one without a quality face shield or forgetting the importance of eye protection can turn a sunny ride into a squint-fest or leave you dodging bugs and road grit.
- Dropping big bucks doesn’t guarantee the best scooter helmet. For stop-and-go city riding, features like excellent low-speed ventilation and lighter weight often win over fancy carbon shells or extreme aerodynamics meant for the racetrack.
- Function must meet form. Falling for looks alone is easy, but that super stylish lid might block your peripheral vision (critical for spotting city hazards) or lack the comfort features needed for daily wear.
Ready to find a helmet that makes your commute safer and more enjoyable? Let’s dive in.
Open-Face, Modular, or Urban Style? Choosing Your Commuter Lid
Scooter life often means balancing airflow, protection, and pure convenience. Here are the main styles commuters gravitate towards:
- Open-Face (3/4 or Jet Style): Offers maximum airflow, an immersive feel, and easy communication. Often lighter and easier to stash. Great for classic style and hot weather, but provides less facial protection. Bell’s Custom 500 is a go-to for riders who want a lightweight, low-profile ride..
- Modular Helmets: The versatile choice. Full-face protection when closed, open-face convenience when stopped (or sometimes while riding slowly, if P/J certified). Ideal for those who want flexibility. Sedici’s Sistema III stands out for riders who want versatility and value in one lid.
- Urban Style / Convertible Helmets: Unique designs tailored for city life. May include features like ventilation systems built to handle stop-and-go traffic (think oversized intake ports, wide exhaust vents, and airflow channels designed for low-speed cooling) or removable chin bars for ultimate flexibility. Style and function often blend uniquely here. Bell’s Broozer is a prime example.
- Full-Face Helmets (Urban Focus): Maximum protection and weather sealing. Modern designs focus on light weight, wide visibility, and good low-speed airflow to combat feeling closed-in during city riding. Protection and everyday performance align here. HJC’s i10 is a commuter-ready full-face helmet with serious safety chops.
Here are our top picks tailored for the urban scooter:
Best Open-Face Scooter Helmets
Embrace the breeze with style and function.
Open-face helmets are a solid choice for scooter riders who want more airflow, better visibility, and an easier lid to live with day to day.
Whether you’re into classic 3/4 styling or want built-in features like sun shields and comms, these picks balance comfort, protection, and real-world rideability.
I’ve worn a few myself, and the rest come recommended by riders who commute daily.
Sena Surge: Light for the Daily Ride
When you’re riding to work, running errands, or just dodging traffic on two wheels, the Sena Surge feels made for that kind of life. It’s a clean-looking open-face helmet that’s lightweight, surprisingly comfy, and doesn’t overdo it with bells and whistles. It just feels easy. No pressure points, no bulk, no fuss.
It’s got a fiberglass shell, so it’s sturdier and lighter than a lot of budget lids out there. The liner’s soft, easy to pop out and wash, and the whole thing feels breathable even when you’re stuck at a light. The fit feels snug without being tight. You forget you’re wearing it, which is kind of the goal.
The built-in Bluetooth and Mesh Intercom are where this helmet shines. Everything’s integrated. No weird clip-ons or boxes sticking off the side, which keeps the weight down and the look clean. The buttons are easy enough to hit with gloves on, and battery life lasts 20+ hours – long enough that charging isn’t something you’ll stress over too often.
The Catch? Charging it means bringing the whole helmet inside, it doesn’t have a removable battery like some modular setups. And while the comms are solid and simple to use, they’re also non-upgradable, what you get is what you get, so no swapping in future Sena tech down the line.
Silver Lining: For riders who want a clean, wire-free helmet with built-in comms, solid construction, and true daily-rider convenience, the Surge delivers. Especially if you’re part of a scooter crew or frequently riding two-up, that Mesh Intercom is a total game changer for real-time coordination and conversation.
Alternative Option: If you’re looking for more customization or modular upgrades, you might consider pairing a Shoei J-Cruise II with the Sena SRL2 unit. It’s pricier, but gives you flexibility for future tech upgrades and a more plush touring setup.
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
Our Review: Sena Surge is a great pick for riders who want everyday comfort with built-in communication that doesn’t ruin the look. Stay tuned for a full review soon.
Bell Custom 500: The Original Cool
If authentic retro style is your jam, the Bell Custom 500 is the undisputed king. Directly inspired by Bell’s 1954 original, it delivers that timeless 3/4 look favored by classic scooter riders and custom builders alike. It’s elegance through simplicity.
Don’t let the vintage looks fool you; Bell uses modern tech where it counts. A key feature often highlighted is their use of five distinct shell sizes. This means you get a low-profile fit that looks proportional, avoiding the ‘astronaut’ look common with cheaper helmets that use only one or two shell sizes.
