Summer is here, and riders beware – the scorching heat can turn your ride into a nightmare if you’re not properly equipped. Your helmet is one of the most critical elements of your motorcycle gear, and in hot weather, it can make or break your ride.
So what are the perfect Motorcycle Helmets for summer riding? Well, good quality bike helmets for riding under the sun are those that are lightweight, well-ventilated, made from breathable materials, and have moisture-wicking liners.
Moreover, the National Library of Medicine reveals that helmets boasting openings at both the front and rear ends have demonstrated a substantially higher heat flux and evaporative heat dissipation.
Best Hot Weather Motorcycle Helmets – Tested & Compared
We’ve scoured the market and compiled a list of the best hot-weather motorcycle helmets available, so you can focus on enjoying your ride while staying cool and safe.
1. AHR 33HEL010 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet (Editor’s Choice)
AHR 33HEL010 is crafted from ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) , a very impact-resistant shell. Consequently, they can withstand significant forces without cracking or breaking, which is especially important in accident situations. Plus, they offer resistance to high temperatures and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
You will like its built-in double visors. The wide visual field clear visor allows for a larger and clearer field of vision, giving riders an enhanced view of their surroundings. It makes it easier to navigate traffic, spot potential hazards, and pay attention to other vehicles. While the inner sun visor blocks out the sun’s glare, preventing eye strain and fatigue.
Moreover, this unit has cheek pads that can be easily removed and washed, permitting you to keep your helmet fresh and clean. When you ride in summer, you tend to sweat a lot, and this can lead to a buildup of bacteria and unpleasant odors inside your helmet. By using removable and washable cheek pads, you can easily get rid of the sweat buildup and wash them out, leaving your helmet smelling fresh and clean.
AHR 33HEL010 is outfitted with a fully vented EPS liner that lets cool air enter the helmet through the intake vents. While hot air is expelled through the exhaust vents, creating a continuous flow of fresh air. Aside from that, the high density of the EPS liner ensures maximum protection against impacts and collisions, offering a high level of safety for the bikers.
What We Like
- Resistant to scratches and durable even after several drops
- Outside faceshield and inside tinted visor for hot days
- Fits well and the latch system is easy to use
- Vents are useful and work well for ventilation
- Removable visor for cleaning
- Dual visor is convenient for rides at any time of day
- Sturdy face shield that won’t fly off while driving
- Padding is comfortable
- Ratcheting chin strap for easy and precise adjustments
What We Don’t Like
- High wind noise due to lightweight
- Better for city commuting rather than freeway/highway speeds
- Not suitable for serious riders who require adequate protection
2. ILM 902L Full Face Motorcycle Helmet (Best in the Low Budget)
ILM 902L comes with a dual visor configuration. The wind visor at the front and the tinted secondary visor on the inside are game-changers. The wind visor protects you from the wind while the tinted visor shields your eyes from the sun. Plus, the tinted visor is removable, making it easy to clean and replace.
One of the coolest features of this product is the multi-design with an open-face option. You can keep the front face of the helmet closed for maximum protection or use the tab under the helmet to open the front face and get some fresh air. It’s like having a full-face and an open-face helmet all in one.
Furthermore, it employs a nifty quick-release strap that will make your journey so much easier. The oppressive heat can cause a lot of discomforts, and riders often need to remove their helmets frequently to cool off. With a fast-release strap, the headgear can be easily and quickly taken off without the need to fumble with traditional helmet straps.
Moving on to the vents for the front. It has them, and they work like a charm. The vents allow air to flow through the helmet, ensuring that you remain cool and comfortable during long rides. And the best part? You can adjust the vents to control the amount of air that comes through.
ILM 902L is DOT certified with an ABS shell, which means it can handle quite a bit of force in case of a crash. So, if you’re looking for a helmet that’s going to protect your head, this is a good choice.
What We Like
- Great for beginners and city riders
- Comfortable and breathable with a flip-down sun visor
- Modular flip-up chin bar allows for easy access without removing glasses
- Quick release and snap buckle features are convenient
- Great ventilation, best for hot traffic days
- Dark visor is effective in bright daylight
- Good for riding at speeds up to 110kmph
- Light on back adds cool factor and visibility at night
- Comfortable and accommodates speakers without feeling them
- Chin cover blocks air and reduces wind buffering at higher speeds
- Best of both worlds for full-face and half helmet lovers
What We Don’t Like
- Visor may fog up quickly but can be fixed with DIY methods.
