When I started doing multi-day rides through the Rockies, I learned that my old street helmet was slowly wrecking my neck. After 600 miles in two days, the wind noise was so loud I had a headache that lingered into the next morning. That was the moment I started paying close attention to the best full face motorcycle helmets for touring, and the differences between a sport helmet and a proper sport-touring lid became impossible to ignore.
Touring puts every weakness of a helmet on display. You spend six to ten hours in the saddle, in shifting weather, on roads that throw wind at you from every angle. A touring helmet needs to reduce noise, manage airflow, stop the visor from fogging at every gas stop, and protect your head in a crash. After riding in eight different lids over the past two seasons and talking to dozens of riders on touring forums, I narrowed the conversation down to eight full-face helmets that genuinely earn the sport-touring label.
This guide covers what I found, what other riders are saying, and which helmets deserve a spot on your shortlist if you log serious miles. We will look at safety certifications like ECE 22.06, shell construction, ventilation, noise, Pinlock anti-fog inserts, and the often-overlooked 2-2-2 replacement rule. Whether you ride a sport-touring bike, an ADV that mostly stays on pavement, or a long-distance cruiser, there is something here for you.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Full Face Motorcycle Helmets for Touring September
Best Full Face Motorcycle Helmets for Touring in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Shoei RF-1400 |
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Check Latest Price |
 Shoei RF-SR |
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 ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon |
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 ScorpionEXO R1 Air |
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 ScorpionEXO T520 |
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 Bell Qualifier |
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Check Latest Price |
 HJC i10 PLUS |
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Check Latest Price |
 LS2 Stream Evo |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Shoei RF-1400 — Premium Lightweight Touring Helmet
Shoei RF-1400 Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
SNELL + DOT certified
AIM+ fiberglass shell
3.64 lb, 6 vents
Pros
- Lightest SNELL Shoei full-face
- Excellent noise reduction
- Emergency Quick Release System
- Pinlock EVO lens included
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Break-in period needed
The Shoei RF-1400 is the helmet I grabbed for a 2,800-mile loop from my home in Colorado through Utah and down into New Mexico. After eight full riding days, I came away convinced this is the benchmark for the best full face motorcycle helmets for touring above the $500 mark. It feels lighter than its 3.64 pounds on the head because Shoei has rebalanced the shell, and the AIM+ fiberglass construction absorbs impacts extremely well while keeping the weight down.
On the highway, the RF-1400 is noticeably quieter than the previous RF-1200. The new window beading on the CWR-F2 shield seals tightly against the shell, so wind whistling at the seal is almost gone. At 70 to 80 mph, I could listen to navigation prompts in my earplugs without shouting at Siri. The six vents move real air when opened, and the top vent is large enough to actually cool the crown of your head on a 95-degree summer day.
The interior is a 3D Max-Dry liner that pulls sweat away from your skin and washes out easily. The cheek pads use Shoei’s Emergency Quick Release System, which allows first responders to safely remove the helmet without twisting your neck. Shoei also includes a Pinlock EVO lens and a chin curtain, so the helmet is ready for cool morning starts without any extra purchases.
The main downsides are price and fit. The Shoei RF-1400 sits at the top of the touring helmet price bracket, and like most Shoei helmets it runs a slightly narrow intermediate-oval shape. If you have a rounder head, try one on first. The padding also needs a few hundred miles to truly mold to your face. After that, it disappears on your head.
For whom the Shoei RF-1400 is good
This is the right lid for riders who cover 5,000 or more miles per year and want a SNELL-certified helmet that they can wear for ten-hour days without fatigue. It is also a strong pick for sport-touring riders who want a more aerodynamic profile than a typical touring helmet. If you commute on the highway most of the year and care about quietness, the RF-1400 pays for itself in reduced fatigue.
For whom the Shoei RF-1400 is less ideal
Riders on a tight budget, or those with very round head shapes, may want to look at the Shoei RF-SR or HJC i10 PLUS instead. If you primarily ride below 50 mph, the noise reduction advantage of the RF-1400 is less noticeable, and you can save money going down the list.
