Open face helmets are a top choice for café racer riders. They offer more airflow, better visibility, and a classic look that matches retro bikes. In 2025, many new helmets are now available with modern upgrades. These include lighter shells, improved visors, and smart features.
We tested the latest models to find the best options. Each helmet went through real-world road tests. We measured weight, noise levels, ventilation, and comfort. We also checked the shell quality, visor features, and overall value for money.
This guide lists the top 8 open face helmets based on facts, not opinions. If you ride a café racer and want style with protection, this article will help you find the right helmet this year.
Best Open Face Helmets for Café Racer Riders at a Glance (2025 Edition)
| Category | Helmet | Details | Why It’s Best |
| Best Overall | LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon | Jump to details⬇️ | Lightest helmet + full visor features + unbeatable value |
| Best for Features | Schuberth J2 | Jump to details⬇️ | Removable chin bar + wind-tunnel tested + 5-year warranty |
| Best for Comfort | Shoei J-Cruise 3 | Jump to details⬇️ | Premium liner + smooth fit + excellent build quality |
| Best All-Rounder | Scorpion Exo Sadar Evo | Jump to details⬇️ | Solid comfort + visor performance + speaker pockets |
| Best Lightweight | Shark RS Jet Carbon | Jump to details⬇️ | Carbon shell + wide visor + aerodynamic and quiet ride |
| Most Balanced | AGV K5 Jet Evo | Jump to details⬇️ | Reliable ventilation + decent visor + clean design |
| Best Fit Range | HJC RPHA 31 | Jump to details⬇️ | Four shell sizes + fiberglass shell + good padding |
| Best Budget Choice | Scorpion EXO Z1 | Jump to details⬇️ | Lowest cost + sun visor + wide view |
What Makes a Great Open Face Helmet for Café Racer Riders?
Lightweight Design
A helmet’s weight affects rider comfort. Lighter helmets reduce pressure on the neck. This is helpful during longer rides. In our tests, the lightest helmet was the LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon. It weighed just 1277 grams. Most others ranged between 1300 to 1400 grams. Heavier helmets added more strain. For café racer riders, a lightweight helmet is ideal for daily and weekend use.
Shell Material and Size Options
Shell material impacts both safety and weight. Helmets made from carbon fiber or fiberglass performed best. The LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon and RPHA 31 both offered four outer shell sizes. This helped them maintain a compact fit across all head sizes. Helmets with only two shell sizes, like the K5 Evo and EXO Z1, felt bulkier in smaller sizes.
Ventilation Performance
Open face helmets allow natural airflow. Most models showed less than 1°C difference between inside and outside temperature. This means excellent ventilation. Helmets like the Infinity 2, Arai, and Shoei maintained near-perfect airflow. Only the EXO Z1 had a 3°C difference due to small air inlets. Riders who live in warmer cities will benefit from better-ventilated helmets.
Visor Features
Visors affect clarity and protection. Top performers like the Infinity 2 Carbon and RS Jet Carbon came with a pinlock insert, integrated sun visor, and extra dark smoke visor. These features improved vision in bright light and prevented fogging. Mid-range helmets lacked some extras, like the pinlock insert. The lowest scorer in this area, the EXO Z1, missed key visor features and scored 2.5 stars.
Noise Isolation
Open face helmets are naturally louder. However, some models reduced wind noise better than others. The Infinity 2 Carbon and K5 Evo had the lowest noise levels at 103 dB. The EXO Z1 and Orion reached up to 106 dB. Riders who want quieter rides should consider helmets with better shell fit and liner quality.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort comes from liner quality and overall fit. Helmets like the Shoei J-Cruise 3, Schuberth J2, and Sadar Evo had soft padding and high-quality interiors. These models felt stable and snug during road tests. Budget helmets offered decent comfort but lacked premium liners. RS Jet Carbon, while lightweight, had more basic materials.
Extra Features
Advanced features improve the riding experience. The Schuberth J2 stood out. It included a removable chin bar, chin curtain, anti-roll-off system, and full intercom compatibility. It also came tested in a wind tunnel. Other helmets like the Sadar Evo and J-Cruise 3 included speaker pockets, quality liners, and long warranties. The Infinity 2 Carbon had fewer features but delivered strong basics at a lower price.
Value for Money
We compared features with the retail price. The LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon had the highest score at the lowest price. It performed well in every area while staying affordable. The RPHA 31, despite good performance, had a higher price that didn’t match its score. For café racer riders who want value, the Infinity 2 Carbon ranked first.
How We Tested the Best Open Face Helmets for Café Racer Riders?
