The different types of atv helmets include full-face, open-face, modular, and half helmets. Full-face helmets provide the most comprehensive protection, while open-face helmets offer less coverage but greater visibility.
Modular helmets combine the features of both full-face and open-face helmets with a chin bar that flips up. Half helmets are the least protective and only cover the top of the head. Atv helmets are essential for providing safety to riders while enjoying off-road adventures.
With so many different styles of atv helmets available, it’s important to choose the right one that appropriately suits your needs. From full-face helmets that offer the most comprehensive protection, to open-face helmets that offer unobstructed visibility and greater comfort, there are a variety of options to choose from. Modular helmets that offer a combination of both full-face and open-face helmets with a convenient flip-up chin bar offer the best of both worlds. And lastly, half helmets offer the least coverage and are considered the least protective but offer the most freedom and least amount of restriction.

Credit: www.motosport.com
Off-Road Helmets
What Are Off-Road Helmets?
Off-road helmets are specifically designed for use in off-road environments. These helmets are built to offer maximum safety, with features that address the unique challenges of off-road riding. Off-road helmets are made with lightweight materials to reduce fatigue when riding for long periods.
Design Features Of Off-Road Helmets
Off-road helmets come with unique design features that make them different from other types of helmets. These design features include:
- Visor: Off-road helmets have a large visor that offers superior protection from the sun and rain. The visor is also designed to deflect debris and branches that may get in the way while riding.
- Chin guard: Off-road helmets have a chin guard that offers additional protection to the face and jawline. This chin guard also improves the aerodynamics of the helmet.
- Peak: Off-road helmets have a peak that helps to shield the eyes from the sun. The peak is also designed to deflect debris and branches.
Advantages Of Off-Road Helmets
Off-road helmets come with several advantages, which make them an ideal choice for off-road riders. Some advantages of off-road helmets include:
- Maximum protection: Off-road helmets are designed to offer maximum protection to the rider. The helmet’s visor, chin guard, and peak work together to protect the rider from injuries caused by debris, branches, and other obstacles.
- Lightweight: Off-road helmets are made from lightweight materials that reduce the fatigue of the rider when riding for long periods.
- Better ventilation: Off-road helmets come with better ventilation systems that allow air to flow freely within the helmet. This keeps the rider cool and comfortable while riding.
Disadvantages Of Off-Road Helmets
Off-road helmets also come with a few disadvantages that riders need to be aware of. Some of these disadvantages include:
- Limited vision: The large visor on off-road helmets can limit the rider’s vision, especially when riding at high speeds.
- Noise: Off-road helmets can be noisy due to their design. The peak and large visor can catch more wind, creating additional noise while riding.
- Cost: Off-road helmets are usually more expensive than other types of helmets due to their unique design features.
Pricing And Recommendations For Off-Road Helmets
Off-road helmets come in a variety of prices, depending on the brand, features, and quality. As a general rule of thumb, investing in a high-quality off-road helmet is a must for every serious off-road rider. While there are plenty of budget-friendly helmets, investing in a more expensive option will offer better safety features and added comfort.
Some of the best off-road helmets in the market include the shoei vfx-evo, bell moto-9, and fox v3. These helmets offer superior protection, comfort, and durability. The pricing for these helmets can range from $300 to $700. However, investing in a high-quality off-road helmet ensures maximum protection, which is invaluable while off-road riding.
Full-Face Helmets
What Are Full-Face Helmets?
As the name suggests, full-face helmets are designed to offer full-face protection, covering your entire head, chin, and face. These helmets are a popular choice for atv riders who prioritize safety and protection.
Design Features Of Full-Face Helmets
Full-face helmets feature a few design elements that set them apart from other types of atv helmets. Here are some of the key design features of full-face helmets:
- A chin bar: This is a defining feature of a full-face helmet. The chin bar provides additional protection to the lower part of your face in case of an accident.
- Visor: Full-face helmets come with an attached visor that protects your eyes and face from wind, dirt, and debris.
- Ventilation: Full-face helmets have multiple vents that allow for better air circulation, reducing fogging and increasing overall comfort.
