The short answer: the best motorcycle helmets for touring are the ones that stay quiet at highway speed, fit your exact head shape, and carry certification beyond the American baseline. After comparing 12 models on weight, shell material, visor sealing, ventilation layout, noise control, and communication-system readiness, the ILM ILM-313 full-face helmet takes the top spot for most touring riders, with the GLX GX11 and the BELL Qualifier close behind for riders on a tighter budget.
That ranking is not arbitrary. Touring puts a different set of demands on a helmet than a short Sunday ride. A full day behind a fairing at highway speed means constant wind pressure around your ears, a liner that has to hold up past hour eight, and a visor that seals properly when your posture changes every time you check your mirror. Cheap helmets fail on exactly those three points, and no amount of extra padding fixes it.
Our team worked through the entire field for 2026, reading spec sheets, warranty terms, and thousands of owner reviews, then sorting the results by how the helmets actually behave on a long day. We weighted four things heavily: certification standard, real weight, whether the shell and neck area are designed to kill noise, and whether there is room for a Bluetooth system. Prices change constantly, so use the buttons below to check current listings rather than relying on a number that was correct last month.
If you are still narrowing the field by type rather than model, our guides to the best modular motorcycle helmets for touring and the best motorcycle helmets for men break the same criteria down by category, and we have a dedicated pick list for riders who want a motorcycle helmet fit built for women.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Best Motorcycle Helmets for Touring for 2026
ILM ILM-313 Full Face Helmet
- Most reviewed in the group
- ABS shell
- Clear and smoked visors
- Neck scarf included
BELL Qualifier Full-Face Helmet
- Speaker pockets built in
- Padded wind collar
- NutraFog II shield
- Velocity Flow vents
All 12 Touring Helmets Compared in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ILM ILM-313 Full Face Helmet |
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| GLX GX11 Compact Full Face Helmet |
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 ILM 902 Modular Flip-Up Helmet |
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| BELL Qualifier Full-Face Helmet |
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 O’Neal Sierra Helmet |
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 HAX Obsidian Dual Visor Helmet |
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 LS2 Assault Full Face Helmet |
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 ScorpionEXO T520 Touring Helmet |
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 Shoei RF-1400 Full Face Helmet |
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 HAX Force Aerodynamic Helmet |
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 LS2 Stream II Full Face Helmet |
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 ILM Z501 Pinlock Compatible Helmet |
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1. ILM ILM-313 Full Face Helmet: The Most Reviewed Touring Pick
ILM Full Face Motorcycle Helmets for Adult Men and Women DOT Model ILM-313
ABS shell
3 lb weight
Meets FMVSS-218
Clear plus smoked visor included
Pros
- Highest review count in the group
- Includes a clear and a smoked visor plus a neck scarf
- Removable washable inner pads
- Lightweight durable ABS shell
Cons
- DOT-only certification
- Noisy at highway speeds in upright position
- Padding needs break-in time
The ILM-313 is the one I keep coming back to because the numbers behind it are hard to argue with. At 4.5 stars across more than 9600 reviews, it is the most thoroughly worn helmet in this group, and the review pattern is remarkably consistent: buyers like the value, like the included second visor, and like pulling the washable liner out when a week of riding has soaked it through.
Out of the box the shell is ABS, which keeps the weight at three pounds and the price honest. That lightness matters on a 600-mile day, where a heavier shell shows up as pressure at the base of your neck before it shows up anywhere else. The removable inner pads are the detail I appreciate most, since touring gear gets sweaty and a washable liner extends the life of the helmet considerably.
The included package is unusually generous for this tier. You get a clear visor, a smoked visor, a neck scarf for cold starts, and a helmet bag. That scarf is a small thing, but on a cold morning highway ride it genuinely takes the sting off the base of your neck before the bike warms up.
What you give up is certification depth. This is a DOT FMVSS 218 helmet, not ECE 22.06, which matters if you ride in Europe or want a Snell-approved model for track days. It is also a fixed full-face, so there is no flip-up bar for fuel stops or city riding.
Who this helmet suits best
This one fits riders who cover serious mileage on a budget and want the second visor and the scarf included rather than bought separately. The three-pound weight also makes it a sensible pick for riders who find heavier full-face shells tiring on consecutive long days.
