Are you looking for Cruising helmets? The best cruising helmets are a type of protective headgear designed for individuals who participate in cruising activities, such as long-distance motorcycle rides or sailing trips.
They are typically full-face helmets with features such as ventilation systems, padding, and ergonomic designs that provide comfort and reduce fatigue during extended periods of riding.
Cruising helmets offer maximum protection against wind, debris, and other potential hazards that riders may encounter during their journey. They often incorporate stylish designs that complement the aesthetic of the cruising lifestyle. Overall, cruising helmets provide riders with a combination of style, comfort, and protection that make them ideal for cruising activities.
The “best” cruising helmets are those that offer the following features:
Comfort: A comfortable fit with plush interior padding, ample ventilation, and a lightweight design.
Noise Reduction: Features such as aerodynamic design, noise-reducing liners, and effective wind deflectors to reduce wind noise.
Visor: A large, adjustable, and tinted visor for protection from the sun and wind.
Safety Standards: Compliance with safety standards such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or Snell in the US.
Style: A sleek and stylish design that matches the rider’s taste and style.
Durability: A helmet that is built to last, with high-quality materials and construction.
Price: Affordable yet offering good value for money.
When choosing a cruising helmet, it’s important to prioritize safety, comfort, and functionality over style. The best cruising helmets are those that provide a balance of these features and meet the rider’s specific needs and preferences.
Related article: How To Choose A Motorcycle Helmet
Cruising Helmets
Generally speaking, when it comes to motorcycle helmets, there are several types designed for different purposes, such as:
Full-face helmets: These helmets cover the entire head and face, providing the highest level of protection and versatility for various riding styles, including cruising.
Modular helmets: Also known as flip-up helmets, these combine the features of full-face helmets with the option to flip up the front section, converting it into an open-face helmet when needed.
Open-face helmets: These helmets cover the top and sides of the head but leave the face exposed. They offer less protection than full-face helmets but are popular among cruiser riders who prefer the feel of the wind on their faces.
Half helmets: These helmets cover only the top of the head and are the least protective option. They are often chosen by riders who prioritize style and minimal coverage.
Remember that when choosing a helmet, safety should be the primary consideration. Look for helmets that meet safety standards set by organizations like the Department of Transportation (DOT) or the European ECE 22.05 standard.
What are the 10 Best Cruising Helmets for Motorcycles?
Here are ten highly rated options for the best cruising helmets for motorcycles:
1. Shoei GT-Air II
A premium helmet that offers comfort, noise reduction, and advanced features such as a built-in sun visor and smart communication system.
The Shoei GT-Air II is a premium motorcycle helmet designed for long-distance and cruising riders. It’s known for its comfort, noise reduction, and advanced features, including:
Built-in sun visor: A built-in sun visor provides extra protection from the sun and helps reduce glare.
Comfortable interior: Plush interior padding provides comfort during long rides.
Advanced ventilation system: A system of vents and channels helps keep the rider cool and comfortable.
Smart communication system: A built-in communication system allows the rider to stay connected while riding.
Sleek and aerodynamic design: A sleek and aerodynamic design reduces wind noise and helps improve stability at high speeds.
The Shoei GT-Air II is a high-quality helmet that provides comfort, protection, and advanced features for long-distance and cruising riders. It’s a premium option that offers a balance of comfort, style, and protection, making it a popular choice among riders.
Pros:
Comfort: The helmet has a plush interior padding and a comfortable fit, making it ideal for long rides.
Noise reduction: A sleek and aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise, making for a quieter riding experience.
Built-in sun visor: The built-in sun visor provides extra protection from the sun and helps reduce glare.
Advanced ventilation system: The helmet has a system of vents and channels that help keep the rider cool and comfortable.
Smart communication system: The helmet has a built-in communication system, allowing the rider to stay connected while riding.
Cons:
Price: The Shoei GT-Air II is a premium helmet and is more expensive than some other options on the market.
Weight: The helmet is heavier than some other options, which may cause neck fatigue during long rides.
