Long Oval Helmets That Fix the Fit Problem in 2025
Evan Rally
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Ever try on a helmet that your buddy swears by, only to feel like it’s trying to crush your forehead? That’s the long oval struggle. The size might be right on paper, but the shape? Totally wrong. And that pressure point? It’ll ruin a ride fast.
For years, the advice was garbage. “Go up a size” or “it’ll break in.” Yeah, no. That just makes it loose in all the wrong places, and that hot spot never goes away.
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These days, though, the tide is turning. A few helmet makers have actually stepped up and started designing for riders with longer head shapes. No hacks, no compromises, just proper fit.
This guide pulls together the ones that do. No forehead crushing. No guesswork. Just helmets that feel right so you can get back to doing what you love—riding.
The Top Picks for Long Oval Helmets
If you’re tired of trial-and-error, start here. These helmets are consistently praised for their true long oval fit and excellent performance across different riding styles.
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The gold standard for long oval fits. Legendary Arai comfort, top-tier protection (Snell certified), and premium build quality make this the go-to for street and touring riders. | Offers the convenience of a modular design with a long oval internal shape. A feature-packed, comfortable, and affordable option for commuting and touring. | Aggressive design, bold visuals, and a long oval-friendly interior make this a top choice for urban riders who want to stand out without sacrificing comfort or ventilation. |
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The gold standard for long oval fits. Legendary Arai comfort, top-tier protection (Snell certified), and premium build quality make this the go-to for street and touring riders.
- Tailored long‑oval interior eliminates forehead hotspots
- Lightweight shell reduces rider fatigue on long rides
- Excellent airflow keeps riders cool in traffic and heat
- Snell M2020 and DOT safety with customizable padding
- Vent-heavy design can create noticeable wind noise
- Face-shield latch may be stiff with gloves on
Offers the convenience of a modular design with a long oval internal shape. A feature-packed, comfortable, and affordable option for commuting and touring.
- Tailored oval fit that relieves forehead pressure
- Lightweight fiberglass shell eases neck fatigue
- Wide Panovision shield improves visibility
- Integrated sun visor reduces glare fast
- Speaker pockets simplify Bluetooth installs
- Noticeable wind noise at highway speeds
- Ventilation decent but not top-tier airflow
Aggressive design, bold visuals, and a long oval-friendly interior make this a top choice for urban riders who want to stand out without sacrificing comfort or ventilation.
- Flute-style shield offers massive field of view
- Excellent airflow keeps head cool, even in heat
- Deep sun visor adds instant glare protection
- Removable speaker pockets for easy comms setup
- Striking graphics that spark conversations
- Slightly heavier than average, which may affect comfort on longer rides.
- Higher wind noise levels compared to some competitors.
- Visor may be prone to scratching if not handled carefully.
Common Myths About Helmet Fit & Head Shape
Don’t fall for bad advice when it comes to finding the right helmet. Let’s bust a few myths.
“Any helmet will eventually break in to fit my head.” False. While comfort padding will compress slightly over time, the EPS foam liner—the part responsible for impact absorption and the primary factor in a helmet’s shape—will not change. If a helmet puts pressure on your forehead from day one, it’s the wrong shape, and it will always be painful.
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“If you have a long head, just buy the next size up.” This is dangerous advice. A helmet that’s too large may solve the forehead pressure but will be loose side-to-side. In a crash, a loose helmet can shift or even come off, rendering it useless. A proper fit is snug all around.
“All helmets from the same brand fit the same.” Not always true. While brands tend to stick to their primary fit shape (e.g., Arai for different shapes, Shoei for intermediate oval), they can have variations between models. A touring helmet might have a slightly different internal shape than a brand’s race helmet. Always check the fit for each specific model.
“A little pressure on the forehead is normal for a new helmet.” A little snugness on your cheeks is normal and desired, as cheek pads break in. However, distinct pressure on your forehead (or the back of your head) is a tell-tale sign that the helmet shape is wrong for you. It will not get better; it will only lead to headaches.
