Helmets are the most important gear involving safety for a two-wheeler vehicle. While there are ample amounts of helmets available to purchase around the world, few of them stand out due to their durability, features, and aggressive pricing. These brands provide different helmets around different price ranges to suit the customer. As helmets are an essential safety gear, you also require one to ride on Indian roads according to traffic laws.

It is also necessary to note that while having a helmet is an essential, a bike insurance is also needed to legally ride a two-wheeler vehicle on Indian roads as per Motor Vehicle Act 1988. Selecting the best helmet brand suitable for you may be a hassle considering the amount of options available. While buying helmets you must consider your budget, your use, style, design, and value of the helmet. In order to help you out on this decision, we will cover the best helmet brands around the world in this article.
List of Best Helmet Brands in the World
Here’s a table providing the list of best helmet brands around the world, sorted according to their starting price.
Brand Name | Start Price of Helmets (In ₹*) | ISI Certified |
---|---|---|
Steelbird Helmets | ₹670 | Yes |
Vega Helmets | ₹890 | Yes |
Studds Helmets | ₹900 | Yes |
THH Helmets | ₹950 | Yes |
Axxis Helmets | ₹2,550 | Yes |
Axor Helmets | ₹2,681 | Yes |
SMK Helmets | ₹3,500 | Yes |
LS2 Helmets | ₹3,600 | No |
MT Helmets | ₹3,999 | Yes |
HJC Helmets | ₹7,500 | No |
Bell Helmets | ₹9,500 | No |
AGV Helmets | ₹12,500 | No |
Shark Helmets | ₹20,000 | No |
Shoei Helmets | ₹25,000 | No |
Arai Helmets | ₹36,000 | No |
*(Starting prices are subject to vary depending on helmet type, sales, different websites, etc)
1. Steelbird Helmets
Established in 1964, Steelbird Helmets is one of India's most known and trusted helmet brands. They’re known for their high-quality, durable yet affordable helmets. They have a vast variety of options and are relatively affordable than other brands. That's why Steelbird helmets tend to a larger audience, especially in India. However, other premium brands do beat Steelbird but at a higher price range.
Key Specifications of Steelbird Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹670 - ₹12,000+
- Types of helmets: Full-face, Open-face, Modular (Flip-up), Off-road
- Key models: Steelbird SBA-1, Steelbird Air, Steelbird SA-2, Steelbird Off-road series
- Wearable by: Men and Women
- Certification: ISI Certified
- Suitable for: Motorcycles, Scooters
2. Vega Helmets
Vega Auto Accessories Pvt. Ltd, headquartered in Belgaum, India, has been a leader in helmet manufacturing since 1982. Similar to SteelBird Helmets, they are produced and manufactured in India and provide stylish yet affordable designed helmets. They are also known for their Marvel and DC collections.
Key Specifications of Vega Helmets:
- Price Range: ₹890 - ₹6000+
- Types of helmets: Full Face, Open Face
- Key models: Bolt, Breeze, Cliff
- Wearable by: Men and Women
- Certification: ISI Certified
- Suitable for: Motorcycle, Scooters and Bicycles
3. Studds Helmets
Another Indian brand, Studds Helmet was established in 1972. It sells helmets to over 50 countries worldwide. While making over 14 million helmets in a year,the helmets go through 25 checks before the final approval, and the rejection rate is less than 1%. Studds focus on safety more than anything. One of the key selling points of Studds is providing maximum protection and comfort, helping it to become a global brand.
Key Specifications of Studds Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹900 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full face, Open Face, Flip-ups, Flip-offs, Off-Roads
- Key models: Studds Ninja Elite, Studds Thunder, Studds Urban, Studds Chrome Elite, Studds Professional
- Wearable by: Men and Women
- Certification: ISI, ISO, SLSI, DOT (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Scooters, Commuter Bikes, Sports Bikes, Cruiser Bikes, Off-road Bikes
4. THH Helmets
Founded in 1974, Tong Ho Hsing (THH) Helmets is a Taiwan-based helmet manufacturer known for its advanced safety technology, lightweight materials, and aerodynamic designs. They use carbon fibre kevlar technology. THH products are manufactured to the highest international quality standards, ensuring consistent quality over time. One of their key features is that they have many international safety certifications.
Key Specifications of THH Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹950 onwards, but average prices are from ₹3000 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full Face, Modular, Motocross, Open Face, Dual Sports
- Key models: THH TS-41, THH T-76, THH TX-27, THH TX-15 Motocross
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers
- Certification: DOT, ECE, ISI Certified (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Adventure Bikes, Sports Bikes, Touring Bikes, Off-road Motorcycles
5. Axxis Helmets
A relatively new brand, Axxis Helmets was founded in 2020. Over the span of 5 years, it was able to leave a global mark by selling its products to over 60+ countries and over 4 continents. Each AXXIS helmet is made out of fiber composite or polycarbonate. The three main elements, the external shell, shock absorbing EPS liner and the accessories such as comfort linings, retention system, shield and ventilation make it appealing to the audience.