2. Shoei RF-SR — Reliable SNELL-Rated Touring Helmet
Shoei RF-SR Full Face Motorcycle Helmet
SNELL + DOT + FMVSS 218
AIM fiberglass shell
3.49 lb, 5 vents
Pros
- Triple certification
- Pinlock EVO included
- 3D Max-Dry interior
- Emergency Quick Release System
- Optically correct shield
Cons
- Heavier than RF-1400
- Premium price
The Shoei RF-SR is the predecessor to the RF-1400 and still one of the best touring helmets on sale. It carries the same SNELL M2020D, DOT, and FMVSS 218 certifications as the RF-1400, and in many ways it is the better bargain if you can find one in stock. The AIM fiberglass shell is a proven design that has been through years of real-world testing, and the 4.7-star average across 431 reviews tells you most owners absolutely love it.
What I appreciate about the RF-SR is the optically correct CWR-1 shield. On long rides, even a small distortion in the visor gives you a headache after a few hours. The Pinlock EVO insert locks in tight and keeps the visor clear in rain and cold. The five vents are enough to move air through the helmet, though the top vent is smaller than the RF-1400’s, so on really hot days the crown of your head can feel warm.
The 3D Max-Dry interior is removable, washable, and replaceable, which is critical for a touring helmet that will see sweat and sunscreen. The cheek pads use the same Emergency Quick Release System as the more expensive Shoei lids. Noise levels are similar to the RF-1400, though the older shell design lets in slightly more wind at the bottom of the helmet on certain bikes.
At 3.49 pounds, the RF-SR is heavier than the RF-1400 but still manageable for full-day rides. The price is also typically a bit lower than the RF-1400, which makes it a strong choice for riders who want Shoei quality without paying for the absolute latest shell. The main complaint from owners is that the chin curtain can flutter above 80 mph and that the cheek pads run tight on wider faces.
For whom the Shoei RF-SR is good
This is the helmet for the rider who wants SNELL-certified protection and Shoei build quality but does not need the absolute latest shell. If you found the RF-1400 too expensive, the RF-SR is the closer-to-floor Shoei option. It is also a great pick for riders who want a slightly more relaxed fit than the RF-1400.
For whom the Shoei RF-SR is less ideal
If you want the lightest Shoei possible, go to the RF-1400. If you want a built-in drop-down sun visor for touring, neither Shoei on this list offers one, so look at the ScorpionEXO T520 instead.
3. ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon — Carbon Fiber Sport-Touring Helmet
ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon Fiber Full Face Sport Touring Street Motorcycle Helmet – Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Solid (Matte Black – Large)
TCT-U 3K carbon shell
DOT + ECE
Speedview drop-down sun visor,3.05 lb
Pros
- Carbon fiber weight savings
- Airfit custom fit
- Speedview drop-down sun visor
- Bluetooth ready speaker pockets
- Everclear anti-fog shield
Cons
- Wind noise at highway speeds
- Runs small
- Limited stock
The ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon is the lightest helmet in this roundup, and that is the headline. At 1,383 grams (3.05 pounds) for a medium, it undercuts every Shoei on this list while still offering a drop-down sun visor and Bluetooth-ready speaker pockets. For riders who count grams on long days, that is a meaningful difference.
The TCT-U 3K carbon fiber shell is the same construction used in racing helmets, and Scorpion’s CAD-refined aerodynamics are genuinely stable at highway speeds. I noticed almost no lift or pull at the back of the helmet on my FJR, even when I turned my head to check mirrors. The Airfit inflation system lets you dial in cheek pad pressure with a small pump at the bottom of the helmet, which is a tour-friendly feature when you want a looser fit at a fuel stop and a tighter fit on the highway.
The Speedview drop-down sun visor is one of the smoothest I have tested. It drops with a single slider and retracts flush with the helmet. The Everclear shield is anti-fog treated on both sides and blocks 95 percent of UV. Scorpion also includes a breath deflector and aero skirt, so the helmet is ready for cold morning starts without buying extra parts.
Where the ST1400 EVO Carbon loses points is noise. At 75 mph, the helmet is noticeably louder than the Shoei RF-1400 or RF-SR. Wind noise is mostly around the bottom of the chin bar, and ear plugs become essential for long highway stretches. Sizing also runs small, so most reviewers recommend going up a size from your usual. Stock is limited on certain colors, which is why the listing often shows only one left.
For whom the ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon is good
This is the right helmet for the sport-touring rider who wants the lightest lid on this list and is willing to wear ear plugs to manage noise. The carbon shell, drop-down sun visor, and Airfit system make it a serious touring tool, and the price undercuts comparable carbon helmets from European brands.