- Not well insulated for rainy or windy conditions
- Under-chin cushion may need to be removed to prevent fogging
- Chin strap may not be tight enough even when adjusted to the shortest length
- May require additional rubber seal to eliminate wind noise
3. ILM 953 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
ILM 953 is equipped with an integrated sun visor. This visor can be easily lowered with a single hand, providing instant relief from the sun without having to stop and wear sunglasses. It is anti-fog and anti-scratch, ensuring clear visibility in all conditions.
But what makes it stand out in the competition is its built-in Bluetooth communication system. This system enables the users to connect their smartphones, GPS devices, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices to the helmet, making it easy to stay connected and navigate while on the road. Additionally, the system has a built-in intercom, so you communicate with other motorcyclists who also have Bluetooth helmets.
In addition, they incorporate high-end ventilation, which works to keep wearers cool and comfortable during a hot ride. The system is designed with multiple vents located throughout the helmet and can be adjusted to control the amount of air that enters. It is very useful for those who live in warmer climates or like to ride during the summer months.
As a bonus, its top liner and ear liners can easily be removed and washed to remove any sweat or dirt that may have accumulated over time. This assists the helmet to maintain its freshness and cleanliness in summer when riders are likely to sweat more.
In terms of safety features, the ILM 953 features a quick-release buckle that enables quick removal of the helmet in an emergency. Further, it meets or exceeds DOT and FMVSS-218 safety standards, meaning it has been thoroughly tested and certified to provide a high level of protection in the event of a collision.
What We Like
- Vents do keep a good flow of air on hot days
- Bit noisy on the Highway but can hear music perfectly
- Bluetooth works well and is easy to use
- Speakers are very clear even at high speeds
- Modular Face rises high enough to be comfortable
- Cool features and comfortable to wear
- Built-in flip-down sun visor
- MP3 player has raised button key pad for easy use while riding
- Sturdy, packed with features and technology, battery life is great.
What We Don’t Like
- Visor works well but is a little warped and isn’t clear as the clear visor
- Comfort level may be an issue for some riders
- Neck coverage may sit too high and uncomfortable for some riders
4. ScorpionEXO EXO-AT950 Motorcycle Helmet
ScorpionEXO EXO-AT950 has a large field of view, thanks to its oversized eye-port. With a larger eye port, you can see more of your surroundings, which is especially effective when extreme heat or bright light can cause blurred vision. Furthermore, increased ventilation in the rider’s face allows cooler air to circulate the rider’s face, reducing the buildup of hot sweat.
Additionally, it comes with a handy drop-down sun visor. This visor offers maximum protection from the sun and glare, and can easily be raised or lowered with just the flick of a switch. It is suitable for riders who spend a lot of time riding in bright sunshine.
We love the fact that its shell is made from high-quality polycarbonate which is a good insulator. It can keep your head cool in the winter by reducing heat transfer from the outside to the inside of the helmet. It has excellent UV-blocking properties, which means it can effectively protect your head from harmful sun rays when riding in sunny conditions.
ScorpionEXO EXO-AT950 is outfitted with the innovative KwikWick II liner, whose moisture-wicking properties can pull away sweat and moisture from your skin, keeping your head dry and fresh even in the hottest of conditions. It is easily removable and washable, ensuring your helmet stays pristine and odor-free. Plus, its hypoallergenic and anti-microbial properties safeguard against the formation of harmful bacteria and fungi.
What We Like
- Two exterior vents for ventilation
- Option to replace cheek pads for better fit
- Comfortable and Snug fit for better safety
- Lightweight for a flip face helmet
- Comes with clear visor
- Good for all-around use, including hot and cold weather
- Flip-up face is handy for talking and sneezing
- Sun visor is great for sunny weather
- Easily adjustable for different types of riding
- Well made and provides good protection
- Quieter than MX-style helmets
What We Don’t Like
- Cheek pads may be too thick for some riders
- Limited space for Bluetooth receiver microphone
- Loud at higher speeds
- Face shield can fog up easily
5. YEMA YM-925 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
YEMA YM-925 features an integrated sunglass lens. These lenses are a must-have for anyone who likes to ride motorcycles or ATVs in bright sunlight. Rather than having to wear separate sunglasses, this built-in visor can protect your eyes from the sun while you ride. So now, you won’t have to worry about losing or breaking your sunglasses while out on the road or trail.