The fiberglass composite shell provides certified protection (DOT/ECE – It meets both DOT (US) and the current ECE (Europe) safety standards, meaning you’re street-legal and certified protected whether riding stateside or across the pond), and the quilted liner feels surprisingly plush. It’s noticeably lightweight, adding to the comfort for daily wear. The five snaps allow easy customization with bubble shields, flat shields, or peaks.
The Catch? It’s bare-bones basic: no integrated shields, no vents. Offers zero facial protection in a crash. Expect wind noise and direct exposure to the elements.
Silver Lining: Delivers certified protection with iconic, low-profile styling and a lightweight feel at a very attractive price. Its simplicity is its appeal for many riders.
Alternative Option: If you love the retro vibe but want something a bit more exclusive, check out the Arai Classic V, it’s super lightweight and one of the few open-face helmets that’s Snell M2020 certified. It’s a premium pick for riders who find the Bell Custom 500 a little too mainstream.
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
Our Review: We haven’t done a full deep dive on it yet, but we hope to soon. In the meantime, check out our other helmet reviews on It’s Better On The Road.
Shoei J-Cruise II: Premium Open-Face Commuting
For riders who love the open-face experience but demand premium comfort, features, and refinement, the Shoei J-Cruise II sets the standard. It takes the practicality of a jet helmet and elevates it with Shoei’s renowned quality.
Think of this as the luxury sedan of open-face helmets. The fit and finish are great, with a plush, fully removable liner that makes daily wear a pleasure. Shoei engineered the aerodynamics to be stable and surprisingly quiet (for an open-face), reducing fatigue on longer commutes or faster roads.
The large CJ-2 face shield provides excellent coverage and clarity, sealing well against wind and rain. The integrated QSV-2 sun shield is optically correct, easy to operate, and drops down low. Ventilation is also effective, pulling air through intake and exhaust vents. It’s ready for seamless integration with the Sena SRL/SRL2 comms systems.
The Catch? Premium Shoei price tag, it’s a significant investment for an open-face. While quiet for its type, it won’t match a good full-face.
Silver Lining: Offers comfort, build quality, features (excellent sun shield, comms integration), and refinement in an open-face package. It makes commuting feel effortless and luxurious. For something you’re going to wear every day, it’s comfort you’ll have plenty of opportunities to appreciate.
Alternative Option: The Bell Mag-9 Sena provides many similar features (sun shield, comms readiness) at a much lower price, albeit without the Shoei’s level of refinement or quietness.
Shoei J-Cruise II Helmet offers premium comfort and safety for open-face touring.
- Enhanced ventilation system for superior airflow
- Integrated sun shield for instant glare protection
- Bluetooth-compatible for seamless communication
- Face shield inserts sold separately
Our Review: We’re huge fans of Shoei, and the J-Cruise II is mentioned in our Best Shoei Helmets list – check it out.
Best Modular Scooter Helmets
Flexibility for the stop-and-go city rhythm.
Modular helmets are the ultimate multitaskers for urban riders. They blend the security you want when you’re moving with the easy-access convenience you need for quick stops or interacting with the city around you. That flip-up chin bar makes navigating the daily commute just plain easier.
Let’s dive into the best ones in the market.
Bell SRT Modular: Value-Packed Versatility
Bell is known for bringing solid features to accessible price points. The SRT Modular exemplifies this, offering the convenience of a flip-up design with a robust fiberglass composite shell (a step up from polycarbonate) without the premium cost.
This helmet is a workhorse for commuters who want options. Stuck in traffic and need air? Flip up the chin bar.
Need full protection on a faster section or in bad weather? Snap it down.
The SRT Modular provides this flexibility along with features like an internal drop-down sun shield and speaker pockets for easy comms installation. The Panovision shield offers a wide field of view, crucial for city awareness.
The Catch? Fiberglass makes it lighter than polycarbonate modulars, but it’s still heavier than a comparable full-face. Can be noisy, especially compared to premium modulars like the Shoei Neotec 3. Ventilation is adequate but not outstanding.
Silver Lining: Provides the convenience of a modular design with a protective fiberglass shell, internal sun shield, and comms readiness at a very competitive price point. Great bang-for-buck versatility.
Alternative Option: The HJC i91 offers similar features in a polycarbonate shell, often praised highly for its interior comfort at a comparable or slightly lower price.
The helmet combines touring and commuting features with a lightweight fiberglass composite shell for versatile and comfortable riding.
- Speaker pockets to insert your choice of headset
- Lightweight fiberglass composite shell
- Eyewear-compatible
- No Bluetooth unit included - pick your own
Our Review: The SRT Modular offers impressive value, bringing fiberglass construction to the mid-range modular market. Watch out for our future review notes on It’s Better On The Road.
