Having a reliable helmet is the key to successful riding adventures. It’s there to protect your head and face from potential injuries.
Still, there are many options available, and riders are often hesitant about buying one due to price. They can be quite costly, and on top of that, most people are convinced that it can only be good when it’s expensive.
What if we told you that there are top motorcycle helmets under $100? We’ve researched the market to find these affordable models and reviewed their performance, safety, comfort and pros, and cons so continue reading to find out all about them.
Top-Rated Moto Helmets Below $100
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
Triangle  | Triangle Type: Full face Material: ABS shell with high pressure thermoplastic Color: Black | Check Price |
1Storm  | 1Storm Type: Modular Full face Material: Aerodynamic Thermoplastic Alloy Shell Color: Multi-color | Check Price |
ILM  | ILM Type: Modular Material: ABS Shell Color: Multi-color | Check Price |
WOW  | WOW Type: Full face Material: Aerodynamic Thermoplastic Alloy Shell Color: Multi-color | Check Price |
NENKI  | NENKI Type: Full Face Material: NIP Color: Multi-color | Check Price |
MMG Open Face  | MMG Open Face Type: Open face Material: Lightweight, Aerodynamic Color: Matte Black | Check Price |
Vega Half Helmet  | Vega Half Helmet Type: Half face Material: NIP Color: Patriotic flag graphic | Check Price |
Razor  | Razor Type: Full face Material: NIP Color: Black | Check Price |
Triangle
This DOT approved model is ideal for commuters and bike enthusiasts. It’s sturdy yet flexible enough to receive a shock on impact.
The ABS shell is made using the brand’s unique and advanced high-pressure thermoplastic technology. It’s a reliable and robust construction that absorbs and disperses shock on all parts equally so that there aren’t any concentrated areas of impact.
On the inside, the Triangle has a multi-density EPS liner. It’s fully removable and washable allowing you to freshen it up from time to time. It makes the helmet that much more comfortable during long-hour rides.
For ventilation system, this one has top and rear extractors liner. It helps maintain the temperature and keep the fresh air coming in.
Its double PC anti-scratch visor and DVS treatment have a quick change mechanism that makes it easier to use. The Triangle also has a padded chin strap with micrometric closure.
PROS
- Anti-bacterial interior liner
- Soft laser cut padding
- Several sizes
CONS
-
Smells like adhesive upon arrival
1Storm
This modular option is among the most versatile models for this price point. It’s highly protective as it covers your entire face and head. On top of that, it comes in many sizes and colors to choose from.
The Department of Transportation approves it for its durability and resistance. The shell is made of a durable aerodynamic thermoplastic alloy that absorbs shock and has excellent endurance. It weighs approximately 4 pounds.
The modular/flip up, and dual lens design makes this one stand out. It’s an advanced system with an inner smoked lens and clear outer shield.
On the inside, it features removable and washable padding. It keeps your head safely in place providing comfort and protection above all.
It features a unique glossy finish that really matches the elegant lines. You can alter and use it as a half-face or full-face helmet depending on your preference.
PROS
- Comfortable
- Doesn’t fog
- Fits earphones
CONS
- Wind noise over 40 mph
ILM
If you’re looking for a modular helmet, you should consider the ILM as one of the best affordable models on the market. It’s durable, resistant but efficient and easy to use at all times.
The ABS shell has high-resistance level meaning that it keeps your head and face well protected during impact. It also features a micrometrical adjustable strap that provides a better fit and overall comfort.
All of its liners and cheek pads are soft and lightweight. You can remove them anytime for maintenance and wash. The ILM passed FMVSS-218 standard testing by the Department of Transportation.
It’s designed in a way to look attractive but still have all the efficiency a helmet should have. The entire construction reduces wind noises even at high speeds which is ideal for long-hour rides.
It features an anti-scratch, anti-fog and wide view clear visor with a modular flip-up function.
PROS
- Scratch resistant
- Removable padding
- Reduced wind noise
CONS
- Sizes run a bit big
WOW
This is a more classic looking model that has a somewhat retro design. It’s DOT approved and comes in several sizes, colors and design patterns.
