The Most Lightweight and Comfortable Motorcycle Helmets

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Comfort and weight are two things that need to be taken into account when shopping for motorcycle helmets. However, the two don’t necessarily have to go together.

Many moderately heavy helmets are comfortable, and several lightweight helmets that can be uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time. This list consists of the most lightweight and comfortable motorcycle helmets on the market, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that shows you some of the features each helmet has to offer, in addition to the price and how each model rated.

Comparison Chart

ProductWeightVisor StyleCostRating
GDM DK-140-MB
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4lbsDual$
Scorpion Exo-ST1400
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3lbsSingle$$$
X-Lite X-1004
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3.8lbsDual$
AGV Sportmodular
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2.85lbsSingle$
Shark Race-R Pro
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5.4lbsSingle$
Arai RX-7V RC
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4.76lbsSingle$$$$
AGV Pista GP-R
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2.97lbs Single$$$$$$
X-Lite X-803
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5lbs Single$$$$
Nolan N100-5
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4lbsSingle$$
Scorpion EXO ADX1
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5lbsSingle$

Here are the top 10 most comfortable motorcycle helmets…

GDM DK-140-MB Duke Series Full Face Motorcycle Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

If you’re looking for an aerodynamic, lightweight, full face helmet, then you’ll love this latest model by GDM. It’s DOT approved and features an aerodynamic shell that’s made out of composite poly-alloy, a type of advanced, durable material. It also comes with two visors, a clear visor for night riding and a smoky visor that’s perfect for riding in bright light conditions.

Pros

  • Two visors
  • Aerodynamic design
  • Made out of composite poly-alloy
  • Low price
  • Removable, washable liner

Cons

  • Visors can be difficult to swap out

Scorpion Exo-ST1400 Carbon Air Touring Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This helmet is very light, weighing in at just three pounds. There is a mechanism inside the helmet, which inflates the padding for the cheeks. This allows the rider to enjoy a custom fit and it’s what makes this model so versatile, since it can accommodate a variety of head shapes and sizes. The integrated visor features a sun screen and works to block harmful UV rays.

Pros

  • The Double-D fastener makes the helmet very secure and stable
  • Interior is shaped to fit glasses
  • Increased airflow makes it a great choice for hot weather
  • Lightweight design

Cons

  • Rider may experience high wind noise
  • Mesh material at the top of the visor is a bit too tight and can apply too much pressure to the face

X-Lite X-1004 Helmet


Our Rating: (5/5)

This helmet is at the top of the 10 most comfortable motorcycle helmets list. It has a dual homologated visor (meaning you can wear it open or closed). It also features UV ray protection as well as three settings for the visor.

The chin guard can be operated with a single hand and has extra space for a microphone if you want to use a Bluetooth headset. The ventilation is also great. The chin vent has a slider that pulls the air directly to the back of the helmet to keep the rider cool and prevent the visor from fogging up.

Pros

  • The chin guard vent allows for great airflow
  • The inner padding allows for maximum comfort
  • The sun visor protects against UV rays.
  • Lightweight
  • Dual visor design

Cons

  • The airflow allows for decreased stability at high speeds

AGV Sportmodular Adjustable Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

At nearly 2.85 pounds, or 1295 grams, this is a pretty light helmet. It’s constructed with carbon fiber and has the same great aerodynamic design as the Pista GP-R helmet. However, it’s much more comfortable because of the thick inner lining.

The cool and warm interior allows you to ride in total comfort. The great ventilation system is one of the helmet’s best features. The carbon fiber construction makes the helmet tough, yet lightweight. The anti-fog coating on the visor also makes it a very functional helmet to wear on misty nights or in humid weather.

Pros

  • The helmet is ECE and DOT approved
  • It has very comfortable padding which fits a variety of heads and faces
  • Excellent airflow
  • Rear spoiler smooths out turbulence

Cons

  • It’s very expensive
  • The rain can sometimes come through the front vent when it’s open
  • The chin bar mechanism has trouble latching shut at times

Shark Race-R Pro Sport Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This helmet by Shark features a glossy finish and plenty of vivid graphics. Apart from its colorful profile, it’s got one of the most comfortable inner linings. The helmet’s lining features anti-bacterial and moisture-wicking properties, so you’ll stay cool and dry in this odorless environment.

There are four air-scoops for air ventilation, and comes complete with an air filter. The 2 top vents and 7 extractors make the airflow even better. There are three settings for the visor including closed, half open and fully open. This helps to improve usability and comfort.

To learn how to protect the glossy finish and avoid damaging the graphics when you’re transporting the helmet, read my article How to Secure your Helmet to Your Motorcycle with a Holder.

Pros

  • Lightweight carbon fiber shell
  • 5 decibels quieter than the standard Race-R Pro in the wind tunnel tests
  • Easy fit glasses system
  • Helmet design works for all types of glasses

Cons

  • Not among the lightest of helmets with a weight of 1250 grams
  • The increased airflow in the helmet sometimes causes turbulence at very high speeds

Arai RX-7V RC Carbon Sport Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This helmet by Arai features a carbon fiber composite shell which helps to disperse energy across the surface of the shell. The diffusers are nearly 20 mm long and the vents offer better than average adjustability due to the triple settings.

