A little over a decade ago, buying retro motorcycle helmets that met modern safety standards was challenging. Now the opposite is true. Numerous helmets combine vintage looks with contemporary protection.
Riders of café racers and modern classic motorcycles have an almost overwhelming choice. Cutting through the noise, we’ve created this list of the best retro helmets you can buy in 2024.
Skip to the list or read about the selection process below. Be sure to check out our guide highlighting purveyors of motorcycle gear inspired by yesteryear.
Best Retro Motorcycle Helmets 2024 – Full Face Protection
Riding a modern classic motorcycle while wearing a contemporary-looking helmet is jarringly anachronistic at worst and incongruous at best. In short, you look like a bit of a plonker. Regardless, around a decade ago that was the only option open to riders of classically styled bikes. Look like a plonker and stay safe or don’t and compromise your safety.
Back then, helmets with yesteryear looks were non-existent. Unless, you were willing to take a risk with an unapproved, nostalgia-inspired creation or an actual vintage motorcycle helmet, you were stuck with a modern helmet that didn’t match your riding gear or your bike.
Anyhow, that all changed with the launch of the Bell Bullitt in 2015.
In 2024 there are a myriad of options when it comes to vintage-inspired brain buckets and café racer helmets. And that’s true, solely considering collections from major manufacturers and well-established boutique helmet workshops.
The selection becomes ginormous when copycats and subpar brands found on several giant online marketplaces are included. But we won’t be discussing any of those here.
As PPE, motorcycle helmets (retro or otherwise) are essential and legally required, depending on where you are in the world. However, if you’re a retro rider, the clean curves and low profiles of old-school helmets offer looks that ALSO complement the aesthetics of your bike.
Regardless, without further ado, in no particular order (but with a modicum of editor’s bias) here are the best retro motorcycle helmets to buy in 2024, with full face protection.
How Renchlist Evaluated the Retro Helmets on this List
The retro helmets that appear on this list were selected based on thousands of miles of personal riding experience, coupled with rider feedback and reviews.
Retro helmets on Renchlist are assessed using a rubric focusing on five key criteria: Protection, Fit & Comfort, Ventilation, Value and Style with a 5-star rating system. This allows us to provide a balanced overview of each helmet’s strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of how we evaluate each criterion:
- Protection: All helmets in our list meet the mandatory ECE 22.05 (pre-January 2024) or ECE 22.06 (2024 onwards) standards for the UK and Europe and DOT FMVSS for North America. We looked beyond these basics, examining any additional safety features or advanced testing certifications, such as ACU Gold, Sharp and Snell. Only full-face helmets with visors and double-d-ring fastening mechanisms from well-recognised brands are featured.
- Fit & Comfort: We consider how each helmet fits, over long rides. Our reviews reflect the helmet’s 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 helmet 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 helmet’s overall quality, features and authenticity of style.
- Style: Aesthetics are crucial for retro helmets, and our reviews assess how well each helmet captures the desired vintage look while appealing to modern riders.
* 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.)
Retro Helmet 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.)
1. Bell Bullit – From ~ £299 / $279 / €399
It’s only right that this list kicks off with the café racer helmet that launched the vintage-style helmet segment.
Inspired by a 2011 design concept by Chad Hodges (based on ’60 and ‘70s Bell Star helmets), the Bell Bullitt launched in 2015 to a rapturous response. Since then, it’s encouraged new boutique helmet brands and other major manufacturers to launch helmets 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 helmet 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
Protection
A favourite of the DGR crowd is the rather more decadent Hedon Heroine Racer which first came to prominence in 2017. This helmet 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 helmet is handcrafted from a composite fibre shell composed of fibreglass and carbon fibre. As such, the Heroine is a lightweight helmet. It’s fashioned with a low-profile silhouette, synonymous with Hedon design, with a plush padded interior replete with recesses for Bluetooth speakers.
The helmet’s moniker 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 helmet. 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 the helmet to achieve 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 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 helmet 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 22.05 & 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 helmet 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 the helmet – 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 for motorcycle helmets, ECE 22-06. It’s likely the Glamster 06 will achieve a similar rating, if not higher.
The Shoei Glamster 06 is the helmet for neo-retro riders and those who want super-modern safety features while paying homage to the past.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE 22.05 (Glamster) & ECE 22-06 (Glamster-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 Helmet – 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 helmets 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 helmet 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 with the helmet.
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 22.05
- Shell Sizes: Two Shells – XS-M, L-XL
- Weight: ~1.2 kg
6. AGV X3000 – From ~ £165 / $379 / €189
AGV, it could be argued, began the popularisation of full-face helmets. MV Agusta’s factory rider Giacomo ‘Ago’ Agostini was the first racer to don the brand’s first full-face creation in 1968.
