2015 Winter Helmets Buyer's Guide
by
Lucas Cooney
Updated: June 26th, 2015
Share
Keep warm and keep riding this winter
Just because the mercury has dropped, it doesn’t mean you have to stop riding your ATV or UTV.
While you’re likely in for a miserable day if you go out for a ride in your regular gear when you can see your breath or snow is on the ground, with proper planning and the weather-appropriate attire, you can extend your riding season as long as you’d like.
With some additional accessories, you can get away with wearing your regular ATV helmet. However, a helmet designed for cold weather is a smart option. To find a good one, we look to snowmobilers for winter riding inspiration. Snowmobilers are the kings of finding ways to stay warm in the bitter cold and if they use a helmet, you can bet it will keep your head and, in particular, your face, much better protected from the cold winter wind.
509 Altitude509’s Altitude helmet is an open face design built around a lightweight poly alloy shell. It features breath box that can be worn underneath or on top of your goggles and a mesh chin curtain. Ventilation is controlled by removable VentStoppers to fine tune airflow. A rigid GoPro mount comes standard and is installed on the top center visor screw for a secure fit.MSRP: $229.95
509 C2 Carbon Fiber
509 C2 Carbon FiberBuilt around a lightweight carbon fiber shell, the 509 C2 is an open face, lightweight helmet built for snowmobilers. It features a redesigned breath box that can be worn underneath or on top of your goggles. 509 says its helmets and goggles are designed to fit perfectly together for optimum performance.MSRP: $369.95
509 Evolution
509 Evolution509 boasts that its Evolution helmet and Sinister goggles fit together to protect you from the wind like no other. It features a polycarbonate shell, breath box, wind guard, 10 ventilation ports (five intake, five exhaust) and comes with free lifetime visor replacement.MSRP: $179.95
509 Xero
509 XeroThe 509 Xero is a three-stage helmet, meaning it can be worn in full face, modular and fighter pilot style (achieved by removing the chin bar). Features include a hidden sun shield, neck gator, breath box, dual shield, Coolmax liner and adjustable external vents.MSRP: $499.95
AFX FX-39DS
AFX FX-39DSThe AFX FX-39DS is built around a composite poly-alloy shell. Features include a removable, scratch resistant double lens shield, extreme snow breath guard (mounted to chin guard), nine points of ventilation and anti-microbial, removable and washable liner.MSRP: $144.95 – $154.95
AFX FX-90 (Electric Shield)
AFX FX-90 (Electric Shield)The AFX FX-90 helmet features a scratch resistant double lens shield that is available with or without electric heat. Other features include a composite poly-alloy s shell, breath guard, chin curtain, seven points of ventilation and anti-microbial, removable and washable liner. Optional tinted shields are available.MSRP: $149.95
AFX FX-Magnus (Electric Shield)
AFX FX-Magnus (Electric Shield)Like the FX-90, the FX-Magnus features a scratch resistant double lens shield that is available with or without electric heat. Other features include a composite poly-alloy shell, breath guard, chin curtain, seven points of ventilation and anti-microbial, removable and washable liner. Optional tinted shields are available.MSRP: $199.95
Arctic Cat MX Sno Cross Sno Pro
Arctic Cat MX Sno Cross Sno ProArctic Cat’s top end open face helmet is the MX Sno Cross Sno Pro. Built around a Snell-approved carbon/Kevlar/fiberglass shell, this helmet features a removable breath deflector, dual-intake ventilation system, and removable and washable liner.MSRP: $324.95
Arctic Cat Team Arctic ZR
Arctic Cat Team Arctic ZRBuilt around a Snell-approved fiberglass shell, the Team Arctic ZR helmet features a removable breath deflector, removable and washable liner and twin air intake/exhaust ventilation system.MSRP: $184.95
Arctic Cat PFP Aircat
Arctic Cat PFP AircatThe PFP in Arctic Cat’s PFP Aircat helmet stands for Premium Fiberglass Protection, which comes from its shock-absorbing fiberglass shell and chin bar. It features a removable breath deflector and an anti-fog, dual-pane face shield.MSRP: $159.95
Arctic Cat TXI
Arctic Cat TXIBuilt around a fiberglass shell and chin bar, the Arctic Cat TXI is a full face helmet. Features include fog-reducing, three-way Vapor Control System and form fitting, fog-resistant, replaceable custom eyeport designed to block moisture from your breath from reaching the shield.MSRP: $309.95
