When it comes to riding a motorcycle, safety knows no gender. Increasingly, women are participating in motorsports, riding and awnings motorcycles, and in general, taking their automotive adventures into two-wheeled territories. This means that accessories have to keep up with the times. When it comes to motorcycle gear, nothing is as important as the quality best women’s motorcycle helmets.
In A Hurry? Here’s Our Top 5 Picks Best Women’s Motorcycle Helmets
- HJC CL-17 Mystic Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
- Bell Women’s Vortex Monarch Helmet
- HJC CL-17 Streamline Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
- Scorpion Exo EXO-R2000 Women’s Dispatch Full-Faced Helmet
- Shoei Duchess RF-1200 Street Racing Motorcycle Helmet.
The helmet is an important safety feature on any ride, and in some states, a mandatory feature before you get on the road. It only makes sense that the fashion-forward woman would want a motorcycle helmet that not only protected but also featured stylish design and attractive features. Ultimately, there are few differences between helmets designed for women versus those designed for men.
They both must meet stringent safety features and have the same performance qualities. So when it comes to women’s motorcycle helmets, it all comes down to the styling and features. Here are our top five Best Women’s Motorcycle Helmets perfect for the female enthusiast.
Top Best Women’s Motorcycle Helmets Review
#1. HJC CL-17 Mystic Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
HJC is one of the premieres, into-level motorcycle helmet manufacturers, pairing value with stylish good looks and all of the safety features you could ask for in a DOT-approved helmet. The advanced polycarbonate composite shell provides a lightweight, superior fit, perfect for a smaller, feminine head. Fit and comfort are also enhanced with advanced CAD technology. The visor enhances full-face protection but still provides ultimate visibility with the anti-scratch pin lock-ready face shield and 95 percent U.V. protection. The side shield lock mechanism provides an ultra-secure seal for your helmet, protecting against the elements.
Not only is the face shield technologically advanced, like other optional accessories of the CL-17 Mystic, its tool-less, rapid-fire replacement system means you won’t be lugging around excess parts and tools, and changing out your visor on a whim is a breeze. Speaking of breezes, the Mystic provides awesome ventilation with state-of-the-art front-to-back airflow that flushes heat and humidity up and out through the custom-crafted channel system.
Another comfort feature, the SuperCool, moisture-wicking interior fabric keeps you cool while wicking away any sweat from longer rides. Plus, the cheek pads and liner are both fully removable making replacement or cleaning a breeze. Add in the anti-bacterial properties of the fabric and you have yourself a comfortable, safe, and hygienic motorcycle helmet.
But don’t forget the style. Pink and white swirls on an all-black base provide the ultimate in stylish appeal for any female rider. At a great price point, the HJC CL-17 Mystic is a super affordable, entry-level motorcycle helmet for women of all ages and riding levels.
#2. Bell Women’s Vortex Monarch Helmet
If you are looking for the classic Bell brand reliability in a stylish, feminine package, look no further than the Bell Women’s Vortex Monarch Helmet. To start with, the safety features on the Vortex are nothing short of top-notch. With DOT-approved technology, this attractive women’s helmet can go straight from the road to the occasional track appearance, with ease.
The lightweight composite polycarbonate alloy shell provides impact resistance while minimizing heft, essential for female riders looking for comfort and safety. The specially designed, contoured cheek pads also increase comfort and are perfect for narrower female features.
The interior isn’t just designed with comfort in mind. Like everything else on the Bell Vortex, design meets functionality. The lining is removable and washable and is constructed of quality antibacterial and antimicrobial materials. While we’re on the subject of the interior, the specially designed ventilation system twists and turns through the interior lining groves, providing maximum temperature control.
The inside air is fed through the velocity flow ventilation system with FlowAdjust, a patented Bell feature that keeps the rider cool and minimizes noise and wind buffeting through low-profile vents. Finally, the padded wind collar also works to help drastically reduce noise from wind and road conditions. Did we mention it comes with a five-year warranty?