Where it falls short
Riders chasing absolute quiet at highway speed will be disappointed, and anyone who needs ECE 22.06 or Snell approval has to look elsewhere. The cheek padding also starts firm and needs riding time before it molds to your face, which is normal but worth knowing before day one.
2. GLX GX11 Compact Full Face Helmet: Best Value for Long Days
GLX GX11 Compact Full Face Motorcycle Helmet w/ Tinted Visor, DOT
Multi-density EPS
3.1 lb
Seven vents
Tinted visor included
Pros
- Free tinted visor included
- Three intakes and four exhaust outlets
- Multi-density EPS liner
- Removable and adjustable interior
Cons
- Runs small near the top of a size range
- Visor side screw loosens with use
- DOT-only certification
The GX11 is the compact-shell option in this group, and that shape does real work for touring riders with narrower heads. Owners consistently describe a snug fit that breaks in nicely, and the multi-density EPS liner does a better job of damping high-frequency road noise than most plastic shells in the same class.
Ventilation is the standout. Three adjustable intakes and four exhaust outlets are a lot of hardware for a budget helmet, and the wind tunnel work behind them shows on a hot afternoon highway run. Buyers mention that the airflow keeps the interior dry without whistling, which is a harder balance to strike than it sounds.
GLX includes a tinted visor in the box, which removes the most common first purchase for a new rider. The shield also carries ribs for rigidity and a quick-change mechanism, and the interior pads are fully removable, washable, adjustable, and replaceable.
The complaints cluster around sizing. Multiple riders note that the GX11 runs small near the top of the size range, so measuring your head circumference and comparing it against the chart matters more here than with most brands. The visor side screw also loosens with repeated use, which is a minor annoyance rather than a safety problem.
Who this helmet suits best
This is my pick for riders who want a full-face that does not feel like a compromise on a long trip, and who value airflow more than absolute silence. The included tinted shield and the adjustable interior make it a strong first touring helmet.
Where it falls short
If your head sits near the top of a size range, expect to size up. DOT-only certification limits its usefulness for European travel or track days, and the visor screws loosening over time is the one piece of hardware that feels like an afterthought.
3. ILM 902 Modular Flip-Up Helmet: Best for Riders Who Want a Chin Bar
ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip up Modular Full Face Helmet DOT with 6 Colors Model 902 (M, Matte Black)
Modular flip-up bar
Dual visor
2.31 kg
DOT certified
Pros
- Chin bar lifts for city riding and conversations
- Dual visor choice
- Anti-scratch and anti-fog wide-view visor
- Removable washable liner and cheek pads
Cons
- Bulkier and heavier than a fixed full-face
- Modest review base
- Less quiet than full-face designs
The modular argument is simple and the ILM 902 makes it cheaply. On a trip that mixes highway miles with fuel stops, town errands, and a lot of helmet removal, lifting the chin bar saves real time and spares your neck the awkward shuffle of pulling a full-face over your head in a gas station parking spot.
Construction is a high-resistance ABS shell with a micrometrically adjustable strap, six vents, and a dual visor setup that lets you move between a clear and a tinted shield without swapping. The face shield is described as wide-view, anti-scratch, and anti-fog, and the liner and cheek pads come out for washing.
Where the modular design works against you is noise. Raising the chin bar closes a seal that a full-face never has to manage, and the hinge hardware adds mass. At 2.31 kg this is one of the heavier helmets here, which you feel more on a long day than you expect.
Its review base is also the smallest in the group at 235 reviews. That is not a red flag on its own, but it means you are buying on the strength of the design rather than a long record of long-distance reports.
Who this helmet suits best
This suits riders whose touring mixes a lot of stop-start riding with highway stretches, and anyone who wears prescription glasses and wants the visor off without removing the whole helmet. It is also DOT certified, which keeps it simple for US riders.
Where it falls short
If your priority is the quietest possible ride, a full-face is the better tool. The bulk at the jaw, the added weight, and the smaller pool of long-term owner feedback all argue for looking at a full-face first and treating this as the alternative.
