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Best Snowmobile Helmets: Protect Your Head on the Trail

Stay warm and protected for hours on your sled with these dependable snowmobile helmets.

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BYLisa Conant/ LAST UPDATED ON May 6, 2021

Those of us who are avid snowmobilers know the value and importance of having a durable and warm helmet for winter riding. While snowmobile helmets and motorcycle helmets look the same and have the same essential function, which is to protect your head and face in an unfortunate impact, there are a few key differences that set them apart.


Snowmobile helmets are specifically designed for cold-weather riding, whereas most motorcycle helmets are not. This includes dual-paned face shields, some of which are even heated, and the addition of a breath deflector, or breath box as it is sometimes called, that directs condensation and humidity away from your goggles and face shield so that you’re not constantly having to pull over to defog your field of vision. Some motorcycle helmet manufacturers do offer these accessories as add-ons so that you can convert your warm-weather motorcycle helmet to work as a cold-weather option. However, most of the time, it’s just easier to buy a separate helmet that is specifically designed for snowmobiling. Take a look at our informative review and buying guide to help you figure out which is the best helmet for you.

Best Overall
509 Tactical Helmet

509 Tactical Helmet

Summary

Offered in a huge variety of color choices, this aggressive-looking, and sleek helmet will keep you warm as long as you want to stay out on the trails.

Pros
  • Available in six different sizes to fit almost anyone
  • Large face shield opening that can easily accommodate a pair of goggles
Cons
  • You will need to purchase goggles separately
  • Does not come with a face shield included
Best Value

HJC Dosta Adult Snowmobile Helmet

Summary

This helmet has an advanced polycarbonate composite shell and a nylex interior with removable and washable cheek pads and liner.

Pros
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Adjustable forehead and chin vents
  • Two snow shields to choose from
Cons
  • Sizing may be off, so you may need to order one size up for the best fit
Honorable Mention

ScorpionExo EXO-GT920 Full Face Modular Helmet

Summary

This helmet has a premium polycarbonate shell that’s engineered to be strong and lightweight and will provide maximum impact displacement. A high-tech, dual-density, multi-layer EPS lining provides superior comfort and energy displacement.

Pros
  • Liner is constructed from anti-microbial fabric and is fully washable
  • This helmet also features an Ever Clear anti-fog face shield 
  • A special anti-scratch hardened coating also makes this face shield 100 percent UVA and UVB resistant
Cons
  • Not offered in many color options
  • Bulkier looking and less aerodynamic than some other models on the market
Tactical & Outdoor photo

Benefits of Snowmobile Helmets

  • Safety. Arguably, the most important benefit of a snowmobile helmet, and any helmet, is to provide protection for your head and face in case of damaging impacts or accidents. 
  • Protection from weather elements. Snowmobile helmets also protect your head and face from frigid temperatures and the risk of hypothermia. They keep your head and hair dry in rain and snow and also protect you from sun damage on bright days.
  • Decreased wind noise. Not only do helmets protect your ears from exposure to strong winds as you ride, but they can also protect your eyes and face from the sting of strong winds coming directly at you.
  • Protects your vision. Helmets help to protect your vision and face from airborne debris, like leaves, snow, ice, flying rocks, twigs, and branches. 

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Types of Snowmobile Helmets

Full-Face Helmets

This type of helmet covers your entire head and face with very few if any moving parts or accessories. It offers the most protection from cold temperatures and impacts, has very low wind noise and excellent buffering. This type of helmet also provides a lot of warmth, so be sure to look for one that has good ventilation that won’t have you sweating like crazy during your rides. 

Modular Helmets

This type of helmet is very similar to the full-face helmet. Its main difference is that you can lift the chin bar while you’re stopped. This gives you quick and easy access to your face. While the addition of these moving parts to the helmet does decrease its overall level of protection, the difference between this type of helmet and the full-face type is minimal. 

