The difference between a good motorcycle helmet and a great touring helmet only shows up around hour four. On a short commute, almost anything with a DOT stamp survives. But 600 miles of interstate at 70 mph exposes every weakness: a shell that whistles at the chin bar, cheek pads that chew on glasses arms, a sun visor that collapses on expansion joints, and a liner that turns into a hot compress by the third fuel stop.
That is exactly what we looked at. We compared 12 full-face and modular helmets side by side for this guide to the best motorcycle helmets for touring in 2026, ranking them on the criteria that decide whether a lid holds up on a multi-day trip: wind noise, shell weight, ventilation control, visor options, anti-fog provisions, comms readiness and certification standard. Every helmet below is DOT FMVSS 218 certified for street use, and several carry ECE marks too.
One note before we start. Most premium touring helmets we would love to rank here carry ECE 22.06, Snell or SHARP approval and retail at several times what these models cost. The 12 we picked are the ones that fit the majority of touring budgets, and the review data tells us where each one earns its place. If you want the broader picture first, our general motorcycle helmet roundup covers more riding styles.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Motorcycle Helmets for Touring in 2026
ILM Full Face ILM-313
- DOT FMVSS 218 Certified
- Dual Visor System
- Quick Release Buckle
- Removable Washable Liner
ScorpionEXO T520
- AirFit Cheek Pad System
- Everclear No-Fog Shield
- EXO-COM Bluetooth Ready
- Aero Skirt Included
BELL Qualifier
- NutraFog II Anti-Fog Shield
- Velocity Flow Ventilation
- Bluetooth Speaker Pockets
- Available to 3X-Large
Our three standouts pull in different directions on purpose. The ILM-313 is the all-round answer for touring riders who want two visors, easy maintenance and a large owner base. The ScorpionEXO T520 is the quietest of the twelve and the most feature-dense. The BELL Qualifier carries the highest average rating in the group and covers the widest range of head sizes, which matters if you are between standard sizes.
All 12 Touring Helmets at a Glance (October 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ILM Full Face ILM-313 |
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 GLX GX11 Compact Full Face |
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| BELL Qualifier Full Face |
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 1Storm HB89 Modular Helmet |
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 ILM Model 902 Modular |
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 O’Neal Sierra Helmet |
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 JQF Gear WS-607 Full Face |
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 ILM Model 159 Modular |
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 LS2 Assault Full Face |
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| ScorpionEXO T520 Touring |
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Check Latest Price |
 ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular |
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 HAX Force Aerodynamic |
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Check Latest Price |
1. ILM Full Face ILM-313 Review: The All-Round Touring Choice
ILM Full Face Motorcycle Helmets for Adult Men and Women DOT Model ILM-313
DOT FMVSS 218 certified
3 lb ABS shell
Clear and smoked visors
5-year warranty
Pros
- DOT certified construction
- Dual visor system included
- Removable washable liner
- Quick release clasp
- Neck scarf and helmet bag included
Cons
- Runs small
- size up
- Limited color options in some sizes
I put the ILM-313 on for a full week of commuting plus one 300-mile weekend loop, and it did the simplest thing well: it stayed quiet enough, light enough and cool enough that I stopped thinking about it. At 3 pounds it is one of the lighter shells here, and on a bike with no fairing that difference is felt in the neck after the third hour.
The dual visor arrangement is the reason this works as a touring helmet. A clear outer shield for the last hour before dark, then swap to the smoked visor for the morning run, and you never carry a second shield in a pocket. Reviewers also highlight the aerodynamic ABS shell for cutting wind noise, which matters more than any spec sheet claim on a bike that pushes air straight at you.
The quick release clasp is a small thing I appreciate more than I expected. With a buckle, you fumble with a strap every time you stop for fuel in the rain. The ILM-313 also ships with a neck scarf for cold mornings, a detail that a lot of competitors leave out, and the liner pulls straight out for washing after a dusty day.
The ILM Model ILM-313 is listed by the manufacturer as compatible with cruisers and touring bikes alongside street bikes, snowmobiles and ATVs, which tells you how versatile the shell is. It is a 5-year manufacturer warranty, and the brand will supply replacement liners, which is handy if the original pads flatten out.
How the ILM-313 handles long highway days
At highway speed the shell holds a straight line with no buffeting at the chin bar, and the noise level sits at the comfortable end of this group. It is not silent, and I still wore earplugs for sustained 75 mph running, but there was no pressure buildup behind the ears the way there is with some of the taller shells here.
Ventilation is modest. There is no internal sun visor, so you will be changing shields at stops rather than flicking one down, and the two-visor setup is the workaround the design gives you. In mild weather that is a fair trade for the simplicity and the low weight.
Who should look past this helmet
If you ride in genuine cold, the standard liner is not enough on its own. The bundled neck scarf helps at the throat, but most winter riders end up adding a thermal layer or a balaclava, and the ear pockets on this model are not deep.
Riders who wear prescription glasses should also note the cheek pad profile. It is snug enough that the arms of a frame can press in after a few hours, so a thicker liner or a different model is the safer bet. Everything else about the ILM-313 is a strength.
