The best helmet for long rides would be the one that is sturdy, comfortable, lightweight, doesn’t strain your neck, have good ventilation, and good retention. In other words, you are looking for a guardian on the road, and last but not least, it doesn’t burn the hole in your pocket.
Who doesn’t love long drives? Especially the people working 9-5 look forward to long rides the whole year as it’s an ultimate stress buster. But a different breed of people prefers their bikes over cars. They are the hardcore riders.
They have a passion for riding, and my brother himself is also a proud rider. He loves his modified Highness CB 350 (which he brought for long solo rides).
Every other month he is on his bike to some new place for the next 15 days, just to get detoxified from this city and the hectic life of Delhi.
Initially, we were very concerned about his safety (which we still are), but now we know that he takes this seriously and can take good care of himself. To ease our minds, he spent a lot on biking gears. While looking for all those gears, the most difficult one was to choose his helmet, which took quite a bit of digging.
Here’s a picture of him from his Laddakh visit in 2021
So we decided to share our extensive research and experience with others, so they wouldn’t have to go online and spend countless hours researching for the best long ride helmet among 100’s out there.
So first, let’s talk about the importance of helmets. Bikes are basically for people who are adrenalin junkies because if you think about it logically, a car is way safer than a bike when it comes to commuting, be it short or long.
But some people still go for bikes because it gives them a sense of adventure and control, and there is no doubt it’s cheaper than cars, but that’s seldom the reason for choosing it. Also, it’s more effortless to maintain.
The most fundamental and first concern while riding a bike is the safety or protection of the person riding it from any mishap or accident.
In a car, at least you are inside and comparatively safe, but on the bike, one bump and you are down on the ground.
It can be fatal, so we should wear proper biking gear while riding a bike, especially a helmet, to safeguard the most important part, your head or brain.
And that’s where these helmets come into the picture. So let’s go ahead and see how to choose the best long ride helmet for you.
Important factors which dictate the quality of best helmet for long rides:
PROTECTION:
Protection is the first and foremost thing; that’s the main purpose of a helmet.
We need to ensure that the helmet is STURDY and ROBUST, so it doesn’t break easily.
It should be LIGHTWEIGHT, so it doesn’t strain your neck.
The material is the key to these two requirements, and the best helmets are made of carbon or glass fiber.
The next big factor to consider is RETENTION, which means that it should stay on your head in any condition until you remove it yourself, and this is the biggest problem when choosing helmets, which we’ll talk about in a minute.
VISOR:
Visors are another most important thing to be considered when buying a long ride helmet.
It is very important to choose the visor sensibly because a visor can hinder your vision while riding, and you don’t want that to happen.
Here you got plenty of options to choose from according to your riding conditions, like a clear visor, tinted visor, mirrored visor, smoked visor, and dual visor.
A clear visor is the best option for anyone who uses his motorbike for small commuting purposes as it allows maximum light to pass. It is apt for day and night both.
But suppose you are riding for a long distance. In that case, it will strain your eyes with a lot of sunlight.
Hence the preference for long rides is a dual visor, which has clear as well as tinted visors, it looks good, and it protects your eyes during the day and gives you clear vision at night.
And if your budget allows, you can look for added features like anti-fog and anti-scratch.
DEDICATED SPACE FOR HEADGEAR:
I won’t say every rider needs this feature, but many vloggers or YouTubers do all kinds of blogging while riding, so for those people, this particular feature is paramount.
So, suppose you are also among those who love real-time vlogging. In that case, you need helmets where you can easily mount your headset for audio and your camera or GoPro for video, and although it’s not recommended, it still makes taking calls way easier.
HEAD SHAPE AND SIZE:
Everyone has a different shape and size, and it’s very important to be aware of it while purchasing a helmet. The structure of your face and head plays an important role in helmet selection.
The best helmet for long rides is the one that fits like a crown, doesn’t come off by itself, and doesn’t put pressure on the wrong areas. The best helmet fits perfectly.