We love this helmet for the daily use of accessories and occasional light-duty track and off-road adventures. The pink, white, and black butterfly scheme makes this a perfect choice for women’s helmets. Add in the safety, performance features, and price point and you have a great value-priced women’s helmet.
#3. HJC CL-17 Streamline Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet
We love it when you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or safety to get a stylish and attractive motorcycle accessory. The HJC CL-17 Streamline is the next step up from the Mystic HJC helmet we featured earlier in our list of top women’s helmets. It’s easy to see why HJC makes the list twice. Committed to innovation, quality, and reliability, HJC is known for producing some of the best entry and bargain-level motorcycle helmets on the market.
So what makes the Streamline worth the step up in price? For starters, advanced CAD technology allows for a superior fit and comfort in a lightweight package. The face shield also gets an upgrade with anti-scratch and pin-lock ready which provides 95 percent U.V. protection. Like on other HJC helmets, the shield snaps into place using a side shield lock mechanism for an ultra-secure seal against the elements and buffeting winds at high speeds. If you’re looking to upgrade or swap out face shields for versatility, the Streamline also features tool-less removal for easy and efficient installation.
Anti-bacterial fabric, full front-to-back airflow flushes, and HJC’s SuperCool moisture-wicking interior fabric help round out the comfort factor in this top-rated women’s helmet. The cheek pads and liner are also fully removable and interchangeable with a variety of HJC custom accessories.
This is the perfect intermediate-level HJC helmet and a great step up from the entry-level Mystic with its enhanced ventilation and attractive, understated styling. If you’re looking for comfort, performance, and aesthetics, the HJC CL-17 is the Women’s helmet for you.
#4. Scorpion Exo EXO-R2000 Women’s Dispatch Full-Faced Helmet
If you want innovation, a custom comfort fit, combined with a high-end performance-ready women’s motorcycle helmet, then the Scorpion Exo EXO-R2000 Women’s Dispatch Full-Faced Helmet is the helmet for you. There are so many things that set the Exo-R2000 apart from the competition, that it’s hard to know where to begin.
ScorpionExo products have been on the market for a little over 10 years and the company prides itself on having some of the best minds in motorcycle accessories as part of its design team. The result is an innovative and technologically advanced line of products that cater to the discerning palettes of modern motorcycle enthusiasts.
The EXO-R2000 Women’s Dispatch helmet is ScorpionExo’s flagship performance race helmet, which means you know it can take a beating. The patented ScorpionECO TCT composite shell provides the ultimate in protection and was developed with help from MotoGP riders who tested the helmet on the track and in the lab. Talk about technology and practicality.
The Ellis-Tec ratchet technology provides a super tight seal around the face shield, while the ventilation system, ScorpionExo’s advanced aero-tuned design, creates a ton of airflow and plenty of circulation for even the hottest of riding days. Ventilation is not sacrificed for aerodynamics, and the EXO-R2000 Women’s Dispatch helmet has nearly zero wind buffeting making for a quiet and easy ride.
One of the best features of this helmet though is the airport cheek pad system which allows the wearer to inflate or deflate the interior cheek padding system for the ultimate in comfort and countered fit. Like many high-end motorcycle helmets, the cheek pads also feature an emergency release feature which means, in the event of an accident, first responders can gain access to the head and neck quickly and easily. Talk about a must-have safety feature.
The EXO-R2000 Women’s Dispatch helmet is a top-notch model for those with quality and comfort in mind. As an added value, the helmet whips with both EcorpionExo’s Everclear shield and a Dark Smoke EverClear shield, allowing for ease of use in multiple types of light and optical environments. If you’re looking for performance, comfort, and high-end options then this is the women’s helmet for you.