Sedici Sistema 3: Everyday Commuter Flex
If you’re the kind of rider who wants the best of both worlds – open-face freedom at a stoplight, full-face protection on the move – the Sedici Sistema 3 has your back. It’s a modular lid built with daily riding in mind, especially if you’re clocking miles through city traffic or running errands on two wheels.
The latest version upgrades to a five-layer fiberglass and aramid shell, now in three shell sizes. That means a better fit and less of that oversized look on smaller heads. It’s ECE 22.06 and DOT certified, feels balanced on the head, and has a drop-down sun visor, a thick face shield with solid detents, and speaker pockets if you’re running a comms system. At around 3 lbs 12 oz, it’s not featherlight, but still super manageable for day-to-day riding.
The Catch? Like most modulars, it’s not the quietest lid out there. Totally rideable, just know earplugs are your friend on longer stretches. Ventilation is decent but not amazing, and swapping the shield takes some nail dexterity (or a small tool if you’re fancy). Still, the updates like the new stainless steel locking tab make a real difference.
Silver Lining: It’s a versatile, commuter-ready helmet with legit safety ratings and comfort tweaks that make daily rides smoother. For the price, it’s punching way above its weight.
Alternative Option: If you’re eyeing modulars but want something a bit more premium and quieter, the HJC RPHA 91 (one of the most comfortable lids I’ve ever worn) is a slick step up, though you’ll feel it in your wallet.
A lightweight modular helmet with features and build quality (like stainless steel visor components and seamless face shield gasket) of much more expensive lids.
- Strong & light fiberglass composite shell
- Close fit (5 EPS sizes and 3 shell sizes)
- DOT and ECE safety ratings
- Large speaker pockets
- Pinlock insert sold separately
Our Review: The Sedici Sistema 3 hits a sweet spot for riders who want flexibility without going full luxury. We actually think it’s one of the best helmets out there for the price, check out our roundup The Best Motorcycle Helmets of 2025.
Bell Broozer: Adaptable Aggression
Standing out in the urban landscape, the Bell Broozer brings aggressive streetfighter style combined with unique convertible functionality. What makes it unique is that the chin bar doesn’t flip up, it’s removable – which allows it to function as either a full-face or an open-face helmet, and it’s DOT certified in both configurations.
This helmet is all about attitude and adaptability. The chin bar releases via two simple levers, transforming the look and airflow instantly. This is perfect for commuters facing varied conditions, full protection for faster stretches or bad weather, open-face freedom for hot days or slow traffic.
The drop-down visor works in either mode, providing convenient eye protection. Its unique look is often highlighted as a key reason riders pick up this lid: it’s just different.
It’s reasonably light for a convertible helmet, using a polycarbonate shell. Ventilation is decent, particularly when in open-face mode or with the chin vent open in full-face mode. The fit is generally snug and secure.
The Catch? The removable chin bar might not offer the absolute impact integrity of a one-piece full-face shell. It can be noisy, and the top ventilation isn’t the strongest. The polarizing style isn’t for everyone.
Silver Lining: Offers certified protection in two distinct modes, providing unmatched ventilation flexibility and aggressive urban style from a trusted brand: Bell.
Alternative Option: Scorpion EXO Covert 2 Helmet. If you’re into that modular, transformer-style vibe, this one’s worth a look. It’s got a removable front face mask and a drop-down visor, so you can rock it as an open-face or go full-face when needed.
A versatile, aggressive helmet that seamlessly transforms between full-face and open-face styles.
- Lightweight and durable polycarbonate/ABS shell
- Integrated anti-fog, UV-protected drop-down shield
- Removable chin bar for two-in-one functionality
- Slightly heavier than some other modular helmets at 3.2 lbs
Our Review: The Broozer’s unique design is quite cool. We’re eager to try it ourselves and come back with a review.
Best Full-Face Scooter Helmets
Prioritizing maximum protection for city streets.
When maneuvering through traffic or hitting higher speeds on your daily ride, full-face helmets offer the best protection out there.
These picks are built to handle the chaos of city streets while keeping noise down, comfort up, and your face fully covered. Ideal for scooter commuters who don’t want to compromise on safety.
HJC i10: Daily Commuter Performance with Track-Day Cred
If you’re after a full-face helmet that’s commuter-ready that’s built for daily city riding yet offers serious protection, the HJC i10 brings solid features without the high price tag. It’s the follow-up to the popular CL-17 and a favorite for riders who want comfort, safety, and quiet performance under $150.
You’re getting a polycarbonate shell with two shell sizes and four EPS sizes, so fit stays proportional. At around 3 lbs 9 oz in a medium, it’s light enough for daily wear. Plus, it’s Snell M2020 and DOT certified, which is rare at this price, especially with this kind of airflow and build quality.
