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Comparison · Helmets

Shoei Neotec 3 vs LS2 Strobe II: is a premium flip-front worth it?

A premium flip-front against a mid-range one: weight, approval, shell sizes, sun visor, Pinlock, noise and price. What the extra money buys.

By the Riders Emotion team · Updated

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A good premium flip-front costs several times as much as a mid-range one. Is the difference justified? We compare Shoei’s benchmark with LS2’s most sensible modular.

Head to head

Shoei Neotec 3 vs LS2 FF908 Strobe II
SpecShoei Neotec 3LS2 FF908 Strobe II
Overall score8.77.9
Safety8.97.8
Comfort9.27.8
Quietness8.87.2
Ventilation8.27.8
Value7.09.0
Weight1,881 g1,700 g
ApprovalECE 22.06ECE 22.06 P/J
Shell sizes33
Shell materialMulti-composite fibre (AIM)KPA thermoplastic
Internal sun visorYesYes
Pinlock anti-fogIncludedReady (Max Vision)
Fastening—Metal micrometric ratchet
SizesXS to XXL—

Highlighted in orange: the winner of each measurable spec. Manufacturer data.

Surprise: the LS2 is lighter

According to their makers, the Strobe II weighs around 1,700 g and the Neotec 3 around 1,880 g in size M. The LS2 is lighter, which is unusual between a cheap helmet and an expensive one.

What they share

  • Three shell sizes.
  • Internal sun visor.
  • Flip-up chin bar.

What the Shoei gets you

  • Quietness and finish in another league.
  • Pinlock included (the LS2 is Pinlock ready).
  • AIM multi-composite shell against thermoplastic.
  • Pads in several thicknesses for a tailored fit.

What the LS2 gets you

  • P/J approval confirmed by the maker.
  • A much lower price.
  • Less weight.

Verdict

If you tour a lot and spend hours on motorways, the Shoei justifies much of its price in quietness and comfort. If you use a flip-front for commuting and the odd trip, the LS2 gives you nearly everything that matters for much less.

More flip-fronts compared in our modular helmet guide.

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