Best Adventure and Dual-Sport Motorcycle Helmets in 2023 (Reviews and Comparisons)

When you first gaze upon the Arai XD-4 Helmet, you may get visions of the motocross course. This model has a distinct design that makes it look like something you’d wear while dirt biking. Thankfully, it’s highly rated for street riding as well. 

Arai is a well-known helmet brand, often noted for having a high-end look and feel. The composite shell of the XD-4 is one of the best that the company offers, making it both lightweight and sturdy. 

What We Liked

One of the best features of this adventure helmet is its modular design. You can hit the trail fully-loaded, complete with a peak visor and a windscreen. If you want to strip it down, however, that works too. Overall, you have plenty of flexibility regarding the comfort and appearance of the helmet while you ride. 

Another highlight of the XD-4 is that it’s well ventilated. Considering that it’s built to work on the track, the placement of the vents helps ensure that you won’t overheat, even if you’ve been riding all day. 

The reason why the airflow is so spectacular is that Arai added a couple of extra chin vents to deliver maximum efficiency. Best of all, you have total control over the openings so you can adjust the flow. 

As far as safety goes, the XD-4 is a top choice, thanks in part to the composite shell. It’s not SNELL rated, but it does have a three-star rating from SHARP. 

This model is cleared for both the Department of Transportation and the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE). Considering that the EU has higher regulatory standards than the U.S., having both certifications can make a difference. 

What We Didn’t Like

Although the ventilation is superb, the airflow does create something of a wind tunnel inside. This means you’ll get a lot of noise while riding, particularly if you remove the shield and use goggles instead. 

Another potential downside of this dual sport adventure helmet is that it’s a little more complicated than other models in its class. While it’s modular components are suitable for customization, they could be a bit simpler to operate. 

The name Bell should sound familiar if you’ve been a motorcycle rider for any length of time. Most Bell helmets are designed for casual riding, as the company specializes in half and three-quarter designs. 

However, when it comes to trail riding and adventure, the MX-9 holds its own against the best of the best. Not only does this helmet look cool, but it's also one of the safest models out there. 

What We Liked

The secret to the MX-9’s high safety rating is Bell’s proprietary design. Bell developed the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), which helps stabilize the rider’s head in an impact and avoid significant damage. 

While you should always be cautious while riding, it helps to know that this dual sport adventure helmet will protect you better than most others on the market. 

Another reason we like the MX-9 so much is that it’s one of the most comfortable helmets we’ve tried. Bell has always made high-quality interior fabrics and padding, and this model feels like a dream. Plus, since the material is moisture-wicking and helps regulate heat, it’s perfect for a summer ride. 

Ventilation is another highlight of this helmet. With three front vents and two forehead vents, air flows in quickly and efficiently. No matter the conditions you’re riding in, you won’t overheat while wearing the MX-9. 

What We Didn’t Like

Unfortunately, anyone who wears glasses won’t feel too comfortable with this helmet. The discomfort stems from the fact that the padding stays flush with your face. So, the side handles of your glasses will dig into your face, preventing you from riding too long. 

Another issue we discovered is that the abundance of air vents does make the MX-9 noisier than other models. However, if you wear earplugs while driving, the noise shouldn’t be too much of a problem. 

With a name like Scorpion, you would expect this helmet to look relatively extreme. Fortunately, it does not disappoint. As with other dual-sport models, the EXO-AT950 seems like it would be most at home on the motocross track. However, it’s design and safety ratings are more than sufficient for street riding as well. 

What We Liked

One potential issue that can plague some motorcycle riders is finding the right size helmet. With the Scorpion EXO, that’s not a problem. With sizes ranging from XS to XXXL, you’re sure to get the best fit, no matter what. 

When sizing a motorcycle helmet, there are two components to pay attention to - the shell and the liner. As a rule, you want a shell that fits your head as closely as possible. This way, the helmet won’t bounce around as much in a collision. 

Scorpion offers three shell sizes for the EXO, making it extra-safe. However, the liner is also incredible, creating one of the most comfortable motorcycle helmets on the market. 

The liner material is a proprietary option called KwickWick. While it’s silky smooth against your skin, it’s also designed to wick away moisture as efficiently as possible. So, if you’re riding on a hot summer day, you don’t have to worry about having a damp face. 

As with other dual-sport helmets, you can wear the face shield or remove it and wear goggles instead. We appreciate that the shield offers superior visibility, particularly in rainy conditions. Some models may fog or allow water to seep in, but not the Scorpion. 

What We Didn’t Like

If you’re planning on taking the EXO on the street, it will be relatively quiet. However, when hitting the trails, you’ll notice that it can get a little loud. 

Another issue we found with the Scorpion is that the ventilation does leave you wanting for more. While it’s suitable for mild or cold weather, the airflow won’t keep you as cool as other motorcycle helmets in its class. 

Compared to other dual-sport helmets, AGV is one of the pricier brands out there. However, in the case of the AX-9, your money will be well spent. This is one of the higher-end models we’ve seen, so if you can afford it, you won’t be sorry. 

Those who experienced the AX-8 will be pleasantly surprised, as AGV did listen to customer feedback to create an even better adventure motorcycle helmet with the AX-9. 

What We Liked

The first thing you’ll notice is how well-built this dual-sport helmet is. The shell is made of a composite of carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass. If you want to spring for the even more expensive version, you can get a full carbon-fiber helmet. 

These materials are excellent for the AX-9 because they provide superior protection without adding too much weight. Most riders will feel like they’re wearing nothing at all since this model is only 3.4 pounds. 