Best Long Oval Helmets That End the Headache
These are our detailed recommendations for helmets proven to work for riders with long oval heads, chosen for their fit, safety, and performance in their respective categories. And for a broader view, don’t forget to check our main Best Motorcycle Helmets article.
Arai Signet-X Helmet
If you’ve got a long oval head and nothing seems to fit right, the Arai Signet-X is likely the helmet you’ve been searching for. It’s one of the few helmets purpose-built for longer front-to-back head shapes—no stretching, no hot spots, just a fit that actually works out of the box.
This is Arai doing what Arai does best: premium safety, high-end comfort, and serious attention to detail. The Signet-X uses their PB-SCLC shell, designed to redirect impact forces with its smooth, rounded shape. Inside, the multi-density EPS liner works with that shell to absorb energy exactly where it needs to.
Where the Signet-X really shines is in the fit and comfort. Riders consistently rave about the customizable interior, both the cheek pads and crown liner can be fine-tuned by peeling away 5mm layers. It’s snug in the right way, with zero pressure points after break-in. Ventilation is solid for long rides, and the wide field of vision is a bonus whether you’re lane-splitting or cruising backroads.
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It’s also one of the few helmets with both DOT and Snell M2020 certifications, giving it serious cred in the safety department. If you’re a long oval rider looking for a premium touring or all-day street lid with no compromises, the Signet-X continues to set the bar.
The Catch? Premium Arai quality comes with a very premium price tag. The ventilation system, while effective, uses multiple small pods that can be fiddly to operate with gloves compared to simpler systems. It’s also generally not as quiet as a Shoei or Schuberth.
The Silver Lining: A true long oval fit that eliminates forehead pressure. Superb comfort, exceptional build quality, and top-tier Snell-rated protection from a legendary brand.
Alternative Option: While few helmets are as dedicated to the long oval shape, some riders find the fit of the AGV K6 S Helmet to be accommodating, though it’s an intermediate oval.
Purpose-built for long‑oval heads, the Arai Signet‑X delivers exceptional comfort, top-tier Snell-rated protection, and robust ventilation—all without pressure points or fit compromises.
- Tailored long‑oval interior eliminates forehead hotspots
- Lightweight shell reduces rider fatigue on long rides
- Excellent airflow keeps riders cool in traffic and heat
- Snell M2020 and DOT safety with customizable padding
- Vent-heavy design can create noticeable wind noise
- Face-shield latch may be stiff with gloves on
Our Rating 4.9/5: The Arai Signet-X gets the fit right where most helmets don’t, it’s purpose-built for long oval heads, with no pressure points and no need for adjustment. The interior feels plush yet precise, the ventilation works even in stop-and-go heat, and the overall construction is unmistakably premium.
Bell SRT Modular Helmet
Finding a modular helmet that actually fits a long oval head comfortably is a pain, but the Bell SRT Modular nails it. It’s got that rare combo of a decent internal shape, solid construction, and no-nonsense functionality all without costing a fortune. The shell is made of fiberglass composite (not cheap plastic like some entry-level lids), so the weight stays manageable for a modular, right around 3 pounds 14 ounces. It’s not ultra-light, but it doesn’t feel like a brick on your head either. Once you’re on the road, it wears really balanced and doesn’t bounce around or strain your neck.
One of the best parts is the drop-down sun visor and wide field of view from the Panovision face shield. It’s optically correct and drops all the way past your nose, no annoying halfway line like some others. The vents are simple but effective, with decent airflow through the chin and top vents and out the rear. You get built-in speaker pockets (so no DIY carving if you’re installing a Sena or Cardo), plus it’s comfy with glasses and the liner’s fully removable and washable. It’s DOT certified too, so no worries about protection on the street.
Honestly, for the $300 to $350 range, it punches above its weight. It’s not as whisper-quiet as something like a Schuberth, and the sun visor slider could be better placed if you’re adding a Bluetooth unit, but none of that’s a dealbreaker. If you’re doing longer rides, daily commuting, or just want a modular that doesn’t suck for a longer head shape, the Bell SRT Modular is a solid pick.