Bell Revolver EVO Snow
Bell Revolver EVO SnowAvailable in either a double shield or electric shield configuration, Bell’s Revolver Snow helmet ships with Bell’s revolutionary Magnefusion breath box as well as a persimmon lens for its internal Sun Shade. It is backed by a five-year warranty.MSRP: $249.95 – $289.95
Bell Vortex Snow
Bell Vortex SnowBell’s Vortex Snow helmet is available with an electric or double shield, balaclava, breath box, and Bell’s Velocity Flow Ventilation with FlowAdjust system. Other features include a polycarbonate alloy shell, contoured cheek pads and integrated speaker pockets and is backed by a five-year warranty.MSRP: $219.95 – $269.95
BRP BV2S
BRP BV2SBRP’s BV2S looks like something a fighter pilot would wear, thanks to its built-in mask system. You breathe in through one-way intakes and exhale out of the front exhaust. The BV2S features a dual lens visor with 180 degrees of vision, along with a drop-down sun visor. Both the visor and mask can be adjusted with a gloved hand. An electric version is also available.MSRP: $494.99 – $584.99
CKX M710
CKX M710This modular helmet features an injection molded plastic shell, single-button chin guard opening, breath guard, chin curtain, wrap around neck curtain and a quick release attach system. It tips the scales at 1,550 grams.MSRP: $149.99 – $159.99
CKX Trans RSV
CKX Trans RSVAvailable with and without a removable SunVisor, the CKX Trans RSV line of modular helmets offers a huge array of designs and colors to choose from. All feature an injection molded plastic shell, removable interior lining, breath guard, chin curtain and quick release attach system.MSRP: $189.99 – $259.99
CKX RR601
CKX RR601This budget-friendly full-face helmet features an injection molded plastic shell, anti-scratch shield, removable and washable liner, removable cheek pads, rear exhausts and the Proclip quick release mechanism. It comes in a variety of colors and designs and is also available in Youth sizes.MSRP: $89.99 – $99.99
CKX RR710
CKX RR710
A small step up from the RR601 is the RR710 full face helmet. This model is available in host of color and design options and features an injection molded plastic shell, removable inner sun visor, anti-scratch shield, removable and washable liner, removable and washable multi-density cheek pads, chin curtain and breath deflector.
MSRP: $119.99 – $139.99
Fly Racing F2 Carbon Cold Weather
Fly Racing F2 Carbon Cold WeatherBased on Fly Racing’s F2 Carbon helmet, the F2 Carbon Cold Weather is equipped with a removable cold weather plug kit that blocks off the vents to keep the cold air out and a breath guard. Features include flow through EPS liner, anti-fog vents above the goggles and quick release cheek pads. The shell is made of woven carbon fiber and Kevlar composite materials.MSRP: $329.95
Fly Racing F2 Carbon Pro HMK
Fly Racing F2 Carbon Pro HMKProduced in partnership with Fly Racing, the F2 Carbon Pro features a carbon fiber and Kevlar composite shell. It features a cold weather plug kit, flow through EPS liner, anti-fog goggle vents, custom breath box and aluminum hardware.MSRP: $329.95
Fly Racing Kinetic Pro Cold Weather
Fly Racing Kinetic Pro Cold WeatherLike the other Fly Racing winter helmets, the Kinetic Pro Cold Weather helmet relies on a breath deflector box and vent bock offs to keep you warm when the mercury drops. Other features include a poly-alloy shell, dual density EPS liner and aluminum visor hardware.MSRP: $139.95
FXR Torque X (Electric Shield)
FXR Torque X (Electric Shield)The key to the FXR Torque X helmet is its dual layer face shield with electric heat option. Combine that with an anti-fogging front nose guard vent, front chin bar designed for a breath box and anti-fox mask integration and you’ve got a helmet ready for winter.MSRP: $219.99
FXR Fuel Modular (Electric Shield)
FXR Fuel Modular (Electric Shield)Like the Torque X, FXR’s Fuel helmet is available with an anti-fog, heated electric shield to keep you warm. This modular helmet also features an integrated removable breath box and chin skirt and is available in a variety of colors.MSRP: $289.99
FXR Nitro Full-Face (Electric Shield)