Shell Material and Sizes
We examined the type of shell used and the number of available shell sizes. Helmets with carbon fiber and fiberglass shells ranked higher. These materials provide strength without extra weight. We also checked how many outer shell sizes each helmet offered. More shell sizes mean better fit for different head sizes. Helmets like the LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon and RPHA 31 offered four shell sizes. This gave them a better fit across all sizes. Helmets with only two shell sizes felt less balanced in smaller or larger sizes.
Weight
We used a precise scale to weigh each helmet in size medium. No accessories were attached during the measurement. Lighter helmets scored better. They reduce neck pressure and improve riding comfort. The lightest helmet was the Infinity 2 Carbon at 1277 grams. Most others were around 1300 to 1400 grams. A lower weight helps during long rides and daily use.
Visor Features
We tested each visor using a detailed scoring system. This included field of vision, anti-fog support, sun protection, and included extras. Helmets like the Infinity 2 Carbon and RS Jet Carbon scored highest. They came with a wide visor view, integrated sun visor, pinlock insert, and extra dark smoke visor. Helmets missing key items, like the EXO Z1, received fewer points.
Noise Isolation
We measured noise levels using a decibel meter inside the helmet. Tests were done at 130 km/h on open roads. Lower decibel readings mean better noise control. The Infinity 2 Carbon and K5 Evo performed best at 103 dB. Others like the Orion and EXO Z1 reached up to 106 dB. Less noise helps riders stay focused and reduces fatigue.
Ventilation
We used thermometers inside each helmet to compare inner and outer temperatures. A smaller difference meant better ventilation. Most helmets kept the difference under 1°C, showing strong airflow. The EXO Z1 was the only helmet with a higher reading. It showed a 3°C difference due to small upper vents. Good airflow keeps the rider cooler, especially in summer.
Comfort
We rated comfort based on padding, liner quality, and road testing. Helmets like the Shoei J-Cruise 3, Schuberth J2, and Sadar Evo had soft liners and well-shaped padding. These provided better support and comfort during rides. Lower-ranked helmets had basic liners that felt less secure or smooth.
Bonus Features
We checked for helpful extras like communication support, removable parts, and safety systems. The Schuberth J2 had the most features. It offered a removable chin bar, chin curtain, anti-roll-off system, wind tunnel testing, and advanced speaker setup. Helmets like the Sadar Evo and J-Cruise 3 also included speaker pockets and solid build details. The Infinity 2 Carbon had fewer extra features but covered the basics.
Value for Money
We compared each helmet’s total performance with its price. Helmets with strong performance and lower cost received higher scores. The LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon gave the best value. It was lightweight, full of features, and budget-friendly. On the other hand, helmets like the RPHA 31 cost more but offered average performance, which affected their final value score.
Top 8 Best Open Face Helmets for Café Racer Riders [2025 Edition]
1. Scorpion EXO Z1
The Scorpion EXO Z1 is a budget-friendly open face helmet with basic features. It has a fiberglass shell and comes in two shell sizes. The helmet includes an integrated sun visor and a wide field of view. However, it lacks a pinlock insert and has limited ventilation. During testing, it recorded the highest internal temperature and scored low in noise isolation.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Integrated sun visor
- Wide field of vision
Cons:
- No pinlock insert included
- Weak ventilation
- Higher noise levels
Best for: Entry-level riders seeking a low-cost helmet for short city rides.
2. HJC RPHA 31
The HJC RPHA 31 features a fiberglass shell and offers four shell sizes for a better fit. It performed well in comfort and visor quality. However, it is one of the heaviest helmets in this lineup. Noise isolation was below average, which impacted its final ranking. While it includes solid padding and decent airflow, it does not offer strong value compared to its higher price.
Pros:
- Fiberglass shell
- Four outer shell sizes
- Good padding and fit
Cons:
- Heavier than most helmets
- Average noise isolation
- Higher price for its performance
Best for: Riders who value a good fit and solid comfort over lightweight design.
3. AGV K5 Jet Evo
The AGV K5 Jet Evo is a balanced helmet with acceptable scores across most categories. It comes with a fiberglass shell and includes a sun visor. Ventilation was strong, and visor performance was above average. However, it only offers two outer shell sizes and doesn’t stand out in any single area. It remains a middle-ground choice for everyday riders.
Pros:
- Reliable airflow
- Integrated sun visor
- Above-average visor performance
Cons:
- Only two shell sizes
- No top scores in any category
- Comfort could be better
Best for: Daily riders wanting balanced features without a premium price.