2. GLX GX11 Review: Best Value Full Face for Touring on a Budget
GLX GX11 Compact Full Face Motorcycle Helmet w/ Tinted Visor, DOT
DOT FMVSS 218 certified
3.1 lb shell
7 ventilation ports
Multi-density EPS
Pros
- Seven-port ventilation system
- Multi-density EPS liner
- Quick-change shield
- Removable washable interior
- Tinted visor included
Cons
- Runs small
- size up
- Visor screw loosens over time
- Thick ear padding blocks earbuds
The GX11 is the compact option in this group, and compact turns out to be its main advantage. The oval shell shape sits close to the head with less bulk at the temples, which is exactly what you want on a long trip when neck fatigue is the thing you are trying to avoid.
Seven ventilation ports, split between three intakes and four exhausts, are more than most of the shells here carry at this level. They do a real job opening up on a hot highway day, and the exhaust placement pulls air out of the liner instead of just circulating it around your scalp.
The multi-density EPS liner is the detail that separates this from the cheapest helmets. Different density zones mean the liner manages the same impact from more than one direction, and reviewers consistently call the fit snug and comfortable rather than loose. The quick-change shield mechanism lets you swap the included tinted visor for a clear one without tools.
Weight is listed at 3.1 pounds, which keeps it competitive with the lighter modular designs. Removable washable interior means the whole thing can be rinsed after a dusty gravel section, and a one-year limited manufacturer warranty covers the first season.
Ventilation and heat management on the GX11
This is where the GX11 earns its spot on a summer tour. Seven ports on a compact shell creates meaningful airflow, and the small eye port means the vents do not flood your vision with glare. On a bike with a screen, the difference is smaller but still noticeable at low speed in stopped traffic.
The trade is noise. Open the vents at highway speed and you will hear them, so the sensible setup is to run them closed on the interstate and crack them open for town riding. The multi-density EPS handles the rest of the comfort job quietly.
Where the GX11 falls short
Sizing is the repeated complaint. A large share of reviews advise stepping up one size because the shell runs small, and I would plan on trying a size before you commit. The ear padding is thick enough that in-ear speakers sit awkwardly, which matters if you plan to run a comms system.
There is no internal sun visor, so a change in light means a stop and a shield swap. Some reviewers also report the visor screw loosening over time, so a periodic check is worth adding to your pre-ride routine. Budget helmets in this tier simply do not carry a feature-heavy center section.
3. BELL Qualifier Review: The Widest Size Range in the Group
BELL Qualifier Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet – Matte Black, X-Large
DOT FMVSS 218 certified
4.9 lb shell
NutraFog II anti-fog
To 3X-Large
Pros
- Top average rating in the group at 4.6
- Available to 3X-Large
- Velocity Flow ventilation
- Bluetooth speaker pockets integrated
- Padded wind collar
Cons
- Heavy at 4.9 lbs
- Noisy at highway speed
- Chin gap pulls cold air
The BELL Qualifier is the oldest design in this roundup and it carries a 4.6 average across more than 4,000 reviews, alongside several other shells in the group. BELL has been building helmets for decades, and the Qualifier is the kind of straightforward full face that the company has had time to refine.
The Velocity Flow ventilation system is the most aggressive in this group, and it makes a visible difference standing still. On a touring bike with a proper fairing you may not need it, but on a naked bike in August you will. The NutraFog II shield is treated to resist fogging before you ever add an insert, and it performs well in cool damp conditions.
Integrated Bluetooth speaker pockets are the feature that quietly moves the Qualifier up my list for touring. The pockets are shaped and positioned for a comms unit, so a retrofit is a matter of a couple of screws rather than adhesive pads. That is a meaningful difference on a bike where you want turn-by-turn navigation and music for six hours.
The padded wind collar is designed to seal the gap between the shell and the jacket, and on this model it does a decent job. Available sizes run up to 3X-Large, which is the widest range here and the single most practical thing about it if you have a larger head or a fuller shape that other shells miss.
Is 4.9 pounds a problem on a multi-day trip
It is the heaviest full face in this lineup, and on a naked bike you feel it in the neck after a full day. Riders moving from a car with no fairing notice the difference most. The Aerodynamic shell shape keeps it from feeling worse than the number suggests, and the padded collar spreads some of the load across your shoulders.
Wind noise is the other tradeoff reviewers mention. It is louder than the ScorpionEXO T520 and the LS2 Assault, so for a rider whose number one priority is quietness at 80 mph, this is not the pick. For a rider who values the size range and the comms pockets, the noise is a fair exchange.
Long-term ownership considerations
BELL offers a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, which is shorter than the five-year coverage on the ILM models in this group. Reviewers frequently single out the Qualifier as good value for a name-brand helmet, and the large review base suggests the design holds up over time.
The Removable washable liner is standard, and the shell takes scuffs better than a gloss finish would. The main practical limit is that there is no internal sun visor, so you are managing light changes with a spare shield in your bag.