Snocross Helmets

Just like motocross helmets, the snocross type of helmet is designed for more competitive and active snowmobilers. In place of a full face shield, you can use independent and separate goggles, which allow you a greater field of vision, since the goggles sit directly on your face. This type of helmet also offers significantly more ventilation than other types of helmets that help to wick away the higher levels of perspiration and humidity that competitive riders experience. The ultra-aerodynamic shape of this type of helmet also provides better wind buffeting at high speeds. 

Dual Sport Helmets

This type of helmet is more of a cross between the full-face model and the snocross helmet. It’s ideal for riders who love the aerodynamic and aggressive look of the snocross helmet, but instead of goggles, prefer a face shield, which is easier to use and maintain than goggles. The shape of this helmet allows for a wide field of vision and also provides good ventilation.

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Top Brands

509

Started in Spokane, Wash. in 2004, 509 was acquired by Polaris in 2016. It manufactures top-quality helmets, such as the Altitude 2.0 Helmet, the Tactical Off-Road Helmet, and outerwear and accessories for riders.

HJC

HJC has been manufacturing motorcycle helmets since 1971. It’s one of the only companies that houses its wind tunnel testing facility. Some of its more popular models include the i90 Modular Helmet and the CL-Y Full Face Snow Helmet.

Scorpion Exo

Scorpion Exo is a China-based helmet manufacturer that focuses on producing high-quality helmets at competitive prices. It has a global reach, with offices throughout the world, and is well-known for producing helmets and apparel, like the EXO-AT950 Modular Helmet and the EXO-AT950 Dual Pane Snow Helmet.

Snowmobile Helmet Pricing

  • Under $150: This is a great price range for a beginner level or occasional snowmobiler to find a helmet. These helmets offer protection from the elements without a lot of bells and whistles but are still DOT approved for safety, so you can be sure you’re getting a good quality product.
  • $150-$300: This is the price range in which the majority of well-designed and good quality snowmobile helmets can be found. Made with durable, lightweight, and rugged materials, you will find all types of snowmobile helmets in this price range.
  • $300 and up: This price range is where the top-of-the-line, most technologically advanced snowmobile helmets live. Here, you will find helmets for the serious rider, with heated face shields, premium construction materials, and awesome designs.

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Key Features

High-Quality Construction Materials

One of the most important features in a reliable and dependable snowmobile helmet is the use of high-quality construction materials that will withstand a significant amount of wear and tear and will keep you protected. Outer shells made from dent-proof and shatter-resistant polycarbonate or ABS plastic are a must. Inner liners that are fully removable for washing and provide moisture-wicking and good airflow properties are of equal importance in ensuring a comfortable fit and enjoyable ride. 

Safety Certification

When selecting a top-notch snowmobile helmet that won’t let you down, be sure to look for various safety ratings, like DOT certification, which should be the bare minimum safety standard as set forth by the Federal Department of Transportation. Also look for Snell and ECE certifications, which set a slightly higher standard and guarantee the utmost in head protection.

Proper Fit

Finding a helmet that fits you properly is essential to not only giving you a comfortable and enjoyable ride, but also the safest ride possible. A helmet that is too big for you will cause neck strain and may run the risk of coming off or not providing enough cushioning in an accident. If you’re ordering online, be sure to check the manufacturer’s sizing chart and measure carefully before purchase. It also helps to read user reviews to see if that particular model runs large, small, or true to size. 

Lens and Face Shield Options

A proper snowmobile helmet will feature a dual-pane face shield that minimizes fogging and humidity at low speeds so as not to impair your vision during a ride. The two panes are separated by a thin layer of gas that acts as an insulator and prevents heat transfer. Thanks to advances in technology, you can now get dual face shields either with or without a frame. There’s no major benefit of one versus the other, but this choice is based more on personal preference. Some higher-end helmets even come with heated face shields, which allow you to ride comfortably in the coldest of temperatures. 

