Blog

Finding the perfect motorcycle helmet can be challenging, but for riders with long oval-shaped heads, the struggle is even more real. A poorly fitted helmet doesn’t just cause discomfort—it can lead to pressure points, headaches, and compromised safety.

The shape of your head plays a crucial role in helmet fit, and long oval heads require specific helmet designs that accommodate their unique dimensions. For a detailed explanation of head shapes, check out our Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Helmets.

A long oval head is characterized by a longer front-to-back measurement compared to the side-to-side width, typically found in about 20% of the population.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve researched and tested numerous helmets to bring you the best options specifically designed or well-suited for long oval head shapes. Our selection criteria include internal shape compatibility, comfort during extended rides, and safety certifications.

1. Arai Signet-X

The Arai Signet-X has long been considered the gold standard for riders with long oval head shapes. Arai specifically designed this helmet with a longer, narrower internal shape that perfectly accommodates the dimensions of long oval heads.

Overview

The Signet-X represents Arai’s commitment to creating helmets for specific head shapes. This premium helmet features Arai’s proprietary PB-SNC2 shell construction, which provides exceptional impact protection while maintaining a smooth, round outer profile.

The interior uses a multi-density EPS liner that’s specifically contoured for long oval shaped head profiles. The ventilation system includes multiple intake and exhaust vents. Arai includes different thickness cheek pads and crown pads, allowing riders to fine-tune the fit.

Key Features

• Long Oval Fit: Industry standard for narrow heads.
• PB-SNC2 Shell: Super fiber laminate strength.
• VAS Shield System: Glancing off impact technology.
• Facial Contour System (FCS): Custom jaw fit.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Specifically designed internal shape for long oval heads provides exceptional comfort.
• Premium build quality with excellent safety ratings (SNELL M2020 certified).
• Highly customizable fit with multiple pad options included.
• Superior ventilation system keeps you cool during long rides.

Cons:

• Premium price point may be prohibitive for budget-conscious riders.
• Heavier than some modern composite helmets.
• Limited graphic options compared to other brands.

Pricing The Arai Signet-X retails between $700 and $850.

Best For Riders with a distinct long oval head who suffer from “forehead hot spots” in other helmets.

2. Shoei RF-1400

The Shoei RF-1400 is the latest iteration in Shoei’s premium sport helmet line, offering an intermediate oval to long oval internal shape that works exceptionally well for many long oval head shapes.

Overview

Shoei’s RF-1400 represents cutting-edge helmet technology with a focus on aerodynamics. The helmet features an advanced AIM+ shell construction using multi-composite fibers. The internal shape leans toward the longer oval spectrum, making it suitable for riders who fall somewhere between intermediate oval head and long oval.

The 3D Max-Dry interior liner system wicks moisture effectively. It is widely considered one of the best quietest motorcycle helmets on the market.

Key Features

• AIM+ Shell: Rigid and elastic multi-ply matrix.
• CWR-F2 Shield: Vortex generators reduce wind noise.
• 3D Max-Dry System II: Moisture-wicking interior.
• E.Q.R.S.: Emergency Quick Release System.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent intermediate-to-long oval fit accommodates many head shapes.
• Superior aerodynamics reduce wind noise and head buffeting.
• Lightweight construction reduces neck fatigue on long rides.
• Emergency quick-release cheek pads for first responders.

Cons:

• High price point similar to other premium helmets.
• Some riders find the chin vent difficult to operate with gloves.
• Limited customization options compared to Arai.

Pricing The Shoei RF-1400 retails between $500 and $600.

Best For Riders who need a quiet, refined helmet that fits slightly longer than standard intermediate shapes.

3. Bell Race Star Flex DLX

The Bell Race Star Flex DLX brings professional racing technology to the street with its unique Flex impact liner system and a neutral-to-long oval internal shape.

Overview

Bell’s Race Star Flex DLX incorporates the revolutionary Flex technology, which uses three independently floating impact liners to manage energy. This system works similarly to what is MIPS in motorcycle helmets but uses Bell’s proprietary tech.

The carbon fiber shell construction keeps weight down. The internal shape works well for neutral to long oval heads. The helmet typically ships with a photochromic transition visors (ProTint) included.

Key Features

• Flex Impact Liner: Three-layer energy management.
• 3K Carbon Shell: High strength.
• Transitions Shield: Adaptive light tint.
• Virus CoolJade Liner: Keeps skin cool.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Advanced Flex technology provides superior impact protection.
• Lightweight carbon fiber construction reduces fatigue.
• Excellent ventilation system keeps riders cool.
• Wide eye port provides exceptional visibility.

Cons:

• Very high price point due to advanced technology.
• May not fit extremely long oval heads as well as Arai Signet-X.
• Replacement parts can be expensive.

