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A cheap helmet is not necessarily a bad helmet. What it must have is ECE 22.06 approval: that means it has passed the same impact tests as an expensive one, and it is road legal in the UK. These are the affordable helmets we recommend.
What to demand from a budget helmet
- ECE 22.06 on the chin strap label. No exceptions.
- An internal sun visor: even entry-level helmets have one now.
- A Pinlock-ready visor, so you do not suffer with fogging.
- A removable, washable lining.
- If you wear a very small or very large size, at least three shell sizes.
Our picks
The cheapest one worth buying
ECE 22.06 and DOT, sun visor and hypoallergenic lining. Its weak points: only two shell sizes and quite a lot of motorway noise. A good choice for CBT and your first bike.
Best value
At 1,400 g it weighs as little as helmets costing twice as much, with a sun visor included. If you can only buy one helmet, this is it.
The most comfortable mid-ranger
Pinlock insert included, adjustable sun visor and three shell sizes. Heavier than the LS2, at around 1,700 g.
A budget modular
P/J approval, three shell sizes and a sun visor at a mid-range price.
Where you notice a helmet is cheap
- Noise: the clearest difference. Good earplugs fix most of it.
- Lining: simpler fabrics.
- Weight, although the LS2 Storm II is the exception.
What should not change is protection: if it has ECE 22.06, it has passed the standard.
Beware of too-good-to-be-true deals
Be wary of unbranded helmets at very low prices, helmets without a visible approval label, or heavily discounted 22.05 stock. See ECE 22.06 vs 22.05.
