A little over a decade ago, buying retro motorcycle helmets conforming to modern safety standards was challenging. Nowadays the opposite is true. Numerous helmets, combining vintage looks with contemporary protection, are available to buy.
Riders of café racers and modern classic motorcycles have an overwhelming choice. Cutting through the noise, we’ve created this list of the best retro helmets you can buy in 2024.
Best Retro Motorcycle Helmets 2024 – Full Face Protection
The jarringly anachronistic nature of wearing a modern helmet on a classic or retro bike can make you look like a bit of a plonker. A decade ago as a rider, you had little choice: either clash with your bike’s aesthetics or compromise protection.
Vintage-style lids were non-existent — unless you wore a non-road-legal nostalgia lid or a bonafide vintage brain bucket. That all changed in 2015 with the launch of the Bell Bullitt.
In 2024 there are plenty of retro helmet options from major brands and boutique makers. That’s not even including the imitators.
As essential PPE, helmets are a must (regardless of law). And now as a retro, custom or classic rider, you can select a lid that complements your bike’s style, with modern protection.
So, without further ado, here is Renchlist’s list of the best retro motorcycle helmets for 2024, with a modicum of editor’s bias.
Be sure to check out our guide highlighting purveyors of motorcycle gear inspired by yesteryear.
1. Bell Bullit – From ~ £299 / $279 / €399
It’s only right that this list kicks off with the café racer crash lid that launched the vintage-style helmet segment.
Inspired by a 2011 design concept by Chad Hodges (based on ’60 and ‘70s Bell Star), the Bell Bullitt launched in 2015 to a rapturous response. Since then, it’s encouraged new boutique brands and other major manufacturers to launch their own offerings inspired by the past some of which you’ll see further down this list.
Featuring an ultra-low-profile chin guard, the Bullitt itself fully embraces seventies aesthetics, offering an exceptional space-helmet-like field of vision.
Its removable EPS cheek pads and liner are available in numerous sizes which offers a highly customisable fit. Aside, the liners are washable too, meaning sweat and grim build-up are not an issue for very long… depending on how often you wash them of course.
Regardless of all of that, there are plenty of Bullitt variants within the standard collection which also includes carbon versions that are super-lightweight at 1280 g for the M size (give or take 50 g depending on size). You’ll need to spend close to £500 ($700) for the carbon versions. Although, there are many deals to be had on the 22.05 version with the imminent launch of the 22.06.
The Bullitt is well-ventilated with its three mesh porthole vents at the front and a closable rectangular mesh vent in the chin bar. The always-open portholes keep your head relatively cool in the summer months. However, it can also mean a chilly dome in the winter if you don’t wear a balaclava.
With all the accessories tallied there’s a Bullitt for all tastes. Nonetheless, bona fide café racer riders and retronauts will find this Bullitt paired with the bubble shield visor, particularly appealing. If however, the Bullitt is beyond your budget, several Bell Bullitt alternatives or copycats are available at a lower price. They do very little to hide their inspiration and they’re comparable in features to the Bullitt.
- Head Shape: Round Oval
- Certification: DOT & ECE 22.05
- Shell Sizes: 3 Shell and EPS Sizes – XS, S, M, L, XL & XXL
- Weight: 1.28 kg to 1.4kg
2. Hedon Heroine Racer 2.0 – From ~ £750 / $982 / €890
A favourite of the DGR crowd is the rather more decadent Hedon Heroine Racer which first came to prominence in 2017. The Heroine is very much at the premium end of the segment.
A standard version is nearly twice the cost of the Bell. However, it’s also much quieter than the Bullitt. Regardless this is an apples and pears comparison.
Each Hedon Heroine Racer is handcrafted from a composite fibre shell composed of fibreglass and carbon fibre. As such, it’s a lightweight lid. It’s also fashioned with a low-profile silhouette, synonymous with Hedon design, with a plush padded interior replete with recesses for Bluetooth speakers.
The Racer suffix is the clue to the inspiration behind its classic racing design. Though equally the broad chin guard doesn’t hide the late ’70s influence. The Heroine Racer is exquisitely finished with leather trim and anodised brass found on the nameplate, double d ring and the broad visor screws on either side of the helmet.