Key Specifications of Axxis Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹2550 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full face, Modular, Open face, Off-Road
- Key models: Axxis Draken, Axxis Eagle, Axxis Segment, Axxis Wolf
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Track Racers, Urban Riders
- Certification: ECE, DOT, ISI Certified (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Street Motorcycles, Touring Bikes, Naked Bikes
6. Axor Helmets
Founded in 2015, Axor Helmets was initially designed in Italy, and was promoted by Vega, India. Axor was created to cater to the premium biking segment with high-end products while keeping it budget-friendly yet giving on the quality and safety standards of the helmets. The brand is especially popular among sports bike riders and touring enthusiasts, considering its Apex series seen in MotoGP.
Key Specifications of Axor Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹2681 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full Face, Open Face, Off-Road
- Key models: Axor Apex, Axor Rage, Axor Retro, Axor Street, Axor X-Cross
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Track Racers
- Certification: DOT, ECE, ISI Certified (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Naked Bikes, Touring Bikes, Off-road Motorcycles
7. SMK Helmets
Started in 1972 out of a small garage in India by young brothers who enjoyed riding, SMK Helmets is a premium helmet brand from Studds Accessories Ltd, India. It is known for being budget-friendly in the premium segment of the helmets. Having features like drop down smoke visors, comfortable and washable inner liners, and decent airflow, it has become an entry level premium helmet worldwide.
Key Specifications of SMK Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹3500 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full-face, Modular (Flip-up), Open-face, Dual - Sport, Off-road
- Key models: SMK Twister, SMK Titan, SMK Gullwing, SMK Typhoon
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Long-distance Tourers, Sports Riders
- Certification: ECE, DOT, ISI Certified (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Touring Bikes, Sports Bikes, Adventure Motorcycles, Street Bikes
8. LS2 Helmets
Established in 2007, LS2 had a clear vision, to become the leader in the motorcycle helmet industry. LS2 sells helmets to over 125+ countries all over the world. It is one of the leading brands in the helmet industry. LS2 states quality, design, innovation and safety are its brand’s pillars. By using advanced technology and materials like micro weave carbon, HPFC, HPTT, and KPA, they have made themselves distinct in the market. Their superior aerodynamics, innovative ventilation systems, and moisture-wicking liners make them a top choice for riders worldwide.
Key Specifications of LS2 Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹3600 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full-face, Modular (Flip-up), Open-face, Dual-sport, Off-road, Adventure, Junior
- Key models: LS2 Rapid, LS2 Challenger, LS2 Arrow, LS2 Valiant, LS2 MX701 Explorer
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Children, Professional Racers
- Certification: ECE, DOT (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Touring Bikes, Adventure Motorcycles, Off-road Bikes, Naked Bikes
9. MT Helmets
Founded in 1968 in Spain, MT Helmets (Manufacturas Tomás) is a globally recognized helmet brand. Selling to over 125+ countries in the world, MT helmets are famous for their 10+ Years experience in the MotoGP World championships with 2 titles to their names. The best thing about MT helmets is their build quality and fitting.
Key Specifications of MT Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹3999 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full Face, Modular, Jet , Off-Road, Kids
- Key models: MT Thunder 3, MT Hummer, MT Stinger, MT Revenge 2
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers, Kids
- Certification: ECE, DOT, SNELL, ISI (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Naked Bikes, Touring Bikes, Adventure Motorcycles, Track Racing
10. HJC Helmets
Founded in 1971 in South Korea, HJC Helmets is one of the world's leading helmet manufacturers, known for producing high-quality, aerodynamically advanced, and safety-certified helmets.They are famous for making one of the safest and most comfortable helmets. The brand has a strong presence in MotoGP.
Key Specifications of HJC Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹7500 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full-face, Modular, Open-face, Off-road, Racing Helmets
- Key models: HJC C70, HJC RPHA 11, HJC i90, HJC F70
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers
- Certification: ECE, DOT, SNELL (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Touring Bikes, Naked Bikes, Adventure Motorcycles, Track Racing
11. Bell Helmets
Founded in 1954, California, USA, Bell helmets is one of the first helmet manufacturers renowned globally. They have deep roots in the racing industry providing helmets and sponsorships in Motocross, Auto-racing and Motocyle racing. The brand is particularly known for its MotoGP Helmets and Off-road racing helmets, that provide proper ventilation, anti-fog visors and aerodynamic designs.
