15 Best Helmets in India for your safety [August, 2024]

Riding a two-wheeler safely requires wearing a good quality helmet that meets safety certifications. There are many types of helmets available in India from full face to open face to flip-up designs. In this blog, we review the 15 best helmets you can buy in India right now.

For each helmet, we provide a detailed review covering the key features, specifications, comfort, safety rating, pros and cons to help you choose the best one as per your needs and budget. We also offer expert opinions and advice on selecting the ideal helmet. Read on to find in-depth analysis on:

1. Vega Crux ISI Certified Flip-Up Helmet for Men and Women with Clear Visor(Black, Size:M)

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Description

The Vega Crux flip-up helmet comes with one clear visor and dual visor mechanism. It has a glossy UV resistant paint with scratch resistant coating. The quick release chin strap, padded linings and ventilation system ensure comfort on long rides.

Key Features

• Certified by ISI with high impact ABS material shell
• Dual visor design – clear outer visor and tinted inner sun shield
• Flip up modular design for easily putting on and off
• Quick release clip on chin strap
• Ventilation system for airflow
• Padded linings for comfort
• Matte UV resistant scratch resistant paint

Our Expert Opinion

The Crux flip-up helmet offers a versatile experience, converting from full face to open in seconds. The quick release buckle, inner tinted visor and ample ventilation make it quite comfortable on the road. It meets Indian safety norms and comes at an affordable price point. A good choice for riders prioritizing flexibility.

2. Vega Atom ISI Certified Smooth Matt Finish Open Face Helmet for Men and Women with Clear Visor(Dull Black, Size:M)

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Description

The Atom open face helmet has a durable yet lightweight ABS composite shell. It comes with sweat absorbent and removable linings for easy maintenance. The design is compact while allowing good peripheral vision and airflow.

Key Features

• Certified by ISI for impact resistance
• Strong yet lightweight ABS composite material shell
• Open face design allows wide field of vision
• Sweat absorbent and removable linings
• Good ventilation system
• Hypoallergenic inner padding
• Clear visor with hard coating for scratch resistance

Our Expert Opinion

This affordable open face helmet is a stylish choice for city commuting, with its compact durable body and scratch resistant visor. The ventilation and lightweight shell make it comfortable for short rides. While open face means less protection than full face options, the Vega Atom meets basic safety norms for Indian roads.

3. Steelbird Cyborg Double Visor Full Face Helmet

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Description

The Steelbird Cyborg helmet features an aerodynamic thermoplastic shell with high impact absorption capability. It has an advanced ventilation system and a quick release buckle. The clear and smoke tinted visors offer versatility for different light conditions.

Key Features

• Thermoplastic shell resistant to penetration
• Double visor design – clear outer visor and inner tinted visor
• Multiple air vents for improved air circulation
• Quick release clasp on chin strap
• Washable liner and cheek pads
• ISI certified for safety compliance

Our Expert Opinion

This full face helmet offers very good features for the price like a sturdy thermoplastic shell, integrated sun visor and ample ventilation. The sleek graphic design is also attractive for young riders. With double visors and high safety ratings, the Steelbird Cyborg gives excellent value at this price.

4. Studds Urban Black with Black Strip Open Face Helmet (L)

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Description

The Urban open face helmet from Studds has clean lines and sophisticated styling with the signature chrome black strip. The outer shell is engineered from special high impact grade engineering thermoplastic for lightness and strength.

Key Features

• Sleek open face design provides good airflow
• Outer shell made of high impact engineering thermoplastic
• Micrometric buckle release chin strap
• Replaceable liner and cushioning
• ISI certified for compliance with safety standards
• Available in a range of sizes from small to extra-large

Our Expert Opinion

For an affordable open face option, the Studds Urban helmet packs great value with its durable construction to meet safety norms and stylish exterior. While it misses out on a drop-down sun visor, the ample ventilation makes up when riding in hot Indian weather. This is the perfect budget helmet to buy if style and minimalism are your priorities.

5. Studds Chrome Eco Full Face Helmet- Black (L), Motorcycling

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Description

The Studds Chrome Eco helmet sports a sleek design in glossy black finish. It meets stringent safety test parameters for high impact resistance. There are adjustable side straps and removable inner lining features as well.

