We have all been there when the weather warms up, our helmets are steaming up, heads are boiling, and we are uncomfortably sweating.
The rush of cold air when we take our helmet off is an underestimated relief, so much so it makes us want to swap out for an open-face helmet or legalities permitting no helmet at all.
While the fresh wind hitting our face as we ride is an indescribable feeling, riding around on our GXS-R’s and Ninja’s with little or no protection is just irresponsible.
The only sensible thing to do is equip ourselves with a helmet for the hot weather, one that is ventilated to let the air flow.
We have picked the best sportbike helmets for hot weather so you can keep cool and fully enjoy your rides comfortably and safely.
Our 7 best picks for hot weather helmets:
- Shoei RF-1400
- Sedici Strada II
- HJC i10
- Scorpion EXO-R1 Air
- Arai Quantum-X
- Bell Race Star
- Shoei Neotec II
Without any further delay let’s take a look at each of these helmets in a bit of depth and why they are best suited for hot weather.
We have also put together a buying guide at the end of our post so you know what to look out for when looking for a hot weather sportbike helmet.
Best Sportbike Motorcycle Helmets For Hot Weather
Shoei RF-1400
The latest in the longstanding RF line, the Shoei RF-1400 has been extensively tested in Shoei’s own wind tunnel, which has resulted in both an impressively aerodynamic shell and one that also maximizes ventilation.
Shoei first introduced the RF helmet in 1984 and since then it has remained a staple helmet in the motorcycling community; few helmets have had such longevity.
The RF-1400 has been designed to be lightweight and have increased airflow, it is actually the lightest SNELL approved full-face helmet from Shoei.
Being lightweight and having great airflow can sometimes lead to poor performance in other areas such as wind noise, but in this case noise-reduction technology means the RF-1400 is super quiet.
Pros
- Impressive ventilation system with 6 intake ports and 4 exhaust vents all of which can be manipulated to suit and place air right where you want it
- Aerodynamic
- Comfortable and adjustable
- Removable, washable, replaceable moisture-wicking liners
- CWR-F2 shield that protects eyes from 99% of the sun’s UV rays
Cons
- One of the more basic Shoei helmets
HJC i10
HJC offers an excellent budget helmet for riding in the hot weather that is equipped with an Advanced Channeling System which directs hot air and moisture out the back of the helmet.
The i10 is SNELL approved so you have the reassurance that the lid has been tested to high standards for safety, which is always nice when riding a sportbike.
There are full exhaust channels that run from the front to the back of the helmet removing heat and moisture from inside, there are also vents in the chinbar and sides which helps the visor remain fog free and keeps cool air on your face.
The Supercool® moisture-wicking liner, wicks sweat away keeping you nice and cool and the liner is also removable, washable and replaceable.
Pros
- Advanced Channeling Ventilation System – front to back vents
- Excellent fit and comfort properties
- Visor with 95% UV protection
- Lightweight
- Moisture-wicking liner
Cons
- Polycarbonate shell instead of mixed-composite
Scorpion Exo-R1 Air
This track spec helmet has been designed, tested and refined on the race track. Bringing track technology to the street including a ram-air intake vent providing great ventilation.
Worn by Quartarraro in MotoGP and by Bautista in World Superbike the Exo-R1 Air already has some prestige, with professional racers trusting the lid to protect them.
The awesome design feature of this helmet is the ram-air intake system which is designed to force air into the EPS liner where channels move the air along the helmet and out the back into one of the 4 exhaust ports.
The AirFit system is a nice touch where you can inflate the cheek pads to get a snug fit and the inner liner is designed to keep you cool and dry, leaving you distraction free when riding.