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The Catch? It’s not as quiet or aerodynamically refined as premium modulars from brands like Schuberth. The overall fit and finish, while good, doesn’t match the top-tier helmets.
The Silver Lining: Excellent value for a fiberglass modular helmet with a true long oval fit. The convenience of the flip-up design and internal sun shield is a huge plus for daily use.
Alternative Option: While modulars are often intermediate oval, some riders have luck with certain HJC models. For a step up in quality and quietness, a Schuberth C5 with customized padding can work for some, but the Bell is a safer bet for a true long oval shape.
A versatile, well-balanced flip-up helmet offering long-oval friendly fit, clear optics, and dependable airflow—ideal for commuters and sport-touring riders.
- Tailored oval fit that relieves forehead pressure
- Lightweight fiberglass shell eases neck fatigue
- Wide Panovision shield improves visibility
- Integrated sun visor reduces glare fast
- Speaker pockets simplify Bluetooth installs
- Noticeable wind noise at highway speeds
- Ventilation decent but not top-tier airflow
Our Rating 4.4/5: The Bell SRT Modular delivers versatility at a price that’s hard to beat. The long oval fit is secure and well-balanced, the flip-up mechanism is smooth and solid, and the interior feels more refined than expected at this tier. Practical, comfortable, and loaded with value.
Icon Airflite Helmet
If you want a helmet that turns heads at every stoplight and actually fits a long oval head without a fight, the Icon Airflite is a strong contender. It’s known for its aggressive, futuristic styling, but what really surprises most riders is how comfortable and secure the fit is, especially for those of us who don’t fall into the typical intermediate-oval crowd. The internal shape leans longer, which means you get all that radical style without pressure points or forehead pain after an hour on the bike.
The Fliteshield™ is a standout feature, not just because it looks wild, but because it drops down lower than most face shields, giving you a massive vertical field of view. It’s great for peripheral vision and for keeping your head up while riding in a tuck or forward-leaning position. Add in the internal Dropshield™ sun visor and the huge array of available tints and colors, and it’s hard to find another helmet this customizable without jumping into a much higher price tier. The polycarbonate shell keeps things affordable while still meeting DOT and ECE safety standards, so you’re not trading style for safety.
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Ventilation is also solid, with a huge chin vent, multiple intakes up top, and rear exhaust ports to keep air flowing through. It’s not the quietest helmet out there, but for urban rides, summer blasts, or just standing out at bike night, the Airflite checks a lot of boxes. For the full breakdown including sizing notes, visor swaps, and more, check out the full review here: Icon Airflite Review. It’s a bold lid that backs up the look with legit comfort and everyday performance.
The Catch? The aggressive design can lead to more wind noise at highway speeds compared to conventional touring helmets. The unique shield shape means shield changes can be a bit more involved.
The Silver Lining: A true long oval fit in a helmet with standout style. The massive viewport provides an incredible field of vision, and the features-for-price are excellent.
Alternative Option: For a different style of full-face with a known long oval fit, the Arai Signet-X is the premium pick, focusing more on touring comfort than aggressive style.
Affordable, aggressive helmet that comes in more graphic options than we can count. Great look for sportbike riders.
- Flute-style shield offers massive field of view
- Excellent airflow keeps head cool, even in heat
- Deep sun visor adds instant glare protection
- Removable speaker pockets for easy comms setup
- Striking graphics that spark conversations
- Slightly heavier than average, which may affect comfort on longer rides.
- Higher wind noise levels compared to some competitors.
- Visor may be prone to scratching if not handled carefully.
Our Rating 4.5/5: The Icon Airflite is the perfect helmet for long oval riders who refuse to be boring. It combines a great fit with bold looks, a great field of view, and practical features.
These LS2s are listed as Long Oval by retailers like RevZilla, but LS2 USA officially classifies them as Intermediate Oval. So why include them in a long oval roundup? Because rider reports consistently indicate that these helmets fit longer front-to-back than most intermediate ovals, particularly within the open-face category, where shape distinctions tend to be less pronounced.