Key Features

• High impact ABS outer shell material for durability
• Approved by ISI for safety compliance
• Eco design for eco-friendly performance
• Glossy UV resistant paint
• Adjustable chin strap with quick release clip
• Removable and replaceable liner
• Outer clear visor provides high optical clarity

Our Expert Opinion

This affordable full face helmet from Studds checks most boxes for the average motorcyclist with its durable high grade shell, scratch resistant paint and clear visor. While lacking premium features, it meets critical safety benchmarks for a safe commute around town or short tours. The adjustable straps and removable lining also ensure comfort. Overall, a value for money choice for riders on a budget.

6. Axor Apex Solid ISI ECE DOT Certified Glossy Black Full Face Dual Visor Helmet for Men and Women with Pinlock Fitted Outer Clear Visor and Inner Smoke Sun Visor Black(L)

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Description

The Apex from Axor helmets features a lightweight polycarbonate shell with glossy UV protected paint. Its double visor design offers both clear and tinted sun visor options. There is also an anti-fog pinlock lens for the main visor.

Key Features

• Dual certified by ISI and DOT safety benchmarks
• Polycarbonate material outer shell – hard yet lightweight
• Double visor allows changing between clear and tinted lens
• Main clear visor has anti fog pinlock lens installed
• Inner lining has moisture wicking and antibacterial fabric
• Multiple air intake and exhaust vents for ventilation
• Scratch resistant and UV protected paint

Our Expert Opinion

Axor offers premium features for a mid-range price with the Apex helmet like anti-fog lens, sun visor and airflow vents. The polycarbonate shell makes it fairly light while meeting stringent safety norms. We found the removable linings handy for easy cleaning too. For the premium styling and loaded specifications, this makes for one of the best value buys among full face dual visor helmets.

7. Vega Off Road ISI Certified Gloss Finish Full Face Dual Visor with Peak Helmet for Men and Women Outer Clear Visor and Inner Smoke Sun Visor(Black, Size:M)

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Description

The Off Road motorcycle helmet from Vega has an aerodynamic peak and elongated rear for sporty trail rides. This full face helmet comes with a clear outer visor and tinted retractable inner visor. There are multiple handy features for off-roading adventures.

Key Features

• Certified by ISI for safety compliance
• High impact resistant ABS material shell
• Specially designed for off-roading and trails
• Peak provides shade from overhead sun
• Dual visor design with clear outer lens and retractable tinted sun shield
• Outer visor is scratch resistant hard coated
• Ventilation system with multiple vents
• Quick release clasp on chin strap
• Removable and washable lining

Our Expert Opinion

With its durable body, peak visor and retractable sun shield, this helmet is purpose-built for off-road rides. The ample airflow from front to back keeps the head cool even on hot days. Though costlier than regular options, we found the Vega Off Road helmet well-suited for trailing and highway cruising with its array of adjustments. The matte UV resistant finish also lends a premium touch.

8. Vega Cruiser ISI Certified Matt Finish Lightweight & Compact with Peak Open Face Helmet for Men and Women with Clear Visor(Dull Black, Size:M)

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Description

Designed for cruising comfort, this open face helmet has a compact ABS shell with a small peak visor. The quick release strap with leather sheath and sweat absorbing linings make for a smooth lightweight experience.

Key Features

• Safety certified by ISI
• Strong, durable and lightweight ABS material outer shell
• Small visor peak provides style and some shade
• Open face for maximum visibility and airflow
• Quick release leather strap for ease of use
• Sweat absorbent, removable and washable linings
• Matte scratch resistant finish

Our Expert Opinion

This well-ventilated open face helmet is great choice for riders who want minimum fuss and maximum comfort. While the petite contours mean less protection than full face helmets, the Vega Cruiser still makes safety grade. For its smart vintage styling and featherlight feel, we found this ideal for short city commutes on cruisers and scooters during good weather. The leather strap and sweat-free linings earn it extra brownie points.