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Other Considerations

  • Ventilation. With snowmobile helmets being optimally designed to lock in warmth and heat, ventilation is going to be a key consideration based on how much airflow you want during your ride. If you’re the type of person who tends to heat up quickly and perspires significantly, you want to look for a helmet that will help keep you dry and comfortable during your ride. 
  • Breath Box. This is another feature offered exclusively on snowmobile helmets that also helps prevent fogging of your field of vision while riding. A breath box will seal tightly over your nose and around your face to deflect breath down and out the bottom side of the helmet to prevent condensation. Most breath boxes are removable on good quality helmets to give you the option of foregoing them on warmer days or washing them regularly. 
  • Cost. This is often a big consideration for buyers of helmets, but there’s no need to worry about sacrificing safety or quality for the price. Almost all of the more budget-friendly models are DOT approved for safety. That being said, if you’re a frequent rider, investing a little more on your helmet to get one that is of premium quality and comfort might be a good idea. 

Best Snowmobile Helmet Reviews & Recommendations 2021

When it comes to the best overall snowmobile helmet, the 509 Tactical Helmet is a clear choice. Offered in a huge variety of color choices, this aggressive-looking, and sleek helmet will keep you warm as long as you want to stay out on the trails. It features a custom interior fit EPS foam with a rugged and practically indestructible polycarbonate outer shell. The interior EPS head foam features a fully removable and washable liner that is comfortable and breathable. 


This helmet also ranges in size from XS to 2XL to be able to fit almost any individual. It offers maximum peripheral vision with large eye port openings and can be combined with any 509 goggles for a perfect fit with minimal skin exposure. This helmet is also DOT approved and meets or exceeds all safety standards. You may want to pair it with a neck sock or covering for added warmth on cold days.

The HJC Dosta Adult Snowmobile Helmet is constructed with an advanced polycarbonate composite shell that is lightweight, comfortable, and designed using CAD technology. The Nylex interior has a removable and washable liner and cheek pads, which are interchangeable. For maximum airflow, the helmet features an advanced channeling ventilation system with adjustable forehead and chin vents and two rear exhaust vents.


The frameless shield, available as either a Dual Lens Snow or Electric Snow Shield, provides a good field of vision and includes built-in exhaust ventilation. The electric shield comes with a power cord that uses DC or AC current from the machine's engine. The shield features a two-stage closure system and is quick and easy to remove without requiring any tools.  In addition, the helmet is DOT approved for safety. One downside with this helmet is that it may not be true to size, so be sure to check the size chart and take proper measurements before making a purchase.

When it comes to a high-quality snowmobile helmet that will let you tour the trails all day in comfort, the ScorpionExo EXO-GT920 Full Face Modular Helmet delivers. It has a premium polycarbonate shell that’s engineered to be strong and lightweight and will provide maximum impact displacement. A high-tech, dual-density, multi-layer EPS lining provides superior comfort and energy displacement. This liner is also constructed from anti-microbial fabric that keeps you warm and dry and is fully washable. 


This helmet also features an Ever Clear anti-fog face shield that is constructed with state-of-the-art fog-free technology so you can see clearly for the entire ride. A special anti-scratch hardened coating also makes this face shield 100-percent UVA and UVB resistant. As a bonus, the face shield is also equipped with a SpeedView retractable sun-visor for quick interchanging between sun-blocking and clear. One of the only things we would add to this helmet to improve upon it would be to offer it in more color combinations. Other than that, this is one of the best snowmobile helmets on the market. 

If you want a helmet that makes you look like you mean business, the O'Neal 0817-504 Unisex-Adult Full-Face Style Sierra II Helmet is just what you need. While this helmet isn’t specifically designed just for snowmobiling, it will do a great job of protecting your head and keeping you warm and dry whether you're snowmobiling through the woods or riding your motorcycle on the city streets. The tough outer shell is constructed from dent-proof and shatter-resistant ABS plastic with a flat finish and a super aerodynamic shape. The integrated face shield protects your skin from exposure, but be aware that it doesn’t have the same anti-fog properties as some other snowmobile helmets on our list. 


The moisture-wicking lining is air channeled comfort and is fully removable and washable. The padded chin strap is super comfortable and features a double-D safety lock for quick release. Strategically placed vents in the front and back of the helmet help to promote cooling airflow. This helmet also meets or exceeds all safety standards and is DOT approved.

