If you are a rider, you must have pondered over what would be the best passenger helmets whenever you take your loved one on a ride with you. The fact that different passengers have variable-sized heads, you probably don’t want to invest in helmets every time you have you have someone sitting in the back.
We are not claiming that there is a universal one-size-fits-all helmet in the market. At least, not yet. But some helmets do offer the most reliable form of safety for friendly rides. We have picked the best passenger helmets out of many, along with an insight into what you could expect from each in the reviews down below.
Here is a little table for a quick insight if you are not much of a reader
Best Passenger Helmets Reviews
1. HJC CS-R3 Unisex-Adult Full Face Helmet
Pros
- Value for money
- Sharp aerodynamic design and premium polycarbonate shell
- Lightweight
- Better ventilation system and face shield
Cons
- Lacks some handouts that you might mind in other products at this price range
- The spike graphic variant version has been discontinued
The HJC CS-3 is an upgrade to the CS-2 in the brand’s line of motorcycle passenger helmets. The updates come in the form of an enhanced ventilation unit and an improved shell shape. The ultra-modern features and premium feel are quite apparent at first glance compared to the more voluptuous CS-R2 helmet. The HJC CS-R3 is clearly an entry-level gear with DOT certified polycarbonate shell. The helmet is designed to be relatively lighter than the other units in the market, weighing around 3.3 pounds. It comes in six different solid color variants and two more graphical options. Naturally, the solid colored HJC CS-R3 helmet is priced slightly lower than the more graphics-heavy model.
We can appreciate the updated venting system in the helmet. Instead of a single central vent, there are two chimney vents on either side of the helmet. You can easily flip open or close the vents using the switch on the top dome of the gear. One of the most striking features in HJC’s line of best passenger helmets is the rapid-fire face shield. Compared to similar products on the market, it is easier to actuate the face shield in the CS-R3 with the help of a simple lever-button and a locking toggle. The shield also does an excellent job in sealing the complete gasket, helps reduce noise, and helps combat the incoming gushes of wind when you are riding.
Overall, the HJC CS-3 has a few updates from the previous models, but the improvements are quite useful indeed. The helmet has more aggressive defining lines and a nice aerodynamic feel, making it one of the best passenger helmets in the market today.
2. Scorpion R420 Full-Face Helmet
Pros
- Solid build and sporty design
- Premium finish
- Snuggly fit and sound venting system
- Value for money
Cons
- The shell size might be too large for some passengers
- The face shield might budge a bit when you are riding at high speeds
The Scorpion R420 is available at an incredibly competitive price as a full-face helmet. The shell is SNELL M2015, and DOT approved, and the polycarbonate build ensures that you are getting the best safety gear at a budget price for your backseat riders. The helmet is available in multiple color variants, but the matte black model makes for a classy, one-color for all occasions gear. The face shield snaps on and off relatively smoothly, and the robust design doesn’t compromise the weight, which means you still have a lightweight helmet with a satisfying number of bells and whistles.
The inner fabric lining is comfortable, which can be conveniently removed and washed is a pleasant surprise for the price point. The venting system comprises two vents in the front and a one located on the chin bar. The vent’s design makes sure that the gear remains fog-free thanks to the brand’s anti-fog coating.
Overall, you will hardly find any inconsistencies in the Scorpion R420 helmet. The design, overall premium finish, and the fit are all very satisfactory for a price that does not break your wallet. We can confidently deem this product one of the best passenger helmets you could get your hands on.
3. ILM Full Face Helmet
Pros
- Crisp aerodynamic design
- Considerably lightweight for a full-face helmet
- Affordable
- Free winter scarf
Cons
- The anti-fog coating doesn’t work as well as it does in other best passenger helmets in this list
- Zero noise reduction and control
The ILM full-face helmet is a bundle of high-grade features within a reasonable price point. ILM is known for stirring up the rider realm with its futuristic helmet designs. The quick-release clasp and an admirable aerodynamic design will keep your passengers safer at all times while also giving comfort on par with more expensive helmets.
The unique visor exclusive to ILM is smoky for sunny rides and clear when you are riding in the moonlight, giving you and your back seat friend the best of both worlds experience. The helmet weighs a little on the heavier side at around 4,65 pounds, which is still relatively lighter than other full-face passenger helmets in the market.
The vents are scattered all around the body of the helmet for better performance. Another noteworthy mention is that the ILM full-face helmet comes with a winter scarf as an added hand out. A perfect trinket that you will appreciate better in the chilly winter rides. You can choose from a collection of seven color and style variants to find the most suitable passenger helmet for you.
4. 1Storm Full Face Helmet
Pros
- Durable and lightweight build
- Triple ventilation units for better airflow
- Premium interior fabric
- Value for money
- Incredibly cool graphics
Cons
- Relatively loose chin straps
- The design does not spare any space for Bluetooth headsets.
1Storm is infamous for creating a buzz with their vivid and graphic motorcycle helmets. Instead of the usual polycarbonate shell, the 1Storm full-face helmet is made from a thermoplastic alloy. If there is a gear that would complement and even enhance the badass rider look, it’s the 1storm mechanic full-face helmet. The ultra-bold and quirky graphic on top of the build give the brand a definite edge over other similar products.
The triple ventilation units and the accessible control buttons, along with an extra venti-exhaust, are features that practically make this helmet incredibly desirable to riders. The interior fabric is comfortable and moisture-wicking, keeping the helmet smelling fresh even with extended use. The visor is tinted for UV protection with a clear face shield for a safer riding experience.