9. Vega Off Road Secret ISI Certified Matt Finish Full Face Dual Visor with Peak Helmet for Men and Women Outer Clear Visor and Inner Smoke Sun Visor(Dull White Black, Size:M)

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Description

The Off Road Secret helmet comes with a high impact resistant shell, aerodynamic peak visor and elongated rear. It has a retractable sun visor for variable tint along with the outer clear visor. Sweat absorbent linings and neck protector provide comfort on long off-road rides.

Key Features

• Full face design provides max protection
• Strong ABS composite material shell
• Specially designed for off road and trail use
• Peak visor gives shade from sun rays
• Double visor – clear outer lens and retractable inner tinted lens
• Outer visor has scratch resistant coating
• Openings for smooth airflow circulation
• Padding soaks sweat and is removable
• Neck protector for extra safety
• Quick release clasp on strap

Our Expert Opinion

While pricey compared to regular helmets, the Off Road Secret offers hardcore off-road enthusiasts complete features for safe trail exploration – durable body, double visor, neck guard and superb ventilation. We also love the smart graphics and matt textures that lend premium appeal. For serious regular off-roaders, we highly recommend this capable headgear.

10. Studds Ninja Elite With Carbon Strip With Clear Visor Full Face Helmet -Black (L), motorcycling

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Description

The Ninja Elite from Studds is an aggressively styled sporty helmet with carbon fiber textures. The outer shell is engineered for high impact resistance in a lightweight package. It has a clear scratch-resistant visor and quick release chin strap for ease of use.

Key Features

• Lightweight high impact ABS injection molded shell
• Outer surface has carbon fiber finish detailing
• Approved by ISI safety standards
• Clear protective outer visor gives undistorted vision
• Quick release chin strap
• Inside has removable and washable lining
• Excellent control and aerodynamic stability at high speeds

Our Expert Opinion

This affordable full face helmet punches way above its class with a surprisingly light yet durable build and carbon touches that resemble way pricier lids. The crystal clear visor offers an unlimited view of the roads ahead while the chin strap allows easy pulling on and off in seconds. Considering its strong safety ratings and race-ready credentials, we found exceptional value in the Ninja Elite package.

11. Vega Atom Helmet Pink, Size:M(57-58 cm)

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Description

The stylishly minimalist Vega Atom open face helmet is engineered for lightness and durability. The strong ABS composite shell comes in a variety of exciting colors including pink, white, blue, grey and more. The inner lining and cheek pads are removable and washable.

Key Features

• Certified by ISI for meeting Indian safety standards
• Made using durable yet lightweight ABS composite material
• Fun color options like pink, white, blue and more
• Open face design allows clear visibility
• Good ventilation to keep head cool
• Inside has sweat absorbent hypoallergenic padding
• Cheek pads and linings can be removed for washing

Our Expert Opinion

While offering basic protection features for an open face helmet, it’s the fun youthful color palette that really brightens up the Vega Atom’s appeal. The well-ventilated shell with minimalist lines looks perfectly at home zipping along small town streets or busy city roads. The affordable pricing sweetens its case as a colorful headgear upgrade from regular options for younger riders.

12. Vega Aster Dx Open Face Helmet Black, Size:L(59-60 cm)

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Description

The Aster Dx helmet sports rugged lines in contrasting matte and gloss sections. The durable shell is specially designed for enhanced safety during off-road rides. Quick release straps and a wipe clean interior lining allow for easy maintenance after muddy trails.

Key Features

• Specially built for off road and trail riding conditions
• Durable high impact ABS plastic material shell
• Combination of glossy and matte exteriors
• Open face for maximum visibility and airflow
• Interior has quick removable and washable lining
• Quick release clasp for chin straps
• Lightweight yet sturdy construction

Our Expert Opinion

While open face means slightly less protection versus full face options, the extra wide field of vision and airflow prove extremely useful when cresting trails with this helmet. The rugged aesthetics match its off-road credentialstoo. Considering the utilitarian built and budget price, the Aster Dx is great bang for buck for hardcore bikers who love going off the beaten path during monsoons or otherwise.

13. Steelbird SBA-7 7Wings ISI Certified Flip-Up Helmet for Men and Women with Inner Smoke Sun Shield (Medium 580 MM, Dashing Black)

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Description

This 7Wings flip-up helmet from Steelbird comes loaded with features like an inner sun visor, scratch resistant coating and one touch opening mechanism. The glossy paint finish and wing styling on sides make for distinctive looks.

