So which one is better? You can watch crash tests on YouTube to compare.
From a safety standpoint, you can be confident in any choice, whether it’s a thermoplastic or polycarbonate helmet like the Shark Evo-One 2, a fiberglass, or a carbon fiber helmet. All of them can achieve a 4-5 star rating from SHARP.
The key aspects to consider are the weight of the helmet and how the shell reacts upon impact.
Polycarbonate Helmets
Polycarbonate is prone to wear, so more material is required to ensure proper protection. As a result, polycarbonate helmets tend to be heavier than those made from other materials.
Advantages:
- Better impact absorption. At lower speeds, a polycarbonate helmet will perform well in absorbing shocks.
- More affordable. The manufacturing process is relatively simple, making these helmets widely available at lower prices.
- Variety of designs. They often come in unique graphics and prints and provide good protection at moderate speeds.
Disadvantages:
- Heavier weight due to the material’s density.
- Less effective noise insulation.
Most polycarbonate helmets are affordable but noisier and heavier than fiberglass and carbon fiber options.
Fiberglass Helmets
Fiberglass helmets offer a strong yet flexible outer shell that absorbs impacts well. They are commonly used for touring helmets in the mid-to-high-end range. Examples include Arai RX-7V, Schuberth C4 Pro, and Shark Spartan.
Fiberglass helmets are lighter than polycarbonate ones and have a stronger shell, though they require additional EPS foam to absorb impact energy.
Advantages:
- Lighter than polycarbonate helmets.
- Stronger shell, offering better impact absorption.
- More comfortable with features like cheek pump systems, advanced ventilation, and emergency cheek pad removal.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than polycarbonate helmets.
- Less rigid than carbon fiber, meaning they absorb less impact energy.
Fiberglass helmets are generally a balance between affordability, comfort, and performance.
Carbon Fiber Helmets
Carbon fiber is used in high-end helmets, such as the AGV Pista GP RR or Scorpion EXO-1400 Carbon Air.
Advantages:
- Lightweight — lighter than fiberglass.
- Extremely strong. Carbon fiber can withstand high-speed impacts, making it ideal for racing helmets.
- Superior impact absorption at high speeds.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive. Carbon fiber helmets are among the most costly on the market.
- Shorter lifespan compared to fiberglass and polycarbonate.
- Limited color and graphic options. Most carbon fiber helmets maintain a simple aesthetic without flashy designs.
Ask motorcyclists about their experiences wearing different types of helmets in the modern motorcycling app CryptoMoto:
When purchasing a helmet, check the SNELL and SHARP safety ratings and look for certifications like ECE or GOST. Also, be aware of the specific composite materials used. For example, Scorpion EXO helmets use Ultra TCT composite, which offers better protection than standard composites.
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