The Catch? The airflow system is much improved over the last gen, but it’s still not in Nolan N30-4 territory when it comes to stop-and-go cooling. The noise level is decent, helped by a new gasket and shield seal, but it’s not whisper quiet. And while it’s Pinlock-ready, the insert isn’t included, so you’ll need to pick one up separately if you ride in colder or wetter conditions.
Silver Lining: Great everyday helmet that’s built for the long haul. It fits well, vents well at speed, and has room for comms. For under $150, it’s hard to beat if you want safety, comfort, and a no-fuss design that works for commuting and more.
Alternative Option: If you want a quieter, more premium full-face with built-in Bluetooth support, the Shoei GT-Air III is a big upgrade, though at more than double the price.
Our Review: The i10 is one of the best bang-for-buck helmets out there, especially for riders who mix weekday commutes with weekend rides. We look forward to reviewing it.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Bell Custom 500 | Shoei J-Cruise II | Sena Surge | Bell SRT Modular | Bell Broozer | Sedici Sistema 3 | HJC i10 |
| Type | Open-Face | Open-Face | Open-Face | Modular | Convertible Full/Open | Modular | Full-Face |
| Primary Focus | Style, Budget | Premium Comfort, Safety | Integrated Comms | Value Modular | Style, Versatility | Value Modular, Commuting | Safety, Value |
| Shell Material | Fiberglass Composite | AIM+ Matrix | Fiberglass Composite | Fiberglass Composite | Polycarbonate | Fiberglass/Aramid | Polycarbonate |
| Safety Certs | DOT, ECE available | ECE 22.06, DOT | DOT | DOT, ECE | DOT (Dual Cert) | ECE 22.06, DOT (P/J) | SNELL M2020, DOT |
| Approx. Weight | Very Light (~2.2 lbs) | Medium (~3.5 lbs) | Medium (~3.2 lbs) | Heavy (~3.8 lbs) | Medium (~3.3 lbs) | Heavy (~3.8 lbs) | Medium (~3.7 lbs) |
| Internal Sun Visor? | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (Drop Down Shield) | Yes | No |
| Ventilation Focus | Minimal | Low-High Speed | Low-Mid Speed | Low-Mid Speed | Low-Mid Speed | Low-Mid Speed | Low-Mid Speed |
| Comms Ready? | No | Yes (Sena SRL Specific) | Integrated (Mesh/BT) | Yes (Pockets) | Yes (Pockets) | Yes (Pockets) | Yes (Smart HJC) |
| Price Range | $ | $$$$ | $$$ (with comms) | $$ | $$ | $$ | $ |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Note: Weights are approximate and vary by size/spec. Price ranges are relative.
Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Scooter Helmet
Finding the right lid for your urban commute involves balancing specific needs. Here’s what to focus on:
- Safety Certification (Absolutely Essential): Look for DOT or, even better, ECE 22.06. SNELL (like the HJC i10) adds another layer of rigorous testing. Never use a non-certified helmet, even on a low-speed electric scooter. City hazards are real.
- Fit is #1: A helmet must fit snugly and comfortably. No pressure points, no rocking around. Try it on for 15-20 minutes. A comfy helmet gets worn every time. Remember Bell often uses multiple shell sizes (like the Custom 500) for a better proportional fit.
- Style vs. Protection (The Urban Choice):
- Open-Face: Max airflow, classic style, easy interaction. Least facial protection. Bell offers great options like the Custom 500 (style) and previously mentioned Mag-9 (features).
- Full-Face: Max protection, better in weather. Can feel hotter. Look for good vents and wide viewports (like the HJC i10 or premium AGV K6S).
- Modular/Convertible: Great flexibility (like the Bell SRT Modular or Broozer). Can be heavier/noisier.
- Visibility is Key: You need to see and be seen. Wide peripheral vision is critical in the city. Optically correct visors prevent distortion. An internal sun visor is a massive plus for changing light. Consider brighter helmet colors.
- Ventilation for Stop-and-Go: City riding means less constant airflow. Look for helmets designed for good ventilation even at lower speeds or with large, effective vents.
- Weight = Comfort: Lighter helmets mean less neck strain during daily commutes with lots of head turns and stops. Consider shell material (fiberglass/composites are lighter than polycarbonate, like the Bell SRT vs. cheaper modulars).
- Commuter Conveniences: Easy-to-use buckles (micrometric often preferred), washable liners, speaker pockets or specific comms integration (check compatibility!) all make daily life easier.
- Style Points: Yes, you want it to look good with your scooter! Bell, in particular, offers a wide range of styles from classic (Custom 500) to modern aggressive (Broozer). Just don’t sacrifice safety or fit for looks alone.
Your scooter helmet is your most vital piece of gear for navigating the city safely and comfortably. Choose one with certified protection, ensure a perfect fit, and select the style and features that best match your daily ride.
Scoot safe and enjoy the commute!