Limited color options: The helmet is only available in a limited range of colors, which may not suit everyone’s style.
Overall, the Shoei GT-Air II is a high-quality helmet that provides comfort, protection, and advanced features for long-distance and cruising riders. However, its premium price and heavier weight may be drawbacks for some riders.
2. HJC RPHA 90S
A lightweight and aerodynamic helmet with a comfortable interior, sun visor, and advanced ventilation system.
The HJC RPHA 90S is a lightweight and aerodynamic motorcycle helmet designed for cruising and touring riders. It’s known for its comfort, noise reduction, and advanced features, including:
Sun visor: An adjustable sun visor provides extra protection from the sun and helps reduce glare.
Comfortable interior: Plush interior padding provides comfort during long rides.
Advanced ventilation system: A system of vents and channels helps keep the rider cool and comfortable.
Lightweight design: A lightweight design reduces neck fatigue during long rides.
Aerodynamic design: An aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and improve stability at high speeds.
The HJC RPHA 90S is a high-quality helmet that provides comfort, protection, and advanced features for cruising and touring riders. It’s a budget-friendly option that offers a balance of comfort, style, and protection, making it a popular choice among riders.
Pros:
1. Price: The HJC RPHA 90S is a budget-friendly helmet, making it an affordable option for riders.
2. Lightweight design: The helmet is lightweight, reducing neck fatigue during long rides.
3. Aerodynamic design: The helmet’s aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and improve stability at high speeds.
4. Sun visor: The helmet has an adjustable sun visor that provides extra protection from the sun and helps reduce glare.
5. Comfortable interior: The helmet has plush interior padding that provides comfort during long rides.
Cons:
1. Limited features: The HJC RPHA 90S is a budget-friendly helmet, which means it has fewer advanced features compared to some premium helmets.
2. Ventilation: The helmet has a basic ventilation system, which may not be as effective as more advanced systems.
3. Style: The helmet has a basic design, which may not suit everyone’s style.
Overall, the HJC RPHA 90S is a budget-friendly helmet that provides comfort, protection, and basic features for cruising and touring riders. However, its limited features and basic design may be drawbacks for some riders.
3. Bell Star Pro
A premium helmet with a lightweight design, advanced ventilation, and a smooth and aerodynamic exterior.
The Bell Star Pro is a premium motorcycle helmet designed for cruising and touring riders. It’s known for its comfort, advanced features, and high level of protection, including:
1. Lightweight design: The helmet is lightweight, reducing neck fatigue during long rides.
2. Comfortable interior: The helmet has plush interior padding that provides comfort during long rides.
3. Advanced ventilation system: The helmet has a system of vents and channels that help keep the rider cool and comfortable.
4. Aerodynamic design: The helmet’s aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and improve stability at high speeds.
5. Superior protection: The helmet has a tough and durable shell, along with an advanced impact-absorbing liner, providing a high level of protection in the event of an accident.
The Bell Star Pro is a premium helmet that provides comfort, protection, and advanced features for cruising and touring riders. It’s a high-quality option that offers a balance of comfort, style, and protection, making it a popular choice among riders who are looking for a high-end helmet for their motorcycle.
Pros:
Comfort: The helmet has a plush interior padding and a comfortable fit, making it ideal for long rides.
Lightweight design: The helmet is lightweight, reducing neck fatigue during long rides.
Advanced ventilation system: The helmet has a system of vents and channels that help keep the rider cool and comfortable.
Aerodynamic design: The helmet’s aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and improve stability at high speeds.
Superior protection: The helmet has a tough and durable shell, along with an advanced impact-absorbing liner, providing a high level of protection in the event of an accident.
Cons:
Price: The Bell Star Pro is a premium helmet and is more expensive than some other options on the market.
Limited color options: The helmet is only available in a limited range of colors, which may not suit everyone’s style.
4. ScorpionExo-R420
A budget-friendly helmet with a comfortable fit, advanced ventilation, and a sun visor.