4. BELL Qualifier Full-Face Helmet: Top Rated for Comm System Fit
BELL Qualifier Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet – Matte Black, X-Large
Bluetooth speaker pockets
Padded wind collar
4.9 lb
NutraFog II shield
Pros
- Integrated speaker pockets for Bluetooth systems
- Padded wind collar helps with wind noise
- Velocity Flow ventilation with quick-drying liner
- One-hand visor operation
Cons
- Noticeable wind noise in upright cruiser posture
- Runs tight and several riders size up
- Heaviest shell in this group
BELL has been making helmets in America for a long time, and the Qualifier is the brand’s most recommended entry point for riders moving up to a full-face. It draws its feature list from BELL’s higher Star line, which is why you find things like the NutraFog II shield and Velocity Flow ventilation on a mid-range model.
The detail I care about most on a touring helmet is here: integrated speaker pockets for Bluetooth systems, plus a padded wind collar around the neck opening. The collar is a cheap-sounding feature that makes a measurable difference to the hollow roar you normally get at the base of your neck at speed.
The clear shield seals well and resists fogging and scratching, and you can raise and lower it one-handed, which is safer than fishing for a latch while riding. The liner is removable and washable with quick-drying padding, so sweat management on a hot day is handled.
Two things work against it. The 4.9-pound figure is the heaviest shell in this group, and it will tell on your neck over a long stretch. Sizing also runs tight, with several riders needing to size up, and the cheek pads can feel cramped around the face.
Who this helmet suits best
This is the one to look at if you run a Bluetooth system and want the wiring to disappear instead of being taped to the liner. BELL’s name also brings a service network that smaller brands cannot match, and the wind collar helps in upright cruiser positions.
Where it falls short
Riders chasing minimum weight or maximum quiet will feel the 4.9 pounds. If you are between sizes, buy carefully, and note that the helmet comes with a clear visor only, so a dark shield is a separate purchase.
5. O’Neal Sierra Helmet: Best for Lightweight Touring
O’Neal Sierra Helmet, Black/Gray XL
Polycarbonate shell
16 oz weight
DOT FMVSS 218
Double-D strap
Pros
- Listed at only 16 ounces
- Double-D safety lock retention
- Integrated shield with height adjustment
- Size range from XS to XXL
Cons
- DOT-certified only
- Listed for off-road use so road sealing is less refined
- Very light build offers little noise management
At sixteen ounces, the O’Neal Sierra is the lightest helmet on this list by a wide margin, and if neck fatigue is what ends your riding day early, weight is the first number to attack. The shell is polycarbonate and ABS, and the retention system is a padded chin strap with a double-D safety lock.
Certification is where this one is modest. The Sierra is listed as DOT FMVSS 218 certified, which is the US road baseline, so it covers American riding but not European approval or Snell track certification. Riders who travel abroad should move up to a dual-certified shell such as the HAX Force.
The integrated face shield adjusts in height, which helps if the default position sits too high or too low for your riding posture. Owners rate the secure double-D retention and the easy shield adjustability highly, and the size run from extra small to double extra large is unusually broad.
The honest caveat is that the listing positions this as an off-road compatible helmet. That means the visor sealing and shell shaping are optimized for dirt riding rather than sealing out highway wind, and the very low weight reflects less padding inside rather than better touring refinement.
Who this helmet suits best
This is the pick for riders whose biggest problem is neck pressure after a few hundred miles, and for anyone who wants a featherweight shell at a modest outlay. The broad size range helps riders with hard-to-fit head shapes.
Where it falls short
If noise is your main concern, a lighter shell usually means less internal padding and less acoustic damping. Because it is developed for off-road use, the visor seal will not match a road-focused full-face in crosswind or highway noise.
6. HAX Obsidian Dual Visor Helmet: Best for Glasses Wearers
HAX Obsidian Full Face Dual Visor Adult Motorcycle Helmet for Motorbike Street Bike with Pinlock Ready DOT Approved Matte Black Gold L
Dual visor system
Pinlock ready
Bluetooth slot
98 percent UV block
Pros
- Internal sun visor means no sunglasses needed
- Pinlock ready shield for fog control
- Built-in Bluetooth headset slot
- Blocks about 98 percent of UV light
- Eyeglass friendly interior
Cons
- Runs small so sizing up is common
- Inner sun visor is light for night riding
- Visor release tabs feel inexpensive
The Obsidian answers the single most common touring complaint from glasses wearers. Instead of swapping a clear shield for a dark one every time the light changes, you drop the internal sun visor behind the main shield in a couple of seconds and keep your prescription lenses in place the whole time.
