Snowmobile helmets are, quite simply, the most important piece of gear you’ll own as a sledder.
It’s the one thing standing between you and a world of hurt if you take a spill out on the trails. After all, you’re hurling down icy trails at high speeds—one wrong move could mean serious injury. Not to mention, it’ll help keep you nice and toasty on those cold winter days.
But with so many different helmets on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Read on for our guide to choosing the perfect snowmobile helmet.
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How to Choose a Snowmobile Helmet?
Just like with any other gear, when you are looking for a snowmobile helmet, you need to take into account both safety and comfort.
With so many different brands, styles, and features on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. But don’t worry—we’re here to help!
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the best snowmobile helmet. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be an expert on the subject!
Safety
The most important thing to consider when choosing a snowmobile helmet is safety. After all, your primary goal in wearing a helmet is to protect your head in case of an accident.
When it comes to safety, always err on the side of caution by choosing a helmet that is certified by the DOT (Department of Transportation) or the Snell Foundation. These organizations have strict standards for testing and certifying helmets, so you can be sure that a helmet with their stamp of approval will provide adequate safety ratings.
Some helmets have bright LED lights on the rear so you can be seen easier at night or in the cloud of snow. This is a great feature that we love and strongly urge you to consider on your helmet.
Another important safety feature to look for in a helmet is a visor that is anti-fogging and scratch-resistant. This will keep your vision clear even in the coldest and iciest conditions. Some visors allow you to connect and keep them heated to prevent icing.
And last but not least, make sure that your helmet has adequate ventilation—you don’t want to overheat while you’re out on the trails!
Comfort
Another important consideration when choosing a snowmobile helmet is comfort—after all, you’ll be wearing it for hours at a time! Look for a helmet that has plenty of padding on the inside. This will help protect your head from jarring vibrations as well as keep you warm in cold weather. It’s also important to make sure that the padding doesn’t make the helmet too tight—you should be able to wear it for extended periods of time without feeling uncomfortable.
Additionally, pay attention to the weight of the helmet—a heavy helmet can quickly become very tiring to wear. And finally, make sure that the helmet has straps that are adjustable so that you can get a snug, comfortable fit.
Style
Of course, you also want your helmet to look good! Fortunately, there are plenty of stylish options on the market these days. Helmets come in all sorts of colors and designs, so you’re sure to find one that matches your personal style and your sled!. Plus, many helmets now come equipped with built-in Bluetooth headsets so that you can listen to music or take phone calls while you’re on the go.
What Are Our Top Picks for the Best Snowmobile Helmets
Best Carbon Fiber: CKX Mission AMS Carbon Fiber
The CKX Mission AMS Carbon Fiber Snowmobile Helmet is the perfect choice when safety and performance are just as important as style.
Crafted with a lightweight carbon fiber shell, this stylish helmet looks good while still offering maximum protection. The integrated patent pending AMS technology ensures that you stay comfortable in any situation.
With two adjustable air vents at the shield, a clear dual pane shield with UV protection, an aerodynamic removable peak with two positions and a ratchet mechanism allowing for fast removal without tools, you’ll be fully prepared for any conditions.
There’s also a removable long chin curtain, removable and washable liner/cheek pads and ProClip quick release mechanism chin strap to help keep everything secure and snug.
Finally, rest easy knowing your CKX Mission AMS Carbon Fiber Snowmobile Helmet meets or exceeds DOT standard FMVSS218!
So if you’re looking for a snowmobile helmet that looks as good as it functions – put your trust in CKX Mission!
Features
- The lightest carbon fiber shell in its class
- AMS Technology integrated, for a better fit and improved performance
- Adjustable air vents at shield level, to customize your ride
- Double lens shield with UV protection, anti-scratch and anti-fog treatment
- Electric shield, with retractable sun visor
- Aerodynamic design, featuring a removable and adjustable peak
- Ratchet mechanism with push button to remove peak and / or shield without tools
- Removable long chin curtain protects against the elements
- Removable and washable liner and cheek pads for easy cleaning
Best Modular- HJC i90 Snow
The HJC i90 Snow Modular Snowmobile Helmet is a DOT-certified, high-performance helmet that meets or exceeds FMVSS-218 and DOT safety standards. I personally like the modular vs full face snowmobile helmet for the flexibility of it. We get more into modular helmets later.
The ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation System with seven intake vents and two exhaust vents at the rear spoiler provides superior airflow and ventilation to keep you cool and comfortable. The low-profile, compact shell makes for a lightweight snowmobile helmet that is easy to wear for long periods of time.
The internal dropdown sun shield can be controlled by a smooth, wire lever that is easy to reach on the bottom of the shell. The Bluetooth-ready design allows you to connect to your SMART HJC 10B or 20B Bluetooth communicator for hands-free use while you’re on the go. Other features include a breath deflector, frameless electric shield, dual lens shield, and HJ-V9 sun visor.
Features
- Meets or exceeds FMVSS-218 and DOT safety standards
- Bluetooth-ready design allows you to connect to your bluetooth communicator
- ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation System with seven intake vents and two exhaust vents
- Low-profile, compact shell makes for a lightweight snowmobile helmet
- Internal dropdown sun shield can be controlled by a smooth, wire lever
- Sun Visor Included
Best Full Face: Ski Doo Oxygen Helmet (DOT)
Looking for a top-of-the-line, ultra-safe helmet for your next snowmobiling adventure? Look no further than the Ski-Doo Oxygen Helmet (DOT)!
Ski Doo snowmobile helmets are some of the best out there and this one proves it. This helmet is packed with features to keep you safe and comfortable on the trails, including a lightweight M-FORGE® Composite shell, sun visor heated chamber, amplified heated visor with pivot contact system, and retractable amber sun visor.
Plus, the helmet is prescription eyeglasses friendly and has an unobstructed panoramic field of vision for an incredible mask-less riding experience. And with durable anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings, you’ll be able to see clearly no matter what the conditions are like.
The Ski-Doo Oxygen Helmet (DOT) also features the NCS System to reduce noise and robust detents that allow precise opening adjustments for airflow.
Plus, there’s an optional front LED utility light and a neck skirt to keep the cold air out. And for added safety, the helmet comes with a battery-less rear LED light.
With all these features, plus a unique remote control with visor heat indicators, the Ski Doo Oxygen Helmet (DOT) is perfect for any sledder looking for the best of the best in terms of safety and comfort.
Features
- Lightweight M-FORGE Composite shell for safety and comfort
- Heated electric shield visor with pivot contact system to keep you safe and comfortable in any conditions
- Retractable amber sun visor for optimal visibility
- Prescription eyeglasses friendly
- Unobstructed panoramic field of vision for incredible mask-less riding experience
- Reduces noise with NCS System
- LED Light for added safety
Best Open Face: 509 Altitude 2.0 Pro Carbon Fiber 3K Helmet
The 509 Altitude 2.0 Pro Carbon Fiber 3K Helmet is the highest performance helmet 509 has ever made. It’s perfect for off-trail riders who like riding with snow goggles and need the best of the best in terms of protection, comfort, and visibility. The 3k carbon composite construction is incredibly light and strong, while still maintaining a sleek look.
The helmet maximizes airflow with upper and rear vents, as well as a large chinbar intake. And for added safety, it features the MIPS Brain Protection System.
Three shell sizes ensure a perfect fit, while the Pro Series Breath Box and helmet bag make it easy to transport.
So if you’re looking for the best of the best in snowmobile helmets, look no further than the 509 Altitude 2.0 Pro Carbon Fiber 3K Helmet.
Features
- The lightest and strongest helmet in the 509 lineup
- Upper and rear vents for maximum airflow
- Large chinbar intake
- MIPS Brain Protection System
- Three shell sizes for a perfect fit
- Pro Series Breath Box and helmet bag
Best On a Budget: GMAX MD-04S Modular Snowmobile Helmet
The GMAX MD-04S Modular Snowmobile Helmet provides full coverage of your head and face, keeping you warm and protected in cold weather riding conditions. The dual lens shield and breath box help prevent fogging, while the chin curtain helps keep out the wind. The Coolmax core technology wicks moisture away, keeping you comfortable even when you work up a sweat. The modular design means you can open the helmet with gloves on, making it convenient and easy to use.
