Types of Motorcycle Helmets
Types of Motorcycle Helmets
Explore our full range of motorcycle helmet styles to find the perfect fit for your riding needs — then shop the brands that build each type.
- Full Face Helmets The most protective helmet style, fully enclosing your head with a fixed chin bar and face shield. Ideal for street, sport, and track riders who want maximum impact coverage, aerodynamics, and wind-noise reduction at speed. Shop by brand: HJC· Scorpion· Bell· Arai· Shoei· Icon· Daytona· AGV· Z1R· Sena
- Modular Helmets Also called flip-up helmets, modulars have a hinged chin bar that lifts away, letting you switch between full-face protection and open-face convenience. A touring and adventure favorite for talking, fueling, or cooling off without removing the helmet. Shop by brand: HJC· Shoei· Daytona· Scorpion· Sena· Z1R· Bell
- Dual Sport Helmets Engineered for riders who split time between pavement and trails. Dual sport helmets pair a full-face shell with an off-road-style peak visor and generous venting, usually with a flip-down shield for the highway and goggle clearance for the dirt. Shop by brand: Scorpion· Arai· Bell· Shoei· HJC· Sena
- Open Face Helmets Also known as 3/4 helmets, open-face designs cover the top, back, and sides of your head while leaving the face exposed. Popular with cruiser, scooter, and cafe riders for their classic look, airflow, and wide-open visibility. Shop by brand: Daytona· Bell· HJC· Arai· Shoei· Scorpion· Z1R· Sena
- Half Helmets The most minimal street-legal style, covering the top of the head for a lightweight, low-profile feel. A staple for cruiser and custom riders who want maximum airflow and a stripped-down look, often with snap-on visors or sun peaks. Shop by brand: Daytona· HJC· Bell· Z1R· Sena
- Off Road Helmets Built for dirt, motocross, and enduro riding. Off-road helmets use an extended chin bar, sun peak, and a wide eye port for goggles, with aggressive ventilation to keep you cool during high-exertion riding. Designed to pair with goggles rather than a shield. Shop by brand: HJC· Bell· Shoei· Arai· Daytona
- Bluetooth Helmets Helmets with Bluetooth communication built right in, so you can take calls, hear turn-by-turn directions, and talk rider-to-rider without bolting on an external unit. A clean, wire-free setup for connected touring and commuting. Shop by brand: Sena· Daytona
Helmet Parts & Fitment
- Shields & Pinlock InsertsFind the exact replacement face shield and anti-fog Pinlock insert for your helmet model.
- Cheek Pads & LinersDial in your fit (thicker tightens, thinner loosens) or refresh your helmet’s interior padding.
- Helmet Size ChartsMeasure your head and confirm the right size before you buy.
- How to Choose a Motorcycle HelmetNew to helmets? Our buying guide walks you through types, fit, safety ratings, and features.
Helmet Types FAQ
What are the different types of motorcycle helmets?
There are six main types: full face (the most coverage), modular flip-up, dual sport, open face or 3/4, half helmets, and off-road. Many models in each style are also available with built-in Bluetooth communication.
Which type of motorcycle helmet is the safest?
Full face helmets offer the most protection because they are the only style with a fixed chin bar that covers your jaw and face. Modular helmets come close when latched and certified for chin-bar protection.
What is the difference between a modular and a full face helmet?
A full face helmet has a fixed chin bar, while a modular helmet's chin bar flips up so you can open the front without taking the helmet off. Full face is lighter and quieter; modular is more convenient for touring and stops.
What is the difference between dual sport and off-road helmets?
Dual sport helmets are street-legal with a flip-down shield plus clearance for goggles, made for mixed on- and off-road riding. Off-road or motocross helmets are lighter, vent more, have no shield, and are designed to be worn with goggles.
Are half helmets safe and legal?
Half helmets cover only the top of the head, so they provide the least protection of any style. DOT-approved half helmets are street-legal in most areas, but always check your local laws and the certification label.
What is a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet?
It is a helmet with a communication system built in, letting you take calls, hear GPS directions, and talk rider-to-rider without bolting on a separate intercom unit.