The ScorpionExo-R420 is a premium motorcycle helmet designed for cruising and touring riders. It’s known for its comfort, advanced features, and high level of protection, including:
Lightweight design: The helmet is lightweight, reducing neck fatigue during long rides.
Comfortable interior: The helmet has plush interior padding that provides comfort during long rides.
Advanced ventilation system: The helmet has a system of vents and channels that help keep the rider cool and comfortable.
Aerodynamic design: The helmet’s aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and improve stability at high speeds.
Superior protection: The helmet has a tough and durable shell, along with an advanced impact-absorbing liner, providing a high level of protection in the event of an accident.
The ScorpionExo-R420 is a premium helmet that provides comfort, protection, and advanced features for cruising and touring riders. It’s a high-quality option that offers a balance of comfort, style, and protection, making it a popular choice among riders who are looking for a high-end helmet for their motorcycle.
Pros:
1. Lightweight design: The helmet is lightweight, reducing neck fatigue during long rides.
2. Comfortable interior: The helmet has plush interior padding that provides comfort during long rides.
3. Advanced ventilation system: The helmet has a system of vents and channels that help keep the rider cool and comfortable.
4. Aerodynamic design: The helmet’s aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and improve stability at high speeds.
5. Superior protection: The helmet has a tough and durable shell, along with an advanced impact-absorbing liner, providing a high level of protection in the event of an accident.
Cons:
1. Price: The ScorpionExo-R420 is a premium helmet and is more expensive than some other options on the market.
2. Limited color options: The helmet is only available in a limited range of colors, which may not suit everyone’s style.
Overall, the ScorpionExo-R420 is a high-quality helmet that provides comfort, protection, and advanced features for cruising and touring riders. However, its premium price and limited color options may be drawbacks for some riders.
5. AGV K-5 S
A premium helmet with a sleek design, noise-reducing features, and a sun visor.
The AGV K-5 S is a premium motorcycle helmet designed for cruising and touring riders. It’s known for its aerodynamic design, advanced ventilation system, and high level of protection, including:
Aerodynamic design: The helmet has a sleek and aerodynamic design, reducing wind noise and improving stability at high speeds.
Advanced ventilation system: The helmet has a system of vents and channels that help keep the rider cool and comfortable.
Lightweight design: The helmet is lightweight, reducing neck fatigue during long rides.
Comfortable interior: The helmet has plush interior padding that provides comfort during long rides.
Superior protection: The helmet has a tough and durable shell, along with an advanced impact-absorbing liner, providing a high level of protection in the event of an accident.
The AGV K-5 S is a high-quality helmet that provides comfort, protection, and advanced features for cruising and touring riders. Its aerodynamic design and advanced ventilation system make it a popular choice for riders who want a comfortable and high-performing helmet for their motorcycle.
Pros:
1. Aerodynamic design: The helmet has a sleek and aerodynamic design, reducing wind noise and improving stability at high speeds.
2. Advanced ventilation system: The helmet has a system of vents and channels that help keep the rider cool and comfortable.
3. Lightweight design: The helmet is lightweight, reducing neck fatigue during long rides.
4. Comfortable interior: The helmet has plush interior padding that provides comfort during long rides.
5. Superior protection: The helmet has a tough and durable shell, along with an advanced impact-absorbing liner, providing a high level of protection in the event of an accident.
Cons:
1. Price: The AGV K-5 S is a premium helmet and is more expensive than some other options on the market.
2. Limited color options: The helmet is only available in a limited range of colors, which may not suit everyone’s style.
6. Schuberth C4 Pro
A premium helmet with a lightweight design, aerodynamic shape, and advanced ventilation system.
The Schuberth C4 Pro is a high-end motorcycle helmet manufactured by the German company Schuberth. It is known for its aerodynamic design, advanced ventilation system, and comfortable interior padding.
The helmet also features a built-in Bluetooth communication system, a sun visor, and a noise-canceling microphone. It is designed for use by motorcyclists and is suitable for both touring and sport riding.
