Are you tired of getting headaches and hearing loss after a long ride on your motorcycle? Wind noise can be a significant problem for riders, especially at higher speeds. Fortunately, there is good news: the right helmet can make all the difference. In fact, choosing the right motorcycle helmet can be one of the best ways to reduce wind noise and protect your hearing.
When it comes to choosing the best motorcycle helmets for wind noise, there are a few important factors to consider. First, you want a helmet that fits snugly and comfortably on your head. A good fit will help reduce the amount of wind that enters the helmet and minimize the noise levels.
You’ll want to look for a helmet with an aerodynamic design, which can help reduce wind noise and improve your peripheral vision. Finally, you may want to consider a helmet with noise-reducing features, such as a chin curtain or a ventilation system that helps reduce road noise.
TLDR Summary
When it comes to choosing the best motorcycle helmets for wind noise, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to look for a helmet that is specifically designed to reduce wind noise. This can be achieved through a variety of features, such as aerodynamic design, noise-cancelling technology, and high quality helmet materials.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a helmet is the fit. A helmet that is too loose or too tight can actually increase wind noise, so it’s important to find a helmet that fits snugly but comfortably. Look for helmets with adjustable straps and padding that can be customized to your head shape and size.
Another important consideration is the type of helmet you choose. Full face helmets tend to be the quietest, as they provide full coverage and a snug fit. Modular helmets can also be a good choice, as they offer a balance between full face and open-face designs. Open-face helmets, on the other hand, tend to be the noisiest, as they offer less coverage and protection.
In addition to these factors, you’ll also want to consider the brand and model of helmet you choose. Look for helmets from reputable brands that have a track record of producing high-quality, durable helmets. Read reviews and do your research to find a helmet that has been tested and proven to reduce wind noise.
Overall, choosing the best motorcycle helmets for wind noise is essential for both your comfort and safety on the road. By keeping these factors in mind and doing your research, you can find a helmet that will provide the protection you need while also keeping wind noise to a minimum.
Why Wind Noise Matters
When you’re riding your motorcycle at high speeds, wind noise can be a major problem. Wind noise is the sound produced by the wind hitting your helmet and can be very loud, making it difficult to hear other sounds such as traffic or your bike’s engine. This can be dangerous as you need to hear these sounds to stay safe on the road.
In fact, wind noise can cause hearing loss if you’re exposed to it for long periods of time. It’s important to protect your ears from this noise to avoid any long-term damage. Wind noise can also cause fatigue and make your ride less enjoyable.
The amount of wind noise you experience depends on several factors, including the type of helmet you’re wearing, the amount of wind you’re exposed to, and the speed you’re traveling. Full face helmets offer the most wind and noise protection, while open-face helmets offer the least.
Road noise can also contribute to the overall noise level you experience while riding. This includes noise from your bike’s engine, tires, and other vehicles on the road. It’s important to choose a helmet that can block out as much outside noise as possible to ensure you can hear important sounds while riding.
To reduce wind noise, there are several things you can do. Firstly, choose a helmet that is designed to reduce wind noise. Look for helmets with features such as aerodynamic designs, noise-reducing padding, and a tight seal around the visor.
You can also reduce wind noise by wearing earplugs or a helmet with built-in noise-cancelling technology. This will protect your ears from wind noise and other outside noise, making your ride more comfortable and enjoyable.
Wind noise is a serious concern for motorcycle riders. It’s important to choose a helmet that can block out as much noise as possible to protect your ears and ensure you can hear important sounds while riding.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a motorcycle helmet, wind noise is an important factor to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a helmet that will help reduce wind noise.
Helmet Styles
There are three main styles of motorcycle helmets: full-face, open-face, and modular. Full-face helmets provide the most coverage and protection, while open-face helmets offer less coverage and protection. Modular helmets are a combination of both full-face and open-face helmets, with a chin bar that can be flipped up.
Full Face Helmets
Full face helmets are the best option for reducing wind noise. Their aerodynamic design helps to reduce wind resistance and noise. They also have a chin bar that helps to reduce wind noise and protect your face in the event of an accident. Look for helmets with a well-fitted chin bar and a good seal around the face to reduce wind noise.
Open-Face Helmets
Open-face helmets are the least effective at reducing wind noise. They do not have a chin bar to protect your face and the open design allows wind to flow freely, resulting in more noise. If you prefer an open-face helmet, look for one with a wind deflector or rear spoiler to help reduce wind noise.
Modular Helmets
Modular helmets are a good compromise between full-face and open-face helmets. They offer more coverage and protection than open-face helmets but are not as effective as full-face helmets at reducing wind noise. Look for helmets with a well-fitted chin bar and a drop-down sun visor to help reduce wind noise.