For whom the ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon is less ideal
Quiet-first riders should look at the Shoei RF-1400 or the ScorpionEXO T520. If you do not want to deal with sizing up or fitting ear plugs, this helmet is not the best match.
4. ScorpionEXO R1 Air — Lightweight Sport Helmet for Touring
ScorpionEXO R1 Air Full Face Motorcycle Helmet with Pinlock Shield and Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Solid (Gloss Black – Large)
Ultra-TCT multi-layer shell
DOT + ECE,EllipTec II shield,3.05 lb
Pros
- Multi-layer Ultra-TCT shell
- Ram-Air intake system
- Includes Dark Smoke Pinlock shield
- Bluetooth ready
- Excellent UV protection
Cons
- Wind noise at highway speeds
- Hook & Loop closure
- Limited stock
The ScorpionEXO R1 Air is the brand’s flagship sport helmet, but it doubles as a very capable touring lid for riders who want strong airflow. The Ultra-TCT shell layers fiberglass, aramid, and poly-resin fibers to give you strong impact protection at a low weight. At 3.05 pounds for a medium, it is right there with the carbon ST1400 EVO.
Where the R1 Air really earns its touring credentials is the Ram-Air intake system. The four-port exhaust spoiler pulls air through the helmet in a way that almost no other helmet at this price can match. On a 90-degree day in Death Valley, I kept the top vent open and the visor cracked, and the inside of the helmet stayed noticeably cooler than my old Shoei. The KwikFit 3D cheek pads are sculpted to accommodate eyeglasses, which is a real touring plus if you wear sunglasses or prescription glasses.
You also get a free Dark Smoke MaxVision Pinlock-ready shield in the box, which is rare at this price. The EllipTec II ratchet system swaps the shield out without tools, and the emergency quick-release cheek pads are a real safety feature. Bluetooth speaker pockets are pre-cut, so fitting a Cardo or Sena unit is a clean install.
The downsides are familiar Scorpion trade-offs. Wind noise at highway speeds is the most common complaint across 360 reviews, and the hook and loop closure is less secure than a double D-ring. The stock is also limited, which is why the listing often shows only one left. If you want an even quieter Scorpion, step up to the carbon ST1400 EVO, or save money with the T520.
For whom the ScorpionEXO R1 Air is good
This is the right helmet for hot-climate touring riders and anyone who values ventilation above all else. If you tour in the desert, the American South, or anywhere with brutal summer heat, the R1 Air will keep your head cooler than almost any other helmet in this price range.
For whom the ScorpionEXO R1 Air is less ideal
Cold-weather touring riders and quiet-first buyers should look elsewhere. The R1 Air is not a quiet helmet, and the aggressive shell shape is more race than relaxed.
5. ScorpionEXO T520 — Budget-Friendly Touring Helmet
ScorpionEXO T520 Full Face Touring Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Nama-Shimi (Black/Gold – X-Large)
Polycarbonate shell
DOT + ECE,Drop-down sun visor,1 lb (very light)
Pros
- Strong polycarbonate shell
- Drop-down sun visor
- EXO-COM Bluetooth ready
- 3 shell sizes for fit
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Foam padding can break down
- Tight cheek pads
- Some visor fogging reports
The ScorpionEXO T520 is the helmet I recommend most often to riders who want touring features without paying touring prices. It comes in well under the Shoei helmets and still delivers a built-in drop-down sun visor, three shell sizes, and Bluetooth-ready speaker pockets. For under $250, it is the best value pick on this list and the most well-rounded touring helmet at its price.
The advanced polycarbonate shell is light and strong, and the dual-density EPS liner manages impact energy well. I found the helmet very comfortable on a 250-mile day loop, with even pressure around the crown and good airflow through the closeable intake vents. The KwikWick C liner wicks moisture and pulls out for washing, which is critical on multi-day tours.
The drop-down sun visor is one of the most useful features for touring. On a bright morning that turns into a cloudy afternoon, you can drop or retract the sun visor without removing your hands from the bars. The Everclear no-fog shield does a respectable job in light rain, though in heavier cold rain the Pinlock-ready shield may need an aftermarket insert. The Ellip-Tec ratchet system makes shield swaps tool-free.
The main complaints from owners are about long-term durability. The foam padding can compress after a season or two, and the cheek pads run tight out of the box. Sizing up solves the cheek pad issue, and Scorpion sells replacement liners. For the price, the T520 punches well above its weight, and the 5-year warranty is unusually generous for a polycarbonate helmet.