Pros:
1. Advanced aerodynamics for improved stability and reduced wind noise
2. Advanced ventilation system to keep the rider cool
3. Comfortable interior padding
4. Built-in Bluetooth communication system for hands-free communication
5. Sun visor for added comfort and convenience
6. Noise-cancelling microphone for clear communication
7. Suitable for both touring and sport riding
Cons:
1. Higher cost compared to other motorcycle helmets
2. Built-in Bluetooth communication system may require regular charging
3. May not be suitable for those with larger head sizes
4. May require some adjustment to achieve the perfect fit
5. Some riders may find the built-in communication system complicated to use.
7. LS2 Stream EVO
A budget-friendly helmet with a comfortable fit, aerodynamic design, and adjustable sun visor.
The LS2 Stream EVO is a full-face motorcycle helmet that is manufactured by LS2 Helmets, a Spanish company. It is designed for use by motorcyclists and is suitable for both touring and sport riding. The helmet features an aerodynamic design, an advanced ventilation system, and comfortable interior padding. It also includes a sun visor, which can be easily adjusted to the rider’s preference.
Pros:
1. Affordable price compared to other high-end motorcycle helmets
2. Advanced aerodynamics for improved stability and reduced wind noise
3. Advanced ventilation system to keep the rider cool
4. Comfortable interior padding
5. Sun visor for added comfort and convenience
6. Suitable for both touring and sport riding
Cons:
1. May not be as well-known as other high-end motorcycle helmet brands
2. May not have as many advanced features as more expensive helmets
3. May not be suitable for those with larger head sizes
4. May require some adjustment to achieve the perfect fit.
8. Nolan N87
A versatile helmet with a comfortable fit, advanced ventilation, and a sun visor.
The Nolan N87 is a full-face motorcycle helmet manufactured by Nolan Helmets, an Italian company. It is designed for use by motorcyclists and is suitable for both touring and sport riding.
The helmet features a lightweight and aerodynamic design, comfortable interior padding, and an advanced ventilation system. It also includes a sun visor, which can be easily adjusted to the rider’s preference.
Pros:
1. Lightweight design for improved comfort and reduced fatigue during long rides
2. Advanced aerodynamics for improved stability and reduced wind noise
3. Advanced ventilation system to keep the rider cool
4. Comfortable interior padding
5. Sun visor for added comfort and convenience
6. Suitable for both touring and sport riding
Cons:
1. May not have as many advanced features as more expensive helmets
2. May not be as well-known as other high-end motorcycle helmet brands
3. May not be suitable for those with larger head sizes
4. May require some adjustment to achieve the perfect fit.
9. Arai Signet-X
A premium helmet with a comfortable fit, advanced ventilation, and a sun visor.
The Arai Signet-X is a premium motorcycle helmet produced by the Japanese company, Arai. It is designed for comfort and safety, featuring a multi-density impact-absorbing liner.
A large eye port for improved visibility, and a ventilation system to keep the rider cool. The helmet also has a distinctive, sleek design and is available in a range of colors and finishes to suit different tastes.
Pros:
1. Safety: The Signet-X meets or exceeds multiple safety standards, providing maximum protection for the rider.
2. Comfort: The helmet is designed with a comfortable fit and interior padding to reduce fatigue and discomfort during long rides.
3. Ventilation: The helmet features multiple vents and exhaust ports for improved airflow, helping to keep the rider cool and dry.
4. Durability: Made from high-quality materials, the Signet-X is built to last and withstand the rigors of daily use.
Cons:
1. Price: The Signet-X is a premium helmet and is more expensive than many other options on the market.
2. Weight: The helmet is relatively heavy compared to other options, which may be a drawback for some riders.
3. Noise: Some riders have reported that the Signet-X can be noisy at high speeds, which may be a concern for long-distance riders.
10. Shark Evo-One 2
A premium helmet with a sleek design, advanced ventilation, and a built-in sun visor.