Key Features

• Certified safe as per ISI standards
• High resistance thermoplastic outer shell material
• Flip-up front opens up with one touch
• Integrated sun visor plus outer clear visor
• Outer visor has anti-scratch hard coating
• Interior has washable padding
• Resistant to scratches and penetration

Our Expert Opinion

This affordable flip up helmet punches way above its class with its array of safety tweaks like a sun visor, easy one-handed opening and protective shell coating. We found ventilation adequate for highway riding. The Steelbird also looks quite slick for its price. Considering all the features bundled in, this makes for one of the best value deals in its segment.

14. Vega Crux Dx Camouflage ISI Certified Smooth Matt Finish Flip-Up Helmet for Men and Women with Clear Visor(Dull Black Battle Green, Size:L)

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Description

This dual visored flip up helmet from Vega has camouflage graphics on an ABS composite shell. The front section flips up easily for converting from full face to open. Sweat absorbent interior padding ensures comfort on long rides.

Key Features

• Flip-up modular convertible design
• Available in camouflage dual tone graphic styles
• Built from durable high impact ABS material
• Outer clear visor plus inner retractable tinted visor
• Padding soaks up sweat and is fully removable
• ISI certified for compliance with safety norms
• Scratch resistant matt UV protected finish

Our Expert Opinion

Part of Vega’s popular Crux line-up, the Dx variant amazes with its battle-ready persona in camouflage plus modular form factor allowing easy conversion from full face to open. Dual visors increase usage flexibility for different light conditions. Considering the graphics, features and sturdy build at a reasonable price point, we found this helmet perfect for riders and pillions wanting decent safety with added style.

15. Steelbird SBH-17 Terminator Full Face Graphic Helmet in Glossy Finish with Clear Visor

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Description

This colorful graphic print helmet from Steelbird has a glossy exterior and comes ISI safety certified. It features an acrylic clear visor with anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings. The interiors have removable and washable cheek pads for easy cleaning.

Key Features

• Certified safe for road use as per ISI regulations
• Strong high impact ABS material shell
• Glossy UV resistant finish with graphic prints
• Scratch resistant and anti-fog coated visor
• Interior has sweat absorbent lining
• Removable and washable cheek pads
• Available in a range of graphic prints

Our Expert Opinion

While low on advanced features for the price, the Steelbird Terminator SBH-17 scores big in style with its funky youthful graphics in glossy colorways. The coated visor offers decent fog-free visibility and it meets basic Indian safety norms too. Considering the attractive design theme and bargain pricing, this makes for a fun pick as entry-level head protection for teenage riders.

Comparison for Best Helmets in India

How to Choose the Best Helmet

Follow this quick guide for picking the ideal helmet as per your specific requirements:

• Choose between full face, flip up and open face designs based on safety needs and usage
• Ensure the helmet has ISI or DOT or ECE certification for assured quality
• Match interior padding thickness and ventilation to local weather (more vents for summer)
• Opt for polycarbonate or composite

Different Types of Helmets

There are 5 main types of helmets to choose from:

Full Face Helmets

• Offer maximum safety coverage for head, cheeks and chin
• Extra impact absorption from shells covering full face
• Integrated clear outer visors for wind protection
• Some models feature internal retractable sun visors

Open Face Helmets

• Stylish minimalist designs showing face
• Provide good peripheral vision
• Maximum airflow circulation to keep head cool
• Typically don’t have drop-down visors

Flip-Up/ Modular Helmets

• Offer the best of both full face and open face worlds
• Chin bar flips up to convert to open face mode
• Can use flip function to easily talk, drink or eat
• Clear outer visor provides good wind protection

Off-Road Helmets

• Feature elongated visors and peak shade for trailing
• Designed for rougher ride conditions
• Sturdy shells and thick interior protection
• Some full face motocross helmets include chin guards

Half Helmets

Covers top half of head only above ears

• Most versatile and compact option
• Minimalist styling showing face
• Used with riding glasses for eye protection