When it comes to safety, you want a helmet shell size that fits your head as closely as possible. Fortunately, AGV has built three different shells for the AX-9, so it’s easier for riders of all shapes to find their perfect fit. 

Visibility with this adventure helmet is superb, particularly if you like riding in sunny weather. One noticeable difference between the AX-9 and the previous model is that the peak visor is more prominent. This way, you get more shade while riding and don’t have to rely on tinted goggles. 

What We Didn’t Like

For the most part, the higher price tag is worth it. However, you will notice a lot more road noise with the AX-9 than it should have. 

Also, while AGV boasts that this helmet has the widest degree of visibility, we couldn’t tell much of a difference. This model is a marked improvement over the previous iteration, but compared to other adventure motorcycle helmets in its class, it’s not that significant.

Dual-sport helmets attract riders of all skill levels and talents. Because these models are designed to work in multiple conditions, they can work well for casual riding and serious competitions. 

Those who fall squarely into the serious column will appreciate this helmet from Klim Krios. Compared to most of the other models on this list, this unit has virtually no downsides. 

However, it does come with a hefty price tag, so casual riders might not want to make such a significant investment. 

What We Liked

Since the Klim Krios helmet is made of carbon fiber, it’s both durable and lightweight. This model comes in four different sizes and has two shell options. Few riders will experience discomfort when wearing this helmet, as it’s accommodating for almost all head shapes. 

While the exterior is rugged, the interior is soft and plush. We appreciate the liner mostly because it fits snugly against your skin while maintaining some flexibility. So, if you have to ride with glasses (or headphones), you don’t have to worry about pinching or rubbing. 

As far as visibility, you can see the road or trail as clearly as possible. The face shield is one of the widest we’ve seen on the market, so you have plenty of peripheral vision while riding. 

This model comes with both a clear and tinted shield, making it ideal for most weather conditions. It’s also pinlock ready to avoid fog but doesn’t come with a pinlock insert out of the box. 

While the Klim Krios isn’t the quietest helmet we’ve experienced, its ventilation more than makes up for that potential downside. You can ride in the middle of summer, and your face will stay relatively cool. 

What We Didn’t Like

Few features of this dual-sport helmet would be considered a drawback. However, if you’re not ready to drop some extra cash for a high-end model, you might be forced to look elsewhere. 

Beyond the price tag, there’s nothing about the Klim Krios helmet that could discourage someone from buying it. It’s an excellent product.

When it comes to motorcycle brands, Shoei is one of the most well-known around the world. Many riders appreciate Shoei’s commitment to excellence, and the company has plenty of helmet models to fit any needs. 

The Hornet X2 is one of the more well-rounded dual-sport models out there, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and veterans alike. 

Whether you just like to ride the trail every so often or you split your time between off-road and on-road equally, the Hornet is always ready for the next adventure. 

What We Liked

Few companies are so universal that they have a proprietary term for how well their helmets fit. However, most motorcycle riders know what to expect with the “Shoei Fit,” which is about as neutral as you can get. Unless your head shape is significantly narrow, you can find the perfect size for the Hornet X2. 

Another Shoei special is the composite helmet material. The company makes an Advanced Integrated Matrix (AIM) shell, which is both lightweight and durable. Although AIM helmets are not quite as high-quality as carbon fiber models, they’re pretty close. 

Continuing with proprietary materials, the interior liner is another Shoei-specific feature. The 3D Max Interior System II is designed to help wick away moisture and contour to the curves of your face. 

The liner also has removable sections over the ears so you can wear headphones without discomfort. 

Almost every other feature of the Hornet X2 is well crafted, from the broad field of vision to the fact that you can remove the shield without taking off the visor. The airflow inside is ideal for all riding conditions, and it’s mostly quiet. 

What We Didn’t Like

One significant drawback to the Hornet X2 is its weight. At just over four pounds, it can feel a bit heavy on longer rides, so keep that in mind. Also, even though the “Shoei Fit” is mostly neutral, the sizing chart can be a little convoluted. 

We usually recommend buying a size up so that it fits more naturally around your head. 

When comparing dual-sport helmets, you’ll notice that most of them try to straddle the line between off-roading and street riding. With the FX-41 Helmet from AFX, however, the company has made its intentions clear - this model is designed for the trail. 

What We Liked

The appearance of the FX-41 is what some might consider “aggressive.” The shape is mostly sharp angles and edges, making it seem like the helmet could be used as a weapon. 

However, those who like a more “extreme” aesthetic will appreciate both the style and comfort of this adventure helmet. Even though it looks aggressive, it’s highly capable for many trail situations. 

One primary selling point of the FX-41 is its integrated ventilation system. With 17 different points of entry and exit, air flows around your head better than most other helmets. So, if you plan on hitting the trail in the summer heat, you’ll appreciate having this model. 

Since this helmet is designed more for off-roading, many of the features are accessible while wearing gloves. The face shield can be flipped up or down without having to remove the visor, and you can adjust the peak easily with gloves as well. 

The shield itself is rugged, as it’s designed to be scratch and UV-resistant. Also, although it doesn’t come with a pinlock setting, the material is already fog-resistant. 

As with other dual-sport helmets, you can take off the shield and wear goggles instead if you want more of a motocross feel while riding. 

What We Didn’t Like

Most of the features of the FX-41 are high-quality, but one substantial oversight is the noise level. While we appreciate the excellent ventilation, your ears will be pummeled with the wind the whole time. If you don’t usually ride with earplugs, you’ll need to start when using this helmet. 

That being said, if you plan on taking this model off-roading most of the time, the noise won’t be too much of an issue. It really becomes a problem when hitting the highway.