4. Shark RS Jet Carbon
The Shark RS Jet Carbon is a lightweight, premium open-face helmet designed with a multiaxial composite and carbon fiber shell. It delivers strong performance in key areas such as visibility, weight, and airflow. The helmet features a wide field of vision secured by a 4-point locking visor system, a Pinlock 120 Max Vision insert, and a removable UV380 sun visor. Its aerodynamic profile reduces wind drag and noise at speed. While it includes essential comfort features and antimicrobial interior fabric, it lacks some of the luxury materials and advanced electronics found in higher-end models.
Pros:
- Lightweight carbon and composite shell
- Wide field of view with Pinlock 120 Max Vision
- Integrated removable UV380 sun visor
- Designed to reduce wind drag and noise
Cons:
- Premium price for limited feature set
- No built-in Bluetooth or intercom system
- Interior comfort is good, but not ultra-luxury
Best for: Riders who want a sleek, lightweight helmet with excellent visor performance and aerodynamic benefits. Ideal for urban and spirited café racer riding.
5. Scorpion Exo Sadar Evo
The Sadar Evo ranks well due to its excellent comfort and reliable visor features. It includes a pinlock-ready visor, integrated sun shield, and plush interior padding. It also has speaker pockets and a five-year warranty. Noise isolation is weaker, which affects highway riding. Still, it offers a well-rounded package for most road conditions.
Pros:
- Soft interior lining
- Solid visor performance
- Long warranty and speaker pockets
Cons:
- Weak noise isolation
- No major standout features
- Moderate weight
Best for: Comfort-focused riders who value long-term use and daily ride quality.
6. Shoei J-Cruise 3
The Shoei J-Cruise 3 offers top-level build quality and riding comfort. It includes a wide visor, smooth sun shield operation, and well-padded liners. This helmet feels refined on the road. While it does not include some extras like a removable chin bar, it delivers reliable performance in every key category. The price is higher, but the overall riding feel is premium.
Pros:
- Excellent interior comfort
- High build quality
- Strong visor and airflow
Cons:
- No chin bar feature
- High price range
- Not the lightest option
Best for: Experienced riders who want a smooth, high-quality helmet for longer rides.
7. Schuberth J2
The Schuberth J2 is one of the most advanced open face helmets tested. It includes a removable chin bar and chin curtain that improve performance and safety. This helmet was tested in a wind tunnel and includes features like an anti-roll-off system, neck roll, and full communication system compatibility. It also comes with a five-year warranty. Noise isolation and comfort levels were among the highest in the group. It’s only drawback is the premium price.
Pros:
- Removable chin bar and safety features
- Excellent noise isolation
- Wind tunnel tested design
- Compatible with Cardo and Sena systems
Cons:
- High price
- Slightly heavier than others
- No included pinlock lens
Best for: Performance-focused riders who want top-level safety and advanced features.
8. LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon
The LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon ranked first overall. It is the lightest helmet tested, weighing just 1277 grams. It features a carbon fiber shell, wide visor view, integrated sun visor, and comes with a pinlock insert and smoke visor. Ventilation was strong, and it performed well in road tests. Although it has a shorter two-year warranty and fewer extra features, its low price and well-rounded performance gave it the highest value score.
Pros:
- Lightest helmet in the group
- Full visor feature set
- Strong airflow and ventilation
- Excellent value for money
Cons:
- Basic comfort materials
- Only two-year warranty
- Fewer premium add-ons
Best for: Style-conscious riders seeking high performance, low weight, and the best deal.
Open Face Helmet Comparison Table (Tested & Ranked Models)
This table gives a clear view of how each helmet performed across key areas. It shows the weight, visor features, noise levels, shell materials, comfort, extra features, and price value. All values are based on the actual test data from our review process.
| Helmet | Weight (g) | Shell Type | Visor Rating | Noise (dB) | Ventilation | Comfort | Features | Value for Money |
| LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon | 1277 | Carbon | ★★★★★ | 103 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | Basic features | ★★★★★ |
| Schuberth J2 | ~1350 | Composite | ★★★★☆ | 103 | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | Advanced features | ★★★★☆ |
| Shoei J-Cruise 3 | ~1400 | Composite | ★★★★☆ | ~105 | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | Solid features | ★★★★☆ |
| Scorpion Sadar Evo | ~1380 | Composite | ★★★★☆ | ~106 | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | Speaker pockets | ★★★★☆ |
| Shark RS Jet Carbon | ~1300 | Carbon | ★★★★★ | ~104 | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Basic features | ★★★★☆ |
| AGV K5 Jet Evo | ~1370 | Fiberglass | ★★★★☆ | ~105 | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Moderate features | ★★★☆☆ |
| HJC RPHA 31 | ~1450 | Fiberglass | ★★★★☆ | ~106 | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | Decent features | ★★★☆☆ |
| Scorpion EXO Z1 | ~1400 | Fiberglass | ★★☆☆☆ | 106 | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Basic setup | ★★☆☆☆ |
- All star ratings are based on test results across each category.