Key Specifications of Bell Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹9500 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full face, Half Face, Off-road, Kids
- Key models: Bell Qualifier, Bell Star DLX, Bell MX-9 Adventure, Bell Race Star
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers, Off-road Riders, Children
- Certification: DOT, ECE, SNELL (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Off-road Motorcycles, Track Racing, Adventure Bikes
12. AGV Helmets
AGV (Amisano Gino Valenza) has been a brand in the industry since 1947, recognized for its innovation and all round dominance in the helmet industry. . AGV has been in MotoGP racing for a long time and has been the helmet of choice for legendary riders like Valentino Rossi.The brand is specifically known for its race-spec aerodynamics, advanced ventilation systems, and ultra-comfortable liners.
Key Specifications of AGV Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹12,500 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full face, Flip-ups Racing
- Key models: AGV K1, AGV K3 SV, AGV K6, AGV Pista GP RR
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers
- Certification: ECE, DOT, SNELL, FIM (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Track Racing, Touring Bikes, Naked Bikes, Adventure Motorcycles
13. Shark Helmets
Shark helmets began its adventure in the year 1989, in France. This French brand is known for its premium quality helmets, with durability being their top priority. This is one of the top brands focusing on high grade safety. They also come with a 5- year warranty. Shark helmets are designed in such a way that each component of the helmet will serve a purpose.
Key Specifications of Shark Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹20,000 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full face, Modular, Jet, Racing
- Key models: Shark Race-R Pro, Shark Evo One 2, Shark Skwal 2, Shark D-Skwal
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers, Long-distance Tourers
- Certification: ECE, DOT, SHARP, FIM, INM, JIS, CCC (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Touring Bikes, City Bikes, Adventure Motorcycles, Track Racing
14. Shoei Helmets
Founded in 1959 in Japan, Shoei Helmets is one of the most prestigious and technologically advanced helmet brands in the world Every SHOEI helmet is still handmade in Japan utilizing a sophisticated process that involves over 50 people for every helmet. Even though hand made, they proudly claim to have the latest technology in their helmets. These helmets are used by famous racers like Marc Marquez, Bradley Smith and Malcolm Stewart. They are pretty dominant in the premium segment of helmets, with their unique manufacturing process.
Key Specifications of Shoei Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹25,000 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full face, Open face, Adventure, Modular, Off-road
- Key models: Shoei RF-1400, Shoei Neotec II, Shoei X-SPR Pro, Shoei VFX-WR
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers
- Certification: ECE, DOT, SNELL, FIM (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Adventure Motorcycles, Track Racing
15. Arai Helmets
Arai helmets were made back in the 1950s, due to the lack of headgear protection products in Japan. Unlike mass-produced helmets, each Arai helmet is handmade, ensuring exceptional quality control and rigorous safety testing. Their proprietary shell materials, multi-density EPS liners, and advanced ventilation systems make them one of the safest and most comfortable helmet brands globally. They are also well known for their part in MotoGP, Motocros, f1 and other moto-racing events.
Key Specifications of Arai Helmet:
- Price Range: ₹36,000 onwards
- Types of helmets: Full face, Open face, Street, Off road, Racing, Automobile
- Key models: Arai RX-7V, Arai Corsair-X, Arai XD-4, Arai Quantum-X
- Wearable by: Men, Women, Professional Racers
- Certification: ECE, DOT, SNELL, FIM, JIS (Varies by model)
- Suitable for: Sports Bikes, Track-Racing Bikes, Off-Road bikes
How to Take Care of Your Helmet?
Taking care of helmets is essential for its longevity, safety and durability. To keep proper care, following Dos and Donts are necessary:
Do’s
- Clean the Helmet Regularly
- Keep the Visor Clear
- Wash the Interior Lining
- Inspect Chin Straps and Buckles for damages and loosening
- Replace helmets, as their life is around 3-5 years only
Dont's
- Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals to Clean; it weakens the shell.
- Don’t Drop the Helmet
- Don’t Modify the Helmet
- Don’t Ignore Damages to the Helmet
These do’s and don’ts will extend your helmet’s lifespan and keep you safe on the road.
Conclusion
Each helmet has their own plus and minus points. Choosing from these top brands will make sure you select a safe and secure helmet for your ride. However, choosing the right brand will depend on your budget and your usage. Few of these brands may not be ISI certified, but are certified globally to ensure their safety, but wearing these brands can land you into trouble as it is mandatory to have an ISI certified helmet in India.
This soon will be changed as global certification also comply with safety standards, but till then prefer using ISI certified helmets. Wearing helmets while riding on the road is mandatory in India, but you should wear helmets for your own safety - not because it is mandatory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of helmet is banned in India?
Helmets without ISI certification (Non-ISI helmets), including half helmets and novelty helmets, are banned in India.
Which helmet certification is best in India?
ISI (Indian Standards Institute) certification is the best in India.
Which helmet brand is best in India?
The best helmet brand in India depends on safety, comfort, and budget. Studds, Steelbird, and Vega are popular for affordability, while Axor, SMK, and LS2 offer premium protection.