The shell is made of aerodynamic thermoplastic alloy. It’s durable and lightweight which makes it great for long-hour rides and adventures. On top of that, it features a glossy UV-protective finish on all of the colors.
The inside of is padded with comfortable cushioning. It’s removable and washable for easier maintenance that’s especially useful if you sweat a lot.
It comes with a visor that flips up allowing you to use to your liking. The vents in the front allow air to flow, so you always have fresh and chilly air as you ride. It also has ear holes for if you like to use earphones as well.
PROS
- Accurate sizing
- UV-protective gloss finish
- Solid ventilation system
CONS
- A bit loud over 40 mph
NENKI
Nenki is known for their attractive designs and colorful patterns. All of their models, including this full-face one, are eye-turning and unique.
The fiberglass injected shell and expanded polystyrene make this one resistant and durable. You get high impact absorption at a level rarely seen in affordable products.
This one comes with a dual visor, iridium red visor, and inner sun shield. The combination allows diversity and a chance to use it according to the different weather conditions of the area you live in.
Its multiple vents allow solid ventilation that helps prevent fogging. It keeps fresh air flowing in, so you’re never too warm even in the summer days.
On the inside, this one features removable and washable liner. It provides comfort while keeping everything padded and secured during your rides.
PROS
- DOT approved
- Cushioned padding
- Good ventilation
CONS
- Doesn’t fit Bluetooth speakers
MMG Open Face
If you’re a commuter looking for an affordable option, this might be one of the best choices. It’s approved by the Department of Transportation for US safety standard, and it’s quite easy to use even for beginners.
This one has comfortable padding all over but what makes it stand out are its cheek pads. These are quite convenient since they provide support for your face keeping everything well-protected. You can remove and wash them at any time.
The anti-scratch technology makes it a bit more resistant than before. It has a clear windshield and wide vision field allowing better and easier use. Overall, the modern aerodynamic design is lightweight and makes this one great for casual commuters.
It comes in several sizes so make sure to measure and compare your size to the brand’s chart. Overall, it’s a simple design that’s ideal for scooters and other smaller bikes.
PROS
- Fits small speakers
- Lightweight
- Removable cheek pads
CONS
- Might be a bit tight
Vega Half Helmet
If you’re not into full-face helmets and you want something a bit more comfortable, you should look into this Vega Rebel Warrior model.
It has an optically correct and drop-down inner sun shield that protects your eyes from bug, sun, and all kinds of debris that could fly in. It also features a new size-adjustment system with a dial that allows the best fit with the moisture wicking liner.
On top of that, this one has channeled EPS for better safety and cooling along with a quick-release and padded chin strap.
As it’s engineered with a thick and dense EPS liner, this one absorbs impact and is suitable for choppers, scooters, cruisers, mopeds, street bikes, and other. It meets and exceeds DOT FMVSS 218 safety standard.
PROS
- Cushioned interior
- Breathable design
- Custom fit
CONS
- Might give you mushroom head
Razor Youth
This full-face looks fierce and attractive in both black and red. It comes in one size that fits heads measuring 21.5 to 23 inches in diameter.
It comes with extra pads that allow a more secure and comfortable fit. However, the best thing about it is its cooling system. The helmet has seventeen vents that allow great airflow.
It has a strap, a snap buckle and an adjustable visor you can customize to your liking. On top of that, the large eye port allows the use of goggles or other eyewear.
This one complies with CPSC standards and is best for ages 8 to 14 years old. It’s meant for children, so it’s not the best choice for high-speed rides. It’s best for bicycles and slower scooters.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Padded
- Large eye port
CONS
- Not for high speed
Buyer’s Guide
Can You Find Quality At This Price?
Ideally, helmets should have some sort of certification, so you know they’ve passed specific testing. It should be your evidence of quality even at this price point.
Models under $100, like the ones we reviewed, can still be of satisfactory quality. Most people are convinced only the most expensive ones are safe when that’s not correct.