It will fit on your cheek and make an upward curve when you wear it. Here’s something for your reference:
CUSHIONING:
It is another very important factor to be considered while choosing your helmet. As we discussed earlier, the helmet’s outer layer should be sturdy. Just opposite that, the inner layer should be soft and properly cushioned, so in case of any crash or fatal condition, the inner cushion will be able to absorb a considerable amount of force to save your beautiful face. So always go for good cushioning.
TYPES OF LONG RIDE HELMETS:
There are 5-6 types of helmets:
Full face helmet
These are the best helmets as they protect all your facial features, including your head. It’s suitable for all kinds of bikers out there.
Half helmet
A half-face helmet is almost like a strong cap for your head, it’s 3/4th of the full helmet, and the face here is only covered with the visor. That’s why it is not very safe in case of an accident as your whole face and chin area are exposed.
Modular helmet
A modular helmet is the hybrid version of the full face and the half helmet; in this type, the front of the helmet is adjustable and can be moved up to convert it into the half helmet. The only drawback is that added accessories make it a bit heavier than both versions.
Half shell or Open face helmet
This helmet only covers the head part, and the whole face is open; they might come with a visor till the eyes, as it doesn’t cover the whole face and lower back of the head. It is not recommended for long rides.
Off-road helmets
Off-road helmets are for those who are going off-road like dirt bikers. It prevents dirt or debris from getting on the rider’s face. It is very lightweight and can be used for long rides as they are made with air ducts to keep your head cool.
Dual sport helmet
These helmets are the hybrid version of full-face and off-road helmets and are the most preferred ones by all the pro bikers; they provide the highest level of protection with their built and high speed with their aerodynamic design.
Now let’s talk about a few of the best helmets in 2022:
1. AXOR APEX RACER
Apex Racer is one of the best full-face helmets by Axor, with material that makes it sturdy and light with tons of features. Let’s talk about a few of the special features:
- It has a dual visor for optimal view during both day and night, and it’s anti-fog and scratch-free.
- The helmet’s lining is removable and washable, plus the chinstrap secures the hamlet from falling off with the help of double d ring fasteners.
- Air vents are positioned to maximize the airflow inside the helmet, plus the back spoilers at the back also provide proper ventilation and are removable. A breath guard is also provided
- There are dedicated speaker pockets for communication gear.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| s | 55-56 |
| m | 57-58 |
| l | 59-60 |
| xl | 61-62 |
Certification-ECE & DOT with ISI certification
Weight- 1600 grams
2. STUDDS Drifter D1
Drifter D1 is another great pick in full-face helmets. With a high-impact outer shell, it is injected with the specially engineered high-grade thermoplastic for extra protection. You can rest assured that it will take care of you during any fatal situation. Let’s talk about some of its special features:
- This has a dual visor with a quick-release feature, making it very easy to change the visors, and with silicon coating, making it scratch-resistant, and it maintains good visibility both night and day.
- It has a hypoallergenic liner with microfibers, making it very easy to absorb the sweat. It prevents any allergies to the rider when he has to wear the helmet for extended periods in moist conditions, like rain and heavy sweating. Liners are also replaceable.
- It has a dynamic ventilation system for proper heat dissipation, and the helmet’s aerodynamic design helps reduce drag pressure. The lower trim is removable and replaceable, which considerably increases its shelf life.
- It has the D-ring type fastener, which is easy to operate and helps in helmet retention during any accident.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| xs | 54-56 |
| s | 56-57 |
| m | 57-58 |
| l | 58-60 |
| xl | 60 |
Certification- DOT and ISI certified
Weight- 1450 grams
3. SMK Typhoon Thron
Typhoon Thron by SMK is one of the best helmets in the typhoon range by SMK, and it is made of alloy steel. It is very compact and designed keeping aerodynamics in mind, with a great ventilation system that keeps you cool throughout the ride. Let’s talk about some special features:
- It has dual visors and is scratch-resistant, so don’t worry about scratches even with regular use. It is fog resistant and UV resistant, And in case you want to remove it, this helmet comes with a quick-release visor feature.
- It has a removable and washable liner, which is hypoallergenic and breathable, so the rider doesn’t feel suffocated or exhausted. It also has an antistatic moisture control fabric, making sweat absorption easy.