It is also Pinlock ready, which matters more than the spec sheet suggests. Fogging is what ends a lot of long rides early, and a helmet that accepts an anti-fog insert gives you a solution without replacing the entire visor system. A Bluetooth headset slot is molded into the interior as well.
The upgraded hypoallergenic liner is supportive without being punishing, which is the other half of the comfort equation. Outer and inner visors both carry UV treatment, with the outer visor blocking roughly 98 percent of ultraviolet radiation. Two replacement tail fins and a thick cloth bag are included.
Sizing is the main friction. It runs small, so multiple riders recommend stepping up a size, and the internal sun visor tint is light enough that night visibility drops if you leave it down. Visor fogs in cold weather unless you add an anti-fog insert.
Who this helmet suits best
Glasses wearers get the most out of this design, and so do riders who move between bright and shaded conditions constantly. Comm riders will like the integrated headset slot, and anyone with sensitive skin will appreciate the hypoallergenic liner.
Where it falls short
Size up before ordering. The sun visor is not dark enough to replace a proper smoked shield in direct summer sun, and the plastic visor-release tabs are the first part that feels like a budget decision.
7. LS2 Assault Full Face Helmet: Best Pinlock Package
LS2 Helmets Assault Full Face Motorcycle Helmet W/ SunShield (Matte Black – Small)
KPA aramid shell
Pinlock ready shield
Inner sun shield
Chin and neck curtains
Pros
- KPA shell mixed with aramid fibers is light and strong
- Wrap-around neck curtain cuts noise
- Pinlock-ready visor with a shield included according to owners
- Active chin and top vents
- Light enough for all-day riding
Cons
- Loud in an upright position
- Two-position visor ratchet with no partial setting
- Cheek pads tight out of the box
The LS2 Assault is the one I keep recommending to riders who ask where to start on a touring helmet without spending a fortune. The Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell mixed with aramid fibers is light and flexible without feeling thin, and reviewers regularly describe the finish and feature set as rivaling models costing far more.
Noise control is the touring-specific part. It has a wrap-around neck curtain and a flexible chin curtain, and together they close the two biggest leaks around the jaw and the base of the skull. Tucked into a tuck, that seal does noticeable work.
The visor is 3D, optically correct, Pinlock ready, and uses a quick release system, with owners reporting a Pinlock shield included. Owners also praise the retractable inner sun shield, so you are not managing two separate glasses or swapping shields all day.
Where it disappoints is sound in an upright position. Sit up on a cruiser and the noise level climbs sharply, and the visor ratchet only locks fully open or fully closed, so there is no partial vent position to fine-tune airflow. The cheek pads are tight out of the box and take riding time to soften.
Who this helmet suits best
This suits sport-touring riders who tuck forward for most of their miles and want curtains that seal. Anyone who wears glasses benefits from the optical shield, and the removable comfort liner makes hot-day riding more tolerable.
Where it falls short
Upright cruiser and adventure positions are where the noise gets old, and the two-position visor ratchet is genuinely annoying in warm weather. Give the cheek pads a few hundred miles before judging the fit.
8. ScorpionEXO T520 Touring Helmet: Best for Quietness
ScorpionEXO T520 Full Face Touring Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Nama-Shimi (Black/Chameleon – Medium)
Aero chin curtain
AirFit cheek system
Dual-density EPS
DOT and ECE certified
Pros
- Quietest build in this group for wind and engine noise
- Aero skirt chin curtain plus AirFit inflation to tune cheek tension
- Everclear no-fog shield on both surfaces
- Free breath deflector included
- DOT and ECE certified
Cons
- Runs slightly large so some riders size down
- Sun shield can drop on bumps
- Warm on very hot days
The T520 is the only helmet here branded specifically as a touring model, and it earns that label through acoustics. Reviewers call out the quietness first and repeatedly, describing it as cutting both wind and engine noise rather than just the wind buffeting around the shell.
Most of that comes from a two-part system. An aero skirt chin curtain blocks upward airflow under the chin, while the AirFit inflation system lets you pump the cheek pads to tighten the seal around your face, which closes the leaks that change shape as your head moves.
Ventilation is aero-tuned rather than aggressive, with closeable top intakes, exhaust vents, a dual-position mouth vent, and a free breath deflector included. The Everclear shield is treated on both surfaces against fogging, and the Ellip-Tec ratchet lets you change visors without tools.
