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Finding the perfect full face motorcycle helmet as a woman rider can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Unlike many motorcycle gear categories that have evolved to accommodate female riders, helmets have traditionally been designed with a one-size-fits-all approach that rarely considers the unique needs of women.

From narrower head shapes to smaller facial structures and different hair considerations, women face specific challenges when selecting protective headgear. For a complete guide on fit and safety standards, check out our Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Helmets.

This comprehensive guide explores the best full face motorcycle helmets for women riders in 2024. We’ve evaluated dozens of helmets based on crucial factors including fit for smaller head circumferences, weight distribution, ventilation systems, visibility, safety ratings, and style options that appeal to female riders.

Our selection criteria prioritized helmets with DOT and ECE certifications, weighing under 3.5 pounds, offering sizes XS and XXS, and featuring comfort elements like removable liners and accommodation for longer hair.

Whether you’re a daily commuter or weekend warrior, you’ll find options that don’t compromise safety for style.

1. Shoei RF-1400

The Shoei RF-1400 represents the pinnacle of Japanese helmet engineering, offering women riders a premium option that excels in every category. This helmet has earned its reputation through decades of refinement and remains a top choice for serious female motorcyclists.

Overview

The RF-1400 features an advanced AIM shell construction that creates a lightweight yet incredibly strong protective barrier. Weighing just 3.5 pounds in size small, it’s one of the lighter full-face helmets available without sacrificing structural integrity. The helmet’s intermediate oval shape works exceptionally well for women with narrower head profiles, and the multi-density EPS liner conforms comfortably to various head shapes.

Shoei’s proprietary ventilation system includes five intake vents and six exhaust vents, creating an airflow pattern that prevents fogging and keeps riders cool during summer rides. The CWR-F2 shield offers 99% UV protection and a wide field of vision that accommodates riders who prefer a more panoramic view. The interior features plush, moisture-wicking fabric that remains comfortable during extended rides, making it a contender for the best motorcycle helmet for ladies who prioritize long-distance comfort.

Key Features

• AIM Shell Construction: Advanced matrix provides superior protection while keeping weight down.
• CWR-F2 Shield: Offers 99% UV protection and a wide field of view.
• Advanced Ventilation: Five intake and six exhaust vents prevent fogging.
• Multi-Density EPS: Conforms comfortably to various head shapes.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality with premium materials that ensure long-term durability.
• Outstanding ventilation system that works effectively at both highway and city speeds.
• Very quiet at high speeds, reducing rider fatigue on long journeys.
• Wide range of sizes including XXS, perfect for women with smaller head measurements.

Cons:

• Premium price point that may exceed budget for casual riders.
• Limited graphic options compared to more fashion-forward brands.
• Replacement shields and parts can be expensive.

Pricing

The Shoei RF-1400 retails between $499 and $599 depending on the graphic design.

Best For

Serious female riders who want a premium, quiet, and well-ventilated helmet for touring or sport riding.

2. AGV K6

AGV brings Italian racing heritage to the street with the K6, a helmet that combines track-proven safety with everyday wearability. This helmet particularly appeals to women who appreciate aggressive styling and MotoGP-inspired design.

Overview

The K6 utilizes AGV’s racing experience to deliver a helmet that punches well above its mid-range price point. Its carbon-aramid-fiberglass shell construction creates an exceptionally light helmet at just 3.1 pounds, making it one of the lightest options for women concerned about neck strain.

The aerodynamic shell design was developed in wind tunnels and tested at racing speeds, resulting in impressive stability even during aggressive riding. AGV’s Ultravision visor provides a 190-degree horizontal field of view, particularly beneficial for women who may have the helmet sitting slightly different due to ponytails or buns.

The five-density EPS construction offers superior impact absorption across different collision scenarios. The interior features a removable and washable lining with Ritmo fabric that wicks moisture effectively. It is often cited as the best motorcycle helmet for riding with small head due to its compact shell sizes.

Key Features

• Carbon-Aramid-Fiberglass Shell: Exceptionally light at 3.1 pounds.
• Ultravision Visor: Provides a 190-degree horizontal field of view.
• Five-Density EPS: Superior impact absorption across scenarios.
• Ritmo Fabric Interior: Removable and washable lining wicks moisture effectively.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight design reduces neck fatigue during long rides.
• Excellent field of vision with minimal blind spots.
• Sophisticated ventilation with adjustable intake and exhaust vents.
• Wide variety of graphic designs including options that appeal to female riders.

Cons:

• Runs slightly small, may require sizing up for some riders.
• Visor mechanism can be stiff initially and requires break-in period.
• Interior padding compresses over time and may need replacement.