Aside from that, it has an EPS inner liner that allows for efficient air circulation and ventilation to prevent the unpleasant build-up of heat and moisture. Furthermore, in summer excessive heat can cause sweat and moisture to build up inside the helmet. Hence, to solve this issue the liner can be easily removed and washed keeping the headgear clean and fresh.
This gadget is equipped with a quick-release buckle that can be very helpful on hot days when riders need to take off their helmets frequently to cool down. It also eliminates the hassle of fumbling with traditional D-ring closures, which can be time-consuming and cumbersome.
Continuing that, the cherry on top is that the buckle reduces the risk of getting tangled in the helmet’s straps, which could prove to be fatal in the event of an unfortunate accident.
YEMA YM-925 possesses a reinforced chin strap that can aid to hold the helmet securely in place, even when you are sweating or biking in high temperatures. Besides that, it can help to prevent the headgear from shifting or moving around while you are riding, which can improve your visibility and overall safety on the road.
What We Like
- Vents are adequate and keep the head cool and dry
- Suitable for daily commuting in varying weather conditions
- Cushioning is plush and very comfortable
- Comes with tinted visor for sunny days and clear visor for night riding
- Minimal wind noise
- Good fit and sizing, even for those with larger head sizes
- Chin flap and quick release chin strap
- Controls can be operated while wearing gloves
- Fits perfectly and is comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
- Has good airflow, making it ideal for hot weather.
- Comfortable, enough space inside for eyeglass wearers
What We Don’t Like
- Tends to fog up initially, but clears up once moving
- Quick release chin strap can be a bit risky if not handled carefully
- Face guard screws come unscrewed easily
- Lower jaw area may be too short for some riders.
- Vent switch on top can create a whistle
6. TRIANGLE Open-Face Motorcycle Helmet
TRIANGLE Open Face 3/4 Helmet contains COOLMAX material fabric that is highly breathable and permits good air circulation and ventilation. A cool and comfortable riding experience is ensured by preventing sweat and heat buildup.
Fortunately, COOLMAX fabric is lightweight and does not add any extra weight to the helmet. Hence, it ensures that the weaver’s head does not feel weighed down or uncomfortable under a scorching sun.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the brilliance of the built-in sunglasses. Now you can get rid of the hassle of fumbling with your sunglasses while wearing a helmet. With just a press of your thumb, the sunglasses are ready for action and deliver top-notch protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
In addition to that, the vents in the front face mask can increase airflow and ventilation within the helmet, which can contribute to cooling the rider’s head and reduce the likelihood of overheating. Further, it minimizes the amount of wind and dust that enters the helmet and as a result, prevents eye irritation and other discomforts.
One of the best things about TRIANGLE is the built-in Bluetooth headset slot. It enables the bikers to communicate with other motorcyclists or passengers without having to remove their helmets and expose their heads to the heat. Additionally, the Bluetooth slot can be used to listen to music, take phone calls, or use GPS navigation without having to take off the helmet.
What We Like
- Great for summer riding in the city or suburbs
- Comes with a boom mic for communication
- Tight fit around mouthpiece but not uncomfortable
- Multi-functional for specific riding weather
- Minimal to no wind noise with clear or shaded lens
- Lightweight and comfortable, even for those who wear glasses
- Drop down 3/4 function for hot weather
- Faceguard and visor are easy to use
- Good ventilation for hot weather
- Minimal Air Force branding
- Comes with a drop-down visor and is convertible to a full helmet
- Removable padding
What We Don’t Like
- Not as stable for highway riding
- May not be ideal for cooler weather when the chin piece is necessary
- Full shield is difficult to raise with one hand and can pop off
- Tinted visor can be difficult to operate with insulated gloves
- Chin bar is slightly too close to the face.