It is also the best-integrated for communications, with large-diameter pockets that fit most Bluetooth speaker systems and EXO-COM readiness. Three shell sizes across XS to 3XL, double D-ring retention, DOT and ECE certification, and a five-year warranty round out a genuinely touring-focused package.
Who this helmet suits best
Noise-sensitive riders get the most here, and the cheek inflation system is a real answer for faces that are hard to seal. Riders running a Bluetooth system will find the speaker pockets accommodating, and glasses wearers are covered by the KwikFit 3D contoured cheek pads.
Where it falls short
It runs slightly large, so size down if you are between measurements. The internal sun shield can drop when you hit bumps, and the ventilation prioritizes quiet over maximum cooling on the hottest days of summer.
9. Shoei RF-1400 Full Face Helmet: Best for Riders Who Also Track
Shoei RF-1400 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
Snell approved
AIM+ shell
3.6 lb
Pinlock EVO lens included
Pros
- Snell approved as well as DOT
- Best-in-class quietness for a full-face
- Excellent aerodynamics with almost no drag change when turning your head
- Cheek pads removable with emergency cut lines
- Includes chin curtain breath guard and Pinlock EVO lens
Cons
- Most expensive helmet in this group
- Very tight out of the box
- Awkward quick-release shield latch at first
The RF-1400 is the premium end of this list, and long-term owners describe it as the best Shoei they have owned. It is Snell approved in addition to DOT, which matters for anyone who wants one helmet for a touring season and a handful of track days without buying two.
Quietness is the headline. Owners credit it with filtering high-frequency wind and road noise better than other full-faces they have used, and the aerodynamics hold up when you turn your head, with almost no change in drag. That matters constantly, because most of your head movement at speed is exactly that kind of check-over-the-shoulder glance.
The package is generous for a helmet in this class: breath guard, chin curtain, helmet bag, and a Pinlock EVO lens all come in the box. The shell is Shoei’s lightest Snell-approved full-face, and the cheek pads have emergency cut lines so medical responders can remove them quickly at a scene.
Fit is tight out of the box, and in the largest size the cheek pads press on your face until the padding breaks in. The new-style quick-release shield latch is awkward to operate the first few times. The visor also fogs fairly quickly even with the breath guard, which the included Pinlock insert handles well.
Who this helmet suits best
This suits riders who want one certified helmet that handles both highway miles and track sessions, and who will settle a fit question with a dealer rather than a return. The field of view is wide with no blind spots and accommodates glasses and sunglasses well.
Where it falls short
It is the most expensive helmet in this group, and tight sizing means a new Shoei is not a same-day purchase. Riders in a laid-back cruiser posture report extra wind noise, which is worth testing before committing.
10. HAX Force Aerodynamic Helmet: Best ECE 22.06 on a Budget
HAX Force Aerodynamic Full Face Motorcycle Helmet for Street Bike DOT & ECE
DOT and ECE 22.06
2.09 kg
ABS and PC shell
Retractable sun visor
Pros
- Dual DOT and ECE 22.06 certification
- ABS and PC composite shell with good impact resistance
- Published head circumference ranges from small to XXL
- Eyeglass compatible with quick-release buckle
- Removable breathable hypoallergenic liner
Cons
- Smaller review base than the HAX Obsidian
- Sun visor tint is light for very bright conditions
- Pinlock and Bluetooth hardware sold separately
The HAX Force exists to solve one problem: getting ECE 22.06 certification without moving up a tier. Current ECE 22.06 adds rotational impact testing, and having both DOT and ECE on the same shell means you can ride in Europe and the US without thinking about it.
The shell is an ABS and polycarbonate composite at 2.09 kg, which is light for a dual-certified design. The aerodynamic profile is designed to reduce wind resistance and wind noise at highway speed, and the liner is removable, breathable, and hypoallergenic.
It is eyeglass compatible, uses a quick-release buckle with an adjustable chin strap, and includes a retractable sun visor plus a UV-protective outer lens. Bluetooth and Pinlock readiness are built in, though the hardware itself is a separate purchase. A carrying case comes in the box.
The published head circumference ranges are one of the more useful things about this listing, running from small at 21.5 to 22 inches through XXL at 24.8 to 25.2 inches. Measure before ordering. The sun visor tint is light for genuinely bright conditions, and the review base is still growing.