Pricing

The AGV K6 retails between $499 and $599.

Best For

Women who want a lightweight, sporty helmet with a wide field of view.

3. HJC RPHA 11 Pro

HJC’s RPHA 11 Pro delivers remarkable value for women riders seeking premium features without the premium price tag. This helmet has become increasingly popular among female motorcyclists who prioritize practical performance over brand prestige.

Overview

The RPHA 11 Pro features HJC’s Premium Integrated Matrix (PIM Plus) shell, combining carbon fiber, aramid, and fiberglass for optimal strength-to-weight ratio. At 3.3 pounds, it offers an excellent balance for women concerned about weight without wanting to sacrifice protection.

The helmet’s intermediate oval shape accommodates most head shapes well, and the advanced channeling ventilation system includes adjustable chin and forehead vents that direct air across the rider’s head effectively. The pinlock-ready face shield provides fog-free riding in various weather conditions.

HJC includes a dark smoke shield in the box, adding value for riders who prefer different tint options. The moisture-wicking interior uses advanced fabric technology that keeps riders comfortable in hot conditions, and the laser-cut cheek pads provide a snug fit without pressure points.

Key Features

• PIM Plus Shell: Combination of carbon fiber, aramid, and fiberglass.
• Advanced Channeling Ventilation: Adjustable vents direct air effectively.
• Pinlock-Ready Shield: Fog-free riding capability.
• Extra Dark Shield: Included in the box for added value.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Outstanding value with features typically found in more expensive helmets.
• Excellent ventilation system that performs well in hot weather.
• Wide selection of graphics including feminine designs and solid colors.
• Includes extra dark shield, saving money on accessories.

Cons:

• Slightly noisier than premium competitors at highway speeds.
• Visor changes require more effort compared to tool-less systems.
• Interior materials feel less luxurious than top-tier brands.

Pricing

The HJC RPHA 11 Pro typically retails between $349 and $449.

Best For

Riders looking for a high-value, track-ready helmet with plenty of graphic options.

4. Bell Star DLX MIPS

Bell’s Star DLX MIPS brings cutting-edge safety technology to women riders who prioritize protection above all else. The inclusion of MIPS technology sets this helmet apart in the safety-conscious segment.

Overview

The Star DLX MIPS incorporates the what is MIPS in motorcycle helmets technology, a slip-plane system that reduces rotational forces during angled impacts—the most common type of motorcycle accidents. This makes it particularly appealing for women riders who want the absolute latest in safety innovation.

The tri-composite shell blends fiberglass, Dyneema, and carbon fiber to create a structure that’s both light and incredibly strong. Bell’s Velocity Flow ventilation system uses wind-tunnel-tested intake and exhaust ports that create negative pressure.

The Panovision face shield offers class-leading optics with minimal distortion, and the transitions adapter allows for photochromic transition visors. The contoured cheek pads are specifically designed to reduce wind noise while maintaining comfort.

Key Features

• MIPS Technology: Reduces rotational forces during angled impacts.
• Tri-Composite Shell: Blends fiberglass, Dyneema, and carbon fiber.
• Panovision Face Shield: Class-leading optics with minimal distortion.
• Magnetic Fidlock Closure: Makes securing the helmet effortless.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• MIPS technology provides enhanced protection against rotational impacts.
• Magnetic chin strap buckle is incredibly convenient for daily use.
• Excellent shield optical quality with minimal distortion.
• Comfortable fit that works well for various head shapes.

Cons:

• Higher price point due to MIPS technology.
• Slightly heavier than competitors at 3.6 pounds.
• Limited availability of smaller sizes in certain graphics.

Pricing

The Bell Star DLX MIPS retails around $550.

Best For

Safety-conscious riders who want the latest impact protection technology.

5. Scorpion EXO-R1 Air

Scorpion’s EXO-R1 Air brings race-inspired technology to the street at an accessible price point. This helmet has gained a following among women who want performance features without breaking the bank.

Overview

The EXO-R1 Air features a TCT (Twin Shell Technology) construction that uses two different shell sizes across the size range, ensuring that smaller sizes aren’t just scaled-down versions of larger helmets. This is particularly beneficial for women, as the XS and XXS sizes maintain proper proportions and don’t look oversized.

The helmet’s aerodynamic design includes an adjustable rear spoiler that can be positioned for optimal stability at speed. Scorpion’s Airfit inflation system allows riders to customize the fit by inflating cheek pad bladders, acting as a built-in motorcycle helmet fitment guide for perfect sizing.