When choosing a cruising helmet, it’s important to consider factors such as comfort, noise reduction, protection from the elements, and a stylish design that fits your taste. Try on different helmets to find the one that fits comfortably and meets your needs.
The Shark Evo-One 2 is a modular motorcycle helmet produced by Shark Helmets. It is known for its innovative design that allows for the helmet to be converted from a full-face to an open-face helmet with the removal of the chin bar.
The helmet also features a built-in sun visor, an aerodynamic design, and an advanced ventilation system for maximum comfort.
Pros:
1. Versatility: The helmet can be easily converted from a full-face to an open-face helmet, making it suitable for a range of riding styles and weather conditions.
2. Comfort: The helmet features advanced ventilation systems to keep the rider cool and a comfortable interior for extended riding sessions.
3. Safety: The helmet is constructed with a durable shell and meets or exceeds safety standards set by organizations such as DOT and ECE 22.05.
4. Visibility: The helmet features a built-in sun visor to provide additional protection from the sun’s glare and improve visibility.
Cons:
1. Price: The helmet is relatively expensive compared to other motorcycle helmets in its class.
2. Weight: The helmet is on the heavier side, which can be a concern for some riders.
3. Ventilation: Some riders have reported that the helmet can get hot, particularly in warmer climates, which may be due to the limited ventilation options.
Choose a Comfortable Helmet
Choosing a comfortable helmet is essential for ensuring that you stay safe while enjoying your favorite activities. Here are some tips for selecting a comfortable helmet:
Fit: The helmet should fit snugly but not be too tight. The helmet should sit level on your head and cover the top of your forehead without hindering your vision.
Padding: The helmet should have enough padding to make it comfortable to wear, and the padding should be removable for cleaning.
Ventilation: A helmet with good ventilation will help keep you cool and comfortable during hot weather. Look for a helmet with plenty of vents to help circulate air.
Weight: A lighter helmet will be more comfortable to wear for extended periods. Look for helmets made from lightweight materials like carbon fiber or polycarbonate.
Style: Choose a helmet style that suits your taste and the activity you’ll be doing. There are different styles of helmets available, including full-face helmets for mountain biking and open-face helmets for road cycling.
Certification: Look for helmets that meet safety standards, such as those set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States.
Try before you buy: Try on several helmets before making a final decision. Make sure the helmet fits well and feels comfortable on your head.
Think About Your Safety
Safety is not a concern for me in the same way that it is for humans. However, I do take the security and privacy of user data very seriously, and I am designed to follow ethical and responsible practices when interacting with humans.
For humans, safety is an important consideration in many aspects of life, including personal safety, online safety, and safety in the workplace. It’s important to take steps to protect oneself from physical harm, such as being aware of one’s surroundings and avoiding potentially dangerous situations. Online safety involves protecting personal information and being cautious when interacting with others online.
In the workplace, safety protocols are put in place to prevent accidents and injuries. This includes wearing appropriate safety gear, following safety procedures, and being aware of potential hazards. It’s important to prioritize safety in all aspects of life to prevent harm and protect oneself and others.
Fitting of the Helmets
Fitting helmets properly is extremely important to ensure maximum protection against head injuries. Here are some general guidelines to follow when fitting a helmet:
Size: Choose a helmet that fits snugly on your head but is not too tight. You should be able to fit one or two fingers between the helmet and your forehead. The helmet should not wobble or move around on your head.
Position: The helmet should sit level on your head and cover the top of your forehead. It should not be tilted forward or backward.
Straps: Adjust the chin straps so they are snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit one finger between the strap and your chin. The side straps should form a V-shape under your ears, and the buckle should sit below your chin.
Pads: Most helmets come with removable pads that can be adjusted for a better fit. Make sure the pads are snug against your head without any gaps.
Testing: Finally, give the helmet a good shake to make sure it is secure on your head. If it moves around or feels loose, adjust the straps and pads until it fits properly.
When to Replace a Helmet?
Helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment for various activities such as biking, skateboarding, skiing, and many others. While helmets are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they are not indestructible and can become damaged over time or due to an impact.