Incidentally, the CNC visor screws have been given an upgrade making them lighter. But pertinently, it means the visor now has four lock positions instead of the two found on the MK1. The new screws also address the previously slightly finicky process of swapping out the visor.
Aside from the option to purchase and then combine different visors and hardware, Hedon offers a customisation service. That means seemingly infinite possibilities to create a unique design.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE 22.06 and DOT FMVSS
- Shell Sizes: x3 – S/M, L/XL and XXL/XXXL
- Weight: 1.2 kg to 1.39 kg +/-50 kg depending on shell size
3. Biltwell Gringo S ECE 06 – From ~ £190 / $249 / €259
Only two ventilation holes might be insufficient in hot weather.
For several years the Biltwell Gringo S helmet was road legal only in North America. Modern classic and custom riders in Europe looked on with envy. Not just because of its attractive vintage-inspired proportions but also its highly-attractive price point.
In 2018 however, Biltwell bit the bullet and upgraded to meet ECE 22.05 certification.
Combined with the injection moulded ABS outer shell the Gringo S received thicker EPS shock-absorbing foam in the chin bar. In January 2024 Biltwell subsequently upgraded to the latest ECE standard, 22.06 and with it came cool new colourways.
The Gringo’s inner EPS shell was also reworked for greater impact absorption. All of that makes it suitable for the UK, European and Australian markets.
Ventilation is limited to two holes in the Gringo S so it’s not the best for staying cool on extra hot days. However, the discreet easy snap mechanism on the left side makes cracking the visor open for cooler air easy.
The Gringo is more rugged than the Bell and Hedon. Nonetheless, the diamond-stitched (by hand) padded Lycra interior offers some air of refinement and definitely comfort. Furthermore, it’s removable for easy washing.
Notably, Biltwell visors (from December 2022 onwards) feature PINLOCK® and ProtecTINT™ which guard against fogging and glare respectively.
The Gringo S ECE 06 is available in two lightweight shell sizes covering XS-MD and LG-2XL respectively. It suits riders who prefer a rounder fit — as opposed to an oval. Equally, riders who favour customs over modern classics are likely to prefer this lid. It just seems to align more closely with the built-not-bought ethos echoing Biltwell’s starting point in aftermarket parts.
- Head Shape: Round Oval
- Certification: DOT FMVSS & ECE 22.06
- Shell Sizes: x6 shell from XS to XXL
- Weight: ~ 1.3kg to 1.5 kg
4. Shoei Glamster & Glamster 06 – From ~ £439 / €533
Never has there been a greater travesty in product naming than Shoei Glamster. Clearly, that’s hyperbole. Still, it’s not a great name that belies an otherwise excellently styled café racer lid with superb safety features.
I suppose when a helmet looks this good it can call itself anything it wants (also hyperbole).
Regardless, this neo-classic lid has it all — it combines its early seventies-like outline with all the modern features you would expect to find on contemporary-styled counterparts, minus all the fins and spoilers.
Those features include an E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Quick Release System), an EPS liner with removable cheek pads and a UV-protected visor that’s compatible with Pinlock EVO fog-resistant inserts. All of that is packaged into Shoei’s lauded AIM shell. For this model, there are three shell sizes to help fine-tune the fit.
There is also plenty of ventilation to be found throughout – with additional grooves built into the inner lining to channel cooling.
Sharp (the Department for Transport’s motorcycle helmet testing unit) awarded the original version of this brain bucket 4 out of 5 stars in its impact tests. However, Shoei in March 2023 released an updated version to meet and exceed the latest EU standard, ECE R22-06. It’s likely the Glamster 06 will achieve a similar rating, if not higher.
The Shoei Glamster 06 is for neo-retro riders and those who want super-modern safety features while paying homage to the past.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE 22-06
- Shell Sizes: x3 – (XS-M/ L/ XL-XXL)
- Weight: 1.2 kg to 1.39 kg +/-50 kg depending on shell size
5. DMD Rivale – From ~ £275 / €394
DMD has built a solid reputation with custom and modern-classic riders through its low-profile lids — the Rocket and the Vintage in particular. Both offer classic style, comfort and protection in a multitude of hues and colourways — and, they do it at reasonable price points.