Who this helmet suits best
This is the pick for riders who want current European and American certification in one shell without a premium spend. The size chart makes it a good option for riders who have struggled to find a fit elsewhere.
Where it falls short
The sun visor will not replace a smoked shield in peak summer sun, and you need to budget for the Pinlock insert and any Bluetooth unit separately. The lighter owner feedback so far means fewer long-distance reports to draw on.
11. LS2 Stream II Full Face Helmet: Best Rotational Protection
LS2 Helmets Stream II Full Face Motorcycle Helmet W/ SunShield (Matte America Gray/Black – Large)
AREM rotational system
ECE 22.06
Three shell sizes
Washable interior
Pros
- AREM rotational energy management system
- ECE 22.06 certification
- Three shell sizes give a better fit than single-size shells
- Moisture-wicking interior goes in the washing machine
- Drop-down sun visor sits low enough to work with glasses
Cons
- Sun visor tint is light and fogs quickly
- Visor ratchet has only two positions
- Factory cheek pads can be unbearably tight
Most of this list is built around linear impact protection, which is what ECE 22.06 and DOT measure. The Stream II goes further with AREM, LS2’s rotational energy management system, which is designed to manage the rotational forces that come from an oblique hit rather than a straight one.
Its other touring asset is fit. Three shell sizes are provided rather than a single shell stretched across the range, and that is the single biggest upgrade in comfort for anyone who has fought with a helmet that never quite matched their head shape.
The drop-down sun shield sits lower than most competing shields, which makes it work properly with glasses, and the visor hinges, front-center lock, and micro-adjust chin strap all feel solid. The interior is moisture wicking and goes straight into a washing machine.
The recurring complaint is the cheek pads. Factory pads are described as unbearably tight by some owners, and larger pads are a separate purchase. The visor ratchet also has only two positions, and the sun visor tint is light and fogs quickly with the main shield down.
Who this helmet suits best
This suits riders who want rotational impact management and current ECE certification, and riders whose head shape has never matched a one-size shell. The washable interior and low sun shield work well for daily riders and glasses wearers.
Where it falls short
Budget for replacement cheek pads if you have a broad face, and plan to ride with the sun visor mostly stowed. The included chin curtain is advertised as removable but resists removal, and the shell can be noisy in certain positions.
12. ILM Z501 Pinlock Compatible Helmet: Best Visor Package
ILM Motorcycle Helmet Full Face with Pinlock Compatible Motocross DOT Z501
Two visors included
Visor lock
2.22 kg
Comtex washable liner
Pros
- Highest average rating in this group at 4.7 stars
- Two visors included with both Pinlock compatible
- Visor lock holds the outer visor secure at high speed
- Comtex liner is removable replaceable and washable
- Five vents with a metal quick-release buckle
Cons
- Pinlock inserts not included
- DOT-only certification
- Bulky motocross-style shell suits it to shorter trips
The Z501 carries the highest average rating in this group at 4.7 stars across more than 1500 reviews, and the reason is straightforward: it includes two visors, a clear and a mirrored one, plus two removable fins. For a rider who wants a tinted shield immediately, that is a meaningful chunk of the total outlay handled up front.
Both visors are Pinlock compatible, which sets up fog-free riding once you add an insert. The visor lock is the feature I would not compromise on for touring: it keeps the outer shield firmly attached to the helmet at speed rather than relying on the mechanism alone.
The Comtex liner is removable, replaceable, and washable with a softer feel and better fit than basic foam. There are five vents, a metal quick-release buckle, and a wide range of bold colorways and graphics if you want the helmet to read as part of the bike.
It is DOT certified only, and the shell carries a motocross shape that adds visual bulk. That bulk is the one real issue for long-distance riders: some owners find the profile less comfortable in a laid-back touring posture than a slimmer road-focused design.
Who this helmet suits best
This is the pick for riders who want a mirrored shield out of the box and a strong color choice, and for anyone who wants a secure visor lock. The washable Comtex liner suits riders who remove the helmet several times a day.
Where it falls short
You still need to buy Pinlock inserts, and DOT-only certification limits it for European travel or track days. The motocross-style shell is better suited to shorter trips than to long stretches in a tucked touring position.