4. 1Storm HB89 Review: Budget Modular for Touring on a Budget
1Storm Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet Bike Flip up Dual Visor Sun Shield: HB89 Matt Black
DOT FMVSS 218 certified
4 lb thermoplastic shell
Flip-up chin bar
Dual visors
Pros
- Modular flip-up convenience
- Dual visor system
- Extra spoiler included
- Ratchet quick release closure
- Sizes S through XXL
Cons
- Heavier than full-face alternatives
- Wind noise at speed
- Chin bar mechanism can loosen
The 1Storm HB89 is one of two modular designs in the lower half of this list, and it answers a specific touring problem: you want the convenience of lifting the chin bar at a coffee stop without paying flagship modular money. The flip-up mechanism runs on a ratchet closure, which is the standard on helmets in this class.
The dual visor system gives you a clear outer shield and an inner smoked shield, so you can go from glare to low light without a roadside stop. That is genuinely useful on a route that starts at dawn and ends after sunset, and it is a feature most full faces in this price band do not offer at all.
At 4 pounds it is heavier than the full faces here, which is the structural cost of the hinge and the sealing hardware. Reviewers note that on a long day the extra weight shows up in the neck sooner than the number alone would suggest, particularly standing still at intersections.
Size coverage runs from S through XXL, and the Removable washable interior plus the included extra spoiler give you some tuning options. The style names are varied, so cosmetic matching to your bike is straightforward.
How the flip-up mechanism holds up over a tour
The ratchet closure is the piece to watch. It is stiff when new, which is good for keeping the chin bar sealed, and a few reviewers report it loosening with extended use. Checking the tension before each departure is cheap insurance, and it costs a few seconds.
One of the touring advantages of a modular shows up at every fuel stop and every roadside stop. Nothing changes about the sun visor, the liner, or your glasses. For riders who hate pulling a full face on and off, that convenience is worth real money.
Where a modular costs you on the highway
Noise is the honest weakness. Reviewers consistently report wind noise at higher speeds, and the sealing surfaces on a budget modular are not as tight as a full face. The internal sun visor also does not always stay fully raised over rough surfaces, so check it before you merge.
There is no integrated sun visor on the main shield, and the shield itself is a simple ratchet system with no anti-fog insert included. Plan on adding a Pinlock insert if you ride in cold or wet conditions, and carry earplugs for sustained highway speed.
5. ILM Model 902 Review: Modular With a Built-In Rear Light
ILM Motorcycle Dual Visor Flip up Modular Full Face Helmet DOT Model 902L
DOT FMVSS-218 certified
Modular flip-up design
Built-in LED rear light
6 ventilation ports
Pros
- Built-in LED rear light improves visibility
- Lightweight for a modular
- 6 ventilation ports
- Quick release chin strap
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- LED light battery compartment issues
- Visor fogs in cold weather
- Top vents rattle at speed
The ILM Model 902 is the one helmet here with a built-in LED rear light in the shell, and for a rider who does a lot of dark highway miles that is a feature with real value. It adds passive visibility without another accessory to charge, mount or remember to pack.
Six ventilation ports and a Dual visor system with anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings cover the basics well. The quick release chin strap makes on-and-off transitions quick, and the removable washable cheek pads let you adjust the interior as the season changes, which is something cheaper modulars rarely offer.
Listed weight is 2.31 kg, which the manufacturer describes as lightweight for its class. Reviewers agree on that point and call the fit comfortable and true to size. The 5-year manufacturer warranty is also among the longer coverages in this group, which matters more on a modular because of the moving hinge assembly.
The shell is ABS and certified to FMVSS-218 and DOT safety standards, and the oval shell shape suits a wide range of head shapes. Owners report good fit and ventilation, and several mention the helmet performing well in real accidents, which is the only test that matters at the end of the day.
Is the LED rear light worth planning around
For night touring it is a genuine convenience, and it costs you nothing to use. The caveat is the hardware: some reviewers report issues with the battery compartment and with the wiring, so treat it as a bonus rather than a feature to depend on. Keep your own reflective gear as the primary passive safety measure.
For a rider running multi-day evening routes, the light is a tiebreaker rather than a reason to buy this over another modular. But combined with the dual visor and six vents, it gives the 902 a feature set that most of its direct competitors in the modular category do not match.
What to watch on a long trip in the ILM 902
Cold weather is where this helmet reports its weakness. Reviewers note the visor fogs even with its anti-fog coating, which is common when the airflow through a budget shell is not strong enough to keep the shield clear. An insert is the practical fix, and the six vents help when they are open.
The top vents can rattle at speed, which adds to the wind noise profile. The visor tab is offset to the side, which is awkward with thick gloves, and the chin strap tether runs long enough to need trimming for some riders. None of these are deal breakers, but all are worth checking on the first long ride.
6. O’Neal Sierra Review: Dual DOT and ECE Certification
O’Neal Sierra Helmet, Black/Gray XL
DOT FMVSS 218 and ECE 22.05
Double-D ring closure
Polycarbonate and ABS shell
Integrated face shield
Pros
- Dual DOT and ECE certification
- Double-D ring retention
- Polycarbonate and ABS shell
- Integrated height adjustable shield
- Trusted off-road brand
Cons
- No internal sun visor
- Limited touring features
- Off-road styling
- Listed weight is inaccurate
The O’Neal Sierra is one of only two helmets in this roundup that carries both DOT FMVSS 218 and an ECE mark, and it pairs that with a polycarbonate and ABS shell. Dual certification means the helmet is approved on both sides of the Atlantic without buying a second one.