Pricing The Bell Race Star Flex DLX retails between $750 and $850.

Best For Track riders seeking advanced rotational protection and adaptive vision.

4. AGV K6

The AGV K6 represents Italian design and engineering excellence with an internal shape that tends toward the long oval spectrum. This helmet offers a perfect blend of sport performance, comfort, and style.

Overview

AGV’s K6 features a carbon-aramid-fiberglass shell construction available in four shell sizes. The internal shape is naturally longer and narrower than many competitors. It is a top contender for the best lightweight carbon fiber helmet (composite) category.

AGV’s Ultravision face shield offers an exceptionally wide field of view. The ventilation system includes five front vents and two rear extractors.

Key Features

• Carbon-Aramid Shell: Ultra-lightweight protection.
• Ultravision Visor: 190° horizontal field of view.
• Collarbone Safe Profile: Reduces injury risk.
• Ritmo Fabric: Premium interior feel.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Natural long oval shape without compromise.
• Excellent aerodynamic performance reduces buffeting.
• Wide variety of graphics and color options.
• Competitive pricing for a premium helmet.

Cons:

• Some riders report the chin vent is difficult to adjust.
• Interior padding may compress faster than premium competitors.
• Visor mechanism can be stiff initially.

Pricing The AGV K6 retails between $500 and $600.

Best For Sport riders who want the lightest possible helmet with a massive field of view.

5. HJC RPHA 11 Pro

The HJC RPHA 11 Pro offers exceptional value for riders with long oval heads, providing premium features at a more accessible price point.

Overview

HJC’s RPHA 11 Pro utilizes Premium Integrated Matrix Plus (PIM+) shell construction. The helmet’s internal shape naturally accommodates long oval heads better than many competitors in its price range. It is often cited as the best full-face motorcycle helmet for the money in the race category.

The advanced channeling ventilation system features adjustable chin and forehead vents. The helmet includes a RapidFire II shield replacement system and an integrated Pinlock-ready face shield.

Key Features

• PIM+ Shell: Carbon/Glass hybrid.
• RapidFire Shield: Quick replacement system.
• ACS Ventilation: Front-to-back airflow.
• MultiCool Interior: Antibacterial and fast-drying.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent value with premium features at mid-range pricing.
• Good fit for long oval heads out of the box.
• Lightweight construction comparable to more expensive helmets.
• Ready for Bluetooth system integration.

Cons:

• Build quality doesn’t quite match premium brands.
• Visor may fog more easily than competitors despite Pinlock (check seal).
• Limited customization options for fine-tuning fit.

Pricing The HJC RPHA 11 Pro retails between $400 and $500.

Best For Riders who want race-level performance and weight savings on a budget.

6. Scorpion EXO-R1 Air

The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air brings race-proven technology to the street with an internal shape that works well for long oval heads. This helmet offers impressive features and performance at a competitive price point.

Overview

Scorpion’s EXO-R1 Air features a TCT (Thermodynamically Constructed Technology) shell. The helmet’s internal dimensions favor longer, narrower head shapes. The standout feature is the Airfit inflation system, which acts as a built-in motorcycle helmet fitment guide tool, allowing riders to customize cheek pad pressure for a personalized fit.

The Ellip-Tec II face shield ratchet system provides secure shield positioning. The shield itself is Pinlock vs. Anti-Fog Sprays (Pinlock) ready.

Key Features

• AirFit System: Custom cheek pad inflation.
• Ultra-TCT Shell: Proprietary 5-layer blend.
• Ellip-Tec II: Secure shield mechanism.
• KwikWick III: Antimicrobial liner.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Airfit system allows customization for perfect long oval fit.
• Excellent ventilation keeps riders comfortable in various conditions.
• Strong safety ratings with advanced shell construction.
• Outstanding value for the features provided.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than some carbon fiber competitors.
• Airfit pump mechanism can be delicate.
• Limited graphic options compared to mainstream brands.

Pricing The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air retails between $400 and $460.

Best For Riders who have trouble finding a snug fit and need the AirFit pump.

7. LS2 Challenger GT

The LS2 Challenger GT represents outstanding value in the motorcycle helmet market, offering a full-face design (often confused with modular due to similar naming conventions in LS2 line, but Challenger is typically Full Face Sport-Touring) with an internal shape that accommodates long oval heads.

Overview

LS2’s Challenger GT features a Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) shell construction. The internal shape naturally runs longer and narrower, accommodating long oval heads.

The helmet includes an integrated sun visor that drops down with a simple switch operation, solving the tinted visor vs. drop-down sun shield debate for commuters. LS2’s Dynamic Flow-Through Ventilation system includes adjustable vents.