FXR Nitro Full-Face (Electric Shield)FXR’s full-face Nitro helmet comes with an anti-fog shield with available electric heat option. Other features include a polycarbonate shell, duel density EPS liner, built-in flip-down sun shade and integrated and removable breath box and chin skirt.MSRP: $249.99
GMAX GM11
GMAX GM11A four-season helmet, the GMAX GM11 is equipped with a double anti-fog clear lens, visor, chin curtain, breath guard and side plate covers for visor-less configuration. Features include a thermo-plastic poly-alloy shell, large eye ports and removable and washable interior.MSRP: $134.95 – $149.95
GMAX GM64 Modular
GMAX GM64 ModularThe GMAX GM64 modular helmet is built around a thermo plastic poly-alloy shell. It boasts what GMAX calls a perimeter-frame-design for protection against wind and cold. It’s dual pivot modular design allows the jaw to rotate further back and low on the crown. The double lens shield is anti-fog coated and scratch resistant. Electric shield versions are available.MSRP: $239.95 – $239.95
GMAX GM54S Modular
GMAX GM54S ModularFeaturing GMAX’s latest modular design, the GM54S allows the flip-jaw to rotate further back for improved line of sight. It also features a flip-up jaw breath guard, allowing gloved hands to removing the breath guard. Other features include built-in speaker pockets and an optional anti-fog, anti-scratch double lens shield.MSRP: $179.95
HJC IS-Max 2 (Electric Shield)
HJC IS-Max 2 (Electric Shield)Featuring a polycarbonate composite shell, the HFX IS-Max 2 comes outfitted with a three-stage integrated sunshield, single-button chin bar/face shield release and a moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial, washable, SuperCool liner. Available with or without an electric shield.MSRP: $249.99 – $319.99
HJC IS-Max BT
HJC IS-Max BTBuilt around a polycarbonate composite shell, the HJC IS-Max BT features built-in recesses for communication systems, integrated sun shield, single-button chinbar/face shield release and SilverCool interior that is moisture-wicking and odor free. Available with or without an electric shield.MSRP: $239.99 – $319.99
HJC CL-Max II
HJC CL-Max IIThe HJC CL-Max II helmet features a polycarbonate shell with adjustable chin bar, single-button chinbar/face shield, two-stage lens shield closure for a secure seal and ACS advanced channeling ventilation system. Available with or without an electric shield.MSRP: $159.99 – $244.99
HJC CL-17
HJC CL-17HJC’s CL-17 helmet protects users with a polycarbonate composite shell. Features include a face shield with UV protection, anti-fog and anti-scratch coating that can be removed without tools. Available with or without an electric shield.MSRP: $169.99 – $234.99
HJC CS-R2
HJC CS-R2Available in a wide array of graphics and colors, the affordable HJC CS-R2 is built around a polycarbonate composite shell and features a shield with 95% UV protection that can be removed without tools. The crown and cheek pads can be removed for washing. Available with and without an electric shield.MSRP: $119.99 – $189.99
Klim F4
Klim F4Klim only makes one helmet – the F4. This open face helmet is four-season ready thanks to its packable Windstopper snap-in liner to block direct wind contact and a snap-in breath deflector. Other features include 41 air intakes and moisture wicking fabrics in the liner.MSRP: $399
LS2 FF386 Electric
LS2 FF386 ElectricThe FF386 Electric is LS2’s top modular winter helmet. As the name suggests, it is ready for winter with an electric shield, but also comes equipped with a breath box and balaclava. Other features include composite shell, washable and removable liner and quick release strap. A non-electric version is available for an $80 savings.MSRP: $285.95
LS2 FF387 Electric
LS2 FF387 ElectricThe LS2 FF387 Electric is built around a Tricomposite fiberglass shell and features an electric shield, balaclava, washable, removable and moisture-wicking liner, adjustable ventilation and quick release strap. A non-electric version is available for an $80 savings.MSRP: $209.95
MotorFist Magneto-Freerider
MotorFist Magneto-FreeriderBuilt with Composite Fusion technology, MotorFist says its Magneto-Freerider helmet is the safest ABS helmet on the market. Features include integrated neck brace landing pad, antibacterial, removable and washable liner, Pop’Out System breakaway visor design, breath box, extra visor mounting hardware and GoPro mount.MSRP: $229.99
MotorFist Dominator-ICON
