Motocross riders need proper safety equipment, and motocross helmets are a crucial piece. These helmets provide protection to the rider's head and lower the chances of head injuries. In the United States, many brands offer motocross helmets, each with distinct safety features and technologies. This post discusses the safety features of motocross helmets and lists the top brands based on safety standards, performance, and customer reviews.

Motocross helmets prioritize safety by using advanced technology to safeguard riders during accidents. The following safety features are commonly found in these helmets:

Motocross Helmet Elements:

Shell Material: These helmets have an outer shell made of durable, lightweight materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, or Kevlar, which absorb and distribute impact forces, lessening the risk of head injuries.  

Impact-Absorbing Liner: The inner liner is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam or similar material, which can absorb impact energy, thereby reducing the force of the impact on the rider's head.

Ventilation System: Good ventilation in a motocross helmet helps keep the rider cool and comfortable, even during intense and hot riding conditions. Additionally, it reduces sweat buildup inside the helmet, which can be uncomfortable and distracting.

Visor: The visor on a motocross helmet protects the rider's face from debris, like rocks and dirt, and reduces glare from the sun.

Strap System: The strap system holds the helmet in place and prevents it from coming off during impact. It should be adjustable and fit snugly under the chin.

Padding: The padding inside the helmet offers a comfortable fit and absorbs moisture, preventing sweat from getting into the rider's eyes.

Testing and Certification of Motocross Helmets in the USA

In the United States, motocross helmets are tested and certified by two primary organizations: the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Snell Memorial Foundation. The DOT is a federal agency that sets safety standards for helmets sold in the United States, while the Snell Memorial Foundation is a non-profit organization that conducts independent testing and certification of helmets.

DOT Certification for Motocross Helmets 

DOT stands for the Department of Transportation and is a federal agency responsible for regulating the safety of all motor vehicles and equipment, including motocross helmets. DOT-certified helmets must meet specific safety standards, including impact resistance, penetration resistance, retention system strength, and peripheral vision requirements.

The DOT certification process involves impact testing of the helmet at various speeds and angles. The helmet must meet certain impact attenuation standards and also have a secure strap system that keeps the helmet on the rider's head during an impact. The DOT certification label is usually found on the back of the helmet and indicates that the helmet meets or exceeds the DOT safety standards.

Snell Certification for Motocross Helmets 

Snell stands for the Snell Memorial Foundation, a non-profit organization that was founded in 1957 after the death of Pete Snell, a sports car racer who died in a crash due to a helmet failure. Snell-certified helmets undergo more rigorous testing than DOT-certified helmets, including impact tests at higher speeds and in multiple directions. Snell-certified helmets must also meet more strict requirements for impact energy absorption and retention system strength.

The Snell certification process is more rigorous than the DOT certification process and involves impact testing at higher speeds and with more angles. The Snell certification also tests for penetration resistance, shell strength, and retention system effectiveness. Helmets that pass the Snell certification process are deemed to provide superior protection to the rider. The Snell certification label is usually found inside the helmet and indicates that the helmet meets or exceeds the Snell safety standards.

While both DOT and Snell certification provide a level of assurance that a helmet meets certain safety standards, it is important to note that Snell certification does not necessarily mean that a helmet is better than a DOT-certified helmet. The two certifications simply have different testing standards and requirements, and riders should choose a helmet based on their specific needs and preferences.

It is essential to note that not all motocross helmets are certified by DOT or Snell and a brand may have a certified helmet in one model but not another. Riders should always look for a certification label or sticker on the helmet to ensure that it meets certain safety standards.

Testing and Certification of Motocross Helmets Outside of the USA

ECE: This is the Standard set by the Economic Commission for Europe. This multinational standard is used by most European nations. 

FIM: This is the newest standard for motorcycle helmets for use in professional motorcycle racing. The FIM test standards are set by FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE DE MOTOCYCLISME (FIM) which is the world body that sanctions global professional motorcycle racing.

SHARP: is a motorcycle helmet rating system established by the Government of the United Kingdom. The British Government wanted to create a performance rating system for motorcycle helmets with the goal of improving motorcycle safety on public roads in Britain.

The top-rated Motocross Helmets in the USA are:

Based on safety standards, performance, and customer reviews, the top brands of motocross helmets available in the USA are 6D, Fox, Troy Lee Designs, Bell, Shoei, and Arai. They offer a range of options that provide excellent safety and performance while also catering to individual preferences and needs.

6D ATR-2: This brand is relatively new to the market but has gained a reputation for innovative safety technology. 6D Helmets use a unique system of multiple EPS liners called the Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS) designed to absorb impact energy from various directions, thereby reducing the risk of head injuries. 6D Helmets use advanced materials like a carbon fiber composite shell and a Coolmax interior liner that wicks away moisture and keeps the rider cool. 6D Helmets are DOT and Snell certified and are available in different sizes and styles.

Bell Moto-9 Flex - This helmet is one of the most popular and well-reviewed motocross helmets on the market. It is known for its superior protection, ventilation, and comfort.

Fox Racing V3: Fox racing gear is a popular brand in the motocross helmet market and is known for its stylish designs and advanced safety features. Fox Helmets use a dual-density EPS liner that absorbs impact energy and a lightweight fiberglass shell that provides maximum protection for the rider. Additionally, they feature a MIPS slip-plane liner that reduces rotational forces on the brain during impact. Fox Helmets also feature a ventilation system that keeps the rider cool and comfortable during hot and intense riding conditions, as well as a visor that protects the rider's face from debris. Fox Helmets are DOT certified and are available in a range of sizes and styles to fit any riderThe Fox Racing V3 is a high-end motocross helmet that has received excellent reviews for its advanced safety features, comfortable fit, and exceptional ventilation.

Shoei VFX-EVO - The Shoei VFX-EVO is a top-rated motocross helmet that has earned high marks for its lightweight construction, excellent ventilation, and superior safety features.

Arai VX-Pro4 - The Arai VX-Pro4 is a top-of-the-line motocross helmet that has received excellent reviews for its superior safety features, comfortable fit, and advanced ventilation system.

Troy Lee Designs Helmets: Troy Lee Designs is a popular brand in the motocross helmet market and is known for its high-quality construction and attention to detail. Troy Lee Designs Helmets use a dual-density EPS liner that absorbs impact energy and a lightweight carbon fiber shell that provides maximum protection for the rider. Troy Lee Designs Helmets also feature a ventilation system that keeps the rider cool and comfortable during hot and intense riding conditions, as well as a visor that protects the rider's face from debris. Troy Lee Designs Helmets are DOT certified and are available in a range of sizes and styles to fit any rider.

Please keep in mind that ranking can vary depending on individual preferences and specific needs. It is always essential to choose a helmet that fits well, is comfortable, and provides the necessary protection for your riding style and environment.

In addition to wearing a high-quality helmet, riders should also prioritize safety in all aspects of their motocross activities, including wearing proper protective gear, following safety guidelines, and participating in training programs to improve their skills and knowledge. With a commitment to safety and responsible riding, riders can enjoy the thrill and excitement of motocross while minimizing the risk of injury or accidents.