The Everclear no-fog face shield comes standard with a pinlock insert, and the Kwikwick III interior lining provides excellent moisture management.

Key Features

• Twin Shell Technology: Ensures proper proportions in smaller sizes.
• Airfit Inflation System: Allows customized fitting via inflatable bladders.
• Adjustable Rear Spoiler: Optimized for stability at speed.
• Everclear No-Fog Shield: Comes standard with a pinlock insert.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Airfit system allows for customized fitting without purchasing different cheek pads.
• Twin shell technology ensures proper proportions in smaller sizes.
• Excellent value with premium features at mid-range pricing.
• Effective ventilation system that works well in various conditions.

Cons:

• Graphics selection tends toward aggressive designs that may not appeal to all women.
• Airfit pump mechanism can be slightly cumbersome initially.
• Visor mechanism requires occasional adjustment to maintain smooth operation.

Pricing

The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air retails between $399 and $459.

Best For

Riders who struggle with standard sizing and need a customizable fit.

6. Arai Regent-X

Arai’s Regent-X represents the brand’s commitment to handcrafted quality and the philosophy that one shape doesn’t fit all. This helmet is particularly noteworthy for women seeking the ultimate in customized comfort.

Overview

The Regent-X features Arai’s signature round oval shape, which differs from most helmets on the market and works exceptionally well for women with rounder head profiles. Each helmet is hand-assembled in Japan with meticulous attention to detail.

The proprietary Complex Laminate Construction (CLC) shell uses multiple layers of special fiberglass with varying weaves, creating a shell that’s both strong and capable of dispersing impact energy effectively. Arai’s philosophy prioritizes glancing off impacts over absorbing them.

The ventilation system is highly effective with strategically placed intake and exhaust vents. The VAS (Variable Axis System) shield allows the visor to be adjusted to multiple positions.

Key Features

• Round Oval Shape: Excellent fit for rounder head profiles.
• Hand-Assembled Construction: Meticulous attention to detail.
• Complex Laminate Construction: Strong shell for impact dispersion.
• VAS Shield System: Variable axis for multiple visor positions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality with hand-assembled construction.
• Round oval shape provides excellent fit for women with rounder head profiles.
• Durable construction designed to last many years of regular use.
• Extensive customization options available through Arai’s fitting program.

Cons:

• Premium pricing that rivals the most expensive helmets on the market.
• Heavier than carbon fiber competitors at 3.7 pounds.
• Conservative styling may not appeal to riders wanting modern graphics.

Pricing

The Arai Regent-X retails between $629 and $829.

Best For

Women with rounder head shapes who want a premium, hand-crafted helmet.

7. LS2 Challenger

The LS2 Challenger offers women riders an entry into quality full-face helmets without requiring a significant financial investment. This helmet proves that safety and comfort don’t have to come with a premium price tag.

Overview

The Challenger features a kinetic polymer alloy (KPA) shell that provides excellent impact protection while keeping costs manageable. Despite its budget-friendly price, LS2 doesn’t compromise on safety certifications, with the helmet meeting both DOT and ECE 22.06 standards.

The helmet weighs 3.4 pounds, competitive with much more expensive options, making it suitable for women concerned about neck strain. The ventilation system includes adjustable forehead and chin vents that provide adequate airflow.

The laser-cut foam liner provides comfort without hot spots, and the moisture-wicking fabric helps manage perspiration. LS2 includes drop-down sun visor functionality, solving the tinted visor vs. drop-down sun shield dilemma for many riders.

Key Features

• Kinetic Polymer Alloy Shell: Provides excellent impact protection.
• Integrated Sun Visor: Drop-down functionality for convenience.
• Laser-Cut Foam Liner: Ensures comfort without hot spots.
• Optically Correct Shield: Scratch-resistant and prepared for pinlock.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent value for budget-conscious riders without sacrificing safety.
• Integrated sun visor eliminates need for multiple shields.
• Available in smaller sizes suitable for women with petite head measurements.
• Comfortable fit that works well for various head shapes.

Cons:

• Interior materials feel less premium than higher-priced competitors.
• Limited graphic options in smaller sizes.
• Noisier at highway speeds compared to premium helmets.

Pricing

The LS2 Challenger retails between $199 and $299.

Best For

Budget-conscious riders who need a lightweight helmet with a sun visor.

8. Shark Spartan GT

Shark’s Spartan GT brings French engineering and distinctive styling to women riders who want something different from mainstream options. This helmet combines European design sensibilities with practical features.

Overview

The Spartan GT features an injected thermoplastic resin shell that provides excellent impact absorption while maintaining a competitive weight of 3.4 pounds. Shark’s auto-seal system creates an automatic seal around the face shield, reducing wind noise and improving aerodynamics.