However, the DMD Rivale (which is the brand’s newest full-face offering) is found slightly further upstream at a price point north of £359.
Nineteen seventies motosport is where DMD’s latest head PPE gets its inspiration.
Visually, the tri-composite shell (composed of carbon, fibreglass and kevlar) is somewhere between the Hedon Heroine and Shoei Glamster — although closer to the latter. Undoubtedly, there will be comparisons between the two due to their visual similarities.
Currently, the Rivale is available in two shells: XS-M and L-XL. There’s a noticeable difference in sizing between the two shells when placed side by side. However, generally, the minimalist aesthetic means the larger Rivale is still comparatively low-profile although it’s larger than the DMD Rocket.
Two, always-open horizontal vent ports placed on either side of the chin bar form the basis of ventilation. At the time of writing this helmet is new. As such there’s not a lot of feedback on how effective it is at keeping its interior temperature low.
A smoked visor can be purchased for under £60 to replace the standard pin-closed clear visor that comes in the box.
In typical DMD style, the Rivale is supplied with a comfortable removal and washable interior. It’s available in several graphic-based colourways and solid colours that will appeal to riders who dig seventies moto style.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE 22.06
- Shell Sizes: Two Shells – XS-M, L-XL
- Weight: ~1.2 kg
6. Arai Concept XE (R22-06) – From ~ £459 / €584
Launched slightly before Shoei’s full-face modern-classic offering the Arai Concept XE takes a similar tac to its main rival, the Shoei Glamster 06. So this helmet is full of the same technology you’d expect to find in the brand’s contemporary-styled range. And yet it’s packed into a sleek neo-classic shell with ERS — updated for 2023 to conform to ECE R22-06.
Within the Concept XE, you’ll find the same Special Fibre Laminate shell which absorbs and dissipates impact energy across the whole dome.
We think the Concept XE’s old-school looks are more subtle than other helmets on this list though more apparent from certain angles — particularly the squared-off front grill. To place this lid in time you’ll only have to travel back to the eighties.
The Concept XE’s designers have perfectly captured the retro-futuristic aesthetic of the eighties yet combined it with robust technology.
Ventilation is found in the closable chin vents in the Concept XE’s plastic mesh-like structure at the front. That, combined with the brow-level intake and rear exhaust vent helps control air circulation. As such you can readily regulate the interior temperature.
The Concept XE may lose out to the Shoei in looks, depending on your viewpoint. However, it can certainly match the Glamster in its array of features.
This is one for riders with a penchant for the eighties style bikes… or maybe an XSR900 in the garage.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE R22.06 for the 2023 version
- Shell Sizes: x3 shell sizes – XS-XL
- Weight: ~1.5 kg
7. Simpson Ghost Bandit (US) Venom ECE 06 (UK & Europe) – From ~ £399 / $484 / €469
Simpson helmets are immediately recognisable by their distinct flat angular chin bars.
That makes it relatively difficult to distinguish one Simpson from another if you’re not an aficionado.
For this list, I’ve selected the Simpson Ghost Bandit or Venom as it’s known in the UK and Europe. Originally, designed for NASCAR in the ’70s the Bandit quickly became popular with bikers.
Three horizontal ventilation groves on either side of the chin bar give the Venom a fast and aggressive countenance, echoing Simpson’s racing origins. Ventilation is supported by smaller vents at the top of the dome. Exhaust vents are also found at the rear, top and bottom to aid cooling.
Despite ECE 22.06 upgrades to the Venom, it still retains its distinctive style and benefits from Simpson’s latest composite shell, the Maxx-3C.
With fully removable washable lining, keeping the interior fresh is relatively easy. Opinions are split on whether ventilation is good or not — and equally on noise. That probably means that both are not that bad or the best.
One thing that isn’t in dispute however is the Venom’s 4-out-of -5 star Sharp rating. In the US (tested as the Bandit) it’s been Snell certified to the M2020D standard.
A drop-down sun visor is integrated into the Venom/Ghost Bandit. As such, it stands out in a sea of helmets whose clear visors have to be swapped out for tinted versions on bright days.