Pros
- Track designed and tested resulting in pro features for a street lid
- Ram-air intake system with 4 exhaust ports and EPS channels for maximum air flow with superb cooling effects
- Visor with 95% UV-A and B protection
- AirFit inflation system for maximum comfort
- KwikWick III anti-microbial interior that is removable and washable
Cons
- A little bit noisier than other helmets
Arai Quantum-X
Arai helmets ooze quality and performance, the Quantum-X has been refined to have improved ventilation, increased airflow and an increase in quality of components and overall performance.
I am a little biased when it comes to Arai helmets as they are my favorite lids for comfort and performance. However, that is for good reason, and for hot weather you can’t go wrong with the Quantum-X.
First off you get the performance you expect from an Arai helmet in terms of a high level of protection and quality.
The intake ducts at the top of the helmet have been widened and improved for increased airflow and the chin curtain stops the intrusion of air from underneath but increases the negative pressure to force air into the vents.
A great touch is the fact you can crack your shield open slightly and allow some air flow directly on to your face.
Pros
- Shield can be kept slightly open to de-mist the visor and allow more airflow
- Enhanced ventilation performance
- Lightweight
- Customisable for comfort
- Removable, washable and replaceable moisture-wicking liner
Cons
- A bit pricey
Bell Race Star Flex
A carbon fiber track derived helmet that is loaded with awesome features like a Photochromatic face shield and mesh liner; the ventilation and light weight make this helmet an awesome hot weather lid.
An ultimate sports helmet the Race Star Flex is profiled for street vision unlike the Pro Star which is profiled for the track, but it offers all the track tech and features of its cousin.
First of all the helmet is super light thanks to its carbon construction and the liner used is one of the most technically advanced on the market for keeping you cool and dry.
Another big bonus for this Bell helmet is the inclusion of a Photochromatic shield, this automatically goes a dark tint in the sun and clear again when there is no sun. This eliminates the need to ride with extra visors or glasses.
Pros
- Lightweight 3K Carbon construction
- Wind tunnel and track tested at various impact levels
- Photochromatic shield included in the box
- Virus Cool Jade Power Mesh liner
Cons
- Expensive
LS2 Thunder Carbon
Developed in Spain and tested by professional riders from MotoGP and WSBK, this carbon constructed helmet is ready to perform and has all the features to keep you cool even when tackling the twisty’s of the Pyrenees.
The LS2 Thunder Carbon is a no frills, no playing around race derived performance helmet that will have you channeling your inner racer the minute you put it on.
However, it will also keep you cool thanks to the fully adjustable ventilation system that goes from front to back, as with any good helmet the liner is moisture-wicking and removable for washing.
It is another super lightweight helmet thanks to its Carbon composite construction.
Pros
- Track spec and race tested
- Lightweight
- Moisture-wicking removable and washable liner
- Adjustable flow-through ventilation
- FIM certified
Cons
- No specific speaker cut-outs for comms kits
Shoei Neotec II
Shoei uses their own wind-tunnel to test their helmets and this has made the Neotec II develop its ventilation system to be even better and it is profiled to suit several riding positions while remaining aerodynamic.
Not typically a sports helmet, the Neotec II is considered more of a touring lid, but it has features that make it suitable for hot weather and is as protective as the full-face helmets in the list for sports riding.
As a result there is a large front chin vent that is easy to use with gloves and exhaust outlets next to the upper intake to ensure hot air is expelled and not carried through the lid.
Perhaps the standout feature of the Neotec II is the fact it is dual-homologated so you can legally ride with the helmet in the open face position as well as the full-face.
This is a nice touch to allow for some cool air flow when stationary or at slow speeds, but I wouldn’t recommend riding with the helmet in the open-face position when picking up any significant speed, as protection is then limited.
It is nice to be able to flip the front and cool down for a few moments in traffic etc.
Pros
- Flip front modular helmet
- Advanced ventilation system with excellent intake and exhaust vents and dual EPS liner
- Comfortable
- Quiet
- Wind tunnel tested and deemed suitable for several riding positions
Cons
- Heavier than other helmets on the list
Buying Guide For Hot Weather Helmets
There are a few things to look out for when buying a helmet for hot weather riding, we have gathered the key points here so you know what to look out for when making your purchase.