Overall, the 1Storm full-face helmet surpasses all the expectations of a safety gear to give you more than the investment. We were instantly hooked on the chic graphics on the helmet, and it’s incredibly easy to conclude that this might be the very best passenger helmets in this list.
5. Bell Qualifier DLX Full Face Helmet
Pros
- Value for money
- Excellent build quality
- One of the best face shields in the market
- Adequate ventilation
Cons
- Average noise control
- No locks for the face shield
The Bell Qualifier DLX is one of the best entry-level passenger helmets in the market for riders who are looking for a safety gear to keep their back-seat friends safe. The polymer composite shelling ensures that the helmet is lightweight and comfortable. The design is classy and structured to reduce the chances of lifting and the helmet buffeting when you are riding at higher speeds.
Besides these bells and whistles, the most striking feature of the Bell Qualifier Passenger helmet is its face shield. The light-sensitive transition face shield is a rather expensive integration, but DLX manages to offer you a surprisingly low price point. The shield is both fog proof and UV proof due to its unique NutraFog coating.
The DLX passenger helmet justifies the long-held reputation of the brand as one of the best helmet makers for decades now. For added benefit, you also get a five-year warranty period with the helmet. The helmet also connects quite smoothly with the Sena and fits The transition face shield; incredible build and graphics indeed make the DLX a qualifier for one of the best passenger helmets.
6. LS2 Full Face Helmet
Pros
- Lightweight build and robust aerodynamic design
- Perfect and snuggly fit
- 5-year warranty period
- Affordable
- Tech navy, no-nonsense features
Cons
- Not suitable for riders or passenger who an intermediate oval head shape as the helmet
- Average anti-fog feature
If you have trouble caring for an extra shield for the blinding bright sun rays, you will love the LS2 helmet for having a drop-down sun visor. The vents are present as two separate units on the top of the helmet. The only disparity here is that the vents have a relatively smooth slider, which will be harder to move when you are wearing gloves.
The fog fighter lens and the shield allow you to have complete visibility. You will find a recessed area in the interior fabric of the helmet just in case you are in the mood of putting on some sunnies. The aerodynamic profile of the helmet renders an attractive and aggressive aerodynamic feel to the helmet, and the teach savvy approach does help to push the gear at the forefront of the best passenger helmets you will ever find.
7. TORC T27 Full Face Modular Helmet
Pros
- Waterproof build
- Easy and smooth controls even when you are wearing gloves
- Ability to pick and end incoming calls with GPS voice
Cons
- Insufficient wind noise at relatively higher speeds
- More expensive compared to other helmets on the list
The TORC T27 helmet has the most compact structure offering high-quality protection. The modular helmet has an integrated BLINC communication unit. It is safe to say that communication is better for rider-to-passenger communication, which means it is more of an entry-level integration. This means that if you are looking for a long-distance rider to rider communication, the helmet might not be your best bet.
The TORC passenger helmet weighs 5.2 pounds, which is still light for a full-face modular helmet with Bluetooth communication. The interior padding is soft and comfortable. The pressure points are marvelously absent, so much so that you will not feel the helmet when you put it on. The aggressively aerodynamic design is an attractive addition and visually pleasant.
The thermoplastic shelling absorbs the impact quite well and offers high durability. The anti-fog feature works well but might falter in extremely cold weather conditions. Overall, the TORC T27 full-face modular helmet is one of the best passenger helmets under a budget. The Bluetooth connectivity, BLINC communication system, and the convenient call reject
Helmet Buying Guide
As a rider, you often have friends tagging along, and you often decline their requests, fearing for their safety. Riding on a motorcycle along a picturesque track is perhaps one of the best ways to make beautiful memories. And a passenger helmet will solidify the safety of your back seat friends. However, with so many options in the market, making a choice can get a bit overwhelming. To make it easier for you, we have a list of considerations that you need to make if your goal is to buy the best passenger helmet.
Certifications
Certification is a very important feature for a passenger helmet, especially for motorbike riders. DOT and SNELL certifications are the most reliable marks of approval for such safety gear. Make sure that you check for the accreditation, which will confirm the credibility of the gear as the best passenger helmet and will also give you substantial peace of mind.
Usability
For rider’s speed is holy, and when you are riding at such a pace, you need a passenger helmet with an aggressive aerodynamic design and solid durability. Along with the robust build, you also need a solid eye-protective screen from the blinding rays of sunlight. Under such circumstances, a full-face passenger helmet is your best at keeping your backseat ride partner safe if your helmet comes with Bluetooth connectivity, that a little cherry on top.
Fit And Comfort
If your helmet’s interior padding pinches your temples or you have to wiggle the helmet a little too much to get it off, or the controls are super clumsy. You are perhaps making the wrong decision. On the other hand, a good helmet is one that fits snugly around your head and supports your neck. You don’t want your helmet to lift or shake when you are riding at highway speed. It is better to compare the measurement of your head with the size chart mentioned online. Most of the helmets mentioned in our list typically have options for all head sizes, so finding a comfortable fit won’t be much of a hassle for you anyway.
Cost
Is price a factor for better safety? Perhaps that’s one of the most confusing quandaries for riders. Well, in essence, you don’t have to break your wallet to find the best passenger helmet, which offers reliable safety. The price point moves up because of the extra bells and whistles, which means if you are buying from a reputed brand- safety and budget do fit under one roof.
Conclusion
This review is a little toast to safer rides, a gear system that will give you peace of mind when your riders are wearing the most reliable protection in the market. Although you won’t find a universal helmet for all head types, however, you will definitely find a safety gear that will protect your pillion rider and gives value for money.
If You are looking for something stronger and lighter, you can consider checking our top picks for Carbon fiber helmets.
