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Finding the perfect motorcycle helmet can be challenging for riders with long or oval-shaped faces. Standard helmets often create pressure points on the forehead and chin while leaving gaps on the sides, leading to discomfort during long rides and compromised safety.

For a complete guide on determining your head shape, check out our Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Helmets.

The right helmet should distribute pressure evenly, provide adequate coverage, and maintain comfort for hours on the road.

This comprehensive guide explores the best motorcycle helmets specifically designed to accommodate elongated facial structures, ensuring you ride safely without sacrificing comfort.

Our selection criteria prioritize intermediate oval head to long oval shaped head internal shapes, adjustable fit systems, and proven safety ratings.

1. Shoei RF-1400

The Shoei RF-1400 stands as a premium choice for riders with elongated facial structures, offering exceptional comfort and world-class protection. This flagship model has earned its reputation through meticulous Japanese engineering and attention to detail.

Overview

Shoei’s RF-1400 features a distinctly intermediate oval internal shape that naturally accommodates longer faces without creating uncomfortable pressure points. The helmet utilizes a multi-piece shell construction with an advanced AIM+ (Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus) shell.

The interior features 3D Max-Dry System II lining that’s fully removable and washable, with strategically placed padding that conforms to elongated facial contours. The emergency quick release system allows medical personnel to safely remove the helmet. It is also widely considered one of the best quietest motorcycle helmets available.

Key Features

• Intermediate Oval Fit: Ideal for longer face structures.
• AIM+ Shell: Multi-ply matrix for rigidity and elasticity.
• CWR-F2 Shield: Vortex generators reduce wind noise.
• Emergency Quick Release System (E.Q.R.S.): Safety feature.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Intermediate oval shape perfectly suits long face structures with minimal break-in period required.
• Exceptional build quality with premium materials that ensure longevity.
• Advanced ventilation system with multiple intake and exhaust ports.
• Pinlock-ready face shield with excellent optical clarity.

Cons:

• Premium pricing may be prohibitive for budget-conscious riders.
• Heavier than some carbon fiber alternatives.
• Limited graphic options compared to more fashion-forward brands.

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

Best For Riders who need a refined, quiet helmet that fits a longer face profile perfectly.

2. Arai Signet-X

Arai’s Signet-X is specifically engineered for long oval head shapes, making it an ideal choice for riders who struggle with standard helmets. This model represents Arai’s commitment to providing proper fit across diverse facial structures.

Overview

The Signet-X features Arai’s proprietary Long Oval shell shape, which is narrower side-to-side and longer front-to-back than their standard models. This design philosophy directly addresses the challenges faced by riders with elongated faces.

The helmet incorporates a complex laminate construction (CLC) shell that provides exceptional strength. Arai’s facial contour system (FCS) includes different cheek pad sizes to customize the fit precisely. It is the definitive best motorcycle helmet for long oval shaped head profiles.

Key Features

• Long Oval Shell: Specifically designed to eliminate forehead hotspots.
• PB-SNC2 Shell: Super fiber laminate strength.
• VAS Shield Mechanism: Glancing off capabilities.
• Facial Contour System (FCS): Enhanced stability and comfort.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Purpose-built long oval shape eliminates common pressure points on forehead and chin.
• Extensive customization options with multiple pad configurations ensure perfect fit.
• Smooth, round shell design enhances glancing-off capability in impacts.
• Hand-crafted quality with meticulous attention to detail.

Cons:

• Among the most expensive helmets on the market.
• Ventilation system less aggressive than some competitors.
• Conservative styling may not appeal to riders seeking modern aesthetics.

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

Best For Riders with a distinct long oval head shape who cannot find a comfortable fit elsewhere.

3. Bell Race Star Flex DLX

The Bell Race Star Flex DLX combines racing-derived technology with a fit profile that works exceptionally well for long-faced riders. This helmet brings professional-level features to the street riding community.

Overview

Bell’s Race Star Flex DLX features an intermediate oval shape with a sophisticated three-layer impact liner system that includes their innovative Flex technology. This system manages energy similarly to what is MIPS in motorcycle helmets, reducing rotational forces.

The carbon composite shell keeps weight remarkably low. The helmet includes Bell’s Transitions adaptive shield that automatically adjusts to lighting conditions.

