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The Hornet ADV is the benchmark adventure helmet; the Explorer, the best-value choice. And it has something the Shoei does not: an internal sun visor.
Head to head
| Spec | Shoei Hornet ADV | LS2 MX701 Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 8.5 | 8.3 |
| Safety | 9.0 | 8.4 |
| Comfort | 8.8 | 8.2 |
| Quietness | 7.8 | 7.4 |
| Ventilation | 8.8 | 8.4 |
| Value | 7.6 | 8.8 |
| Weight | — | 1,550 g |
| Approval | ECE 22.06 | ECE 22.06 |
| Shell sizes | 4 | 3 |
| Shell material | Multi-composite fibre (AIM+) | HPFC composite fibre |
| Internal sun visor | No | Yes |
| Pinlock anti-fog | EVO included | Included (Max Vision) |
| Sizes | XS to XXXL | — |
Highlighted in orange: the winner of each measurable spec. Manufacturer data.
Shell sizes: Shoei wins
Four shell sizes for the Hornet ADV, three for the Explorer.
Sun visor: LS2 wins
The Explorer has an internal sun visor; the Hornet ADV does not. If you ride a lot in the sun, that is a big plus.
Pinlock: a draw
Both include a Pinlock (EVO on the Shoei, Max Vision on the LS2).
Finish and ventilation: advantage Shoei
The Hornet ADV, with its AIM+ shell, has Shoei’s finish and fit and a carefully shaped peak that does not catch the wind.
Verdict
See all of them in our adventure helmets selection.