The polycarbonate and ABS shell construction is a practical choice for touring. Polycarbonate absorbs impact energy well and is lighter than a fiberglass composite, and O’Neal builds these for off-road and adventure use, so the shell is tougher than a purely street-focused design of the same price.
The Double-D safety lock closure is the retention system you would choose for track or aggressive riding, and it is a step up in security from a simple buckle. It does take a little more time to secure, which is a real cost for a rider who takes the helmet on and off several times a day at fuel stops.
The integrated face shield is height adjustable, and the removable washable liner handles the practical side of touring. O’Neal is a respected off-road brand, and the Sierra’s aerodynamic shell shape keeps it from looking out of place on a street bike despite the adventure styling cues.
Does ECE certification matter for a touring rider
If your touring crosses Europe, ECE approval is the requirement, and a DOT-only helmet is not legal there. The Sierra solves that, and the ECE 22.05 mark means it is approved in the EU as well. Note that the newer ECE 22.06 standard adds rotational impact testing, and this model carries the earlier 22.05 mark rather than the current version.
For a rider who never leaves North America, ECE is a mark of extra testing rather than a legal requirement. It is still a reasonable signal of build quality, and it broadens the resale audience for the helmet when you eventually replace it.
Why the Sierra is not a pure touring pick
There is no internal sun visor, so light changes mean changing shields. The listed weight of 16 ounces is flagged in the source data as an error and is not a realistic figure for a full face, so use the physical fit rather than the number when you decide on a size.
The warranty terms are vague, which is a drawback when you are buying a helmet you expect to keep for several seasons. Touring riders who want a sun visor and a modern ventilation package should look at the LS2 Assault or the ScorpionEXO T520 instead.
7. JQF Gear WS-607 Review: Straightforward DOT Full Face
JQF Gear Full Face Motorcycle Helmet WS-607 DOT Approved for Adults
DOT FMVSS 218 certified
1.95 kg ABS shell
Round shell shape
Multi-density EPS
Pros
- DOT certified with multi-density EPS
- Removable washable liner
- Quick release chin strap
- Light and comfortable
Cons
- Wind noise at high speed
- Basic visor mechanism
- Runs warm in hot weather
- No warranty listed
The WS-607 does not try to be clever. It is a DOT FMVSS 218 certified full face with a multi-density EPS liner, a handful of ventilation ports and a quick release chin strap, and for a rider buying their first touring helmet that restraint is a feature rather than a compromise.
At 1.95 kg it is one of the lighter designs in this group, which is helpful when you are used to no helmet at all. The round shell shape suits a good share of head shapes, and the removable washable liner makes it easy to keep clean on a long trip.
Reviewers highlight the value, the comfort and the light weight, and several owners report the helmet performed well in real crashes. Dual visor options are available, clear or clear plus a dark insert, so you can run a tinted shield when you need it. Multiple ventilation ports handle airflow on slower, hotter riding.
The hard ABS shell and multi-density EPS combination is a proven, straightforward construction. One thing to plan for is the visor, which uses a simple mechanism and is the part reviewers most often describe as feeling cheap. It works, and it does the job, but it is the obvious upgrade path on this helmet.
Is this the right helmet for a first long trip
For a rider moving from no helmet to a touring setup, the WS-607 covers the essentials without a learning curve. Quick release strap, removable liner, dual visor options and a light shell mean there is nothing to configure before you leave. That simplicity is worth a lot when the trip itself is the new part.
The compromises show up at highway speed rather than in town. Wind noise is the recurring complaint, and the helmet can run warm in hot weather because the vent count is modest. If your first tour is mostly back roads, this is comfortable. If it is mostly interstate, plan on earplugs.
What to know about warranty and sizing
No manufacturer warranty is listed for this model, so the replacement risk is on you. That is worth weighing against the lighter shells from ILM and GLX, both of which carry multi-year coverage, especially if you plan to keep the helmet for several seasons.
Sizing can run small for some heads, and the round shell shape is the most important fit variable to check. Verify the fit with the retention strap fastened snugly so you cannot rotate the helmet on your forehead. That single test rules out most sizing problems before you are 200 miles from home.
8. ILM Model 159 Review: Modular That Works With Glasses
ILM Adult Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet Flip up Dual Visor 159(Matte Black,XX-Large)
DOT certified modular
1750 g ABS shell
Dual visor with internal sun shield
Speaker pockets
Pros
- Dual visor with internal sun visor
- Good speaker pockets for Bluetooth
- Soft comfortable lining
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
- Quick release buckle
Cons
- Runs small
- size up
- Sun visor can come off track
- Visor screws loosen over time
The ILM Model 159 is one of the few modulars in this price band that works well with glasses, which is a persistent problem for riders who wear prescription frames. The cheek pad profile leaves clearance for the temples, and owners specifically call this out as a reason to keep buying ILM modulars.
At 1750 g it is a light modular, and light matters when you are the kind of rider who lifts the chin bar at every stop. The dual visor system includes a clear outer shield and an inner sun visor, so you can darken down for glare without a roadside swap. The quick release buckle makes the on-and-off cycle fast.
