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Gear Review · Helmets
All 13 helmets we've tested and ranked, from budget-friendly trail lids to carbon race-day shells, sorted by rating.
High-End Helmet
The Bell Moto-10 Spherical is a flagship motocross helmet built around Spherical MIPS technology to reduce rotational impact forces. A 3K carbon shell and Thermal Exchange Airflow System make it one of the lightest, best-ventilated high-end dirt bike helmets available.
High-End Helmet
6D's ATR-3 uses 5th-generation Omni-Directional Suspension to manage the low-threshold impacts most linked to concussion, not just headline crash-test numbers. FIM-02 rated and fully rebuildable, it's one of the most advanced motocross helmets on the market.
High-End Helmet
Alpinestars' Supertech S-M10 exceeds the current ECE 22.06 rotational-impact standard by a wide margin, backed by the brand's A-Head fit-adjustment system. This Records LE colorway pairs factory-level motocross helmet protection with genuine limited-edition styling.
Under $350 Pick
The Fox V1 Diffuse Special Edition brings MIPS rotational protection and ECE 22.06/DOT certification to one of the most competitive entry-level motocross helmets on the market. A smart pick for new riders who don't want to compromise on safety tech.
Under $350 Pick
Bell's MX-9 Adventure MIPS crosses over between dirt and street with a removable face shield and Velocity Flow ventilation. A budget-friendly dual-sport helmet with genuine MIPS rotational protection for riders who split time between trail and pavement.
High-End Helmet
Arai's VX-Pro4 is hand-laid from Super Fiber composite around a rounded shell designed to glance off impacts rather than absorb them head-on. A proven pick for motocross and off-road riders who prioritize long-term durability and all-day comfort.
High-End Helmet
Shoei's VFX-EVO pairs its proprietary M.E.D.S. rotational-energy system with a hand-built AIM+ shell for a premium fit and finish. A go-to choice for riders who want SNELL/DOT-rated motocross helmet protection without sacrificing comfort.
Under $350 Pick
Alpinestars' SM5 clears the new ECE 22.06 standard by a wide margin on both linear and rotational impact testing, backed by a five-density EPS liner. The strongest safety-tech-per-dollar helmet in this price bracket.
Under $350 Pick
TLD's SE4 Polyacrylite pairs MIPS brain-rotation protection with the brand's signature graphics and an EPP chin bar, all in a 1,500g shell. A mid-tier motocross helmet that doesn't skimp on style or safety features.
Under $350 Pick
Fly's Formula CP uses RHEON Impact Energy Cells to absorb low-speed linear and rotational impacts most helmets in this price range aren't built to handle. ECE, DOT, and FMVSS218 approved for genuinely broad certification coverage.
Budget Friendly
FXR's Clutch Comp meets ECE 22.06 and DOT standards in a 1,370g polymer alloy shell, with a rear diffuser designed to work with neck braces and a 15-port ventilation system. The most race-ready budget motocross helmet of the three.
Budget Friendly
Thor's Fleet pairs a durable PC/ABS shell with patented ERT (Energy Reduction Technology) to help manage both linear and rotational impact energy, backed by DOT and ECE 22.06 certification. A genuinely budget-friendly motocross helmet that doesn't skip safety tech.
Budget Friendly
O'Neal's 2 Series Glitch delivers DOT and ECE 22-05 certified protection in a lightweight ABS shell for one of the lowest price points in this comparison. A solid entry-level motocross helmet for riders getting started or stocking a second lid.