While they may not offer a true long oval profile in the strictest sense, they’ve worked well for many riders with longer head shapes. Their inclusion here reflects both their fit performance and the limited options available in this segment. That said, if you’re especially sensitive to forehead pressure, it’s worth testing the fit in person before committing.
LS2 Subverter Evo Helmet
LS2’s Subverter Evo is a purpose-built off-road helmet aimed at motocross riders and aggressive trail users, and it brings a surprisingly refined fit for long oval heads, a rarity in the dirt world. The shell is made from Kinetic Polymer Alloy, which keeps weight low without sacrificing impact resistance. At around 1300 grams, it’s lighter than many premium options and feels nimble during extended riding sessions.
Ventilation is where the Subverter Evo sets itself apart. Its massive vent system channels airflow better than most helmets in this price range, making it a standout for warm weather and high-exertion rides. You also get a wide eyeport that fits modern goggles with no fuss, and the overall visibility is excellent. Fit is snug but comfortable, and while it doesn’t have fully customizable padding like some high-end race lids, the internal shape works well for riders who find most helmets too round.
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With DOT and ECE certification, goggle compatibility, and top-tier airflow, the Subverter Evo checks all the right boxes for riders who want solid protection and comfort off-road. It’s not feature-rich in the touring sense, but for trail junkies and weekend warriors with longer head shapes, it’s one of the best dirt helmets under $300. Shopping on a tighter budget but still want solid protection and fit? Head over to our Best Budget Motorcycle Helmets guide for picks under $200.
The Catch? As a pure off-road helmet, it’s not suitable for street riding (noisy, no face shield, not aerodynamic for high speeds). The aggressive venting might let in a lot of cold air on cooler days.
The Silver Lining: Excellent ventilation for intense riding. A comfortable long oval fit in an off-road package. Certified protection at a very competitive price.
Alternative Option: Some riders with long oval heads have also found a good fit in certain Bell MX helmets, like the Bell Moto-9S Flex, which offers premium safety features.
A high-flow motocross helmet offering excellent ventilation, advanced impact management (AREM/EQRS), and long‑oval comfort—all at a competitive mid‑range price.
- Great airflow keeps head cool during intense rides
- Advanced rotational energy management for added safety
- Three shell sizes for better fit and reduced weight
- Generous eyeport fits goggles easily
- Vent-heavy design creates noticeable wind noise
- Light-color liner stains easily after heavy use
Our Rating 4.3/5: The LS2 Subverter Evo nails the essentials for aggressive off-road riding, massive airflow, lightweight construction, and a long oval fit that stays comfortable for hours. It punches well above its price point in ventilation and impact protection, making it a smart pick for serious trail and MX use.
LS2 Rebellion Helmet
For cruiser and V-twin riders looking for a half helmet that works with a longer head shape, the LS2 Rebellion is worth a serious look. While LS2 USA officially classifies it as intermediate oval, many riders with long oval heads report a surprisingly comfortable fit, especially compared to the typically round profiles common in the half helmet category. It’s not a guaranteed match for extreme long ovals, but it offers enough front-to-back room to be a viable option where few others exist.
The Rebellion features LS2’s Twin Shield System, a drop-down sun visor that’s glove-friendly and helps manage bright or changing light without needing sunglasses. The lightweight shell keeps fatigue low and meets DOT certification, offering baseline street-legal protection in a minimalist package.
Like all half helmets, protection is limited, but the Rebellion delivers solid comfort, clean styling, and better-than-average fit for riders who usually struggle in this category. If you want that open-face freedom without pressure points on your forehead, this helmet is one of the few half-shells that might actually work.
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The Catch? It’s a half helmet, which means it offers minimal protection compared to full-face or even open-face designs. Wind noise and weather exposure are significant.
The Silver Lining: A true long oval fit in a half helmet style. The drop-down sun shield is a very convenient feature not found on all helmets in this category. Very lightweight.