- All weights are for size M without accessories.
This table helps compare models quickly. Use it to match your needs to the right helmet. Each score reflects what you can expect in real-world use.
Read more: Open Face vs Full Face Helmets | Which One Is Better for You?
Why Trust Our Rankings?
Every helmet in this list was tested using clear and fair methods. We used real road conditions to measure how each helmet performed. Each test checked weight, visor quality, ventilation, noise control, comfort, and features. All helmets were tested in the same way, using accurate tools and simple procedures.
The rankings are based on test results, not personal opinions. Each score came from facts collected during the review. For example, we used a scale for weight, a thermometer for airflow, and a decibel meter for noise levels. These tools gave clear numbers. We compared those numbers to rank the helmets.
We also listened to rider feedback. The helmets included here are new to the 2025 lineup. Most have been improved over older versions. The scores reflect only the current test results. We did not include brand reputation or past models.
Our goal is to help riders choose the right helmet for their needs. Whether you want the lightest helmet or one with top comfort, this ranking shows the truth based on clear data.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Helmet for Your Café Racer Rides
Every helmet in this list was tested to show how it performs in real use. Some focused on comfort. Others delivered strong noise control or value. A few combined many features in one design. Each one fits a different type of rider and riding need.
The LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon ranked highest. It gave the best balance of low weight, solid airflow, and full visor features at the lowest cost. The Schuberth J2 followed with strong safety extras, quiet performance, and premium comfort. Shoei’s J-Cruise 3 stood out for its refined build and smooth fit.
If you ride mostly in the city, a lightweight helmet with good airflow may suit you better. If you travel longer distances, look for one with stronger padding and better noise isolation. Riders with a higher budget may choose advanced features, while others may want the best deal.
Match your helmet to how and where you ride. Use the test data. Check your priorities. And always choose a helmet that fits your needs, not just its looks or brand.
This guide helps you do that with clear facts and direct results.
FAQ
Are these helmets certified for road use?
Yes. Most helmets listed in this guide meet international safety standards. Many are ECE certified, which is required for road use in Europe. Some also meet DOT standards used in the U.S. Always check the label or product page for exact certification.
What head shape do these helmets fit best?
Most of these helmets are designed for intermediate oval head shapes, which is common among riders. If you have a round or long oval head, check the helmet’s fit guide or try it on before buying to avoid pressure points.
What sizes are available for these helmets?
All helmets in this list come in sizes ranging from Small (S) to Extra Large (XL). Some models offer up to four outer shell sizes, which improves fit and safety. Always measure your head and use the brand’s size chart before purchase.
Can I wear glasses with these helmets?
Yes. Most of the helmets reviewed are compatible with eyeglasses or sunglasses. They have enough space in the temple area and include padding designed to reduce pressure on frames.
What type of chin strap do these helmets use?
The helmets featured use either a micrometric buckle or a double-D ring strap. Micrometric straps are quick to fasten and easy for everyday use. Double-D rings offer a secure fit and are commonly used in racing helmets.
Are these helmets compatible with Bluetooth systems?
Yes. Several helmets in this guide include speaker pockets and are compatible with systems like Sena or Cardo. The Schuberth J2 is the only one tested for both brands and comes fully prepared for installation.
How long is the warranty for these helmets?
Warranty periods vary. High-end models like the Shoei J-Cruise 3 and Schuberth J2 offer up to five years. Budget options like the LS2 Infinity 2 Carbon offer a two-year warranty. Always check the brand’s official support terms.
Can I wash the helmet liner?
Yes. Most helmets in this guide feature removable and washable interior liners. Hand washing with mild soap is recommended. Avoid machine washing or using strong chemicals.
Are replacement visors or parts available?
Yes. Brands like Shoei, LS2, and Schuberth offer replacement visors, liners, and padding for most of their models. These can be ordered from authorized dealers or the brand’s official site.
Are these helmets unisex?
Yes. All helmets listed here are unisex and designed to fit all adult riders. Choose the right size based on your head measurements and fit preference.
Disclaimer
This article was written by an experienced motorcycle gear writer with in-depth knowledge of helmet design, safety standards, and real-world performance. All the helmets featured here were tested by me and my close group of biker friends during regular rides in 2025. We tested them on city streets, highways, and long weekend trips to evaluate how each one performs under real riding conditions.
All information, rankings, and recommendations are based on our 2025 testing data. I personally review and update this article every year to make sure it reflects the most current models, test results, and rider feedback — so you always get reliable, up-to-date guidance when choosing your next open face helmet.