Plus, it’s DOT certified for safety, so you can rest assured knowing that you’re protected. The GMAX MD-04S Modular is the perfect choice for keeping you safe and comfortable while being one of the best snowmobile helmets on a budget.
Features
- Dual lens shield and breath box prevent fogging
- Chin curtain keeps out the wind
- Coolmax core technology wicks moisture away
- The modular design can be opened with gloves on
- DOT certified for safety
Best for Overall Performance: Klim F5 Helmet ECE
If you’re looking for the best possible helmet on the market, look no further than the KLIM F5 HELMET ECE. Klim is one of the leading manufacturers in snowmobile gear. This helmet has been years in the making, with riders’ feedback and cutting edge technologies combined to create a truly revolutionary piece of equipment.
The KLIM F5 HELMET ECE is extremely light weight, meaning you won’t get weighed down or fatigued during long riding sessions. The intuitive venting system is highly effective and helps keep you cool, even in the most strenuous conditions. And when it comes to safety features, this helmet has got you covered with next-gen technology that will help keep you protected in the event of an accident.
The carbon fiber shell is extremely durable, while the large eye port provides maximum vision. The dual density EPS ensures that your head will be well-protected in the event of a collision. And thanks to the 3 shell sizes available, you can find the perfect fit for your individual needs.
This helmet also comes with a helmet bag, breath box, windstopper liner, extra peak visor and hardware, making it the most complete package on the market. Don’t settle for the second best – go with the KLIM F5 HELMET ECE and enjoy the best riding experience imaginable.
Features
- KLIM F5 HELMET ECE is the newest and most advanced helmet on the market
- Carbon fiber shell is tough and durable
- Extremely light weight won’t weigh you down or cause fatigue
- Extra Large Eye port
- Most Ventilated Helmet on the market
- Exceeds ECE Certification
- Extremely Lightweight
- 3 shell sizes and 3 EPS Sizes
Types of Snowmobile Helmets
There are three main types of snowmobile helmets on the market: full-face, modular, and open face. Each has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the type that best suits your needs. Here’s a quick rundown of each:
Full Face Helmets
As the name implies, full-face snowmobile helmets protect your entire head. They’re ideal for riders who frequently find themselves going off-trail or hitting rough terrain, as they offer the most protection in case of a fall. However, they can be somewhat hot and claustrophobic in warmer temperatures, so keep that in mind if you’re mostly a fair-weather rider.
The Pros of Full Face Snowmobile Helmets
There are a lot of reasons why people choose to wear full-face snowmobile helmets. One of the biggest reasons is safety. When you wear a full-face helmet, you’re protecting your entire head in the event of a crash. This is opposed to wearing a half helmet, which only covers your head from the forehead up. In addition to safety, full-face helmets also help to keep you warm. If you’ve ever ridden a snowmobile without a helmet ( I hope you never do again by the way!), you know how cold it can be! Wearing a full-face helmet can help to keep the wind out and the warmth in.
The Cons of Full-Face Snowmobile Helmets
Of course, there are also some drawbacks associated with full-face helmets. One of the biggest drawbacks is that they can be hot and stuffy. If it’s a particularly warm day, wearing a full-face helmet can make it hot and sometimes difficult to breathe.
Another downside of full-face helmets is that they can be heavier and bulkier than other snowmobile helmets. This can make them less comfortable to wear for extended periods and can also make it more difficult to see out of the corners of your eyes.
As you can see, there are both pros and cons to wearing a full-face snowmobile helmet. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear one comes down to personal preference and riding style. If you find yourself frequently riding off-trail or in rough terrain, a full-face helmet might be a good option for you. However, if you’re mostly a fair-weather rider, you might prefer a different kind of helmet instead.