When selecting a motorcycle helmet, it is very important to consider wind noise. Full-face helmets are the best option for reducing wind noise, followed by modular helmets, while open-face helmets are the least effective. Look for helmets with a well-fitted chin bar, drop-down sun visor, and wind deflector or rear spoiler to help reduce wind noise.
Noise Reduction Features
When it comes to motorcycle helmets, one of the most important features is noise reduction. A noisy helmet can be not only annoying but also dangerous, as it can distract you from the road and cause fatigue. Here are some of the noise reduction features that you should look for when choosing a motorcycle helmet.
Cheek Pads
Cheek pads are one of the most important noise reduction features in a helmet. They not only provide a comfortable fit but also help to reduce wind noise. Look for helmets with thick and dense cheek pads that fit snugly against your cheeks.
Chin Curtain
A chin curtain is a piece of fabric that hangs from the bottom of the helmet and covers your chin. It helps to reduce wind noise by blocking the air that enters the helmet from the bottom. Look for helmets with a chin curtain that is snugly attached to the helmet and covers your entire chin.
Neck Roll
A neck roll is a piece of padding that sits at the bottom of the helmet and helps to seal the gap between the helmet and your neck. It helps to reduce wind noise by blocking the air that enters the helmet from the bottom. Look for helmets with a thick and tight-fitting neck roll that seals the gap between the helmet and your neck.
Breath Guard
A breath guard is a piece of foam that sits at the bottom of the helmet and helps to direct your breath away from the visor. It helps to reduce fogging and wind noise. Look for helmets with a breath guard that fits snugly against your face and directs your breath away from the visor.
Ventilation System
A good ventilation system can help to reduce wind noise by directing the air away from your ears. Look for helmets with a ventilation system that is designed to direct the air away from your ears and towards the back of the helmet.
Communication System
A communication system can also help to reduce wind noise by allowing you to communicate with your passenger or other riders without having to raise your voice. Look for helmets with a communication system that is designed to reduce wind noise and provide clear communication.
By choosing a helmet with these noise reduction features, you can enjoy a quieter and more comfortable ride.
Top Picks for Quietest Helmets
When it comes to choosing the quietest motorcycle helmet, there are a few options that stand out from the rest. Here are some of the top picks for the quietest helmets available on the market today:
HJC RPHA 11
The HJC RPHA 11, originally built for the racetrack, stands out as a top choice for wind noise reduction in motorcycle helmets. Its aerodynamic shell structure is designed for extreme performance at maximum speeds, with the Premium Integrated Matrix shell composition delivering enhanced shock resistance, comfort, and lightness using carbon fibre and carbon glass hybrid fabric reinforcements.
The helmet’s enlarged eye port and exceptional airflow ventilation system cater to sport riders, while reflective patches and an emergency release cheek pad system provide added safety. HJC tests its helmets extensively in the lab and in real-life situations, utilizing their state-of-the-art wind tunnel laboratory to optimize aerodynamics, ventilation, and noise reduction.
Shoei NXR
With a number of Shoei helmets mentioned, to kick things off, the Shoei NXR is a premium motorcycle helmet, excels at wind noise reduction due to its lighter, more compact, and streamlined design. Developed through extensive wind tunnel testing, the NXR boasts optimal aerodynamics and functionality. The interior design, ventilation, and shell work together to minimize road and wind noise, making it the lightest full-face sports helmet in Shoei’s range.
The six-layer AIM proprietary technology shell construction features hand-laid interwoven layers of fibreglass, organic fibres, and resin, creating a lightweight, high-strength shell with both strength and elasticity. The helmet’s design allows medical personnel easy access to the head and enables the safe and gentle removal of the helmet, placing minimal load on the neck during removal.
Shoei Neotec II
The Shoei Neotec II is a modular flip-up helmet that offers exceptional noise reduction. It features a dual-layer EPS liner that helps to absorb impacts and reduce noise levels. The helmet also has a built-in sun visor and a Pinlock anti-fog system to help keep your vision clear.
Shoei RF-1400
The Shoei RF-1400 is a full-face helmet that is designed to be both lightweight and quiet. It features a multi-layer EPS liner that helps to reduce noise levels, as well as an aerodynamic shell that helps to reduce wind noise. The helmet also has a removable and washable interior liner for easy maintenance.
Schuberth C3 Pro
The C3 Pro, renowned as one of the quietest motorcycle helmets, boasts a meticulously designed neck cushion, aero-acoustically harmonized helmet shell, and visor turbulators that minimize noise and prevent whistling. The low noise level enhances concentration and safety, while an integrated sun visor allows quick adjustments to sudden glare. The helmet’s inner lining, offers a comfortable, safe fit with optimal climate control.
Developed in SCHUBERTH’s wind tunnel, the helmet shell and aerodynamic spoiler provide improved contact pressure, directional stability, and no buffeting, even at high speeds. The helmet’s special shell technology combines low weight with optimal stability, utilizing fibreglass and a special resin to create a high-strength helmet shell that enhances safety.