- Padding: These helmets come with thick padding that adds comfort and protection.
Advantages Of Full-Face Helmets
Full-face helmets come with several advantages that make them an attractive option for atv riders. Here are some of the benefits of full-face helmets:
- Maximum protection: Full-face helmets provide full coverage, making them the safest type of atv helmets.
- Reduced wind noise: The design of full-face helmets helps reduce wind noise, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable ride.
- Better vision: The visor of a full-face helmet provides better vision since it doesn’t obstruct your peripheral vision like other types of helmets.
Disadvantages Of Full-Face Helmets
While full-face helmets have significant advantages, they also have a few disadvantages. Here are some of the cons of full-face helmets:
- Heavy: Full-face helmets are generally heavier than other types of helmets, which might be uncomfortable for some riders.
- Heat retention: The insulation provided by full-face helmets can make them warm, especially during hot weather conditions.
- Reduced ventilation: While full-face helmets come with multiple vents that improve circulation, they still provide reduced ventilation compared to other types of helmets.
Pricing And Recommendations For Full-Face Helmets
Full-face helmets are available in different price ranges, depending on their features and quality. Here are some recommendations for full-face helmets:
- If you’re on a budget, the bell qualifier full-face motorcycle helmet is a great option that balances price and quality.
- For a mid-range option, the shoei rf-1200 full-face helmet provides excellent protection and comfort.
- If you’re looking for a premium full-face helmet, the arai xd4 helmet is a top-of-the-line option that comes with excellent safety features.
Full-face helmets are a popular choice among atv riders who prioritize safety and protection. They offer maximum protection, reduced wind noise, and better vision, but they also come with a few disadvantages like heaviness, heat retention, and reduced ventilation. By considering your budget and priorities, you can find a suitable full-face helmet that provides the protection you need.
Modular Helmets
What Are Modular Helmets?
Modular helmets, also known as flip-up or convertible helmets, are a type of atv helmet that allows the front chin guard to be lifted up, converting the full-face helmet into an open-face helmet. This feature provides riders with the flexibility to adjust their helmet’s functionality based on their preferences and needs.
Design Features Of Modular Helmets
- Hinge system: The key design feature of modular helmets is the hinge mechanism that connects the chin guard to the helmet’s main body, allowing the rider to lift the front part of the helmet when needed.
- Visor: Most modular helmets come with an integrated visor that helps to protect the eyes from harmful uv rays and dirt.
- Ventilation: Modular helmets usually have several air vents that help to provide proper ventilation to the rider’s head.
- Padding and liners: Modular helmets come with soft, comfortable padding and liners that ensure a snug and secure fit, reducing the pressure points on the rider’s head.
Advantages Of Modular Helmets
- Versatility: The modular helmet’s chin guard can be easily lifted up, allowing the rider to communicate with others or enjoy fresh air without the need to remove the entire helmet.
- Safety: Modular helmets offer similar protection to full-face helmets and are sometimes preferred by riders who need extra protection when travelling at high speeds.
- Comfort: The ventilation and padding systems in modular helmets help to offer superior comfort and breathability to riders.
- Convenience: Modular helmets can be a convenient choice for riders who wear glasses or have a beard, as they can easily put on and take off the helmet without removing their glasses or irritating their beard.
Disadvantages Of Modular Helmets
- Weight: Modular helmets are usually heavier than other types of helmets due to their complex design.
- Cost: The additional features of modular helmets make them more expensive than other helmet types.
- Reduced protection: While modular helmets offer similar protection to full-face helmets, they may offer less protection in the chin area due to the hinge mechanism.
Pricing And Recommendations For Modular Helmets
Modular helmets come with a range of features and designs, leading to varying prices. The prices for these helmets can range from around $100 up to $500. The type of modular helmet you choose mainly depends on your budget and personal preferences.
Here are some recommendations for modular helmets, based on their quality, comfort and affordability:
- Hjc rpha 90 – a reliable modular helmet with great ventilation and noise reduction features.
- Shoei neotec ii – an excellent modular helmet with solid construction and safety features.
- Bell srt modular – an affordable modular helmet with comfortable padding and a clear visor.