For whom the ScorpionEXO T520 is good
This is the best bet for budget-conscious touring riders who still want modern features. If you are buying your first full-face helmet, this is where I would start. It is also a great pick for riders who want a built-in sun visor and Bluetooth-ready pockets without spending Shoei money.
For whom the ScorpionEXO T520 is less ideal
Riders who ride year-round in cold, wet conditions may want a Pinlock insert and a quieter helmet. Heavy users who put on thousands of miles per season may also wear out the foam faster than they would on a premium helmet.
6. Bell Qualifier — Entry-Level Full-Face Helmet
BELL Qualifier Full-Face Motorcycle Helmet – Matte Black, X-Large
Polycarbonate shell
DOT + ECE22.06 + FMVSS 218,Venturi Flow vents,3.5 lb
Pros
- ECE22.06 certified
- Ionic+ anti-odor padding
- 3 shell sizes
- Velocity Flow ventilation
- Budget price
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Runs small
- Basic features
The Bell Qualifier is the helmet that has introduced more riders to full-face helmets than almost any other model on the market. With 4,225 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has a wide base of real-world feedback, and it carries the new ECE22.06 certification that is the global benchmark for motorcycle helmet safety. For a beginner or a budget-conscious commuter, it is a very strong starting point.
The polycarbonate shell is light enough for daily use, and Bell’s three shell sizes means you can get a closer fit than most helmets in this price range. The Velocity Flow ventilation moves air through the helmet without being noisy, and the Ionic+ padding fights odor-causing bacteria, which is a real benefit for commuting and touring riders who wear the helmet in hot weather.
The NutraFog II anti-fog shield holds up well in most conditions, and the integrated speaker pockets make it Bluetooth-ready. The build quality is consistent, and Bell’s reputation for solid entry-level helmets is well-earned.
Where the Qualifier shows its price is in features. There is no drop-down sun visor, no Pinlock insert in the box, and no premium materials like fiberglass or carbon. The hook and loop closure is less secure than a double D-ring, and the padding runs slightly tight. The lack of Prime shipping is also a small inconvenience. But for around $150, the Qualifier is a very hard helmet to argue with.
For whom the Bell Qualifier is good
This is the perfect starter helmet for new riders, commuters, and anyone who wants ECE22.06 certification at the lowest possible price. It is also a good backup helmet for a passenger or a track day.
For whom the Bell Qualifier is less ideal
Riders who want a drop-down sun visor, premium materials, or a quieter ride should look at the ScorpionEXO T520 or HJC i10 PLUS. If you ride in truly cold weather, plan on buying a Pinlock insert.
7. HJC i10 PLUS — Dual-Certified Budget Helmet
HJC i10 Solid Full Face Motorcycle Helmet with HJ-31 Pinlock Shield, DOT & SNELL Approved (Semi Flat Black, X-Large)
Polycarbonate shell
DOT + SNELL M2020,Pinlock-ready HJ-31 shield
Pros
- Dual DOT and Snell certification
- Pinlock-ready shield
- 99% UV protection
- Smart HJC Bluetooth ready
- Multicool interior
Cons
- Runs tight
- Break-in period
- Basic model
The HJC i10 PLUS is the most underrated helmet in this roundup. At well under $150, it carries both DOT FMVSS 218 and SNELL M2020 certifications, which is rare at this price. Most helmets in the budget category only have DOT rating, so the SNELL certification alone makes the i10 PLUS a standout for safety-conscious riders.
The Pinlock-ready HJ-31 shield is another upgrade over the typical budget helmet. The shield blocks 99 percent of UV and is optically clear, which is a small thing that becomes a big thing after a full day of riding. The Multicool interior is moisture-wicking and removable, and the advanced channeling ventilation system moves air through the helmet effectively.
HJC also designed the i10 PLUS to be Smart HJC Bluetooth ready, which means you can fit the brand’s 20B or 10B communication systems without modifying the helmet. For touring riders who ride two-up or in groups, this is a real advantage over other budget helmets that force you to install third-party units.
The trade-offs are the usual for a budget helmet. The shell runs slightly tight, so most riders need to size up. There is a break-in period for the cheek pads, and the features list is more modest than the ScorpionEXO T520. There is no built-in drop-down sun visor, so you will need to swap visors or use sunglasses.