Helmet Care and Maintenance Guide

Follow these tips to keep your helmet in top shape for the long run:

Cleaning

• Wipe outer shell using a soft cloth with mild soap and water
• Remove inner lining and cheek pads and gently hand wash
• Clean clear visor using helmet specific wet wipes
• Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners

Storage

• Keep helmet on flat clean surface away from direct sunlight when not in use to minimize paint fading
• Don’t place heavy objects on top that can deform shape
• Store off the ground to prevent scratches

Replacing Parts

• Change helmet after every major crash that impacts shell
• Replace clear visor if badly scratched or visibility poor
• Swap detachable lining and cheek pads once dirty or worn out

Checks Before Riding

• Confirm chin strap can tighten securely with no slack
• Check condition of paint and look for any cracks
• Ensure padding not loose or deteriorated
• Make sure visor is clean with zero cracks obstructing vision

FAQs about Best Helmets

Q. Which helmet is best?

• Vega Crux Flip-up Helmet
• Vega Atom Open Face Helmet
• Steelbird Cyborg Full Face Helmet
• Studds Urban Open Face Helmet
• Studds Chrome Eco Full Face Helmet

Based on our in-depth analysis, there is no single “best” helmet for every rider. The ideal helmet depends on individual riding needs and preferences around safety, design, comfort, features and budget. Riders need to prioritize these factors before choosing the best helmet suited for them.

For example – Vega Crux is the best flip-up helmet, while Steelbird Cyborg is the best full face option with double visors. For maximum safety look at Axor Apex meeting stringent certifications or premium feature-packed offerings like Vega Off Road series. Price conscious buyers get exceptional value from affordable picks like Studds range and Vega Atom.

Q. Which helmet is best for safety?

Helmets ensuring maximum safety are the ones dual certified by ISI and DOT standards. These undergo stringent impact testing for shell and inner padding quality. Within certified options, full face and flip-up helmets provide more coverage and impact resistance than open face designs.

Leading helmet brands further enhance safety via high grade durable shell materials like polycarbonate composites and engineered thermoplastics, along with interior density and thickness. So for best safety look at dual certified full face or flip-up designs from reputed makers.

Q. Which company helmet is best?

Our experts found Vega and Studds helmets excel in balancing safety, features and affordability desirable for Indian conditions. Brands like Steelbird, Axor, Wrangler and Spartan also have good offerings.

Vega leads with its diverse range including entry-level to flip-up and high-end off-roading helmets. Studds strikes an excellent value sweet spot without compromising on quality. Axor, Steelbird and Spartan are also known for advanced helmets with international certifications. For bike enthusiasts, investing in these reputed Indian helmet brands pays dividends via safety and performance.

Q. Which is safer – full face or open face helmets?

Full face helmets provide maximum protection coverage for the whole head and face region compared to open face options. The extra shell surface area allows better shock absorption in the event of an impact. So full face helmets are safer overall.

Q. How often should you change motorcycle helmets?

Ideally helmets should be replaced every 5 years from date of manufacturing as material quality degrades over time. Of course if involved in any major crash, immediately change helmet regardless of age.

Q. What is the difference between fiberglass and polycarbonate helmets?

Fiberglass shells tend to be shaped more intricately but are slightly heavier than polycarbonate material. Polycarbonate on the other hand is extremely hard and offers better elasticity for shock absorption. So polycarbonate body offers optimum strength to weight ratio.

Q. Are tinted visors allowed for road use?

As per RTO rules, riders can only use transparent or clear visors while riding on public roads. Tinted visors are meant for off road use to reduce glare during harsh sunlight. Using them on streets can get you fined.

Q. Can helmet visor scratches be removed?

It is difficult to remove deep visor scratches entirely once they occur. Only very minor scuffs can be buffed out gently with recommended polishing kits. For long term visibility, better to just replace the clear visor.

Conclusion

We hope this detailed review and FAQs help you select your ideal helmet tailored to needs, weather and riding style. Invest wisely in a quality ISI/DOT certified product from reputed brands like Steelbird, Vega, Studds or Axor. This ensures getting vital head protection when out on Indian roads full of unpredictability. Safe riding!