- It has a channeled exhaust with vents in the chin on top of the head and rear for proper heat dissipation and ventilation.
- Have multi-density EPS (Expanded polystyrene), a type of crushable foam that helps absorb shocks more effectively.
- It comes with a neck roll and reinforced strap with a quick-release feature.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| xs | 54 |
| s | 55 |
| m | 57 |
| l | 59 |
| xl | 61 |
| 2xl | 62 |
| 3xl | 62 |
| 4xl | 65 |
Certification- ECE and ISI certified
Weight- 1600 grams (approx)
4. Steelbird SA-2 Terminator 2.0
As the name suggests, this helmet doesn’t look any less than a terminator, this full-face helmet with aerodynamic design has a very captivating look, made with a high resistant thermoplastic shell, which makes it even sturdier, a few of the other best features are
- This helmet comes with a clear visor, and an extra chrome/rainbow visor with an anti-fog shield holder comes free.
- The interior is lined with breathable padding material, which helps soak up the moisture inside like sweat or moisture on rainy days. The lining is also removable and washable.
- The interior also has a slot for your communication gear.
- It has an aerodynamic design with enough vents for proper ventilation and cooling, it also comes with a neck protector, so there is the least strain on your neck.
- Comes with a chin curtain and quick-release metric micro buckle.
- For ventilation, naca duct ventilation technology is used here.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| 2xs | 49-50 |
| xs | 51-52 |
| s | 53-54 |
| m | 55-56 |
| l | 57-58 |
| xl | 59-60 |
Certification-ECE and ISI certification
Weight- 1200 grams
5. MT Hummer Galant Matt Helmet
This particular helmet here defines what the best Hemet in mid-range should look and feel like; with captivating graphics and sleek design, this makes for a great helmet. It comprises injected polycarbonate material with multi-density EPS for better protection and shock absorption. let’s talk about a few other awesome features
- This helmet got pinlock ready max vision visors with anti-fog inserts, which helps your vision even in foggy conditions.
- It is aerodynamically designed to reduce the drag effect and features a lot of strategically placed vents and spoilers for proper ventilation and heat dissipation even during extreme heat conditions.
- It consists of anti-allergic and highly absorbent fiber material as lining for maximum absorption of any moisture.
- The inner lining is removable and washable and got defined pockets for the communication gear. Got ratchet fasteners for easy operation and good retention.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| 3xs | 49-50 |
| 2xs | 51-52 |
| xs | 53-54 |
| s | 55-56 |
| m | 57-58 |
| l | 59-60 |
| xl | 61-62 |
| 2xl | 63-64 |
certification: ECE, DOT and ISI certified
Weight:1500 grams (approx)
6. Royal Enfield Enduro MLG Camo
In India, Royal Enfield is synonymous with the word bike. Every other biker in India wants to go for this brand, be it bikes, helmets, or biking gears.
It has its niche in the Indian market, so here we are talking about this full-face off-road helmet by Royal Enfield.
- Its outer shell is made of fiberglass, which distributes any impact on any point across the whole surface, which provides way better protection in case of any mishap.
- The inner comfort liner is made of knitting and mesh polyester for better performance and impact absorption, it has high-density EPS, plus the inner lining is removable and washable.
- The visor comes with protective eyewear in off-road style, which gives wider and better visibility.
- There are two static vents with a wide eye, which provides optimal ventilation for the rider In any terrain.
- The helmet comes with an RMEX goggle and nylon chin strap with a cushion for extra comfort.
- Its the lightest helmet in the whole segment
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| xs | 53-54 |
| s | 55-56 |
| m | 57-58 |
| l | 59-60 |
| xl | 61-62 |
Certification- ISI and DOT certified
Weight- 400 grams
7. TVS XPOD
Another top motor company in India has recently launched their Xpod range of premium helmets with state-of-the-art configurations. As they said in their ad that it’s not just the helmet, it’s a world-class experience. Let’s talk about these features.
- It comes with an anti-scratch and fog-resistant clear visor.
- The helmet’s outer shell comprises fiberglass, and the inner lining is made of extended polystyrene embedded with multi-density EPS material for better shock absorption. The lining is also removable and washable.