Since then AGV has become a brand synonymous with excellence in moto crash helmet safety.
In 2018 the brand introduced the full-face AGV X3000. Its silhouette is a painstaking replica of the helmet worn by AGO over 50 years ago.
Designers of the modern helmet have even incorporated a deft cutaway chin into the design. It’s practically identical to the design feature Ago requested back in the sixties. It meant he could tuck closer to the fuel tank thereby improving aerodynamics.
Evidently, great effort has been made to emulate the original. And yet, if you’re thinking this is just a pastiche of an old-school café racer helmet — you’re wrong. The technology fused into the X3000 is thoroughly modern and starkly sets the X3000 apart from the lid that inspired it.
Made from a (1.4 kg) lightweight composite-fibreglass shell available in three sizes it has three EPS liner sizes to help to get a closer fit. That, coupled with a universal shape, means the X3000 should fit most heads.
One prominent feature is the entirely smooth exterior, free from any spoilers as you’d expect. But also it’s missing ventilation holes. They are to be found behind the removable visor seal embedded behind the four-position visor.
The X3000 is hard to resist with its modern tech and true-to-the-past form, particularly for lovers of classic Italian sports bikes.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE 22.05 homologated & DOT
- Shell Sizes: x3 shells with x3 EPS sizes
- Weight: ~1.3 kg – 1.4 kg (depending on the size)
7. Davida Koura – From ~ £304 / €311
Davida is best known for its range of jet open-face helmets. The low-profile Speedster V3 epitomises café racer style.
It’s perhaps surprising then, to learn Davida’s first full-face crash helmet, the Koura, is not only DOT and ECE certified but also ACU gold certified — meaning it can also be used on the track. In keeping with Davida’s design ethos, the Koura is as low profile as possible. The brand claims it’s the “smallest dual standard full face helmet in the world”.
The Koura helmet was developed with the expertise of former Italian MotoGP and F1 helmet designers, more used to taking on briefs for futuristic-looking helmets. And yet, the Koura’s distinct silhouette is clearly based on late-sixties racing helmets.
The shell is available in six sizes in either a GRP composite or carbon fibre version. Both are lined with a three-piece removable, antibacterial fabric interior with leather lining.
That lining is also available in five colours and can be customised with additional cheek inserts for a closer fit meaning a truly custom fit and appearance.
With multiple vents and anti-scratch & anti-fog visors, you shouldn’t overheat or have your vision obscured. Equally, most owners report wind noise to be low.
Out of the helmets on this list, the Davida (oddly) stands out from others in its close adherence to a period-specific aesthetic. More importantly, it manages to do that with safety prioritised. Having said that, it’s yet to see an upgrade to ECE 22.06.
This helmet is for riders inspired by imagery from the halcyon days of the Motorcycle Grand Prix.
- Head Shape: Round Oval
- Certification: ECE 22.05, DOT FMVS 281 & ACU Gold
- Shell Sizes: x6
- Weight: Not Stated
8. 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.
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 helmet 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 helmet 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 temperature of this crash helmet.
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. Get the latest version (ECE R22.06 certified) if you want bang-up-to-date safety standards or the ECE 22.05 (the previous standard) if you’re on a tighter budget.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE 22.05 and ECE R22.06 for the 2023 version
- Shell Sizes: x3 shell sizes – XS-XL
- Weight: ~1.5 kg
9. Nexx X.G100R – From ~£189 / $359 / €253.49
Nexx was a relatively early player in the segment. It chose the eighties as its muse when designing the Nexx XG100R. This helmet is a perfect combination of 1980s racing cool with 21st-century protection.
With its flat visor and prominent chin guard, it looks like something that might have been worn on the track around four decades ago. It also has a thoroughly modern Sharp safety rating of 4 for the ECE 22.05 version. (We’re yet to see a 22.06 upgrade).
Given the brand’s safety rating track record, that’s not surprising. The helmet uses the Nexx X-Matrix composite material for the outer shell of the standard helmet or full carbon for its ultra-lightweight variants.
Inside, you’ll find a comfortable, removable hypoallergenic washable liner, like all other Nexx helmets.
Like the AGV there isn’t a vent port to be found anywhere on the dome. Instead, the XG100R handles ventilation through a vertical chin vent with a closable internal slider.
With just the single vent, the airflow in the helmet isn’t amazing. Nonetheless, the upside is the lack of boreholes coupled with a chin deflector means it’s a relatively quiet helmet.
Within the model range, there’s an excellent mix of bold 1980s finishes from which to choose. They’re balanced with more understated colourways, meaning there’s a variant for most riders.