Just because a model is pricey doesn’t mean it’s of higher quality. In most cases, affordable models are equally as protective but have fewer features such as fewer vents, different visors, and so on. This allows the manufacturers to sell them at a lower price.
For some noticeable upgrades and slightly more cash, check out our Helmets Under $300 guide.
Helmet Types
Helmets are a law in many countries which is why we now have many models to choose from. People have different preferences and needs, so the manufacturers had to adapt to that by making different types.
Full Face
Full face models cover your entire face along with your eyes and chin. It’s a closed model that may or may not have a flip-up visor. If you’re looking to buy one, make sure that it has solid ventilation as these tend to fog because they’re so enclosed.
Modular
Modulars are a combination of full-face and half-face helmets. It’s an excellent choice for riders who want the best of both worlds as it provides comfort and versatility. These usually have flip-up visors you can wear at your liking. Again, it has to have reliable ventilation to prevent fogging when you use it as a full-face.
Discover more about modular and full face.
Half Face
Half-face models are for more casual riders and commuters. These protect your head and usually only the upper half of your face. This means they have visors, but nothing is protecting your mouth and chin. Still, some models don’t have visors and have chin straps or another form of protection.
How to Get the Right Fit
Regardless of what kind of bike you ride and for how long at the time, the helmet of your choice has to fit you perfectly. It’s important you wear one, which is unlikely to happen if it doesn’t fit right.
A wrong fit is uncomfortable which will make you hate it as a whole. You have to be careful about this because there’s more than just comfort.
Small fit could be profoundly uncomfortable, while a larger one has no effect. It would be like you’re not wearing one at all.
Measure your head before you opt for any model in particular. If you can, go to the store and try it. If you do choose to shop online, make sure you try it upon arrival. It will leave you enough time to replace it if it doesn’t fit.
Safety Features
Almost all features are directly connected to safety. For this reason, you should look at the whole package and how it affects the performance and overall security of the model you’re interested in.
For example, not all models have chin straps, but those that do are a bit more secure. That is if the strap is quality and reliable since it can only protect you as such.
Ventilation is also essential for safety since it prevents fogging. This makes the helmet easier to use especially during long-distance rides.
Certifications
If it’s certified, it has been tested for quality and durability. There are a few certifications, some of which are more common in the USA and others in Europe.
Get our guide on safety ratings here.
DOT
DOT stands for the Department of Transportation. It usually applies only in the United States. It’s quite common, and almost all of them have this certification. The reason for this is the fact that, to pass, they need to meet minimal safety requirements.
SNELL
SNELL is far more rigorous, and only a few brands actually obtain this certification. It’s more common in Europe, but it can be found in the USA as well. It consists of tough strength testing and examining the overall construction for durability, impact resistance and reliability as a whole.
Aerodynamics
When you’re looking at how the helmet will fit, make sure to consider if it’s aerodynamic as well. You don’t want it to resist the wind since that would make it nearly impossible to use.
It’s mostly about the shape and whether it’s aerodynamic enough. Luckily, most products nowadays are.
Additional Features
Additional features such as Bluetooth speakers and microphone are a nice touch, but ask yourself if that’s something you really need. Some models have enough space within them to allow the use of such gadgets. However, that’s not always the safest choice which is something you should think about carefully.
The lining is also a nice feature that provides a bit more comfort for people who ride often and for a long time. Luckily, most models, even those under $100 come with this feature.
Warranties
Warranty is crucial whenever you’re shopping online. Sometimes, a helmet won’t fit as well as you thought and it’s a good thing to be able to return it. Plus, if something happens to it or you’re just not pleased with the product, a good warranty can help a lot.
Conclusion
As you can tell, many motorcycle helmets under $100 are quality and reliable. Their price simply means they have fewer additional features.
Make sure to measure your head until you get the same numbers a few times. Choose your size and consider the safety factors we’ve discussed to ensure you get the best onefor you.
Hopefully, you understand why a product doesn’t have to be crazy expensive in order to be effective. Just take a look at the ones we’ve reviewed and make sure to come back to our Buyer’s Guide as many times if needed.