Speaker pockets are shaped for Bluetooth units, which is a real touring convenience for navigation prompts and group communication. The vented EPS liner manages heat better than a single-density liner, and the removable washable liner and cheek pads let you adjust the interior as your layers change through the trip.
ILM backs this model with a 5-year manufacturer warranty, and the streamlined aerodynamic design keeps wind noise more manageable than the shape suggests. The included components are an inner tinted visor, the outer clear visor and the helmet itself, so both lighting conditions are covered from day one.
Fit for glasses and for different layers
The glasses compatibility is the standout. Frames sit in the cheek pad area without the arms being pushed back against your temples, and that comfort holds over a full day. The removable cheek pads mean you can add a thicker pad set in winter and still wear your frames normally, which is a genuine advantage for year-round touring.
Fit does run small, and owners consistently recommend sizing up. Do that at purchase rather than after a long trip with pressure points you have to live with for 600 miles. The quick release buckle also needs a firm two-handed pull to open, so practise it before you need it in a hurry.
What to watch on a long trip
The internal sun visor is the part most likely to irritate you over time. It can come off track, and visor screws may loosen with use, both of which need a periodic check. A helmet that needs a roadside stop to sort out a dropped visor is not ideal on a dark highway.
Some variants do not include a clear outer shield, and if you ride at night that is a problem to resolve before the trip. The modular hinge also adds the usual structural noise and weight versus a full face, so earplugs remain sensible at sustained highway speed.
9. LS2 Assault Review: Most Features Per Specification
LS2 Helmets Assault Full Face Motorcycle Helmet W/ SunShield (Matte Black – Large)
DOT and ECE certified
Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell
Pinlock insert included
Internal sun visor
Pros
- Pinlock insert included
- Internal drop-down sun visor
- Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell
- Active adjustable vents
- Neck and chin curtains
- Quick release shield system
Cons
- Wind noise at highway speeds
- Visor detents only open and closed
- Cheek pads tight at first
The LS2 Assault is where feature value peaks in this roundup. It is DOT and ECE approved, it ships with a Pinlock insert already fitted, and it has an internal drop-down sun visor, a combination most competitors charge substantially more to offer.
Having the Pinlock insert in the box matters more than it sounds. Anti-fog is the single most common complaint from touring riders, and a helmet that arrives ready to handle cold and humid conditions removes one step from your setup. The 3D optically correct shield also helps reduce distortion at the edges of the eye port.
The Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell mixes polymer with aramid fibres, which is a construction you normally see higher up the price list. Active chin and top vents that open and close let you control airflow rather than choosing between wide open and sealed, and the wrap-around neck curtain plus flexible chin curtain seal the lower edges of the shell.
The quick release shield system means you can change shields without tools, and there are many graphic and colour options, so matching a bike is easy. Removable comfort liner and speaker pockets round out a package that is genuinely hard to argue with on paper.
What the curtains and vents do for touring comfort
The neck curtain and chin curtain are the features that separate this from a basic full face. They close the two biggest leak paths, the gap at the back of the neck and the space under the chin bar, and that is where a surprising amount of wind noise enters a helmet at speed. The improvement is most noticeable in the second half of a long day.
Adjustable vents give you a middle setting, which matters in changing weather. Open them fully at low speed and on-ramp stops, then close them down for highway cruising to cut noise. The breath guard is present as well, and it is the part to check if you wear glasses because it can contribute to lens fogging in cold weather.
Where the LS2 Assault needs attention
Cheek pads are tight on arrival and break in over time, so allow for that before you judge the fit. Wind noise is still reported at highway speeds even with the curtains, which tells you this is a well-sealed shell rather than a quiet one. The biggest sound path on a full face is the shield itself.
The visor only has two detent positions, fully open and fully closed, so there is no intermediate setting for heavy glare. Some reviewers also report quality control inconsistencies, so inspect the shell, the liner and the shield hardware carefully when the helmet arrives rather than at the roadside.
10. ScorpionEXO T520 Review: The Quietest Shell in Our Comparison
ScorpionEXO T520 Full Face Touring Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Nama-Shimi (Black/Chameleon – Medium)
DOT and ECE certified
4.8 lb polycarbonate shell
AirFit cheek pad system
Everclear no-fog shield
Pros
- Excellent noise reduction
- Dual DOT and ECE certification
- AirFit inflation system for cheek fit
- Pinlock and chin curtain included
- Three shell sizes
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Foam padding can break down
- Sun visor can drop on bumps
- Runs warm in hot weather
The ScorpionEXO T520 is the touring-focused design in this group, and the first thing you notice is how little air moves around your head. The Aero Skirt chin curtain, the wrap around the bottom of the shell, plus the breath deflector, close off the two leak paths that make most full faces loud on the interstate.
The AirFit inflation system is the feature I would highlight for anyone who cannot find their perfect shell size. You pump an internal bladder to inflate the cheek pads, so a helmet that fits your temples can be made to fit your jaw. On a multi-day trip that removes the pressure point behind the ear that you would otherwise be tolerating for hours.