Riders who prefer American big-v-twin customs, cruisers and muscle bikes are likely to go for this brain bucket, either in the composite or full carbon fibre shell.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: DOT (Bandit) ECE 22.06 (Venom)
- Shell Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL & XXL
- Weight: ~1.40 kg
8. Roeg Chase Helmet – From ~ £225 / €314
If you’re looking for a simple unadulterated classic helmet, with minimal branding, the Roeg Chase is it. With an entry-level price point, it bucks the stereotype that all vintage-inspired motorcycle helmets are expensive. And, it does that with perfect old-school cool.
Roeg is a fairly no-nonsense brand, so it follows that the Chase is spartan in design — reminiscent of late seventies and early-eighties racing lids.
Its two shell sizes are composed of an RQ light fibreglass material entirely free of adornments including ventilation holes and branding. As such you’ll be hard-pressed to find a cleaner, smother-looking lid that meets European and North American safety standards.
Nonetheless, the lack of vents means only an open visor will introduce airflow into the interior. Speaking of which, the lining is constructed from a multi-density EPS foam that offers a comfortable fit and dynamically absorbs impact. The micro-fleece liner that covers the interior is also removable and washable.
Continuing the theme of minimalism, an understated ROEG logo is discreetly placed on the lower rear lip. That’s something that many riders appreciate. Few wish to be walking adverts or more accurately riding adverts.
Just like the Chase’s design, Roeg has kept the colour options simple: JD Green, Vintage White, Gloss Black and Matte Black.
Riders considering the Gringo S on looks alone will likely find the Chase appealing and vice versa.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE-R 22.05 & DOT
- Shell Sizes: x2 Shells – XS-M & L-XXL
- Weight: ~1.4 kg
If you like the curves of the Bell Bullitt featured on this list but the price point of the Roeg Chase, then these similar budget-friendly lookalikes may be right up your street. Also, be sure to read our guide on things to consider when you’re buying head PPE. Read on for Editor’s picks.
Editor’s Picks: Top 4 Retro Motorcycle Helmets
I own and wear the Hedon Heroine Racer 1.0 and the Bell Bullitt RSD Carbon and I love both for several reasons.
A few of those reasons are: the Bell Bullitt keeps me cooler on warmer days and the field of vision is excellent. However, the plushness and comfort of the Hedon are unsurpassed – plus, it’s nowhere near as noisy as the Bell.
The following are the helmets I would consider, were I to purchase one today:
- Shoei Glamster 06 – for a daily-use lid, as it offers a great combination of looks and protection
- Hedon Heroine Racer 2.0 – for looks and comfort
- Bell Bullitt – for regular urban use because of its field of vision and overall balance of features.
- Roeg Chase – for looks at an affordable price point
So there you have it these four are the best old-school helmets from the above selection. Nonetheless, any of the headgear discussed in this piece will look great on a variety of modern-classic café racers or vintage and custom motorcycles.
More importantly, they offer contemporary protection standards in an attractive vintage-inspired manner… (there’s no excuse not to have both now)!
How Renchlist Evaluated and Selected Helmets on this List
The helmets that appear on this list were selected based on thousands of miles of personal riding experience, coupled with rider feedback and reviews.
All helmets conform to ECE 22.05 or 22.06 for the UK and Europe and DOT FMVSS for North America. Some meet both ECE and DOT standards. Others have been Sharp or Snell tested.
* Keep in mind that only real-world testing and data reveal how well a helmet might perform in a crash. Certification, although increasingly stringent is a minimum standard. DOT relies on self-certification and is less stringent than ECE and SNELL. (The latter is a voluntary certification which is received after testing at a SNELL lab.)
Helmets on Renchlist are assessed using a rubric focusing on four key criteria: Fit & Comfort, Ventilation, Value and Style with a 5-star rating system. This allows us to provide a balanced overview of strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of how we evaluate each criterion:
- Fit & Comfort: We consider how the helmet fits, over long rides. Our reviews reflect its ability to provide a comfortable fit without causing significant pressure points.
- Ventilation: Retro helmets often feature fewer vents to maintain a classic look, which can impact airflow. Our ratings are relative and consider how well each manages ventilation within the constraints of retro design, in varying riding conditions.
