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The Best Motorcycle Helmets for Oval Head Shapes
Having an oval-shaped head as a bike lover, I understand how wearing a helmet can be quite problematic. Like Goldilocks, you may try several helmets only to find them overly round, too tight or simply not fitting properly. But here is the good news for my fellow oval-heads! After years of personal experience, consulting with helmet gurus, and extensive research, I have found some of the best motorcycle helmets made just for this unique shape of our heads.
1 : Arai Signet-X
To begin with, we have the Arai Signet-X, which is often referred to as the benchmark for oval heads in premium helmets. Attention to detail and customization options are what distinguish Arai from other manufacturers, and this holds true with the Signet-X model as well. The “Facial Contour System” is exclusive to this helmet and enables you to set it around your cheeks and jawline so that it fits snugly and comfortably here. The padding can also be easily taken off or put back on with 5 mm peel-away layers, which allow you to make precise adjustments in order to achieve perfect fit.
This customization doesn’t end there, though. It’s worth noting that one rarely finds an adjustable crown feature in most of motorcycle helmets including this particular one. Therefore, it lets you modify helmet’s adjustment at the top part enabling enough space when looking into longer and narrower profiles. On top of that, worry no more about visibility since Signet-X has wide eye port plus a visor tilted backwards so that even in full tuck position you still get excellent sight lines.
Nonetheless, all these luxurious features come at a cost; starting price point for Arai Signet X is roughly $800 with certain graphic designs seeing prices go even closer towards $1k mark. However, given your seriousness about security measures while riding along with comfort on your bicycle plus affordability meant by purchasing high-end protective gear specifically a helmet, it is difficult to get one better than Signet-X.
2 : Scorpion EXO-R2000
For an affordable yet effective option for oval-friendly fit and performance, consider the Scorpion EXO-R2000. This particular helmet was built with MotoGP’s Alvaro Bautista meaning that it is all about speed and accuracy. A TCT shell made from a combination of fiberglass, Aramid and organic fibers features in the EXO-R2000 which weighs only 1,645 grams yet offers great impact protection.
However, what makes this helmet stand out among others meant for oval-headed individuals is its “AirFit” system where one can either inflate or deflate air pockets present in the cheek pads to achieve personalized fit. Suppose you have a head shape that does not squarely fall within standard oval or long oval types then this will be ideal when you want pads cling to your face snugly. Another advantage of EXO-R2000 is presence of two visors; one clear and another tinted as well as its impressive cooling system that prevents fogging on hot days.
Retailing at approximately $450, the Scorpion EXO-R2000 is a very good choice for mid-range bikers who are ovals but do not wish to spend too much on high-performance helmets. Additionally, due to its sporty design and Snell rating, it can perfectly work well as one of the track-day helmets.
3 : LS2 FF325 Strobe
If you are in the market for a modular helmet that fits an oval head, you should consider the LS2 FF325 Strobe. Its thermoplastic shell construction makes it one of the lightest lids at 1,630 grams. For a modular helmet, this is quite an achievement since they have more bulky parts and devices than full-face ones.
The secure, silent fit of the Strobe comes from its snug neck roll and cheek pads, which seal against your facial skin. It has a simple chin bar operation that can be activated with one hand and locks onto position with an audible click. The built-in sun shield is also a good idea because there will be no need to wear sunglasses or use dark visors.
That being said, there are downsides to the Strobe, including insufficient ventilation as air does not flow through dedicated exhaust vents. This often results in fogging issues, especially when temperatures drop below the freezing point. Nevertheless, it’s surprising that while the manufacturer included emergency release cheek pads with this model, they failed to put those instructions on any other part except for the removable chin curtain.
However, at just $200, it is hard to argue against getting an LS2 Strobe if you are someone who rides mostly on motorcycles, wears glasses or has contact lenses, is looking for modular convenience without spending too much money, has limited storage space for helmets and gear; ride mostly in urban areas with slower speeds/shorter distances between stops, i.e., commuting versus long highway trips. Also take into account that this particular design offers several solid colors as well as graphic choices so everyone can pick up something according his/her taste.
4 : LS2 MX436 Pioneer
For all those adventure seekers out there who prefer oval shaped heads as their choice of helmet shape, then look no further than LS2 MX436 Pioneer. It is designed like a mix of dual sport and a motocross helmet with a big visor, a huge chin-bar vent and a removable peak.
The shell of the Pioneer is made from KPA, which is a blend of thermoplastic and polycarbonate that provides the perfect balance between weight and protection. It is one of the lightest ADV helmets on the market at only 1,520 grams, which is great for long trail days. Moreover, it has an integrated sunshield, something rare in off-road lids, plus comes with quick-release goggles that fit right into the eye port.
The Pioneer is definitely narrower fitting than most helmets on this list with more elongated head shapes being recommended. Although these helmets are moisture wicking and have comfortable cheek pads they are less plush or adjustable when compared to others listed here. However, even though ventilation could be better maintained throughout, it’s worth mentioning that the top vents are open all the time while the peak screws do not match with those on its sides.
However, with an asking price of around $170, the LS2 Pioneer offers an affordable option for those looking for an oval-headed helmet that does double duty as both a street bike and an off-road machine. But note that its sizes run quite small, so you will probably want to go one up for proper fitting.
Related: Ways to buy the best cheap modular motorcycle helmet in the world
5: LS2 Bobber
Finally, if you are one among many who adore classic things, then take a look at LS2 Bobber – it’s an open-face helmet with an oval shape head form as well as superb design. This retro-looking lid uses fibreglass shell material along with genuine leather accents outside and synthetic suede interior lining inside, giving it a higher-grade feel than ordinary products. There is also another feature in this snap-on visor; it can be detached or adjusted whenever you feel like changing your appearance immediately.
One of the Bobber’s strong points is its narrow shape that tightly encloses head sides and offers enough space at the back. Its liner is soft and comfortable, with a moisture-wicking treatment to keep you dry in hot weather. With vintage-style goggles mounted on the visor for additional safety and style, this helmet has an added advantage.
For oval-shaped riders who want a modernly featured open-face helmet yet classic in design, the LS2 Bobber is a good deal at roughly $150. But open-face helmets are generally considered safer alternatives to full-face or modular lids as they are only for slower rides or cruising speeds.