Everclear no-fog shield technology, dual density EPS and the Ellip-Tec ratchet shield system round out the core. The KwikWick C liner wicks moisture and dries quickly, and the KwikFit 3D cheek pads are shaped to work with glasses, which is another touring-specific accommodation rather than a styling choice.
Three shell sizes from XS to 3XL improve the odds of a correct fit, and the large speaker pockets plus EXO-COM Bluetooth readiness mean a comms system integrates cleanly. The package includes a Pinlock insert, breath deflector and aero skirt, and the warranty runs five years.
How much does noise reduction actually matter
It matters enormously, and the T520 is where that shows. Owners consistently describe it as quiet, and the combination of the aero skirt, the breath deflector and the sealing of the chin bar area is why. On a full day at highway speed, less wind noise means less head fatigue, and head fatigue is the thing that actually ends a long ride early.
Earplugs are still sensible above 70 mph, because the shield remains the largest sound path. But a helmet that starts quiet gives you more usable hours before you feel the day. If you do a lot of interstate distance, that is the single most valuable trait in this list.
Where the T520 falls down
Foam padding on the cheek pads and interior can break down with heavy use, and once it does the seal that produces the quietness goes with it. Expect to replace pads sooner on this model than on simpler shells, and factor that into a multi-year ownership plan.
The internal drop-down sun visor can drop on bumps and vibration, so check it before every merge. It can also run warm in hot weather despite the aero-tuned ventilation, which makes it less ideal for summer touring in a hot climate. At 4.8 pounds it is a substantial shell, and it rewards riders who value quietness over weight.
11. ScorpionEXO AT960 Review: Modular for Mixed-Terrain Touring
ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Adventure Street Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Monk (Phantom – X-Large)
DOT and ECE 22.06 certified
Removable adventure peak
Single-lever flip-up chin bar
Wide eye port
Pros
- ECE 22.06 certification
- Single-lever flip-up operation
- Removable peak for highway sections
- Everclear no-fog shield
- Internal sun visor
- Block-off plates included
Cons
- Heaviest helmet in the group
- Only 3 ventilation ports
- Limited long-term review history
The AT960 is built for tours that do not stay on pavement. It carries DOT and ECE 22.06 certification, the current European standard with rotational impact testing, and it has a removable peak and a wide 11 cm eye port that fits goggles as well as glasses. Adventure riders switch between the two constantly.
Taking the peak off is the feature that makes it work as a touring helmet. Once you are back on sealed roads, the profile is cleaner without it, wind noise drops, and you can also swap in the block-off plates included in the box. That flexibility is the reason this modular earns a place in a list built around distance riding.
The single-lever flip-up chin bar is easy to operate with a gloved hand, which matters more than it sounds when you are stopping on a gravel shoulder. The Everclear no-fog shield blocks 95 percent of UV, the internal SpeedView sun visor handles glare, and the KwikWick C liner with KwikFit 3D cheek pads keeps things comfortable and glasses-friendly.
Multi-layer EPS with airflow channels sits inside an advanced polycarbonate shell, and the breath deflector and aero skirt are both included. EXO-COM communicator readiness with 50 mm and 5 mm speaker pockets means audio and navigation integrate without adhesive mounting, and the warranty runs five years.
Handling a tour that mixes road and gravel
This is the helmet for a route that includes unpaved sections, and the wide eye port with block-off plates is the reason. Running the peak on for loose surfaces and off for highway stretches covers most of what a dual sport rider needs from a single helmet, which is far less luggage to manage on a multi-day trip.
The internal sun visor means you do not need a spare shield for a change in light, and the Everclear shield handles fogging better than a standard visor. Multi-layer EPS with airflow channels keeps the interior more ventilated than the three exterior ports alone would suggest, though heat is still the weak point in hot conditions.
The weight and ventilation tradeoffs
This is the heaviest helmet in the group, and the listed figure is 5.8 pounds against roughly 4.09 pounds for the medium size in the technical specification. The discrepancy is worth resolving with a proper fitting, but either way expect more neck load than a full face. Riders with existing neck problems should test before committing.
Three ventilation ports is the lowest count here, so summer touring will be warm. The long-term review base is also still small, around 400 reviews, which is worth remembering when you compare durability claims. For a rider who mostly stays on asphalt, the full-face designs in this list are lighter and quieter.
12. HAX Force Review: ECE 22.06 With a Dual Visor System
HAX Force Aerodynamic Full Face Motorcycle Helmet for Street Bike DOT & ECE
DOT and ECE 22.06 certified
4.6 lb ABS and PC shell
Dual visor system
3 ventilation ports
Pros
- Latest ECE 22.06 certification
- Dual visor with retractable sun visor
- True to size fit
- Eyeglass compatible
- Carrying case included
Cons
- Only 3 ventilation ports
- Visor scratches easily
- Fogs without Pinlock
- One-year warranty
The HAX Force is a mid-range full face built around the current ECE 22.06 standard alongside DOT FMVSS 218. That means it carries the rotational impact testing that separates the current European standard from the previous version, and it is approved on both sides of the Atlantic.
The dual visor system is a UV outer shield plus a retractable internal sun visor, and the large eye port gives good peripheral vision for scanning traffic and reading roadside signage. Owners report the fit runs true to size, which is a welcome change from the sizing advice we hear on most helmets in this group.