- Value: Price is an important factor, especially given that retro helmets can be more costly due to their design and materials. Our evaluations consider whether the cost is justified by the quality, features and authenticity of the design.
- Style & Design: Aesthetics are important and our reviews assess how well each helmet captures the desired vintage look while appealing to modern riders.
Here’s the basic rubric we use to evaluate helmets:
| Criteria | 1 Star (Poor) | 2 Stars (Fair) | 3 Stars (Average) | 4 Stars (Good) | 5 Stars (Excellent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Poor | Fair | Average | Good | Excellent |
| Fit & Comfort | Very uncomfortable with significant fit issues; may cause pressure points. | Some comfort issues with noticeable fit adjustments needed. | Decent comfort with some minor fit issues. | Comfortable fit with minor adjustments needed. | Exceptional fit and comfort; secure and natural feel. |
| Ventilation | Poor ventilation; significant overheating during rides. | Subpar ventilation for a retro design; prone to heat build-up. | Average ventilation typical for retro designs; acceptable airflow. | Good ventilation for a retro; performs well under normal conditions. | Excellent ventilation considering retro design limitations. |
| Value | Not a good value; overpriced considering quality and features. | Overpriced for the quality offered; better options are available. | Reasonable price considering material and production costs. | Fair value; priced competitively for retro styling. | Excellent value; high-quality materials and, or craftmanship justify the cost. |
| Style | Lacks authentic retro styling; poorly executed design. | Basic retro design with limited attention to detail. | Standard retro look; reasonably appealing design. | Well-executed retro design; visually appealing to many riders. | Outstanding retro design; highly appealing and authentic look. |
Idiosyncracies
If you’re buying an old-school-style helmet for the first time, you should be aware of certain idiosyncrasies.
Noise damping is usually less effective, as there’s more open space around the chin bar which allows air to rush in. However, some helmets are supplied with a wind guard.
Old-school-style helmets tend to be more costly than their contemporary counterparts due to the materials used to construct them. (Again, not entirely true for all the helmets you’ll see on this list.)
FAQs
Are Retro Helmets Any Good?
The answer is ‘Yes’. The perception that these retro helmets are all style and no substance isn’t true in 2024. Plenty of classical-style crash buckets score as well in crash tests (and higher) than some of their contemporary-looking motorcycle counterparts.
All that aside, let’s get one thing straight – you’ll have to make a few compromises when you buy a retro helmet. But not as many as you might think and certainly not on safety.
Vintage Style Helmets Buyer’s Guide: 7 Things to Consider
Safety standards, fit and comfort should be your primary considerations when buying any motorcycle helmet. Style, price, finish and features will also, no doubt, factor in your quest to find the perfect helmet.
Nonetheless, we’ve outlined seven things to keep in mind when searching for vintage/retro and cafe racer helmets.
Key Takeaways
Safety Certifications: Look for DOT, ECE, or SNELL certifications as they adhere to rigorous safety standards, ensuring optimum protection.
Perfect Fit: Is crucial for effective protection. Measure your head’s circumference and try various models to find a snug fit.
Comfort Features: Look for adequate padding, ventilation and noise isolation for a comfortable riding experience, especially during long journeys.
Vintage Style and Finish: Explore various vintage styles and finishes that resonate with your aesthetic preferences and complement your riding gear.
Price and Quality Balance: Analyse the cost-quality balance, ensuring your chosen helmet doesn’t compromise on safety for a lower price point.
Additional Features: While old-school lids lean towards minimalist design, some offer modern conveniences like speaker cutouts and anti-fogging visors.
Exploration and Comparison: Explore various brands, read user reviews, and compare models within your budget to make an informed decision.
Read on to delve into each of the seven aspects to consider before buying a helmet.
1. Safety Standards: DOT, ECE and SNELL Certifications
The protection a helmet offers should be a top priority. A key indicator of this is safety certifications like mandated ECE (Economic Commission for Europe), voluntary SNELL or DOT (Department of Transportation).
Each of these certifications sets minimum requirements for construction. They also stipulate how they should perform in a crash.
Crash test performance includes impact absorption, penetration resistance and strap strength, among others.