Ventilation
Firstly you want a helmet that has advanced ventilation.
Helmets that have channels in the EPS liner, with multiple intake vents at the front are best, be sure to check the exhaust vents are adequate or you will end up with a lot of hot air in your helmet with nowhere to go.
Helmets such as the Arai where the face shield can be kept slightly open are also good for air flow.
Protection
Just because you are riding in the sun and if you are like me you think the sun makes everything better, doesn’t mean accidents can’t happen and you will want to be protected if that happens.
Full-face helmets are always best as they offer the most protection possible, however tempting it may be, especially on a sportbike I would avoid switching to an open face as the level of protection is just not there.
Quite often overlooked is the importance of shielding your eyes from the sun’s rays.
Opting for a helmet with a visor that offers good levels of UV protection is a good idea and tinted visors are also useful for ensuring visibility is optimal when riding.
Liner Material
An inner liner that has moisture-wicking properties will be your best friend.
If your liner can keep you dry, it will also keep you cool.
Mesh liners are also great for airflow around the face and providing you have a good ventilation system the hot air will be expelled quite easily.
Weight
Lightweight helmets are always best regardless of the weather, just like our bikes which perform better and faster with even the slightest weight decrease.
With helmets now constructed of materials like Carbon Fiber it is possible to have a really protective helmet that is also super lightweight.
The less weight that you carry on your head particularly in hot weather when everything is more effort the better and less fatigue you will feel.
Check out our table which ranks our favorite helmets based on their weight, ventilation, protective properties and value for money.
| Helmet | Weight | Ventilation System | Protection | Value for Money | Overall Rating |
| Shoei RF-1400 | 1679g ★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| HJC i10 | 1670g ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Scorpion Exo-R1 Air | 1485g ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Arai Quantum-X | 1601g ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |
| Bell Race Star Flex | 1425g ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| LS2 Thunder Carbon | 1400g ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Shoei Neotec 2 | 1750g ★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |
FAQs For Hot Weather Helmets
What are the differences between a hot weather helmet and regular helmet?
The main difference that you are looking for with a hot weather helmet is an increased number of vents and ensuring you have a moisture-wicking inner liner.
You also want to be on the lookout for a lightweight helmet in summer.
What are disadvantages of a hot weather helmet?
Due to the larger vents, the helmet can allow water in if riding in the rain more so than other helmets.
You may find if you ride all year that you will need two helmets to account for the change in weather throughout the year.
Other than that a good helmet should be no different and offer just as many technical features and protective properties as any other.
How do you know if a helmet has good ventilation?
A good sign will be multiple intake vents at the front and side of the helmet usually located at the chin bar and above the face shield. Then if you check the back of the helmet there should be exhaust vents for the hot air.
A quick check on the manufacturers website will tell you what ventilation system the helmet has in place and the number of vents etc.
Can you wash inner liners?
Most inner liners are now removable, washable and replaceable. Be sure to check your owners booklet for instructions on how to wash your liners.
Can I ride without a visor?
You will have to check with your state’s laws around riding without a visor for the legalities.
However, I would never recommend riding with no eye protection at all. If you decide to remove your visor, invest in a good pair of riding goggles which will protect your eyes from any road debris, wind and give you some UV protection from the sun.
While riding with just your sunglasses looks cool, debris, bugs and all sorts can flick up from the road and get in your eyes which is the last thing you want when riding.
Final Thoughts On Hot Weather Helmets
There you have it, a full round up of the best sportbike helmets for hot weather riding and what you need to lookout for.
For me it is clear the Scorpion Exo-R1 comes out on top being the lightest, with a ram-air system and offering excellent value for money.
However, there is no taking away from the fact the HJC i10 is an awesome budget helmet that may suit those who are opting for a summer specific lid.