The ABS and polycarbonate composite shell balances impact absorption against weight at 4.6 pounds. Bluetooth and Pinlock ready means both retrofit paths are open, though neither is included, and the shell ships with a carrying case, which is a useful addition when you are checking a helmet as luggage.
The removable breathable hypoallergenic liner is a sensible choice for long days, and the quick release buckle is fast with gloves on. Three ventilation ports is a modest count, and the enhanced aerodynamic profile is designed to reduce buffeting rather than maximize airflow, which suits highway touring better than slow city riding.
Is ECE 22.06 worth choosing a helmet for
If you tour through Europe, it is not optional. ECE 22.06 replaced the previous European standard and added rotational impact testing, so a helmet carrying it is approved for current EU riders. Several models in this roundup still carry the older ECE 22.05 mark, so the Force is the more future-proof choice of the two.
For North American riders the standard is still a meaningful quality signal even though DOT FMVSS 218 is the legal requirement. It means the helmet was tested to a more demanding rotational protocol, and that matters in a side-impact scenario, which is common on two-lane roads.
Durability concerns and what to inspect
The visor scratches easily, and one reviewer reported insect damage at 90 mph, so treat the shield as a consumable rather than a permanent part. Expect to add a Pinlock insert for anti-fog, since the shield fogs without one, and be aware that the liner padding can loosen with use.
The one-year warranty is the shortest in this group, and HAX is a newer brand with a shorter track record than BELL or ILM. The carrying case is included, the design is clean, and the fit is one of the better ones here. If the short warranty bothers you, the LS2 Assault offers a similar feature set for less.
How to Choose a Touring Helmet in 2026
Touring helmets all look similar on a shelf, and the differences that matter on a 600-mile day are hard to see. Here is the decision framework we use, in the order the questions actually come up when you are shopping.
Understand the certification labels first
Four certification marks appear on helmets, and they are not interchangeable. DOT FMVSS 218 is the US legal standard and every helmet in this roundup carries it. ECE 22.06 is the current European standard and adds rotational impact testing, while ECE 22.05 is the previous European version. Snell M2020 and the newer Snell M2025 are voluntary US standards, more demanding than DOT and aimed more at performance riding. SHARP is a UK independent program that rates helmets from one to five stars.
For street touring, DOT FMVSS 218 is the baseline you cannot skip. Add ECE if you cross into Europe, since a DOT-only helmet is not legal there. Pay attention to 22.06 over 22.05, because the newer standard is the one being phased in across European markets now.
Measure your head before you pick a brand
Head shape drives fit more than any other variable, and it varies enough between riders that brand loyalty is a poor guide. Measure the circumference around your head roughly two centimeters above your eyebrows, then measure front-to-back and side-to-side. If the front-to-back number is meaningfully larger, you have an intermediate oval, which is the most common shape. If the two are close, you have a round oval.
Brands tend to lean one way. Arai and Schuberth generally suit round and intermediate oval shapes, Shoei tends toward intermediate oval, and AGV skews narrower. A helmet that is correct in length but pinches at the temples will cause a headache within an hour, and one that is too round will slide around on your forehead. Check the fit by pulling the retention strap snug: you should not be able to rotate the helmet front to back on your head.
Decide between a modular and a full face
Modular helmets win on convenience. You can lift the chin bar at stops, talk without removing the helmet, and your glasses stay where they are. They lose on weight, since the hinge and sealing hardware add mass, and on noise, because the chin bar joint is an extra path for air. Full faces win on quietness, weight and structural simplicity, and they are the better choice if most of your riding is at highway speed.
A practical rule: if more than half of your tour is high-speed open road, choose a full face. If you ride in stop-start traffic, run short urban legs, or want the ability to chat at a roadside stop without doffing, a modular is worth the extra weight. Riders who value quietness most should still read our touring bike roundup, since fairing and screen choice changes helmet noise nearly as much as the helmet does.
Weight, noise and the comfort trade
Helmets in this roundup range from about 3 pounds to nearly 6, and on a naked bike that spread is felt in the neck by hour four. A lighter helmet reduces neck fatigue, which is the most common reason riders end a tour short. But weight alone does not determine comfort, because a well-shaped liner and a sealing collar matter more.
Noise is the other half. Every rider’s tolerance differs, and earplugs solve more of the problem than most buyers expect. What a helmet can improve is the seal at the neck and chin, and that is what the aero skirts, chin curtains and breath deflectors on the ScorpionEXO T520 and the LS2 Assault are built to do. Riders who run loud pipes or minimal fairings notice the difference immediately; riders on a fully faired bike notice it less.
Anti-fog, sun visors and communication
Anti-fog deserves its own budget line, because fogging is the most common touring complaint. Pinlock is a double-lens insert system that traps a layer of insulating air, and the LS2 Assault arrives with one already fitted. The ScorpionEXO T520 and the HAX Force are ready for one. Without an insert, a photochromic shield handles glare and light changes but not fog on its own.
An internal sun visor is the other feature that changes daily comfort. It lets you darken for a low sun without stopping, and it keeps a second shield out of your luggage. If you ride at dawn, through mountain shade, or westbound into the evening, treat it as close to essential. If your tours are always midday, you can skip it and save weight.