If the helmet has been involved in a significant impact: If a helmet has been involved in a crash, it should be replaced, even if it appears undamaged. The impact can cause internal damage that is not visible on the outside, and the helmet may not offer the same level of protection in a future impact.
If the helmet has any visible signs of damage: If the helmet has cracks, dents, or any other visible signs of damage, it should be replaced. These signs indicate that the helmet has been compromised and may not offer adequate protection.
Buying Guide
When choosing a cruising helmet, it is important to consider the following factors:
Safety Standards
Look for a helmet that meets or exceeds safety standards set by organizations such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE 22.05.
Fit
Ensure the helmet fits snugly and comfortably without being too tight or too loose. Try on several different helmets and measure your head to determine the correct size.
Ventilation
Consider a helmet with good ventilation options, especially if you plan to do a lot of riding in hot weather.
Weight
Choose a lightweight helmet, as a heavy helmet can cause neck fatigue on longer rides.
Visibility
Look for a helmet with a clear, wide field of vision and a built-in sun visor to reduce glare and improve visibility.
Noise
Consider a helmet with a quiet, aerodynamic design to minimize wind noise.
Style
Choose a helmet that fits your style and the look of your motorcycle.
Price
Determine your budget and look for a high-quality helmet that fits within your price range.
Remember, a motorcycle helmet is an essential piece of safety equipment, so it is important to choose one that provides maximum protection and comfort for your riding needs.
Specification
Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing the best cruising helmet:
Safety Standards
The helmet should meet or exceed DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE 22.05 safety standards.
Fit
The helmet should fit snugly and comfortably without being too tight or too loose. The size should be measured and compared to the manufacturer’s size chart.
Ventilation
The helmet should have good ventilation options, such as multiple air vents, to keep the rider cool during hot weather.
Weight
The helmet should be lightweight, as a heavy helmet can cause neck fatigue on long rides.
Visibility
The helmet should have a clear, wide field of vision and a built-in sun visor to reduce glare and improve visibility.
Noise
The helmet should have an aerodynamic design to minimize wind noise.
Style
The helmet should fit the rider’s style and the look of the motorcycle.
Price
The helmet should fit within the rider’s budget while still providing high-quality protection and comfort.
(FAQs)
What is the difference between a cruising helmet and a full-face helmet?
A cruising helmet typically features a more aerodynamic design, a built-in sun visor, and better ventilation options compared to a full-face helmet. Cruising helmets are designed for the comfort of the rider during long, relaxed rides.
What safety standards should I look for in a cruising helmet?
Look for a helmet that meets or exceeds DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE 22.05 safety standards. These organizations have rigorous testing procedures to ensure the helmet provides adequate protection in the event of a crash.
How should I determine the right size for my cruising helmet?
Measure your head using a cloth tape measure and compare the measurement to the manufacturer’s size chart. Try on several different helmets to ensure the best fit. A properly fitting helmet should be snug but not too tight, with no pressure points.
Are lighter helmets less protective?
Not necessarily. A lightweight helmet can be just as protective as a heavier one, as long as it meets safety standards and fits properly.
Do I need a built-in sun visor in my cruising helmet?
A built-in sun visor can be a convenient feature for reducing glare and improving visibility, especially on bright, sunny days. It can also save you the hassle of switching between a clear shield and a tinted one.
Is it important to consider the noise level of a cruising helmet?
Yes, it is important to consider the noise level of a helmet, as wind noise can be fatiguing over long rides. Look for a helmet with an aerodynamic design to minimize wind noise.
Final Words
The best cruising helmet is one that meets safety standards, fits comfortably, is lightweight, has good ventilation, and provides a clear, wide field of vision.
A built-in sun visor, aerodynamic design, and low noise level are also desirable features. It is important to choose a helmet that fits your style and the look of your motorcycle, as well as your budget.
A motorcycle helmet is an essential piece of safety equipment, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in your riding experience. Consider the factors discussed above and try on several different helmets to find the best one for you.
