A retro helmet is a motorcycle helmet styled to look like a classic helmet using modern materials and construction. They conform to the latest safety standards, providing vastly improved protection compared to the lids they were inspired by.
Most retro lids are styled after helmets from the 1960s and 1970s era, to match the retro motorcycles the wearers usually ride. However, some, such as the Arai Concept X, use the 1980s era for inspiration.
Vintage-style helmets use shells moulded from polycarbonate, fibreglass composite or carbon, with a modern multi-density EPS liner underneath. They conform to the latest safety standard, currently ECE 22.06 in the UK and Europe. Vintage-inspired helmets come in three configurations:
- Open-face: Leaves the chin and jaw exposed and usually pairs with goggles or a bubble visor.
- Full face: Gives you a chin bar, in a shell shaped to look period rather than aerodynamic.
- Half-Face (Vintage MX style): Borrows from 1970s motocross a long, pointed chin bar and is often seen with a sun peak; they are normally worn with goggles.
Helmets like the Hedon Heroine, Shoei Glamster, Bell Bullitt GT and John Doe One are excellent examples of retro helmets.