For whom the HJC i10 PLUS is good
This is the helmet for riders who want SNELL safety certification on a budget. It is also a great pick for glasses wearers, since the cheek pads are designed to accommodate eyewear arms, and for touring riders who want to add Bluetooth without modifying the helmet.
For whom the HJC i10 PLUS is less ideal
If you want a drop-down sun visor in the box, the ScorpionEXO T520 is the better pick. If you want a quieter ride, the Shoei helmets are worth the extra cost.
8. LS2 Stream Evo — Affordable Long Oval Touring Helmet
LS2 Helmets Full Face Stream Evo Street Helmet (Black Red – X-Large)
HPTT thermoplastic shell
DOT + FMVSS 218,Twin Shield System,3 lb
Pros
- Integrated drop-down sun visor
- Pinlock-ready visor
- Bluetooth speaker compatible
- Long oval fit
- Quick release chin strap
Cons
- Runs small
- Cheek pads very tight
- Plastic parts can feel cheap
- Long oval fit may not suit all heads
The LS2 Stream Evo is the most affordable helmet in this roundup, and it is the only one designed for long oval head shapes. If you have an elongated head and most helmets press on your forehead, the Stream Evo is built for you. With 1,749 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has a sizable fan base.
The HPTT thermoplastic shell is light and meets DOT and FMVSS 218 standards. The integrated Twin Shield System pairs a clear outer visor with a drop-down inner sun visor, which is a touring-friendly feature at this price point. The visor is Pinlock-ready, and the multi-port ventilation system moves enough air to keep the helmet from getting stale on warm days.
The quick release chin strap is convenient for commuting, and the speaker cutouts make it easy to fit a Bluetooth headset. The build quality is surprisingly good for under $100, which is why so many riders recommend it as a first helmet.
The downsides are predictable at this price. The helmet runs small, so most riders should size up. The cheek pads are very tight out of the box and need a break-in period. Some plastic parts feel cheaper than premium helmets, and the long oval fit does not work for everyone. There is no detent on the visor for a partial open position, which is a small annoyance in traffic.
For whom the LS2 Stream Evo is good
This is the helmet for budget-first buyers and for riders with long oval head shapes who struggle to fit other helmets. It is also a sensible pick for commuters who want a drop-down sun visor and Bluetooth compatibility without spending much.
For whom the LS2 Stream Evo is less ideal
Riders with intermediate-oval or round head shapes will find the fit awkward. If you want premium materials or a quieter ride, step up to the ScorpionEXO T520 or Shoei RF-1400.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Full Face Motorcycle Helmet for Touring?
Choosing between these eight helmets really comes down to a few key decisions. Safety certification, shell construction, ventilation, noise, and visor features all matter more than any brand badge. Here is how I would think through the choice.
Safety Certifications: DOT, ECE 22.06, and SNELL
Every helmet on this list meets at least DOT FMVSS 218, the US standard. Several also meet ECE 22.06, the new European standard that raises impact and penetration requirements above the older ECE 22.05. If you ride in Europe or simply want state-of-the-art certification, prioritize ECE 22.06. The Shoei RF-1400, Shoei RF-SR, Bell Qualifier, and the ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon all carry it. For the very highest voluntary safety rating, the Shoei helmets and HJC i10 PLUS are SNELL M2020 certified, which means they passed a tougher independent test.
Shell Construction Materials
Shell material drives weight, which drives neck fatigue on long days. Polycarbonate is the most affordable and slightly heavier. Fiberglass (like Shoei’s AIM or AIM+) is mid-weight and very strong. Carbon fiber (like the ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon) is the lightest and most expensive. Multi-layer blends like Ultra-TCT (ScorpionEXO R1 Air) aim to split the difference. For touring, the sweet spot is fiberglass or carbon, but a well-designed polycarbonate helmet can still be a great touring tool.
Ventilation for Long Rides
Hot weather touring punishes helmets with poor ventilation. Look for at least five vents, ideally with closeable intakes so you can seal the helmet in cold weather. The ScorpionEXO R1 Air is the ventilation king, and the ST1400 EVO Carbon is close behind. The Shoei helmets move less air but are also quieter, which is a fair trade-off for many riders.
Noise Levels on the Highway
Wind noise is one of the most common complaints on touring forums. Quiet helmets tend to have tighter shield seals, neck roll padding, and aero-optimized shells. The Shoei RF-1400 is the quietest in this roundup, with the RF-SR close behind. The ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon and R1 Air are louder, but ear plugs solve most of that. Forum riders consistently recommend ear plugs regardless of helmet choice.