#5. Shoei Duchess RF-1200 Street Racing Motorcycle Helmet
When it comes to safety, performance and high-quality Shoei is a name that just can’t be beaten in motorcycle helmet technology. The Shoei Duchess RF-1200 may just be our favorite helmet on the list of best women’s motorcycle helmets, and it’s easy to see why. First, let’s talk about aesthetics. The Shoei Duchess may be the most understated women’s helmet on our list, but that doesn’t take away from its appeal.
The intricate curlicues and stylish features scream feminine appeal, without any of the unnecessary glitz or glitter. An acclaimed Japanese company, Shoei is known for producing the ultimate in style when it comes to motorsports helmets and we certainly think the Duchess lives up to that reputation.
The Duchess RF-1200 features a newly redesigned compact and lightweight shell, perfect for female frames. Performance hasn’t been sacrificed by the reduction in heft though, and every Shoei motorcycle helmet is tested by a world-class team of designers and engineers in Shoei’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel system. The result is an aerodynamic design with great ventilation and airflow, that won’t buffet or increase street noise.
We also like how the Shoei Duchess RF-1200 is fully Bluetooth speaker-ready with built-in pockets for speaker and audio controls. Additional comfort systems include a pin lock anti-fog system, 3D Max-Dry System II Interior Dual-Layer / Multi-Density EPS Liner, Chin Curtain, Breath Guard, Ear Pads, and much more. This all comes standard in a gorgeous designer package certain to turn heads whether on the street or track.
We love the Duchess RF-1200 as a high-end women’s motorcycle helmet that doesn’t sacrifice performance for style. Shoei is a brand known for providing the ultimate in innovation, technology, and performance and this model certainly does not disappoint.
6. AGV K3 SV Helmet
It is one of the finest when it comes to the topmost women’s motorcycle helmets. Their product range is quite diverse with plenty of stuff to cater to different needs of the customers. If we talk about their Solid Adult Street Motorcycle Helmet variant then you will be surprised to know, rather feel about its excellent fit. It comes with a couple of outer shells and 4 x Eps sizes which give an uncompromising fit.
The 100% max vision is guaranteed that comes with the clear shield and the micro-opening system. Extra comfort and a soundproofing communication system are the unique selling points of this helmet. Another close competitor for this variant from the same brand is AGV Full Face Helmet which is loved for its vibrant colors among women. This is a unisex helmet that meets and sometimes exceeds the needs and demands of women from a helmet.
The fit it offers is a universal one. It is highly preferred by motorcyclists for its exceptional special ventilation system which is powered by the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis. It ensures maximum airflow to the head that is managed through a couple of fronts and the side vents. Maintenance for this helmet is effortless with its removable internal components for washing purposes.
It is imperative to mention the AGV 0101 – 7512 K-3 SV Motorcycle Helmet from the brand as well. It is loved for its sophisticated design, especially its High Resistant Thermoplastic Resin type of outer shell. In the fitting department, it is the same as the Solid Adult Street Motorcycle Helmet discussed above. The Extra Quick Release System is something that makes this helmet quite special.
#7. Shoei RF-1200 Helmet
Shoei has been the default brand of many female motorcyclists who prefer protection and comfort above anything else. That doesn’t mean that their line of products is any less stylish than the other available brands. You will find one better than the other products where especially their RF – 1200 Helmet – Variable tops the list.
This is a very lightweight, compact, stylish, and streamlined helmet that is stuffed with next-level functionality. You will enjoy this one with multi-ply matrix AIM along with the Shell proprietary technology. This brand is run by a world-class team of engineers and designers. They are the ones responsible for offering women helmets as good as the Shoei RF – 1200 Helmet – Brawn which has quality written all over it.
This one comes with the state-of-the-art type of wind tunnel feat which is further endorsed with the stringent most quality assurance practices by the company. This would ensure that your helmet wouldn’t ditch you at all in any situation. This helmet is available in several different sizes and a couple of different colors.
