Ever feel like you’re trying to fit a watermelon into a shoebox? For riders with larger heads, finding a motorcycle helmet that fits comfortably and safely can feel like a frustrating treasure hunt. Too many helmets pinch, squeeze, or just look plain awkward, leaving you feeling less than secure on your ride.
The truth is, a poorly fitting helmet isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous. It might shift during a ride or, worse, not offer the best protection in an accident. That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of motorcycle helmets specifically designed for bigger heads. We’ll explore what makes a helmet work for you and what to look out for.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to find a helmet that feels like it was made just for you. Get ready to say goodbye to helmet headaches and hello to confident, comfortable rides. Let’s get started on finding your perfect fit!
Our Top 5 Motorcycle Helmet For Big Heads Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Motorcycle Helmet For Big Heads Detailed Reviews
1. GLX GX11 Compact Motorcycle Helmet – Matte Black
Rating: 8.7/10
The GLX GX11 Compact Motorcycle Helmet in Matte Black, size Large, is a full-face helmet designed for riders who want safety, comfort, and style without breaking the bank. GLX, a company from Southern California founded in 2002, created the GX11 with a focus on a snug fit and a sleek look. This helmet is DOT approved, meaning it meets important safety standards.
What We Like:
- It offers a comfortable fit and a streamlined design.
- The ventilation system is well-designed with adjustable vents for airflow.
- The tinted visor provides good visibility and is easy to change.
- It’s built with advanced safety features for impact protection.
- The interior is comfortable, removable, and washable for easy cleaning.
- It’s a great value for the price.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the tinted visor is great, a clear visor might be needed for nighttime riding.
- The “compact” nature might mean it’s not ideal for all head shapes.
Overall, the GLX GX11 helmet is a solid choice for riders seeking a safe, comfortable, and affordable full-face helmet. It balances essential features with a budget-friendly price tag.
2. JQF Gear Full Face Motorcycle Helmet WS-607 DOT Approved Motorbike Racing Street Bike Helmets for Adults with Clear and Black Visor (Flat Black BB
Rating: 9.0/10
The JQF Gear WS-607 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet offers a blend of safety and comfort for adult riders. Designed for street bikes and racing, this helmet comes with options for both clear and black visors, making it versatile for different lighting conditions. Its DOT approval ensures it meets important safety standards, giving riders peace of mind on the road.
What We Like:
- It’s built with a strong ABS shell and multi-density EPS foam for great protection.
- The helmet has many vents to keep you cool by letting air flow through.
- You get a choice of visors, including a clear one and a black one, so you’re ready for sun or clouds.
- The inside lining can be taken out and washed, which helps keep the helmet fresh and clean.
- The chin strap is easy to use with its quick-release design.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description doesn’t mention specific weight, so we can’t say if it’s super light.
- While different sizes are available, it would be helpful to have more detailed fitment information beyond just circumference.
Overall, the JQF Gear WS-607 helmet is a solid choice for riders seeking safety and practical features. It provides good protection and ventilation for a comfortable ride in various conditions.
3. CARTMAN DOT Approved Adult Full Face Motorcycle Helmet – Matte Black
Rating: 9.2/10
The CARTMAN DOT Approved Adult Full Face Motorcycle Helmet in Matte Black is a fantastic choice for anyone hitting the road or trails. This helmet is designed for both style and serious safety, making it a great companion for your dirt bike, ATV, or motocross adventures.
What We Like:
- It’s DOT certified, which means it meets tough safety standards.
- You can find the right size, from small to extra-large, to get a snug and comfortable fit.
- The helmet is built tough with a strong ABS shell and a comfy, removable liner you can wash.
- Its sleek design cuts down on wind noise and drag, and the adjustable visor keeps the sun out of your eyes.
- This helmet works for lots of activities like motorcycling, biking, ATV riding, and even skiing, making it a versatile pick.
- It makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves outdoor adventures.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the matte black is stylish, more color options could appeal to a wider audience.
- For very long rides, some users might wish for even more advanced ventilation features.
This CARTMAN helmet offers a great blend of safety, comfort, and versatility. It’s a reliable piece of gear that will help protect you on your next ride.
4. Bell Qualifier Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet (Solid Matte Black
Rating: 8.7/10
The Bell Qualifier Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet in Solid Matte Black, size Large, is a solid choice for riders seeking protection and comfort. It offers a good balance of features for its price point, making it a popular option for many motorcyclists.
What We Like:
- The helmet feels light on your head.
- It has a tough shell that keeps you safe.
- Changing the shield is super easy and doesn’t need any tools.
- The ventilation system keeps you cool and comfortable on rides.
- It meets safety standards, so you know it’s DOT approved.
What Could Be Improved:
- The helmet comes with a clear shield, but the cool tinted one you see in pictures is sold separately.
This helmet provides essential protection and comfort for your rides. It’s a practical and reliable option for everyday motorcycle use.
5. ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet with Removable Winter Neck Scarf + 2 Visors DOT Model-JK313 (L
Rating: 9.3/10
Gear up for your next ride with the ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet. This helmet, model JK313 in Matte Black, is designed for street bikes and comes with some awesome extras. It’s built for comfort and safety, making it a solid choice for riders.
What We Like:
- It includes two visors: one clear and one smoked. You get an extra neck scarf for cold weather rides too.