Touring Helmet Buying Guide: Certification, Fit, and Features
Start with certification, because it is the one variable you cannot upgrade later. DOT FMVSS 218 is the American baseline and the minimum on most of this list. ECE 22.06 is the current European standard and adds rotational impact testing, which is why dual-certified models like the HAX Force and the LS2 Stream II stand out at this price level. Snell is a voluntary US standard favored by track organizations, and the Shoei RF-1400 carries it alongside DOT for riders who split their season between touring and track days.
For modular helmets, look for P/J homologation, which means the chin bar has been tested in both the closed and open positions. Without it, a flip-up helmet is only certified with the bar down, which is exactly the configuration most riders are not wearing when they need protection.
Weight is the second variable and it is the one riders underestimate. The range across this group runs from sixteen ounces to nearly five pounds. On a short commute that difference means nothing. Across 600-mile days, a lighter shell reduces pressure at the base of your neck, and neck fatigue is one of the most common reasons riders end a tour early.
Visor sealing and fogging control form the third pillar. Pinlock readiness means the shell accepts a double-pane anti-fog insert, which is the difference between a clear ride and a hand-and-screw shield wipe every few minutes in cold or wet conditions. An internal sun visor lets you handle changing light without wearing sunglasses under a clear shield or stopping to swap shields.
Finally, decide how much the helmet needs to do beyond protecting you. Integrated speaker pockets, an internal sun visor, a neck curtain, a chin curtain, and emergency cut lines in the cheek pads all matter on a long trip. Each one removes a small annoyance, and small annoyances add up across a week of riding.
Head Shape and the 2 2 2 Fit Rule
Fit beats brand loyalty every time. Riders fall in love with a shape that does not suit them, then spend years blaming the helmet for headaches, visor fogging, or pressure points at the brow. Measure your head circumference and know whether you are round, intermediate oval, or long oval before you shop, because those three shapes are the reason a helmet that fits your friend will not fit you.
The 2 2 2 rule is the quick check most riders can do in a shop. Put two fingers above your eyebrows and the brow line of the helmet, two fingers between your cheek and the cheek pad on each side, and two fingers between your chin and the chin strap. If any of the three fails, the helmet is wrong, regardless of the badge on the side.
Padding compresses with use, which is why forum riders talk about a break-in period of roughly the first hundred or two hundred miles. A helmet that feels tight on the first ride and slightly loose after a month has been fitted correctly. A helmet that stays loose has not.
Comfort features that help head shapes: three shell sizes beat one stretched shell, replaceable cheek pads in multiple sizes beat a fixed interior, and inflatable cheek systems let you tune the seal in the moment. Two of the helmets here, the ScorpionEXO T520 and the LS2 Stream II, address this directly.
Noise Reduction on the Highway
Wind noise is the complaint that ends more touring days than any other. Sustained highway speed pushes a lot of decibels through the ear canal, and repeated exposure is a genuine hearing concern, not just a comfort issue. That is why riders on long tours treat earplugs as standard equipment even with a quiet helmet.
What actually reduces noise in a helmet is physical: an aerodynamic shell that does not buffet, a tight visor seal, a chin curtain, and a neck curtain or padded collar that closes the gap at the base of the skull. The ScorpionEXO T520 leads this group on owner reports, with its aero skirt chin curtain and AirFit cheek inflation. The BELL Qualifier’s padded wind collar and the LS2 Assault’s wrap-around neck curtain both do the same job more cheaply.
Position matters as much as hardware. The same helmet can be quiet in a tuck and loud sitting upright, because the angle of your head changes the airflow path. Test in the position you actually ride, and remember that wind noise is a function of helmet, posture, and motorcycle windscreen together. What works on a faired sport-tourer will not transfer directly to a naked bike.
Visor sealing is the other half. A loose visor edge is an air horn pointed at your ears, and the two-position ratchet on the LS2 Assault and LS2 Stream II is a real limitation here because you cannot hold the shield in a partially open vent position.
Communication Systems and Touring Accessories
On a tour, a Bluetooth system is a navigation and safety tool before it is a luxury. Integrated speaker pockets, molded into the liner rather than added with straps, are the feature to check first. Four helmets here have them built in: the BELL Qualifier, the HAX Obsidian, the ScorpionEXO T520, and the HAX Force, which is ready for hardware without including it.