Aside from its looks and technical features, the starting price points make the XG100R an attractive option for riders inspired by motorsport iconography of the past.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE/22-05, DOT and NBR-7471:2001
- Shell Sizes: Six Shells – XS, S, M, L, XL and 2XL
- Weight: ~1.2 kg to 1.4 kg
10. 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 helmet a fast and aggressive countenance, echoing Simpson’s racing origins. Ventilation is supported by smaller vents at the top of the helmet. 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 helmet 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 helmet 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
11. 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 helmets.
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
12. Blauer 80s – From: £319 / €359.10
Blauer is better known for providing protective outwear to law enforcement agencies. However, that perception somewhat changed several years ago with the launch of Blauer HT (High-Tech) — a range of motorcycle
There are no prizes for guessing which era inspired the Blauer 80s. And, if its name doesn’t make it obvious enough, the tricolour graphics and its rounded block profile should.
The Blauer 80s is the embodiment of the old-school racing aesthetic, yet embraces modern materials in its construction. Its shell is composed of a tri-composite material which includes Dyneema, carbon and aramidic fibre E Epoxy resin.
This is another super minimalist design that doesn’t have ventilation ports. So, the only way to regulate the interior temperature is by lifting the visor. With that in mind, thankfully all Blauer helmets come with a washable interior lining also found in the 80s.
The branding on the front of the helmet is rather prominent. Nonetheless, it fits incredibly well with the early eighties graphic scheme available in five colourways: White, Black Matt, Black/Titanium, Blue and Titanium Matt.
Like the Bell Bullitt, the 80s helmet has an excellent field of vision and similarly some complaints about high wind noise.
Nevertheless, riders who love peak eighties aesthetics will love this helmet.
- Head Shape: Intermediate Oval
- Certification: ECE-22.05
- Shell -Sizes: Three Shells – M, L and XL
- Weight: 1100 gr +/- 50 gr
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 retro helmets may be right up your street. Also, be sure to read our guide on things to consider when you’re buying a retro helmet. 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 a helmet 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 helmets 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)!
FAQs
Are Retro Helmets Any Good?
The answer is ‘Yes’. The perception that these helmets are all style and no substance isn’t true in 2023. There are plenty of classically styled helmets that score as well in crash tests and higher than some contemporary-looking motorcycle helmets.
All that aside, let’s get one thing straight – you’ll have to make a few compromises. But not as many as you might think and not on safety, as you’ll see from the list below.
Nevertheless, to find the right vintage-style helmet to match your motorcycle, concessions on certain functional features may need to be made.
7 Things to Consider When Buying a Retro Motorcycle Helmet
Safety standards, fit and comfort should be your primary considerations when buying any motorcycle helmet, retro or otherwise.
Style, price, finish and features will also, no doubt, factor in your quest to find the perfect helmet. Nonetheless, we’ve outlined the seven things you should prioritise when searching for retro and cafe racer helmets.
Key Takeaways
Safety Certifications: Prioritise helmets with DOT, ECE, or SNELL certifications as they adhere to rigorous safety standards, ensuring optimum protection.
Perfect Fit: A well-fitted helmet 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 retro helmets lean towards a 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.
Retro Helmets Buyer’s Guide: Things to Consider
Below, we’ve outlined the seven things to keep in mind when searching for retro and cafe racer helmets.
1. Safety Standards: DOT, ECE and SNELL Certifications
The protection a helmet offers should be a top priority when shopping for a retro motorcycle helmet. 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 helmet 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 helmet 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 the helmet 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. Helmet Fit: Maximise Protection
Ensuring a perfect fit is vital when choosing a helmet. The size and shape of your head play a significant role here. Most helmet 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 helmets that fit your head if it’s more a round oval or long oval shape.
Helmet 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 helmet 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 helmet offers optimal protection if you go down with your bike.
3. Comfort: Weight, Padding, Ventilation & Noise
While safety is paramount, comfort features in a helmet 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 this style of helmet. If you’re after a quiet helmet 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 helmets of the 60s and 70s to minimalist neo-retro designs from motorsport of the 80s.
There is enough variety now within the vintage-style helmet segment that you can choose a helmet 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 helmets often come with top-of-the-line materials and features, not all budget helmets skimp on quality or safety.
Take time to compare different retro helmet 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, the best helmet you can afford.
6. Finish: Colour & Graphics
Retro brain buckets are offered in a variety of finishes. Manufacturers, of these helmets, are in tune with the aesthetic aspirations of riders of retro, custom and classic machines. 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 helmet design.
7. Additional Features: What Extras?
Contemporary helmets 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 helmets also offer integrated speakers, camera mounts or even built-in cameras if you want to record your ride.
Retro helmets 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 helmets.