MotorFist Dominator-ICONAlso built with MotorFist’s Composite Fusion technology, the Dominator-ICON helmet comes with a breath box and storage/travel bag and features a dual density EPS liner that is removable and washable, Pop’Out System breakaway visor design, mounting hardware with GoPro mount and weighs just 1,250 grams.MSRP: $359.99
MotorFist Alpha
MotorFist AlphaThe Alpha is MotorFist’s premium helmet and weighs just over 1,000 grams, making it one of the lightest DOT helmets ever made. It features a carbon shell, extra mounting hardware, integrated camera/light mount, low density EPS foam and comes with a deluxe travel bag.MSRP: $599.99
Polaris Cyclone ADV
Polaris Cyclone ADVAvailable with or without an electric shield, the Polaris Cyclone ADV is a full face helmet designed to keep riding when the temperatures plummet. It features a fiberglass shell, breath guard, dual-pane shield with anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings, dual exhaust vents and moisture-wicking, QuickDry liner.MSRP: $219.99 – $289.99
Polaris AF-2.0
Polaris AF-2.0The Polaris AF-2.0 full face helmet is built around a polycarbonate and ABS alloy shell. Its PureSeal technology is designed to prevent a rider’s breath from fogging the dual-pane shield. It also features three vents and a breath deflector.MSRP: $174.99
Polaris Modular
Polaris ModularPolaris’ modular helmet is available with or without an electric shield that prevents fogging in all conditions. Its modular design allows a rider to flip open the entire front of the helmet, making it easier to talk or eat at rest stops.MSRP: $219.99 – $299.99
Scorpion EXO-900 Snow Ready
Scorpion EXO-900 Snow ReadyScorpion’s EXO-900 is ready for the cold thanks to its custom electric shield and internal breath box. Other features include an anti-fog coating on the shield, polycarbonate shell, sun visor, AirFit liner inflation system and KwikWick II antimicrobial liner fabric.MSRP: $299.95
Scorpion VX-34 Snow Ready
Scorpion VX-34 Snow ReadyScorpion’s VX-35 helmet features a dual polycarbonate shell and a multi-layer EPS liner. A custom breath box will keep the Old Man Winter’s cold breath away from your delicate face. Other features include aero-tuned ventilation, AirFit liner inflation, and a shatter resistant and pliable visor.MSRP: $159.95 – $169.95
Ski-Doo Modular 3
Ski-Doo Modular 3The heart of the Ski-Doo Modular 3 is its distortion-free dual lens visor. It features a fog-resistant mask system and increased vent diameter to control breathing airflow. And since it was designed for snowmobilers, the modular jaw section and all helmet functions can be managed with a gloved hand. An electric version is also available.MSRP: $329.99 – $409.99
Ski-Doo XP-R2 Carbon Light
Ski-Doo XP-R2 Carbon LightWeighing in at just 1200 grams, Ski-Doo’s XP-R2 Carbon Light helmet is among the lightest in the industry. It features 10 ventilation points and a double rear extractor to keep cool air flowing when it gets warm. When the temperatures drop, a removable mask protects your face from the cold. A flexible, adjustable (without tools) visor and Coolmax-treated liner also highlight this premium four-season helmet.MSRP: $439.99 – $464.99
Ski-Doo XP-2 Pro Cross
Ski-Doo XP-2 Pro CrossFeaturing Kevlar and fiberglass shell, the Ski-Doo XP-2 Pro Cross helmet features a breath deflector to keep cold air out, adjustable visor designed to reduce lift at high speeds and moisture-wicking and breathable chin strap, liner and cheek pads.MSRP: $279.99
Ski-Doo XC-3
Ski-Doo XC-3Built around a polycarbonate composite shell, the Ski-Doo XC-3 helmet features a breath deflector to keep your face protected from the cold, adjustable visor designed to reduce lift at high speeds and moisture-wicking and breathable chin strap, liner and cheek pads.MSRP: $174.99 – $199.99
I have been working exclusively in digital media since 1997. I started out with TSN.ca, spending nearly nine years creating and editing content on Canada's leading sports website. I left to join VerticalScope, Inc., one of the world's largest online publishers, to start a number of powersports publications. While at VerticalScope, I've helped create and oversee content for a wide variety of different publications, including ATV.com, Off-Road.com, ArcheryTalk.com, Tractor.com, RVGuide.com, and many more.
More by Lucas Cooney
Comments
Join the conversation