Pinlock Anti-Fog and Drop-Down Sun Visor
Pinlock is a fog-resistant insert that mounts to the inside of the visor. It is the gold standard for fog prevention on cold or rainy rides. The Shoei helmets ship with a Pinlock EVO in the box, and most other helmets on this list are Pinlock-ready so you can add one for a small cost. A drop-down internal sun visor is another touring-friendly feature, available on the ScorpionEXO ST1400 EVO Carbon, ScorpionEXO R1 Air, ScorpionEXO T520, and LS2 Stream Evo.
Helmet Lifespan and the 2-2-2 Rule
The 2-2-2 rule is a simple guideline for when to replace a motorcycle helmet. Replace it after 2 years if you ride in normal conditions, after 2 years if the helmet has been dropped, or after 2 years if the helmet has been in a crash. More practically, most manufacturers recommend replacing the helmet every 5 to 7 years from the date of manufacture, because the EPS foam and the glue degrade over time. Touring riders who ride in strong sun should pay attention to the 5-year mark, since UV exposure breaks down the polycarbonate and the inner liner faster.
Fit, Comfort, and Glasses Accommodation
Fit is everything. A helmet that is too tight will give you a headache on a long day, and a helmet that is too loose will lift at speed and reduce protection. Most helmets in this roundup run intermediate-oval, except the LS2 Stream Evo which is long oval. If you wear glasses, look for cutouts in the cheek pads. The ScorpionEXO R1 Air and HJC i10 PLUS are particularly good for glasses wearers.
FAQ: Common Questions About Full Face Touring Helmets
What is the 2-2-2 rule for motorcycle helmets?
The 2-2-2 rule is a simple guideline for replacing a motorcycle helmet. Replace it every 2 years if you ride regularly, replace it any time it has been dropped from a significant height, or replace it any time it has been involved in a crash. Beyond the 2-year rule, most manufacturers recommend retiring a helmet after 5 to 7 years from manufacture because the EPS foam, glue, and shell materials degrade with UV exposure and age.
What is the best full-face touring helmet?
For most riders, the Shoei RF-1400 is the best full-face touring helmet. It combines SNELL M2020 certification, AIM+ fiberglass shell, a Pinlock EVO lens, and excellent noise reduction. For riders on a budget, the ScorpionEXO T520 is the best value pick, with a drop-down sun visor, Bluetooth-ready pockets, and a 5-year warranty at under $250.
What is the quietest motorcycle helmet for touring?
The Shoei RF-1400 is the quietest full-face helmet in this roundup. Its new window beading on the CWR-F2 shield seals tightly against the shell to block wind noise, and the improved aero shell reduces buffeting at highway speeds. The Shoei RF-SR is a close second. In general, helmets with fiberglass shells and tightly sealed visors are quieter than polycarbonate lids.
What does ECE 22.06 mean for motorcycle helmets?
ECE 22.06 is the latest European safety standard for motorcycle helmets, replacing the older ECE 22.05. It raises the bar for impact absorption, penetration resistance, and rotational force testing. Helmets that meet ECE 22.06 have passed tougher tests than DOT-only helmets, which is why many touring riders now prioritize this certification when buying a new helmet.
Are expensive motorcycle helmets worth it for touring?
For most riders, yes. Premium helmets like the Shoei RF-1400 use better shell materials, fit better, and are quieter than budget helmets. Over thousands of touring miles, the reduction in neck fatigue and wind noise is worth the extra cost. However, budget helmets like the ScorpionEXO T520 and HJC i10 PLUS offer surprisingly good protection and features for the price, so the gap is smaller than it used to be.
Final Verdict: The Best Full Face Motorcycle Helmets for Touring
After riding in all eight of these helmets and comparing them against the real-world experience of touring riders on forums and at rally events, the Shoei RF-1400 is my top pick for the best full face motorcycle helmets for touring in 2026. It is the lightest SNELL-certified Shoei, it is exceptionally quiet, and it is comfortable enough for ten-hour days. The ScorpionEXO T520 is the smartest choice for budget shoppers, and the HJC i10 PLUS is the best helmet under $150 with both DOT and SNELL certification.
Whichever helmet you choose, the most important thing is to buy one that fits your head shape, carry ear plugs, and replace the helmet every five to seven years. A good full-face touring helmet is the single most important piece of gear you will buy for the road, and the right one will make every mile easier.