Fit the speakers before you ride. Pockets that are too shallow push the speaker against your ear and cause fatigue within an hour, and a helmet with no provision at all means clamping the unit to the shell, which distorts the fit and blocks ventilation. The T520’s large-diameter pockets and EXO-COM readiness are the most accommodating arrangement in this group.
For touring accessories, a helmet needs somewhere to route a hydration tube and a flat external surface for a camera mount. Tall shells handle a chin mount well, while low-profile full-faces are easier to pair with a standard strap mount. Whichever you choose, check that your accessories do not block the vents, because a touring helmet that is quiet and sealed is also a helmet that can overheat in July.
Helmet Care and When to Replace It
Every helmet in this group comes with a warranty measured in years, and those figures are a reasonable guide to replacement timing. Five years from purchase is the common ceiling, and a helmet that has been dropped onto concrete has effectively reached the end of its life even if the shell still looks fine.
Replace immediately after any impact, even a minor one. The EPS liner is designed to crush once and stay crushed, and a helmet that has absorbed a hit is no longer absorbing a second one. Never buy a used helmet, and never ride a helmet that has been dropped or dropped onto.
Routine care is simple and extends the life of the shell. Clean the liner and cheek pads with mild soap and cool water, never with solvents or hot water, and let everything air dry before reassembly. Keep the helmet on a shelf rather than hanging it by the straps, store it away from direct sunlight and heat, and expect the visor and seals to age faster than the shell.
One last signal: when the cheek pads compress until they no longer hold the seal, replace the pads if you can, and replace the helmet if you cannot. Loss of seal means loss of the noise control that made a touring helmet worth choosing in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bike helmet for touring?
For most riders, the ILM ILM-313 full-face helmet is the best starting point: it is the most reviewed helmet in our group, includes both a clear and a smoked visor plus a neck scarf, and stays light at three pounds. Riders who want current ECE 22.06 certification alongside DOT should look at the HAX Force, and riders who want one helmet for both touring and track days should look at the Snell-approved Shoei RF-1400.
What is the quietest touring motorcycle helmet?
Among these twelve, the ScorpionEXO T520 draws the strongest quietness reports, with an aero skirt chin curtain and an AirFit cheek inflation system that lets you tighten the seal around your face. The Shoei RF-1400 is also frequently cited as a very quiet full-face. Budget for earplugs either way, since highway speed is loud regardless of helmet.
What is the 2 2 2 rule for bike helmets?
The 2 2 2 rule is a three-part fit check. Two fingers should fit between your eyebrows and the front edge of the helmet. Two fingers should fit between each cheek and the cheek pad. Two fingers should fit between your chin and the chin strap when fastened. If any of the three fails, the helmet does not fit, no matter what brand it is.
Are modular helmets louder than full-face helmets?
Usually, yes. The chin bar hinge and the extra hardware at the jaw create a leak a fixed full-face never has, which is why full-face models dominate the quietest ratings. The ILM 902 offers the flip-up convenience at a lighter price, but if noise is your priority a full-face like the ScorpionEXO T520 or the Shoei RF-1400 is the better tool.
Should I buy a modular or full-face helmet for touring?
Choose modular if your touring mixes city riding, fuel stops, and frequent helmet removal, or if you wear glasses and want the visor off without taking the helmet off. Choose full-face if your priority is quiet, weight, and long highway days. If you do want a modular, look for P/J homologation so the chin bar is tested in both the open and closed positions.
What certification should I look for in a touring helmet?
DOT FMVSS 218 is the American baseline and the minimum you should accept. ECE 22.06 adds rotational impact testing and is the current European standard, so dual-certified models such as the HAX Force and the LS2 Stream II give you more flexibility. Snell is the voluntary US standard for track use, which matters if you also ride on a circuit.
Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Helmets for Touring
After working through all twelve, the ILM ILM-313 remains the best motorcycle helmet for touring overall, because its combination of weight, included visors, and a 9600-review track record is hard to argue with. Riders who want the quietest build should choose the ScorpionEXO T520, and riders who want current ECE 22.06 certification on a budget should look at the HAX Force.
Whichever one you pick, get it fitted properly using the 2 2 2 rule, wear earplugs at highway speed, and buy it from a retailer who will let you return it. Use the buttons above to check current listings, and check fit before you commit.