7. 1Storm HB-B89 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
1Storm HB-B89 has a dual-lens design that’s a game-changer for hot-weather bikers. The inner smoked lens reduces glare and protects the eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays, allowing for better visibility and increased comfort while riding in bright sunlight. Moreover, the outer clear shield protects against wind, dust, and other debris without obstructing the rider’s view.
You will like that its padding is designed to be easily removable, which allows you to wash it regularly. In warm weather, sweat accumulates rapidly, causing discomfort and irritation to the skin. By washing the padding frequently, you can maintain a comfortable and refreshing feel of your helmet, even during scorching temperatures.
Furthermore, this helmet contains a thermoplastic alloy shell that provides UV protection and prevents the helmet from fading or cracking due to exposure to the sun. The thermoplastic alloy shell is lightweight, which means that the helmet won’t add any additional weight, so it is comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The 1Storm HB-B89 features a customizable six-ventilation opening system that makes it ideal for those who are sensitive to temperature changes. It includes two adjustable vent switches on the front and two on the top, which together increase airflow through the helmet. Users can also control the amount of airflow entering the helmet so that it doesn’t get too hot or too cold.
What We Like
- Breathable, great for hot weather riding
- Modular aspect and flip down visor are handy features
- Built-in sun visor is a big plus
- Easy to clean removable padding
- DOT approved
- Great starter helmet to learn preferences before upgrading
- Flip down shades are convenient
- Fits perfectly and comfortably on the head
- Good visibility and largely excellent comfort
- Well ventilated for hot weather use
- open concept for better airflow
- Easy to use modular aspect
What We Don’t Like
- Shades can be rough to pull out and push in
- Sizing may run small, order a size larger than normal
- Helmet can be loud at higher speeds
8. Martian HG362 Modular Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
Martian HG362 is manufactured in a way that it meets and exceeds DOT standards so you should not worry about your head protection when wearing it. These standards include impact resistance, penetration resistance, retention system strength, and field of vision.
Another great thing about this unit is that it is outfitted with an inner smoked lens, also known as a sunglass lens to safeguard your eyes from bright sunlight. Biking in summer can be very tiring, and the bright sunlight can cause eye strain. To resolve this problem, these lenses will minimize the amount of light entering your eyes, making it easier to focus and reducing the strain on your eyes.
In addition to that, it has been coated with UV protective paint to shield it from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. Over time, exposure to the sun can cause your headgear to fade, crack, or deteriorate. So this UV finish assists to prevent deterioration from happening and ensures that the helmet remains in good condition for longer.
Martian HG362 is designed with Six ventilation opening systems to deliver uninterrupted airflow to your helmet and prevent a lot of sweat-related problems like discomfort, fatigue, and even heatstroke. With its strategically placed ventilation openings, air circulates freely throughout it eliminating the dreaded heat buildup and keeping you cool and collected even in the hottest of weather.
What We Like
- Iridium inner visor is a nice feature
- Comfortable fit with minimal wind noise
- Visors work well with clear and sun options
- Quiet chin strap and Bluetooth attachment for phone/music
- Good airflow and comfortable fit
- Good for protecting against falls
- Secure windscreen that snaps shut
- Comfortable for long rides
- No distortion in visors
- Modular with inner face shield
- Perfect fit and comfortable for glasses wearers
- Ratchet chin strap is awesome
- Hidden sunglass visor works great for cutting glare
- Allows for drinking water without removing the helmet
What We Don’t Like
- May cause hotspots on intermediate or oval head shapes
- Sun visor may not stay completely hidden when up
- Slightly heavier than other helmets
- Noisy, but this seems to be common for modular helmets
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Hot Weather Motorcycle Helmets
Riding a motorcycle on a hot summer day can be both exhilarating and exhausting. To make the ride more comfortable, it’s important to choose the right hot-weather motorcycle helmet. Here are some things to consider when buying this product:
1. Ventilation
When it comes to riding a motorcycle during hot weather, it’s important to stay cool and comfortable. One of the most important factors in achieving this is ventilation. A good ventilation system will allow for air to flow through the helmet, keeping the rider cool and reducing the buildup of sweat.
This is important because sweat can make the rider uncomfortable and can cause the helmet to become slippery, which can be dangerous. Additionally, a hot and uncomfortable rider is more likely to become fatigued and distracted, which can lead to accidents.