- The sleek and angular design with aerodynamics reduces drag pressure.
- It also features a chin curtain and has inlet and outlet vents for proper air circulation.
- The Micrometric ratchet allows multiple adjustments in the quick-release strap.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| xs | 53-54 |
| s | 55-56 |
| m | 57-58 |
| l | 59-60 |
| xl | 61-62 |
| 2xl | 63-64 |
certification-DOT and ISI certified
Weight-1920 grams
8. Steelbird Fiberglass Shell Blauer Brat
If you ask my opinion, I am not a fan of open-face helmets, as I don’t want my nose, chin, and jaw to be exposed when I m riding a high-speed open machine like a bike, but still, many riders are very comfortable with the open face helmets, and they feel safe too. So obviously, it’s all about personal preferences. It’s the only open helmet in the whole segment, so let’s go ahead and talk about it
- It comes with an unbreakable and scratch-resistant polycarbonate visor
- The fiberglass outer shell makes it highly durable
- Fabric is used for the inner lining and is replaceable.
- The helmet is made by using balloon molding technology.
- Quick-release buckle is used.
- Has no dedicated place for communication gear.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| 2xs | 49-50 |
| xs | 51-52 |
| s | 53-54 |
| m | 55-56 |
| l | 57-58 |
| xl | 59-60 |
Certification-ECE and ISI certification
Weight- 1200 grams
9. SOL SL-68S II Assault Helmet
Sol is Taiwan based helmets and apparel brand. Sol means “sun” in Latin, and they say it symbolizes the brand is young and passionate. According to Sol, they don’t make helmets. They make guardians for riders. It is one of the best mid-range helmet brands out there with tons of amazing features:
- The outer shell is made of thermo-poly alloy.
- The inner lining is removable and washable. Coolmax material embedded with multiple shells and EPS material. The inner lining has a wicking capacity.
- Features Anti-scratch visor with easy removal and front air deflector directs the breath away from the shield creating anti-fogging.
- There are 18 vents, 10 inlets, and 8 outlet vents for optimal cooling inside.
- D ring latch for easy removal and good retention of the helmet
- Removable cheek pads are given.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| s | 55-56 |
| m | 57-58 |
| l | 59-60 |
| xl | 61-62 |
| 2xl | 63-64 |
Certification-DOT, ECE and ISI certification
Weight-1400 grams (approx)
10. LS2 Helmets-FF352 Rookie Chaser
The idea behind this helmet was higher protection with an easier design. It is made of abs material and is very lightweight, which doesn’t strain your neck, with optimal airflow through ducts. Let’s see key features.
- The visor in this helmet is scratch-resistant, anti-fog, and UV resistant with a quick-release feature.
- The outer shell is made of plastic, and the inner lining is made of expanded polystyrene, which is removable, washable, and hypoallergenic and is embedded with multi-density EPS.
- For optimal ventilation, there is a chin vent, top vent, and exhaust port, which makes airflow smooth.
- Reinforced chin strap with quick release.
SIZE CHART
| SIZE | HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE IN (CM) |
| 3xs | 49-50 |
| 2xs | 51-52 |
| xs | 53-54 |
| s | 55-56 |
| m | 57-58 |
| l | 59-60 |
| xl | 61-62 |
| 2xl | 63-64 |
| 3xl | 65-66 |
| 4xl | 67-68 |
| 5xl | 69-70 |
Certification- ECE and ISI certification
Weight- 1350 grams
Few tips:
- Always wear a helmet no matter the distance.
- The right helmet will always be a bit tight. So please don’t go for loose ones; it’s for your safety.
- Wearing a helmet can save you from any injury as well as from traffic police 😉
- Always measure your head circumference before buying a helmet, and check the chart; if your size is between two sizes, then go for the higher one.
Summary
These helmets were our top picks for the best helmet for long rides after a careful consideration and interviews of various riders across India. We have tried to include helmets from various price ranges and so that there is something for everyone. Which helmet do you use, or do you have any suggestions? Let us know in the comments section. #choosebetter