Key Features

• Flex Impact Liner: Three-layer energy management.
• 3K Carbon Shell: High strength and low weight.
• Transitions Shield: Photochromic visor included.
• Virus CoolJade Liner: Keeps skin cool.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Advanced Flex technology provides enhanced rotational impact protection.
• Lightweight carbon construction reduces neck fatigue.
• Transitions shield technology adapts automatically to changing light conditions.
• Aggressive styling appeals to riders seeking modern aesthetics.

Cons:

• High price point places it in the premium category.
• Complex ventilation system requires regular cleaning.
• Transitions shield adds significant replacement cost if damaged.

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

Best For Track riders who want advanced safety tech and adaptive vision.

4. AGV K6

AGV’s K6 brings Italian racing heritage to riders with long faces, offering a sophisticated blend of performance, comfort, and style. This helmet represents exceptional value in the premium segment.

Overview

The K6 features an intermediate oval internal shape that AGV developed through extensive rider data analysis. It utilizes a carbon-aramid-fiberglass shell construction in four sizes. It is one of the best lightweight carbon fiber helmets (composite) on the market.

The cheek pads are designed with a vertical orientation that complements long face shapes without creating pressure points. AGV’s Ultravision visor provides 190 degrees of horizontal vision.

Key Features

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

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent price-to-performance ratio compared to similarly featured competitors.
• Exceptional field of vision enhances safety and riding confidence.
• Microsense technology provides superior comfort in the chin area for long faces.
• Wide variety of graphic options appeals to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Cons:

• Ventilation adequate but not class-leading in extremely hot conditions.
• Some riders report the visor mechanism feels less robust than premium alternatives.
• Noise levels slightly higher than top-tier competitors at highway speeds.

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

Best For Sport riders who want a lightweight helmet with a massive field of view.

5. Scorpion EXO-R1 Air

The Scorpion EXO-R1 Air delivers race-ready performance at a mid-range price point, with an internal shape that accommodates long oval faces remarkably well. This helmet proves that proper fit doesn’t require breaking the bank.

Overview

Scorpion designed the EXO-R1 Air with an intermediate oval shape and a TCT (Thermoplastic Composite Technology) shell. The standout feature is the AirFit inflation system, which allows riders to fine-tune the cheek pads. This acts as a built-in motorcycle helmet fitment guide tool, ensuring a snug fit for narrower faces.

The Ellip-Tec II ratchet system allows for quick face shield changes. 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:

• Outstanding value proposition with features typically found in more expensive helmets.
• AirFit pump system allows fine-tuning of fit for long oval heads.
• Effective ventilation system keeps riders comfortable in warm weather.
• Five-year warranty demonstrates manufacturer confidence.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than premium carbon fiber alternatives.
• Interior materials feel less luxurious than top-tier competitors.
• Wind noise management good but not exceptional compared to premium models.

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.

6. HJC RPHA 11 Pro

HJC’s RPHA 11 Pro combines Korean engineering excellence with thoughtful design elements that work exceptionally well for riders with elongated facial structures. This helmet punches well above its price category.

Overview

The RPHA 11 Pro features an intermediate oval internal shape with HJC’s Premium Integrated Matrix Plus (PIM+) shell construction. It is widely considered the best full-face motorcycle helmet for the money in the premium race category.

The interior utilizes moisture-wicking, antibacterial fabric with contoured cheek pads that accommodate long faces without creating pressure points. HJC’s RapidFire II shield replacement system enables tool-free visor changes in seconds.

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:

• Exceptional value with premium features at a mid-range price point.
• Lightweight construction reduces neck strain during long rides.
• Integrated sun visor provides convenience without compromising safety (check specific model/region).
• Wide range of graphics and licensed designs appeals to diverse tastes.

Cons:

• Interior padding less plush than premium competitors.
• Ventilation effective but not as refined as top-tier models.
• Some quality control inconsistencies reported across production batches.

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.

7. Shark Spartan GT

The Shark Spartan GT represents French engineering innovation with a fit profile that naturally accommodates long oval facial structures. This helmet offers unique features that distinguish it from competitors.

Overview

Shark’s Spartan GT features an intermediate oval shape with their proprietary injected thermoplastic (or carbon blend in GT Carbon) resin shell. The standout feature is the auto-up/auto-down system that allows the visor to be opened or closed with a simple push.