If you prefer lightweight, full face and an aerodynamic design helmet then the Shoei RF – 1200 White Full Face Helmet is for you. It comes with an excellent pin-lock anti-fog system along with uncompromising ventilation performance. You will also like it for its chin curtain and the multi-density type of EPS liner.
#8. HJC CL-17 Helmet
This is a trusted brand among female motorcyclists for its economical range of products which comes with superior quality and performance as well. Let us introduce you to their HJC Helmets – 824-617 HJC CL – 17 Full Face Helmet which is arguably the best one from the brand. It excels among its competitors for its superior fit, lightweight design, and excellent comfort that comes through CAD technology.
Thanks to its Advanced Polycarbonate Composite (APC) shell for providing the best protection and comfort. The full face shield comes with an anti-scratch pin lock-ready feature. Its novice 3D design will provide the rider with 95% UV protection. Then we come to their HJC Unisex-Adult Full Face Power Sports Helmet which has a good client base as well. It is available from X-small to 3X-Large sizes so make sure that you pick the right size to get the best possible comfort.
It is specially equipped with the glasses groove which benefits those riders who prefer to wear glasses inside the helmet. The anti-fog system is optically superior which also provides UV protection up to 95%. Another worth mentioning helmet product from the brand for women motorcyclists is HJC Helmets 1216 – 724 Unisex-Adult Full Face Power Sports Helmet. This is a unisex helmet with a superior integrated dark smoke-tinted visor. The Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Shell always adds great protection and comfort. You will find maintenance quite easy as the liner and cheek pads are easily removable as well.
When it comes to women’s helmet then protection, comfort, personal preferences, and styling goes hand in hand.
When you are going to make a selection then all these things and several other particular features such as size, weight, type, and shape of helmet need to be kept in mind. These things are further scrutinized when differentiated based upon their brands.
The selection of a brand could be a complete game-changer as quality and a certain set of features may vary from a small margin to sometimes drastically.
When it comes to motorcycle sports, it certainly is not just a man’s world anymore. Many manufactures have gotten on board with providing helmets and accessories designed for women with greater comfort and stylish designs. If you are in the market for a top-notch women’s motorcycle helmet there are a ton of quality options on the market today.
Top Women’s Motorcycle Helmet Brands
Brands such as Bell, HJC, ScorpionExo, Shoei, and many more all offer attractive, stylish, and high-performing women’s motorcycle helmets across a variety of price points. Many brands are also realizing that motorcycle adventures are increasingly all ages and are designing kid’s motorcycle helmets with this in mind (but that’s a topic for another article).
How to Choose Women’s Motorcycle Helmet
Selecting an appropriate helmet for women or even for anybody requires a bit of work to be done ahead of the purchase. Make sure that any helmet wouldn’t work for you even if you think it fits well or you like the design.
You need to check a range of features where you need to look for a good balance in all of those. You will get a good idea about the right purchase by knowing and evaluating the following key features of a helmet:
- Protection
Any helmet that could be considered for purchase must need to pass the protection and safety standards. The main responsibility of a helmet is to keep you safe from any major impacts and also to provide your head with uncompromising protection.
Protection is something that is driven by the type of helmet you choose. If we talk about protection technology then Multi-directional Impact Protection System is the one that you could look for. There are also some local regulations that you need to check.
In North America for example, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is the standard to check. In the EU, it is ECE.
2. Type
Helmets for men and women come in different types which offer their specific advantages and preferences to the users. A few of the most common types of helmets available are the open face, full face, modular, dual-sport, and off-road types. We will discuss these types in detail in a later section of this guide.
3. Size
When it is about the helmets for the motorcycle then there is no standard size chart. Every manufacturer or brand of helmets has its specifics for the sizing of the helmet. The best approach here is to measure your head which should consider the circumference in the inches.
Once you have the size of your head then you could pick a helmet accordingly as per the size requirements.
Make sure that there could be cases where you might find a medium size helmet suitable for one brand and a large size for the other. This makes things a bit challenging and you must be very careful about it.