Alternative Option: If you’re after a full-face upgrade with a true long oval fit, the Icon Airframe Pro Carbon 4tress delivers lightweight carbon construction, aggressive styling, and serious ventilation. It’s not a cruiser lid like the LS2 Rebellion, but for long oval riders seeking more protection, it’s a standout pick.
The LS2 Rebellion is a lightweight half helmet featuring a drop-down sun visor, excellent ventilation, and Bluetooth readiness.
- Lightweight Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) shell (approx. 2.1 lbs)
- Comfortable, moisture-wicking liner
- Adjustable top vent for airflow
- Sun visor optics could be clearer
- Limited color options
- Ventilation may be less effective at lower speeds
Our Rating 4.5/5: The LS2 Rebellion delivers where most half helmets fall short, fit and function. The long oval shape sits comfortably without shifting, and the drop-down sun shield adds utility without bulk. For those committed to the half helmet style, it gets the job done right.
If you’re leaning toward classic or throwback looks but still need a good fit, don’t miss our roundup of the Best Retro Motorcycle Helmets, we cover options that work for different head shapes too.
LS2 Verso Helmet
The LS2 Verso is a strong contender for riders seeking a 3/4 helmet with long oval-friendly ergonomics, especially in a market where most open-face options skew round. While LS2 USA officially classifies it as intermediate oval, many riders report that the Verso fits noticeably longer front-to-back than typical intermediate helmets. It’s not a perfect match for extreme long ovals, but for those who find most 3/4 helmets too short in the forehead, the Verso offers a surprisingly comfortable fit.
This helmet hits a practical sweet spot between openness and protection. The optically correct face shield drops well below the chin, providing excellent wind and weather coverage without losing the open-face feel. Built with LS2’s Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA), the shell is lightweight and well-balanced, ideal for commuting, scooter riding, or light touring.
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With features like a drop-down sun visor, multi-port ventilation, and a removable hypoallergenic liner, the Verso punches above its weight class. If you’re after a breezy, low-profile helmet that offers more coverage than a half-shell, without sacrificing comfort for longer head shapes, the Verso is a smart, budget-friendly choice.
The Catch? As a 3/4 helmet, it does not offer chin protection in an impact. The large face shield can sometimes create more wind noise than a well-sealed full-face helmet.
The Silver Lining: A great long oval fit combined with excellent facial protection from wind and debris. Feature-packed with two shields and good ventilation for a very reasonable price.
Alternative Option: For a more classic open-face style without the integrated full face shield, the Bell Custom 500 is a timeless choice, though its fit is more intermediate-to-round.
A lightweight, versatile 3/4 helmet offering excellent ventilation, clear optics, and breathable comfort—perfect for urban commuting, touring, or scooter riding.
- Lightweight shell reduces neck fatigue
- Twin-shield system with rotary sun visor—easy with gloves
- Optically correct face shield resists fog and scratches
- Effective flow-through vents keep air moving
- Quiet and stable at speed thanks to vortex design
- Sun visor auto-retracts when lifting face shield
- Accessory peak not always included or fitted easily
Our Rating 4.2/5: The LS2 Verso combines long oval comfort with smart, commuter-friendly features. The open-face design offers excellent visibility, the integrated sun visor adds convenience, and the fit feels dialed-in from the start. Ideal for city riding with no compromises on comfort.