The interior features Shark’s Bamboo fabric liner that’s naturally antimicrobial. The cheek pads are designed with adequate vertical space for long faces. Shark’s 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:

• Innovative auto-up/auto-down visor system provides unmatched convenience.
• Eco-friendly bamboo liner materials offer natural antimicrobial properties.
• Excellent accommodation for eyeglass wearers with long faces.
• Competitive pricing for the feature set provided.

Cons:

• Auto-visor mechanism adds complexity that could require maintenance.
• Slightly heavier than comparable models due to visor system.
• Brand less established in some markets.

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

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

8. LS2 Challenger GT

The LS2 Challenger GT delivers impressive performance and features at an entry-to-mid-level price point, with an internal shape that works well for riders with long faces.

Overview

LS2’s Challenger GT features an intermediate to long oval shape with a Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) shell. The helmet includes a dual-density EPS liner that enhances impact absorption.

The helmet includes both a clear visor and an integrated, retractable sun shield, solving the tinted visor vs. drop-down sun shield debate for commuters.

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:

• Outstanding value proposition for budget-conscious riders seeking proper fit.
• Integrated sun visor adds convenience without additional cost.
• Adequate ventilation for most riding conditions.
• Meets major safety certifications (DOT/ECE).

Cons:

• Interior materials less refined than premium alternatives.
• Heavier than more expensive carbon fiber options.
• Wind noise management adequate but not exceptional.

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

Best For Riders on a budget who need a true long oval fit and a sun visor.

9. Schuberth C4 Pro

The Schuberth C4 Pro represents German engineering precision in a modular helmet design that accommodates long oval faces exceptionally well. This flip-up helmet offers versatility without compromising safety.

Overview

Schuberth’s C4 Pro features an intermediate oval internal shape with a direct fiberglass molded shell. As a modular helmet, it is one of the best motorcycle modular helmets for quietness.

The helmet’s internal shape provides excellent accommodation for long faces, with cheek pads that offer vertical space without creating gaps. The helmet comes with an integrated communication system (SC1) slot.

Key Features

• Direct Fiber Processing: Strong, light shell.
• Aero-Acoustics: Optimized for silence.
• Integrated Sun Visor: Seamless deployment.
• SC1 Comm Ready: Plug-and-play.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional noise reduction makes it ideal for long-distance touring.
• Modular design provides convenience for stops.
• Integrated communication system eliminates external mounting complications.
• Superior build quality with meticulous attention to detail.

Cons:

• Premium pricing places it among the most expensive options.
• Heavier than full-face alternatives due to modular mechanism.
• Replacement parts and accessories more expensive than competitors.

Pricing The Schuberth C4 Pro retails between $600 and $800.

Best For Touring riders who want the quietest modular helmet available.

Conclusion

Selecting the right motorcycle helmet for a long face requires understanding your specific facial structure and prioritizing proper fit over brand loyalty. The helmets featured in this guide represent the best options across various price points. Whether you choose the premium craftsmanship of Arai’s Signet-X, the innovative features of Bell’s Race Star Flex DLX, or the exceptional value of the LS2 Challenger GT, proper fit should remain your primary consideration.

Remember to check our guide on when to replace your motorcycle helmet to ensure your gear remains safe and effective over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A long oval head shape is longer from front to back and narrower from side to side. If standard helmets create pressure points on your forehead (hot spots) while leaving gaps near your temples, you likely have a long oval head.

Can I modify a standard helmet to fit my long face better?

It is generally not recommended to modify the internal EPS liner, as this compromises safety. You can adjust cheek pads for a better fit on the sides, but if the shell shape is wrong, you need a different helmet.

Are more expensive helmets always better for long faces?

Price doesn’t necessarily correlate with fit. A mid-range helmet like the Scorpion EXO-R1 Air may fit a long face better than a premium round-oval helmet. However, expensive helmets often offer better materials and quieter rides.

How tight should a motorcycle helmet feel initially?

A new helmet should feel snug but not painfully tight. It should not move when you shake your head side to side. Remember that the liner will compress 15-20% after the break-in period.

Do I need to replace my helmet if it fits my long face but is several years old?

Yes, helmets should be replaced every 5 years regardless of visible wear. Materials degrade over time due to UV exposure and sweat, reducing the helmet’s ability to protect you.