Modular helmets are versatile and convenient atv helmets that offer riders the flexibility to choose the level of protection and ventilation they need. When selecting a modular helmet, riders should consider factors such as weight, cost, and protection before making their final decision.
Open-Face Helmets
What Are Open-Face Helmets?
Open-face helmets, also known as ¾ helmets, provide protection to the top, back, and sides of the head while leaving the rider’s face exposed. They cover the ears but don’t offer any chin protection or face shield. Open-face helmets are popular with riders of cruisers, scooters, and vintage bikes due to their classic design.
Design Features Of Open-Face Helmets
Open-face helmets have a shell made of lightweight and durable materials such as abs, polycarbonate, or fiberglass. They have a padded interior lining made of soft and breathable materials such as foam, fabric, or leather. Some open-face helmets have additional features such as:
- Removable and washable liner for easy maintenance.
- Sun visor to protect the rider’s eyes from the sun.
- Ventilation system to keep the rider cool and comfortable.
- D-ring or quick-release buckle to secure the helmet in place.
Advantages Of Open-Face Helmets
Open-face helmets offer several advantages over other types of helmets, such as:
- Visibility: Open-face helmets provide a wider field of vision compared to full-face helmets, making it easier for riders to see their surroundings and communicate with others.
- Comfort: Open-face helmets are lightweight, breathable, and allow air to flow through, making them comfortable to wear, especially in hot weather.
- Convenience: Open-face helmets are easy to put on and take off, and they don’t interfere with the rider’s hearing or communication.
- Style: Open-face helmets have a classic and timeless look that appeals to many riders, especially those with vintage bikes or a retro style.
Disadvantages Of Open-Face Helmets
Despite their benefits, open-face helmets also have some drawbacks, such as:
- Lack of protection: Open-face helmets don’t provide chin or face protection, which makes them less safe than full-face helmets, especially in the event of a crash.
- Weather conditions: Open-face helmets are not suitable for riding in cold or wet weather, as they don’t offer enough insulation or protection from the elements.
- Noise: Open-face helmets allow more wind and noise to enter, which could be uncomfortable for some riders, especially during highway riding.
- Bugs and debris: Open-face helmets expose the rider’s face to bugs, debris, and other objects on the road, which could be distracting or dangerous.
Pricing And Recommendations For Open-Face Helmets
Open-face helmets range in price from $50 to $400, depending on the brand, features, and materials. Some recommended open-face helmets include:
- Bell custom 500: A classic and stylish helmet that comes in a variety of colors and designs.
- Shoei rj platinum: A premium helmet with a lightweight shell, advanced ventilation system, and removable liner.
- Hjc is-5: A budget-friendly helmet with a polycarbonate shell, sun visor, and comfortable padding.
When choosing an open-face helmet, make sure it fits properly, is comfortable to wear, and meets safety standards such as dot or snell certification.
Frequently Asked Questions For What Are The Different Types Of Atv Helmets
What Is An Open-Face Atv Helmet?
An open-face atv helmet is a type of helmet that covers the top, sides, and back of the head but leaves the face exposed.
What Is A Full-Face Atv Helmet?
A full-face atv helmet is a type of helmet that covers the entire head, including the face and chin.
What Is A Modular Atv Helmet?
A modular atv helmet is a type of helmet that combines the features of an open-face and full-face helmet. It has a chin bar that can be flipped up for easy communication.
What Is An Off-Road Atv Helmet?
An off-road atv helmet is a type of helmet that is specifically designed for off-road riding. It has a visor to protect the face and a chin guard for added protection.
Conclusion
As you can see, the world of atv helmets is vast and varied. Each type of helmet has its own specific features, which can make a difference in both comfort and safety. From full-face helmets for extreme riders to open-face helmets for casual riders, there is an atv helmet to suit everyone’s needs.
It is important to keep in mind that safety should always come first. When choosing an atv helmet, make sure it meets safety standards, fits properly, and provides adequate protection for the type of riding you will be doing. While the features and design may differ, all atv helmets have the same goal: to protect the rider.
So, invest in a quality atv helmet that fits your needs, and stay safe on your off-road adventures!