Why are motocross helmets different?

Motocross racing is one of the most popular sports in the biking domain. The diversity of its respective disciplines, such as supercross, freestyle, big air and supermoto, is similar when choosing your attire. At Bikers World, we pride ourselves on providing customers with high-quality products prioritising comfort and protection. When choosing your helmet, our range varies between adventure, motocross and road style helmets, ensuring all riding styles are catered for. However, this guide will specifically explore motocross helmets and demonstrate their differences from other helmet types so you can confidently add to your MX wardrobe.

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What are motocross helmets?

Motocross helmets, or MX helmets, are designed to protect riders in extreme off-road racing. The most elite MX riders frequently perform high-intensity stunts, such as flips and jumps, and always require maximum protection. Whether part of a crash or trying a move that may result in high impact, MX helmets must adhere to safety regulations and contain certain features to minimise injury and maintain airflow.

What makes motocross helmets different from regular helmets?

With many different biking disciplines come many different types of helmets. Depending on your ride's intensity, speed and purpose, you must have the appropriate gear to match. For MX helmets, your safety is always the top priority. Without the distinctive features of motocross headgear, you could not perform your best. So, what qualities make up an MX helmet?

A reinforced outer shell and chin bar

Your MX helmet will feature a reinforced outer shell and chin bar so you can carry out high-impact riding tricks which often exceed ground level. When completing risky jumps or flips, your helmet must prevent any potential injuries while minimising impact in the event of a fall.

The chin bar of MX helmets is more pronounced than alternative designs, which helps to protect riders from crash-related injuries while enabling constant airflow.

Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS)

A Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) within your helmet is designed to prevent critical head injuries and minimise rotational head motions that could negatively impact your brain.

Injuries derived from rotational motion are often referred to as oblique impacts, as the direction of motion is at an alternative angle to the impact source. This type of impact increases the chances of brain damage; therefore, your helmet must have a built-in MIPS.

Within the MIPS of your helmet, the low-friction layer mimics your brain's protective system, which enables it to move slightly in your head. The system is created to grant your head the same freedom when wearing your helmet, allowing it to move 10-15mm on impact. This movement stems from the low-friction layer causing the padding of your helmet to be mobile, giving you the right amount of room to remain safe.

Airflow

Unlike other helmets, MX helmets do not have a face shield or built-in visor, as high-intensity rides require maximum airflow. For eye protection and extra facial coverage, MX riders should wear goggles to remain protected from hazards such as dust, stones or dirt.

In warmer weather conditions, the heat should not harm the quality of riders’ performances or safety. MX helmets are fitted with a robust ventilation system which contains large vents, allowing lengthy races to stay cool and comfortable.

Lightweight

Throughout high-intensity rides, your MX helmet should not be a source of added weight, particularly when performing moves that require you to be upside down. An appropriately weighted helmet will also help to maintain rider awareness, making it easier to combat the most unpredictable and pacey races.

Why do motocross helmets have peaks?

As with the previous features of MX helmets, the peak, or visor, which sits atop the helmet, has an important role. While alternative helmet designs are streamlined to support fast-paced racing, motocross headgear needs meticulous construction to keep riders comfortable and safe.

The often muddy or rocky terrain of MX racing means that riders are prone to coming into contact with dirt or gravel. When disrupted by the movement of the bike’s wheels, debris may rise from the rear towards the rider and obstruct their view. With a visor in place, this significantly decreases the chance of any visual interference.

MX trails also occur in nature-heavy environments with inevitable hazards such as uneven ground or branches. If riders come into contact with branches at eye level, the visor will take the impact and protect your face. The practicality of the peak will minimise disturbance to your ride while acting as a protective shield.

During the warmer months, the peak of your helmet will block the sun from your view, helping you to see the track or trail. Not only will your peak reduce brightness and squinting to your eyes, but it will also prevent heavily shaded areas from appearing too dark or obscure, helping you to stay confident throughout.

Off-road helmets vs street helmets

To give you a thorough idea of the differences between off-road and street helmets, we have compared the Alpinestars (MX25) S-M10 Helmet and the Arai (2024) Quantic Solid Helmet. Although visually different, knowing the distinctive technological features is good for getting the most out of your helmet and riding experience.

MX Helmets Street Helmets
Design Bulky and pronounced to allow for airflow and protection. Minimalist and sleek to cater to high-speed rides.
Ventilation Full ventilation throughout the helmet, including the raised chin bar. Less ventilation is required as high speed will naturally allow wind to reach the rider.
Eye Protection The visor of an MX helmet will protect your eyes from the sun. Suitable goggles are to be worn separately for full eye coverage. Street helmets have built-in, closeable face shields to protect riders from wind, rain and debris.
Noise Protection MX helmets should not cancel out noise, as riders must maintain awareness during rides. They may also need to hear other riders when working as a team. A street helmet's fitted design helps cancel noise out as high speed will naturally pick up traffic or weather-related noise.
Weight No helmet design should ever add excess weight to a rider. All helmets should be constructed of lightweight materials to ensure maximum safety.
General Safety MX helmets are fitted with MIPS and are designed to prevent the rider from coming into contact with dirt, rocks or debris. The aerodynamic shape of a street helmet causes you to glide along a surface, preventing any critical movement in the neck area.
Maintenance An MX helmet's removable padding and liners make for an easy cleaning experience. Wash the outer shell down with warm, soapy water or a hose. Street helmets do not require frequent cleaning as terrains are generally less dirty than off-road terrains. Our range of cleaning products is perfect for when they need a quick freshen-up.


Choose your favourite motocross helmet from Bikers World!

Our helmet brands vary from Alpinestars and Bell to Shoei, giving our customers access to the best styles in the sport. You will find everything you need here, from quality to comfort, no matter your biking discipline.

Purchase your favourite helmet from Bikers World today and qualify for Free Economy Delivery when you spend over £30!

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