Key Features

• KPA Shell: Kinetic Polymer Alloy.
• Twin Shield System: Built-in sun visor.
• Laser-Cut Foam: Precise fit.
• Long Oval Fit: Good for narrower heads.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Natural long oval internal shape.
• Integrated sun visor adds convenience and value.
• Excellent price point for a helmet with good features.
• Meets DOT and ECE certifications.

Cons:

• Heavier than premium carbon fiber helmets.
• Slightly noisier than premium full-face helmets.
• Shield mechanism may require periodic maintenance.

Pricing The LS2 Challenger GT retails between $200 and $300.

Best For Budget-conscious riders who need a true long oval fit and a sun visor.

8. Nolan N87

The Nolan N87 offers European styling and engineering with an internal shape that naturally suits long oval head shapes. This helmet provides a comfortable fit and solid features at a mid-range price point.

Overview

Nolan’s N87 features a Lexan polycarbonate shell. The helmet’s internal dimensions naturally accommodate long oval heads, with the Italian design philosophy favoring slightly longer, narrower proportions.

The Clima Comfort interior lining is designed with moisture-wicking properties. Nolan’s ventilation system includes an air booster chin vent. The VPS (Vision Protection System) sunscreen is integrated into the helmet.

Key Features

• Polycarbonate Shell: Durable Lexan.
• VPS Sunscreen: UV protection.
• AirBooster Technology: Enhanced cooling.
• Microlock2 System: Secure retention strap.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Natural fit for long oval heads with Italian design proportions.
• Integrated sun visor adds functionality.
• Good ventilation system for the price range.
• Ready for integrated communication system (N-Com).

Cons:

• Polycarbonate shell is heavier than composite alternatives.
• Interior padding quality doesn’t match premium helmets.
• Some wind noise reported at highway speeds.

Pricing The Nolan N87 retails for approximately $250 to $300.

Best For Commuters looking for European style and an integrated comms option.

9. Shark Spartan GT

The Shark Spartan GT brings French engineering and innovative features to riders with long oval heads. This helmet offers a unique combination of touring comfort and sport performance.

Overview

Shark’s Spartan GT features an injected thermoplastic (or fiber blend in Carbon version) resin shell. The helmet’s internal shape tends toward long oval proportions. The Shark Auto-Seal system creates an automatic seal between the shield and the helmet opening.

An integrated sun visor deploys easily via a slider mechanism. The Easy Fit system accommodates best motorcycle helmet for glasses wearers comfortably.

Key Features

• Auto-Up/Auto-Down Visor: Convenient sealing.
• Bamboo Fiber Interior: Eco-friendly and hypoallergenic.
• Easy Fit System: Glasses channels.
• Internal Sun Visor: Easy light management.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Long oval-friendly internal shape.
• Auto-Seal system reduces wind noise effectively.
• Easy Fit system excellent for eyeglass wearers.
• Competitive pricing with premium features.

Cons:

• Thermoplastic shell heavier than composite alternatives.
• Brand less established in some markets.
• Replacement parts can be difficult to source in certain regions.

Pricing The Shark Spartan GT retails between $450 and $550.

Best For Sport-touring riders who want unique features like the auto-seal visor.

Conclusion

Finding the right motorcycle helmet for a long oval head shape doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. The helmets featured in this guide represent the best options currently available. The Arai Signet-X remains the gold standard for extremely long oval heads, while options like the Shoei RF-1400 and AGV K6 provide excellent alternatives. For budget-conscious riders, the HJC RPHA 11 Pro and Scorpion EXO-R1 Air deliver impressive performance.

Remember that proper fit is paramount for both safety and comfort. Always try helmets on before purchasing when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a long oval head shape?

A long oval head shape is longer front-to-back than side-to-side. If round or intermediate oval helmets create pressure points on your forehead (hot spots) while leaving gaps near your temples, you likely have a long oval head.

Can I make a round oval helmet fit my long oval head?

It is generally not recommended to force a round oval helmet onto a long oval head or modify the internal foam. This creates uncomfortable pressure points and compromises safety. It is better to invest in a helmet designed for your head shape.

Do long oval helmets cost more than regular helmets?

Price is typically determined by materials and features, not shape. You can find long oval-friendly helmets across all price ranges, from budget options like the LS2 Challenger GT to premium choices like the Arai Signet-X.

How tight should a new helmet feel on a long oval head?

A new helmet should feel snug but not painful. You should feel even pressure distribution around your entire head without specific pressure points on your forehead. The helmet should not move when you shake your head.

Will a long oval helmet work for intermediate oval heads?

Generally, a long oval helmet will feel loose on the sides for intermediate oval heads. However, some helmets like the Shoei RF-1400 are designed as “intermediate to long oval,” which can work for riders who fall between these two shapes.