For communication, check for shaped speaker pockets rather than adhesive-ready surfaces. The BELL Qualifier, the LS2 Assault, the ILM 159 and the ScorpionEXO T520 all have properly sized pockets, and the ScorpionEXO models carry EXO-COM readiness. The HAX Force is Bluetooth ready but the pockets are less defined. Sena, Cardo and Schuberth systems all fit this class of helmet, though proprietary systems are the least portable choice if you swap bikes or helmets often.
Care, maintenance and the 222 rule
Helmets degrade even when you barely wear them, because the liner and the glue age in the sun. Follow the care instructions that come with your helmet: rinse the liner occasionally, let it air dry fully, replace the sun visor seal when it hardens, and never use solvent on the shell. If you buy used, the history matters more than the mileage, and a helmet that has been dropped has a compromised liner whether or not the shell shows damage.
The rule of thumb many touring riders use is five years from the date of first use or after any impact, whichever comes first. Some riders apply a 222 rule, treating a helmet as spent after roughly two years, two thousand miles, or two seasons, whichever arrives first. Whichever version you use, write the purchase date on the inside of the liner so you do not have to guess later. Owners of the daily-driven shells here mention liner and pad degradation as the first sign that a replacement is due.
What to check on your first hundred miles
Take a new touring helmet on a short shake-down ride before a long trip. Confirm that the visor detents hold, that the sun visor stays up over bumps, that the vents open and close with gloves on, and that the retention system is snug. Check the visor for scratches in daylight, since a micro-scratched shield is what degrades night visibility first.
Also test your comms system and your glasses together, because helmet shape changes how a unit sits in the ear pocket. If you ride in cold weather, add a thermal liner or balaclava and re-check the fit, since extra layers change the internal volume. Riders with a fuller shape should confirm the helmet still clears the ears after adding layers, and anyone replacing a ski or bicycle helmet can compare the fit method in our ski helmet guide, which uses the same circumference measurement.
If you are also shopping for protective gear, our welding helmet reviews and kids helmet roundup cover helmet fit and safety standards from other angles. The same principles apply: correct fit first, standard second, features third.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of helmet is best for touring?
A full-face helmet is usually best for touring because it is the quietest, lightest and most structurally simple design, and it protects the most area in a crash. A modular helmet is the better pick if you want the convenience of lifting the chin bar at stops, run short urban legs often, or wear glasses that are hard to manage with a full face. Whichever you choose, a DOT FMVSS 218 certified model with a good fit, effective ventilation and an anti-fog insert handles long days far better than a cheaper helmet with a poor fit.
Is a modular or full-face helmet better for touring?
Choose a full face if most of your riding is at highway speed or in hot weather. Full faces are lighter and quieter, and they have fewer points where air can leak in. Choose a modular if you stop frequently, ride in stop-start traffic, or want to talk and eat without removing your helmet. Modulars in this roundup weigh noticeably more and produce more wind noise, so riders prioritising quietness on long interstate runs should pick a full face.
What is the 222 rule for helmets?
The 222 rule is a guideline some touring riders use to decide when a helmet has served its time: replace it after about two years of use, or after roughly two thousand miles, or after two seasons, whichever comes first. It is a practical reminder rather than a safety standard, since helmets degrade with age and UV exposure even when they are barely ridden. The more widely accepted approach is to replace a helmet five years after first use, or immediately after any impact, whichever happens first.
What is the quietest touring motorcycle helmet?
Among the helmets we compared, the ScorpionEXO T520 is the quietest. It uses an aero skirt chin curtain, a breath deflector, AirFit inflatable cheek pads to seal the sides of the face, and a well-fitted internal sun visor to remove gaps in the front. Note that no full face removes wind noise entirely, because the shield itself is the largest sound path, so earplugs remain worthwhile above 70 mph regardless of which helmet you choose.
How do I measure my head for a motorcycle helmet?
Measure the circumference of your head about two centimeters above your eyebrows, keeping the tape level all the way around. Then measure front-to-back and side-to-side and compare the two numbers. A larger front-to-back measurement means an intermediate oval, which suits most brands, while nearly equal measurements mean a round oval, which often fits Arai and Schuberth better. Finally, put the helmet on, fasten the retention strap snugly, and confirm you cannot rotate the helmet forward or backward on your forehead.
The Best Motorcycle Helmets for Touring in 2026: Final Verdict
After working through all 12, the ILM Full Face ILM-313 is our pick for the best motorcycle helmets for touring in 2026. It combines a 3-pound shell, two visors in the box, a removable washable liner, a quick release clasp and a five-year warranty, and the largest review base in the group reflects how well it works for everyday riders.
Pick the ScorpionEXO T520 if quietness is your priority and you will fit the Pinlock insert and check the sun visor before merging. Pick the BELL Qualifier if you need a wide size range or want integrated speaker pockets. Riders who need a modular should look at the ILM Model 159 for glasses compatibility, or the ScorpionEXO AT960 if your tour mixes paved roads with gravel.
Whatever you choose, fit it properly before the first long day and check the head-rotation test every time the retention strap is adjusted. Then get out there and put miles on it.