The SNELL and ECE certifications offer assurance that the helmet will perform to the minimum standards they each set, under crash conditions, potentially saving lives and reducing the severity of injuries.
The ECE updated its certification to ECE 22.06 in 2023 which now incorporates rotational impact testing along with other advanced testing methodologies. The upgrade from the previous ECE 22.05 standard represents a significant leap in safety and means a higher level of protection for riders.
SNELL also updated its standard in 2018 to more closely align with the ECE 22.05 and DOT standards.
The latest standards for SNELL and DOT are M2020 and FMVSS 218 respectively. SNELL is generally considered the more stringent of the two, particularly when it comes to impact attenuation.
SNELL and ECE certifications with visible labels and stickers on the helmet, signify that it has passed rigorous safety tests and meets or even exceeds them. DOT on the other hand relies on a self-certification system with random tests undertaken by the NHTSA yearly.
2. Fit: Maximise Protection
Ensuring a perfect fit is vital when choosing a lid. The size and shape of your head play a significant role here. Most manufacturers create the bulk of their products to fit intermediate oval head shapes, as that is the closest thing to a one-size-fits-all.
That said you should be able to find something that fits your head if it’s more of a round oval or long oval shape — manufacturers also offer different lining and shell sizes.
To find the best fit, measure your head’s circumference at its widest point above your eyebrows and ears. Try on various models to see which one fits best. A well-fitted helmet should feel snug but not too tight and it shouldn’t move around when you shake your head. Besides comfort, a correctly fitted lid offers optimal protection if you go down with your bike.
3. Comfort: Weight, Padding, Ventilation & Noise
While safety is paramount, comfort features should also be considered. Padding inside the helmet ensures comfort during long rides. It should neither be too hard nor too soft and must mould to your head’s contours over time. Ventilation, another key aspect, is crucial for keeping your head cool during warm weather rides. Proper vents in the forehead and chin areas can drastically improve airflow.
Noise isolation plays a significant role in the overall riding experience. A helmet designed to reduce wind and road noise can make for a much quieter, enjoyable ride. Ventilation and noise should be evaluated within the context of retro helmets. If you’re after one that’s quiet you’re probably in the wrong place.
With weight in mind, many retro lids use high-grade lightweight materials so you can expect lighter carbon-fibre models that contribute less to fatigue. Although, you should also anticipate paying a premium for this.
4. Vintage Style: Full-Face but Which Era?
While full-face helmets offer the best protection, they also provide a canvas for many style expressions. Full-face retros vary significantly in style – from those emulating low-profile classic racing lids of the 60s and 70s to minimalist neo-retro designs from motorsport of the 80s.
There is enough variety now within the vintage-style segment that you can find one that suits your specific tastes and complements your bike and riding gear. So take the time to explore the different designs and brands. That’s if you don’t find anything on this particular list that tickles your fancy.
5. Price: Balancing Cost & Quality
When shopping for a retro motorcycle helmet (as with most things) there’s a balance between cost and quality. While it’s true that high-end crash lids often come with top-of-the-line materials and features, not all budget models skimp on quality or safety.
Take time to compare different models within your budget range, checking for necessary safety certifications, user reviews and manufacturer reputation.
While a helmet is a significant investment, remember, that it’s also an investment in your safety and well-being. So, choose wisely and don’t compromise for the sake of saving a few dollars, pounds or spondulicks. Always, buy the best you can afford.
6. Finish: Colour & Graphics
Retro brain buckets are offered in a variety of finishes. Manufacturers are in tune with the aesthetic aspirations of retro, custom and classic riders. As such you’ll find solid colour and graphic finishes to suit your tastes.
Limited edition designs are frequently released by manufacturers. Furthermore, some brands, like Hedon, offer customisation services which means you can create a unique design.
7. Additional Features: What Extras?
Contemporary crash buckets come equipped with an array of features and accessories designed for convenience and enhanced riding experience. These may include built-in sun shields and anti-fogging/scratch visors etc.
Some also offer integrated speakers, camera mounts or even built-in cameras if you want to record your ride.
Vintage-style lids tend to steer clear of most of these features in exchange for a minimalist classic aesthetic. You can nonetheless expect speaker cutouts in the lining of some.
Good Luck!