The helmet includes an integrated shark tooth spoiler that’s not just aesthetic; it provides measurable aerodynamic stability at speed. The ventilation system uses Shark’s patented “Shark Skin” aerodynamic surface treatment to optimize airflow.

The helmet comes standard with a pinlock MaxVision face shield that offers 15% more vertical vision than traditional shields. The interior uses hypoallergenic fabric that’s fully removable and washable.

Key Features

• Auto-Seal System: Reduces wind noise and improves aerodynamics.
• Shark Tooth Spoiler: Provides aerodynamic stability.
• Shark Skin Ventilation: Optimizes airflow and reduces noise.
• MaxVision Face Shield: Offers expanded vertical vision.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Distinctive styling sets it apart from more common brands.
• Auto-seal system significantly reduces wind noise.
• MaxVision shield provides excellent field of view.
• Comfortable fit with well-designed interior padding.

Cons:

• Replacement parts can be difficult to find in some regions.
• Limited dealer network compared to Japanese brands.
• Visor mechanism can be finicky in cold weather.

Pricing

The Shark Spartan GT retails between $449 and $549.

Best For

Riders looking for a quiet, stylish helmet with unique aerodynamic features.

9. Icon Airflite

Icon’s Airflite takes a different approach with its distinctive retro-futuristic design that appeals to women riders wanting to make a style statement. This helmet proves that safety gear can be both protective and fashion-forward.

Overview

The Airflite features a polycarbonate shell with Icon’s Prolock shield retention system, creating a secure seal that prevents shield movement during rides. What sets this helmet apart is its flat face shield design, which provides a unique aesthetic while offering excellent optics.

The helmet weighs 3.5 pounds and includes Icon’s Fog-Free shield coating as standard equipment. The ventilation system uses a large chin vent and multiple exhaust ports to create effective airflow.

Icon includes a drop-down Prolock sun visor that deploys with a simple switch. The helmet’s distinctive look has made it popular among women riders in the custom and cafe racer scenes, with numerous graphic options that range from subtle to bold.

Key Features

• Flat Face Shield: Unique aesthetic with excellent optics.
• Prolock Shield System: Secure retention prevents movement.
• Drop-Down Sun Visor: Deploys easily for instant shade.
• Hydradry Interior: Moisture-wicking fabric for comfort.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique styling that stands out from traditional helmet designs.
• Integrated sun visor adds convenience for urban riding.
• Wide range of graphics including many options appealing to women.
• Comfortable for shorter rides and city commuting.

Cons:

• Less aerodynamic than sport-focused helmets at highway speeds.
• Ventilation is adequate but not exceptional for hot weather riding.
• Flat shield design can create glare issues in certain lighting conditions.

Pricing

The Icon Airflite retails between $250 and $350.

Best For

Urban riders who want a unique, aggressive look with practical features.

Conclusion

Selecting the right full face motorcycle helmet is one of the most important decisions a woman rider will make. The helmets featured in this guide represent the best options currently available, each excelling in different areas to meet various needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize cutting-edge safety technology like MIPS, demand premium construction quality, or need to work within a budget, there’s an excellent option available that doesn’t compromise your protection on the road.

Remember that the best helmet is the one that fits your head properly, meets current safety standards, and matches your riding style. Always try helmets on in person when possible, as sizing can vary significantly between manufacturers. For more specific advice, read our helmet tips for ladies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do women need special motorcycle helmets, or will any helmet work?

While any properly certified helmet provides protection, women often benefit from helmets designed with smaller sizing options and features that accommodate female-specific needs. Women typically have smaller head circumferences and may have different head shapes.

How do I know if a full face helmet fits correctly?

A properly fitting helmet should feel snug but not painful, with even pressure around your entire head. When you move the helmet side to side, your skin should move with it. The cheek pads should touch your cheeks firmly without creating pressure points.

How often should I replace my motorcycle helmet?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing your helmet every five years, even if it hasn’t been in an accident. The materials, particularly the EPS foam liner, degrade over time due to UV exposure and general wear.

Are more expensive helmets significantly safer than budget options?

All helmets sold legally in the United States must meet DOT safety standards. However, more expensive helmets often offer benefits beyond basic safety: lighter weight materials, better ventilation systems, superior noise reduction, and more comfortable interiors.

Can I wear a full face helmet with long hair or a ponytail?

Yes, absolutely! Many women successfully wear full face helmets with various hairstyles. For tips on managing hair, check out our guide on best motorcycle helmet for big hair. Low buns or braids often work best.