Comparison Table: Best Long Oval Helmets
| Feature | Arai Signet-X | Bell SRT Modular | Icon Airflite | LS2 Subverter Evo | LS2 Rebellion | LS2 Verso |
| Primary Use | Street (Premium Touring) | Street/Touring (Modular) | Street (Aggressive Style) | Off-Road / MX | Cruiser (Half Helmet) | Urban/Commuting (Open-Face) |
| Shell Material | PB-cLc2 Complex Laminate | Fiberglass Composite | Polycarbonate | Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) | High-Pressure Thermoplastic (HPTT) | Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) |
| Weight (Approx.) | ~3.6 lbs / 1630g | ~3.8 lbs / 1725g | ~3.7 lbs / 1680g | ~3.0 lbs / 1360g | ~2.2 lbs / 1000g | ~3.0 lbs / 1360g |
| Internal Sun Visor | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Safety Certs | DOT & Snell M2020R | DOT | DOT & ECE | DOT & ECE | DOT | DOT & ECE |
| Price Range | $$$$$ | $$$ | $$ | $$ | $ | $ |
| Get One | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Long Oval Helmet
Finding the right long oval helmet is a game-changer. Here’s how to narrow down your choice:
Confirm Your Head Shape: Before anything else, confirm you have a long oval head. Use the string or tailor’s tape method described in our Helmet Sizing Guide. A long oval head is noticeably longer from front to back than it is side to side.
The Fit Test: When you try on a long oval helmet, it should feel evenly snug all around your head.
- No Forehead Pressure: This is the #1 sign of a correct fit. If you feel a distinct pressure point on your forehead, it’s not right.
- No Side-to-Side Wobble: If the helmet fits your forehead but you can easily rock it from side to side, the internal shape might still not be perfect, or you may need to adjust padding.
- Cheek Pads: They should be firm against your cheeks, pushing them up slightly like a chipmunk. They will break in over time.
Prioritize Safety: Look for DOT certification as a minimum. ECE 22.06 and Snell M2020R are more rigorous standards that indicate a higher level of testing and protection. Don’t compromise here.
Choose for Your Riding Style: After ensuring a proper fit, pick a helmet with features that suit your needs. Do you need the convenience of a modular chin bar? The airflow of an off-road helmet? The quiet aerodynamics of a touring helmet? Or integrated tech for commuting and calls? Check out our picks for the Best Bluetooth Helmets if communication and audio are part of your ride.
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Consider Weight: A lighter helmet can significantly improve comfort on long rides by reducing neck strain. Premium materials like fiberglass, composite, or carbon fiber usually result in a lighter, stronger shell than polycarbonate.
Don’t Forget the Details: Look for features like a good quality, removable liner for washing, an effective anti-fog solution for the visor (like a Pinlock insert), and good ventilation you can operate with gloves on.
FAQ: Long Oval Helmets
Got questions about long oval helmets? You’re not alone. Head shape is one of the most overlooked factors when choosing a helmet, and long oval riders face unique issues that aren’t always addressed in standard size charts. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions to help you figure out if you have a long oval head, and what to do about it.
How do I know for sure if I have a long oval head?
The best way is to have a friend take a picture of the top of your head from above. If the shape is clearly more elongated front-to-back than it is wide, you likely have a long oval head. You can also get professionally measured at a good gear shop.
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What happens if I wear a more common “intermediate oval” helmet?
You will most likely experience a painful pressure point, or “hot spot,” on your forehead. This happens because your head is longer than the helmet’s internal shape, causing it to press hard at the front. It can become excruciatingly painful after just 15-20 minutes of riding.
Can I modify an intermediate oval helmet to fit my long oval head?
No. Absolutely not. You should never compress, cut, or alter the protective EPS foam liner of a helmet. Doing so destroys its structural integrity and its ability to protect you in a crash. The only acceptable modification is swapping out official manufacturer-provided comfort liners or cheek pads of different thicknesses.
Are long oval helmets harder to find?
They used to be, but it’s gotten much better. While the majority of helmets on the market are intermediate oval, more brands like Arai, Bell, Icon, and LS2 are specifically designing and marketing models for the long oval shape.
Wrapping Up…
Finding a helmet that actually fits shouldn’t be a source of pain or frustration. For riders with long oval heads, choosing a model specifically designed for your shape is a game-changer. It’s the difference between ending a ride early with a throbbing headache and comfortably logging miles all day long.
Use this guide to zero in on helmets that match both your head shape and your riding style, and invest in the comfort and protection you deserve.
If you’re also navigating women-specific sizing or design features, check out our Best Women’s Motorcycle Helmets guide for more tailored recommendations.
Ride smarter. Ride longer. And most importantly, ride your way.