The Castle X Mode Dual-Sport SV Snowmobile Helmet is one of our favorite helmets when it comes to being configured specifically for handling snowy conditions. It’s both DOT and ECE approved for snow configuration with its dual-pane, anti-fog face shield. It also features a sun visor with a smoke tint that can be quickly and easily removed for nighttime riding. For added comfort, it comes equipped with a cold-weather chin curtain and a large, airy breath box.


The modern shell design is aggressive and constructed with advanced polycarbonate composite that is injection-molded for premium toughness and protection. The multi-density EPS liner offers a warm, plush fit that is both hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking. Advanced ventilation efficiently removes excess heat to keep you warm, but not sweating. It would be great if this helmet came in colors other than just black.

When it comes to offering a huge field of vision that lets you see farther than most helmets, the Vega Helmets Unisex-Adult Modular Motorcycle & Snowmobile Helmet is right on the money. Thanks to the design of the helmet and face shield, riders enjoy up to 30 percent greater optically correct visibility than with many other helmet brands. This helmet features an advanced modular flip up visor with a drop-down inner sun shield and SureSeal contoured edges that close tightly and protect you from accidental skin exposure. Please note that the heated shield for snowmobiling needs to be purchased separately. 


The inner liner of the helmet is engineered from high-density EPS with a channeled airflow design that provides not only optimal ventilation but maximum impact absorption to give you the ultimate in protection. The liner is also cleverly designed to accommodate most Bluetooth communication systems. This helmet meets all DOT safety standards and is backed by an impressive five-year warranty.

If you like options when it comes to functionality, the 509 Delta R3 Ignite Helmet is the helmet for you. It features a heated face shield that can easily switch between three separate configurations: open-face, full-face, and dual sport. This well-designed face shield features dual pane anti-scratch and anti-fog coating with an orange-tinted internal drop-down sun shield to give you a versatile and complete riding experience. 


This helmet is constructed from a lightweight and super tough polycarbonate shell and comes with the standard dual-density EPS Pro Series liner and cheek pads, as well as a cold-weather breath box. It also features a removable cold weather chin curtain, an adjustable magnetic chin strap buckle, and adjustable forehead and chin vents. It’s DOT and ECE approved for safety. 

Tips

  • After each use, be sure to set the helmet in a spot where the liner will dry completely and not get moldy, and don’t leave your snowmobiling gloves inside your helmet if they’re wet.
  • Remove and wash the inner lining regularly to keep it fresh and free of bacteria and residues from your skin and hair.
  • Store the helmet upright to prevent scratching and damaging the outer shell.
  • It’s a good idea to lubricate the face shield lifting mechanism occasionally to ensure continued smooth motion.
  • Clean your helmet’s outer shield with mild soap and water and be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before applying wax of any type to see if your helmet is compatible with it or not.

FAQs

Q: How often should you replace your snowmobile helmet?

A: Be sure to replace your snowmobile helmet every 3-5 years, as recommended by manufacturers and the Snell Foundation, as glues, resins, and other materials can unknowingly deteriorate and detract from the overall safety of your helmet.

Q: Can I use a motorcycle helmet for snowmobiling?

A: While you can use a motorcycle helmet for snowmobiling, it’s not the best option. Motorcycle helmets usually have a single pane face shield, which can fog up quickly at low speeds. This causes you to have to ride everywhere with the face shield gapped slightly to allow for airflow, which can be very cold and unpleasant on longer rides. 

Q: What is the number one selling snowmobile?

A: According to snowgoer.com, the Polaris brand of snowmobiles is consistently one of the top-selling snowmobiles in America, with the Polaris 850 Switchback Assault, taking the prize in 2021. 

Final Thoughts

With the upcoming snowmobiling season upon us, and thanks to our informative buying guide, you should now be excited and prepared to purchase a new snowmobile helmet, whether it’s the 509 Tactical Helmet, the HJC Dosta Adult Snowmobile Helmet, or something in between. Don’t waste another great snow day inside—get out there and enjoy it. 

Do you have a favorite go-to snowmobile helmet or a tip for finding the best one? Let us know in the comments. Happy riding!

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Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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