Schuberth C4 Pro
The Schuberth C4 Pro is a full-face helmet that is known for its exceptional noise reduction. It features a unique acoustic collar that helps to reduce wind noise, as well as a multi-layer EPS liner that helps to absorb impacts and reduce noise levels. The helmet also has a built-in sun visor and a Pinlock anti-fog system.
Shark EVO-One 2
The Shark EVO-One 2 helmet excels in wind noise reduction, offering versatility as both a full-face and open-face helmet with a quick flip of the chin bar. Unlike other modular helmets with chin bars that flip up and catch wind, the EVO-One 2’s chin bar flips from front to back, maintaining a low weight and staying clear of wind gusts. Whilst the previous model was excellent, this new helmet by Shark takes things a step further.
This apex predator of modular helmets features an injected thermoplastic resin shell available in two sizes, providing a more tailored fit than its predecessor, the Shark Evoline 3ST. The EVO-One 2 boasts an improved kinematic, quick-release, anti-scratch face shield, an inner anti-scratch sun shield, and a compact aerodynamic profile that reduces airborne noise. Additional features include a new chin guard locking/unlocking system, reinforced magnetic fastening of the chin curtain, and a Max Vision Pinlock insert lens. The helmet is DOT and ECE certified, ensuring optimal safety and performance.
Sedici Strada II
The Sedici Strada II is a full-face helmet that is designed to be both quiet and comfortable. It features a multi-layer EPS liner that helps to reduce noise levels, as well as an aerodynamic shell that helps to reduce wind noise. The helmet also has a removable and washable interior liner for easy maintenance.
Overall, these helmets are some of the quietest options available on the market today. Whether you are a seasoned motorcycle rider or a beginner, investing in a quiet helmet is essential for a comfortable and safe riding experience.
Other Considerations
When choosing a motorcycle helmet, there are several factors to consider beyond just wind noise reduction. Here are some other important factors to keep in mind:
Price Range
Helmets come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly to high-end options, so there will always be something that will fit your price point. It is important to find a helmet that fits your budget, but also provides the necessary safety features.
Fit and Comfort
A snug and comfortable fit is essential for a helmet to provide the best protection. Make sure to measure your head and try on helmets to find the right fit. Look for helmets with adjustable padding and ventilation to maximize comfort.
Safety Standards
Helmets should meet safety standards set by organizations such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) or Snell Memorial Foundation. Look for helmets with certification stickers to ensure they meet these standards.
Peripheral Vision
A helmet with good peripheral vision is important for safety on the road. Look for helmets with a wide field of vision and minimal obstructions.
Face Shield
A face shield can protect your face from wind, debris, and insects while riding. Look for helmets with a quality face shield that is easy to remove and replace.
Washable Liner
A washable liner can help keep your helmet clean and fresh. Look for helmets with removable and washable liners.
Size and Shape
Helmets come in different sizes and shapes to fit different head shapes. Make sure to measure your head and try on helmets to find the right size and shape for you.
Riding Style
Different riding styles may require different types of helmets. For example, a full-face helmet may be more suitable for sport or aggressive riding, while an open-face helmet may be more suitable for cruising or touring.
Long Distances
If you plan on riding long distances, look for helmets with features such as ventilation, padding, and noise reduction to maximize comfort.
Phone Calls
If you need to take phone calls while riding, look for helmets with Bluetooth connectivity or other communication features.
Cold and Hot Weather
If you plan on riding in cold or hot weather, look for helmets with features such as insulation, ventilation, and moisture-wicking liners to keep you comfortable.
Wrap Up!
You’ve made it to the end of the article about the best motorcycle helmets for wind noise reduction. By now, you should have a good idea of what to look for when shopping for a helmet that can keep wind noise to a minimum.
Remember, it is very important to choose a helmet that fits properly and has a tight seal around your ears and neck. This will help reduce wind noise and make your ride more comfortable.
There are many options available on the market, but some of the top picks include the HJC RPHA 11, Shoei NXR, Shoei Neotec II, Shark Evo-One 2, Shoei RF-1400, Schuberth C3 Pro/C4 Pro, and Sedici Strada II. These helmets have been tested and reviewed and have proven to be effective at reducing wind noise.
When shopping for a helmet, be sure to consider your specific needs and preferences. Do you prefer a full-face or modular helmet? Do you want a helmet with built-in noise-cancelling technology? These are all factors to keep in mind when making your decision.
In addition to wind noise reduction, safety should always be a top priority when choosing a motorcycle helmet. Look for helmets that have been certified by safety organizations such as DOT or Snell.
Overall, finding a helmet that can reduce wind noise will make your rides more enjoyable and less fatiguing. With the right helmet, you can focus on the road ahead and enjoy the ride.