4. Comfort
Comfort is more about the ideal fitting of the helmet first. A well-fitted helmet also provides good protection along with an enjoyable ride as well. Then it comes to the inner materials which could be the foam or lining that enhances comfort. Then it is also for the shape of the helmet that must be suitable as per the size of the head. Some customizable features also influence comfort which could be the inner padding and removable sections. Finally, it comes to the ventilation part where you need to have a helmet that offers excellent breathability during longer riding sessions.
5. Features
Face shield is one feature that you must evaluate in a helmet ahead of purchase. The modern helmets come with sophisticated UV protection and anti-fog technology that allows you a clear view in all sorts of weather conditions.
The flip-up option with the face shield is also desirable. The quality and comfort of the chin strap is very often overlooked feature but it is considered important.
It is something that will provide you with a snug fit and will ensure that your helmet doesn’t move or shift an inch while you are riding.
Nowadays in modern helmet equipment, the Bluetooth feature is becoming immensely popular this is something that allows riders with much-needed hands-free communication.
6. Budget
Budget is a very critical part of the helmet and some of the high-end products from top manufacturers could cost a lot.
If you choose wisely and have all your preferences and budget in mind then you may get a good quality helmet at an economical price as well.
As of today, you should spare a minimum of $150 for a good quality helmet and this price for the higher-end products could go up to $500 and beyond.
Types of Motorcycle Helmets for Women
There are different types of helmets available for women where all have their specific advantages and disadvantages. Three of the most common types of helmets available for women are given as below:
- Full-face
The full-face helmets are the ones that cover your entire head all around including your ears, neck, and chin as well. Such helmets come in one solid piece which you could put on and off your head.
The front visor of such helmets is usually movable which could be lifted when required. Vents on these helmets are provided normally on the top and in the front for airflow purposes. As per the experts, these are the most desirable helmets for their maximum protection.
2. Modular
They look quite similar to the full-face helmets. However, the hinges in the front half differ from the other type. These hinges allow the entire front half of the helmet to be lifted, which exposes your entire face. In terms of protection, they are second to full-face helmets.
3. Half helmet
This type is usually referred to as a skull cap. They tend to cover only the top of the head and that too in half. The forehead and face are completely exposed along with your ears as well. The protection with these helmets is quite minimal and it is only preferred for those riders who are always very slow on bike and usually within the shorter routes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the average weight for a motorcycle helmet for ladies?
On average, you should expect a lady’s helmet to be around 3.5 pounds.
What does it mean when we say that the motorcycle helmet has expired?
It refers to the comfort liner (EPS foam) inside the helmet which tends to lose its shape over time.
What kind of shock-absorbent feature does a motorcycle helmet have?
The motorcycle helmets come with a special foam interior which provides the motorcyclist with a shock-absorbent pad. This is what helps in softening the blow when there is an impact on the helmet.
How are ladies’ helmets different from men?
The lady’s helmets differ from men’s based on their color and designs which are usually women-centric. Further, the other slight differences come with the size and the shape of the head.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of things to keep in mind for ladies when they are purchasing their first or even a replacement helmet. The first and foremost consideration for women is to check that where they would be riding on their motorcycle which could be off-road or within the city streets. Weather consideration is also important here. Full face, modular and half helmets are the different available types of helmets to choose from.
The ladies also need to give topmost consideration to the key factors which include protection, size, shape, weight, design, comfort, and several other value-added features.
The aesthetic factors such as the color and design of the helmet are important but it should not come at the cost of your safety and protection through the helmet. The same is true when it comes to the budget as protection must never be compromised for price.
For now, realize that versatility is the name of the game. Whatever your sex or age, there is a quality motorcycle accessory out there for you. Hopefully, we’ve helped you narrow down your options and find the best women’s motorcycle helmet for you!
lori says
not one of these links are good and even the good links go to discontinued pages.