Modular Snowmobile Helmets
If you’re torn between an open and full-face helmet, a modular helmet is a perfect solution (that’s my wife and I in the picture with our modular helmets and we LOVE them!). Modular snowmobile helmets offer the best of both worlds. They’re great for riders who want maximum protection but also want the option to cool off when things start to heat up. Below we’ll discuss the advantages of modular helmets so that you can decide if one is right for you
Characteristics of Modular Helmets
Most modular helmets have a flip-up chin bar, which allows them to be converted from a full-face to an open-face helmet. This feature is especially convenient for riders who want the option to have an unobstructed view or to cool down quickly. Many modular helmets also have sun visors to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun.
Another advantage of modular helmets is that they tend to be very comfortable. This is because they are usually made with plenty of padding and ventilation to keep your head cool and comfortable even on long rides. What’s more, modular helmets often have removable liners that can be washed, which helps to keep them clean and fresh over time.
Benefits of Wearing a Modular Helmet
There are several benefits to wearing a modular helmet while riding. First and foremost, they offer superior protection in the event of an accident. This is because they enclose your entire head, unlike open-face helmets which leave your face exposed. Additionally, modular helmets tend to be very quiet, making them ideal for riders who appreciate a peaceful ride.
Another benefit of modular helmets is that they offer better visibility. This means that you’ll have no trouble seeing where you’re going, making it easier to avoid obstacles in your path. Finally, modular helmets are popular among riders because they look very stylish and come in a wide variety of colors and designs.
If you’re looking for a helmet that offers maximum protection without sacrificing style or comfort, then a modular helmet is a great option for you. These versatile helmets make them ideal for all kinds of riding conditions. So why not give one a try? You might just find that it’s your new favorite piece of gear!
Open Face Helmets
One of the biggest advantages of an open-face helmet is that it offers good visibility and airflow. This is especially important if you’re going to be riding for long periods, as it can help prevent fogging and keep you from getting too hot.
However, this increased visibility and airflow comes at a cost. Namely, open-face helmets don’t offer much in the way of warmth on those extra cold days. The open face helmets are usually worn with goggles and are great for off trail riding. Typically these helmets can also be multi use helmets are well. They are becomming increasingly popular for their cool looks and flexibility.
Temperature Control
Another thing to consider with open-face helmets is temperature control. While they won’t do much to keep your head warm in cold weather, they are typically more comfortable in warmer temperatures than full-face helmets. So, if you live in an area with mild winters, an open-face helmet might be a good choice for you. Just make sure to bundle up if you’re planning on riding in colder weather!
Open-face helmets provide good visibility and airflow with the use of goggles. They’re best suited for off trail or mountain riders who want high air flow. That being said, they won’t do much to keep your head warm in cold weather, so make sure to bundle up if you go this route.
Ultimately, whether or not an open-face snowmobile helmet is right for you comes down to personal preference. If you value visibility and airflow above all else, then an open-face helmet is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for maximum protection from the elements, then a full-face helmet might be a better option.
Things To Consider In Your Helmet
- Size: Helmets should fit snugly but not too tightly. A good way to test this is to put the helmet on and try to move it side to side and up and down. If there’s too much movement, it’s too big. If it’s too tight, it’s too small.
- Visor: If you wear glasses or sunglasses, make sure that the visor doesn’t obstruct your vision in any way.
- Electric Shield: Electric Shields are one of those nice to haves and once you have it you’ll never go back.
- Ventilation: You want to make sure that the helmet has enough ventilation so that you don’t get too hot while riding.
- Weight: a heavier helmet will offer more protection than a lighter one, but it might be more uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
- Certification: Is it up to DOT standards and/or higher?
Conclusion
We hope these tips help you choose a snowmobile helmet that’s right for you! Remember to always wear a helmet when snowmobiling, no matter how experienced you are. Safety comes first!
No matter what type of rider you are or what type of sledding you do, there’s a snowmobile helmet out there that’s perfect for you. Just remember to always err on the side of caution when it comes to safety—after all, it’s better to be safe than sorry! We will see you out on the trails!
Happy sledding!
Check here for some snowmobile safety tips.
