The 7 Best Motocross Helmets

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This wiki has been updated 25 times since it was first published in April of 2018. Motocross challenges riders to overcome a number of obstacles, and a good, specialized helmet will ensure that they stay as safe and comfortable as possible as they do so. We've included models on our list suited for everyone from the casual rider to the competitive racer, ranked here by their protectiveness, comfort, and style, and all including MIPS for optimal safety. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Bell Moto 9 MIPS

2. MSR Mav-3 Block

3. Suomy MX Jump

Editor's Notes

October 15, 2019:

While our last ranking was very thorough and included a number of excellent helmets from top manufacturers, this go-around, we wanted to incorporate a relatively new piece of technology that's swept through bicycle and motocross helmets in recent years. This is MIPS, which stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System, and is a kind of interior cradle within the helmet designed to reduce rotational movement on both initial and secondary impacts during an accident. The result is a much more stable fit throughout impact, better protecting the head.

As it turns out, only one of the models on our previous ranking — the Suomy Jump — actually had MIPS integrated, while all the others did not. That includes the Bell Moto 9, which we've replaced with another Moto 9 model that includes MIPS, despite a nearly identical model name. Some of the other previously included brands have offerings with MIPS now, including Troy Lee Designs and O'Neal, though O'Neal's MIPS helmets are very difficult to find outside Europe, and as a result, haven't found a place on our ranking.

4. LS2 Subverter Blackout

5. Bell MX-9

6. Troy Lee Designs SE4

7. Fly Racing Toxin 2020


Daniel Imperiale
Last updated by Daniel Imperiale

Daniel Imperiale holds a bachelor’s degree in writing, and proudly fled his graduate program in poetry to pursue a quiet life at a remote Alaskan fishery. After returning to the contiguous states, he took up a position as an editor and photographer of the prestigious geek culture magazine “Unwinnable” before turning his attention to the field of health and wellness. In recent years, he has worked extensively in film and music production, making him something of a know-it-all when it comes to camera equipment, musical instruments, recording devices, and other audio-visual hardware. Daniel’s recent obsessions include horology (making him a pro when it comes to all things timekeeping) and Uranium mining and enrichment (which hasn’t proven useful just yet).


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