Closed, half-open, and open; these settings improve usability, but also decrease noise and water intrusion. The chin bar which is attached to the bottom of the helmet helps to accentuate the egg shape form. Wind is also blocked so that turbulence is avoided, improving airflow thus reducing wind noise further.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Low wind noise
  • Emergency Release System guarantees quick removal of the helmet
  • The antimicrobial lining prevents odor
  • Air-wicking material keeps rider dry
  • Affordable

Cons

  • The visor mechanism can jam at times
  • The side exhaust and neck exhaust can allow in too much air

AGV Sport Helmet Pista GP-R


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This helmet by AGV looks like something out of an old racing almanac. That’s because it’s a pro-quality racing helmet. Made out of carbon fiber, the helmet is available in both medium and large. The ergonomic design improves ventilation and the aerodynamics of the helmet allow for better stability in turbulence.

At just 1295 grams, it’s one of the lightest helmets around and features an impressive, durable design in spite of its lightweight. Not only is it DOT approved and ECE approved, but it also has an anti-fog lens for improved visibility in humid conditions.

Considering the high price tag, you may want to purchase a helmet lock to prevent theft, should you leave your helmet on your bike when you’re out with friends or grabbing a bite to eat. To learn more, click here to read my article on how to lock your helmet to your motorcycle.

Pros

  • Very lightweight
  • Easy to carry
  • Thick inner lining
  • DOT approved

Cons

  • High price tag
  • The Chinstrap can cause chafing
  • The chin bar has a problem latching shut at times
  • The visor mechanism is a little stiff

X-Lite X-803 Ultra Carbon Sport Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This one weighs in at nearly five pounds. However, it has a carbon fiber cap which is much more aerodynamic than past models produced by X-Lite. The inner padding is constructed with active carbon filaments, which provides additional protection upon impact. It’s one of the lightest sports helmets out there.

The chin bar is extended for improved comfort and the larger field of view is due to the ultra-wide visor. It even features a quick-change option. Since it comes with just a single, clear visor for night riding, I recommend purchasing a smoky visor for daytime use.

If you’re not sure how to pick out a visor that’s compatible with this model, click here to read my article on How to Select the Right Visor for Your Motorcycle Helmet.

Pros

  • The double D-ring chinstrap is very useful for stabilizing the helmet
  • The ventilation shafts in the front and back allow for great airflow
  • The carbon fiber design provides top of the line protection
  • The emergency release system allows for quick removal

Cons

  • Noise isolation could be better
  • Heavy traffic requires the use of earplugs

Nolan N100-5 Flip Up Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

The latest version of the Nolan N100-5 is even wider and bigger, to accommodate all head shapes and sizes. It also features an upgraded visor which has 4 different setting options. The activation system button automatically raises the sun visor, which features an anti-fog coating to improve visibility by preventing the visor from fogging up.

The chin bar comes with an impressively durable design that will prevent it from opening upon impact. The helmet comes with a dual homologation certification. All that means is that it’s approved for safety as a full face and open face helmet. It’s also considered one of the most comfortable helmets you can buy.

Pros

  • Adjustable neckroll with an elastic band
  • Low wind noise
  • Ventilation system provides improved airflow
  • Durable chin bar design

Cons

  • There are only 2 shell sizes available
  • Price

Scorpion EXO ADX1 AT950 Helmet


Our Rating: (4.5/5)

The name Scorpion EXO ADX1 AT950 is a mouthful and it comes with a pretty steep price tag. However, its futuristic design makes it worth every penny. It’s got such a great frame. Plus the visor looks like it’s straight out of a video game.

It’s a helmet built for both comfort and safety. It’s also DOT certified in the US and ECE certified in Europe. It’s made of lightweight polycarbonate, so you can ride for hours without experiencing pain or tension. The ventilation system is also excellent, despite the helmet only having a single chin and crown vent.

Pros

  • The internal sun visor provides extra protection from UV rays
  • The slider on the chin vent allows for great control of airflow
  • Lightweight design
  • DOT certified
  • ECE certified

Cons

  • The non-removable chin bar filter makes the helmet a little uncomfortable.
  • Bulky design

Why Does a Helmet Need to Be Lightweight?

Typically, lightweight helmets are the best choices for long rides or for the daily rider. These helmets offer excellent protection from the elements and upon impact, and should feel snug and light on the rider’s head.

If you end up with a heavier helmet, you’ll quickly find that it can have a major impact on your comfort level. A heavy helmet can cause headaches, neck strain, and tension in the face and neck. A lightweight helmet will allow the rider to stay on their bike longer, without neck fatigue, pain, or discomfort.

So, how heavy or light should a helmet be? This can depend on the style of the helmet itself, how many visors it has, and what type of protection it offers. Most riders stick with full-face helmets, since they provide the most protection.

A good, lightweight full-face helmet should weigh three to four pounds. However, some helmets may be slightly heavier if they have a reinforced chin bar or a dual visor design. A heavier helmet doesn’t indicate a lack of quality, but it can have an impact on how comfortable you remain throughout the day, especially if you’re planning a cross country ride with your buddies.

Final Thoughts

This guide on the most lightweight and comfortable motorcycle helmets will help you narrow down your choices to find a helmet that’s designed for all day use, long afternoon rides, and daily riders. Each of these helmets offers top of the line impact protection, and comes loaded with essential safety features, and innovative ventilation systems that can further improve rider comfort. However, they’re also made out of durable, lightweight materials that work to prevent rider fatigue, allowing you to stay on your bike in total comfort, all day long during your next riding adventure.