- The helmet has a smooth, aerodynamic shape. This cuts down on wind noise and makes riding feel smoother.
- It’s made from a strong, lightweight ABS shell. This keeps it durable without weighing you down.
- The quick-release clasp and strap make it easy to put on and take off.
- You can remove the inner lining pads for cleaning. This helps keep your helmet fresh.
- It meets DOT safety standards, so you know it’s built to protect you.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the shell is durable, some riders might prefer a material with even higher impact resistance.
- The fit might not be perfect for every head shape, so trying it on first is recommended.
This ILM helmet offers a good balance of features and protection. It’s a practical option for riders looking for a reliable and versatile helmet.
Finding the Perfect Fit: Motorcycle Helmets for Bigger Heads
Finding a motorcycle helmet that fits comfortably can be a challenge for everyone, but it’s especially tricky if you have a larger head. A helmet that’s too tight feels awful and can even be dangerous. A helmet that’s too loose won’t protect you properly. This guide will help you find the right helmet for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a helmet for a bigger head, several features are crucial.
- Oval vs. Round Heads: Most helmets are made for “round oval” heads. People with bigger heads often have a more “long oval” shape. Look for helmets specifically designed for long oval heads. This shape accommodates more length from front to back.
- Adjustable Fit Systems: Some helmets have internal padding systems you can adjust. This lets you fine-tune the fit for maximum comfort.
- Removable and Washable Liners: These liners help keep your helmet fresh. They also offer a little extra cushioning.
- Chin Curtain and Breath Deflector: These help reduce wind noise and keep your face warmer in cold weather. They also help stop your visor from fogging up.
- Ventilation: Good airflow keeps you cool and comfortable, especially on long rides. Look for helmets with adjustable vents.
Important Materials
The materials used in a helmet affect its weight, durability, and protection.
- Polycarbonate Shell: This is a common and affordable material. It offers good impact resistance.
- Fiberglass Composite Shell: This material is lighter and stronger than polycarbonate. It’s a popular choice for higher-end helmets.
- Carbon Fiber Shell: This is the lightest and strongest material available. It offers excellent protection but comes at a higher price.
- EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) Liner: This foam liner absorbs impact energy. It’s a vital safety component in all helmets.
- Comfort Liner: This soft material inside the helmet touches your skin. It should be moisture-wicking and comfortable for long wear.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a helmet great or not so great.
- Fit: This is the most important factor. A helmet that fits well protects you best. A poorly fitting helmet can be dangerous.
- Safety Certifications: Always look for helmets with DOT (Department of Transportation) and ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) certifications. These mean the helmet has met strict safety standards.
- Weight: A lighter helmet is more comfortable, especially on long rides. Carbon fiber helmets are the lightest.
- Aerodynamics: A well-designed helmet cuts through the air smoothly. This reduces wind buffeting and noise.
- Build Quality: Check for smooth seams, well-placed vents, and sturdy strap hardware. Good build quality means the helmet will last longer and perform better.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a helmet feels and performs depends on how and where you ride.
- Commuting: For daily commutes, comfort and good visibility are key. A helmet with excellent ventilation and a clear visor will make your ride more enjoyable.
- Touring: Long-distance riders need a helmet that’s comfortable for hours. Look for features like quiet interiors and good aerodynamics to reduce fatigue.
- Sport Riding: If you ride aggressively, you’ll want a lightweight helmet with excellent ventilation and a secure fit.
- Off-Road Riding: Dirt bike helmets often have visors and peak extensions to block sun and debris. They also feature robust ventilation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if a motorcycle helmet is the right size for my big head?
A: You need to measure your head. Wrap a soft tape measure around your head, about an inch above your eyebrows and ears. Use this measurement and the helmet manufacturer’s sizing chart to find your size.
Q: Can I just buy a larger size of a regular helmet?
A: Not always. Some brands offer helmets in “long oval” shapes specifically for bigger heads. A regular large helmet might be too round and pinch your temples.
Q: What are the best helmet brands for people with bigger heads?
A: Brands like Shoei, HJC, Scorpion, and AGV often have models that come in long oval head shapes or offer a wide range of sizes.
Q: How tight should a new motorcycle helmet feel?
A: A new helmet should feel snug all around your head. It shouldn’t have any pressure points or feel loose. It will break in a little over time.
Q: Should I worry about helmet weight if I have a big head?
A: Yes, weight is important. A heavy helmet can cause neck strain on long rides. Lighter materials like carbon fiber can make a big difference.
Q: What does “long oval” head shape mean?
A: It means your head is longer from front to back than it is wide from side to side. Many standard helmets are “round oval,” which can feel too tight on the sides for long oval heads.
Q: Can I wear glasses with a motorcycle helmet for a big head?
A: Many helmets are designed with channels in the cheek pads to accommodate glasses. Look for this feature for added comfort.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my helmet?
A: Most helmets have removable liners that you can wash by hand with mild soap and water. Always air dry them completely.
Q: How often should I replace my motorcycle helmet?
A: You should replace your helmet every 5-7 years, or immediately after any impact, even if there’s no visible damage.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a motorcycle helmet for a big head?
A: Try to find a local motorcycle shop where you can try on different helmets. If buying online, make sure they have a good return policy.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.