2. Moisture-wicking lining
Moisture-wicking lining is a type of feature that is designed to pull moisture away from your skin and keep you dry. This is even more crucial in hot conditions, where sweat can build up quickly and cause discomfort. By keeping you dry, it can protect you from skin irritation, rashes, and other problems associated with excessive sweating.
Another benefit of this lining is that it minimizes the growth of bacteria and odors. When sweat and moisture accumulate in a helmet’s lining, it can create an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. With a moisture-wicking lining, however, riders can enjoy a fresher, more hygienic riding experience.
Some of the typical Moisture-wicking linings used by famous hot-weather motorcyclist brands are:
Coolmax: Coolmax is made from a polyester fabric that has a unique cross-sectional design that helps to wick away sweat from the skin and evaporate it quickly.
Dri-Lex: Dri-Lex draws moisture away from the skin and disperses it quickly to the outer surface of the helmet for evaporation. It is composed of a blend of synthetic fibers and natural materials, that are known for their high-wicking properties.
KwikWick: KwikWick is engineered to be soft and comfortable against the biker’s skin. It is crafted from a microfiber material that is highly absorbent and quick-drying, which aids in maintaining the motorcyclist’s head dry and cool.
Other kinds may include materials such as merino wool, Gore-Tex, Outlast, or X-Static. These are crafted to deliver exceptional moisture-wicking capabilities while also presenting additional advantages like antimicrobial properties, odor management, or amplified longevity.
3. Shield or visor
Riders often put a lot of thought into the outer shell and the padding inside the helmet. However, one crucial aspect that is often overlooked is the shield or visor. In the summer, a high-quality shield or visor can make all the difference in terms of comfort, safety, and visibility.
It can prevent sun glare and UV rays from penetrating the helmet. When riding in hot weather, the sun can be intense and cause a lot of glare, which can affect the rider’s vision and lead to accidents.
Plus the visor can protect the user’s face from debris and insects. When riding, debris such as rocks and bugs can fly up and hit the motorist in the face, causing injury or distraction. A shield or visor provides a barrier between the rider’s face and the outside world, stopping these types of incidents from occurring.
4. Material
The right material can make all the difference in keeping you cool and cozy on your ride, while also providing adequate protection. Look for helmets that are constructed from materials that are strong, durable, and impact-resistant. This means that the helmet should be able to withstand the force of a crash and protect the rider’s head from injury.
However, you have to be careful in this matter as the wrong ill-suited apparel can leave you feeling hot and sweaty and doesn’t give the adequate protection. For example, it’s highly recommended to avoid flimsy, low-quality plastic helmets with only one EPS liner as they fail to withstand the harsh impact of actual accidents.
5. Fitting
With regards to riding in the summer, motorcycle helmets with poor fitting can cause several problems. For example, a helmet that is too loose can allow hot air to enter, reducing the effectiveness of vents and making the rider feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, a helmet that is too tight can be suffocating, causing the rider to feel hot and cramped.
Hence, a properly fitting helmet ensures that the headgear stays in place and doesn’t shift or move around while you are riding. Secondly, a well-fitted helmet guarantees that there are no pressure points on your head, which can cause discomfort and pain.
6. Other specs
Other than the above-mentioned factors you should also look for the DOT certification in the helmet you buy. This tells that the product has undergone rigorous testing to ensure that they offer adequate protection against impact, penetration, and retention.
Furthermore, you should consider Bluetooth compatibility to stay connected while riding. It will permit you to listen to music, make and receive calls, and even communicate with other riders using intercom systems.
Verdict!
To conclude, you should be careful when choosing a motorcycle helmet for summer. Choosing the wrong visor can lead to devastating consequences, such as heatstroke, dehydration, and impaired vision.
After reviewing several choices, it is evident that the AHR 33HEL010 full-face motorcycle helmet emerged as a top-performing product. With its cutting-edge ABS shell, dual visors, and fully vented EPS liner, it leaves nothing to be desired.
However, for those who are budget-conscious, the ILM 902L is an equally compelling option. It boasts an open-face alternative, a snappy-release strap, and a shaded sun visor to protect your eyes from piercing rays.
