Looking for the lightest adventure helmet? You are in the right place. Here, I explore eight top-rated helmets that offer the perfect blend of lightweight construction, comfort, and safety.
Some of the 8 lightest adventure helmets today are:
- AGV AX9 Carbon
- Klim Krios Pro Carbon
- LS2 Blaze
- Scorpion EXO-XT9000
- Nolan N70-2X
- Bell MX-9 Adventure Mips
- HJC DS-X1
- Arai XD-5
Whether tackling rugged terrain or cruising through scenic routes, these lightest adventure helmets are easy on your neck and shoulders.
Top 8 Lightest Adventure Helmets for Motorcycle Riders
| Model | Weight (Approx.) | Price | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| AGV AX9 Carbon | 3.3lbs (1496gm) | $$$$ | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Klim Krios Pro Carbon | 3.4lbs (1542gm) | $$$$ | RevZilla | Amazon |
| LS2 Blaze | 3.46lbs (1569gm) | $ | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Scorpion EXO-XT9000 | 3.62lbs (1642gm) | $$$ | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Nolan N70-2X | 3.70lbs (1678gm) | $$ | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Bell MX-9 Adventure Mips | 3.74lbs (1696gm) | $$ | RevZilla | Amazon |
| HJC DS-X1 | 3.74lbs (1696gm) | $ | RevZilla | Amazon |
| Arai XD-5 | 3.79lbs (1719gm) | $$$$$ | RevZilla | CycleGear |
1. AGV AX9 Carbon – Best Choice
RevZilla | Amazon
The AGV AX9 is my favorite helmet right now, so much so that I actually have five of them scattered across the world. Take this claim very seriously – I have had over 300+ helmets in my 30+ years of riding motorcycles.
At 3 pounds 11 ounces, it is one of the lightest adventure helmets around. The AX9 also has a modern look that I love—combining aggression and sleekness.
The AX9’s shell is a blend of carbon, aramid fiber, and fiberglass, keeping things light, and stress of your neck. The adjustable peak reduces the “sail effect” at high speeds, giving a comfortable and smooth ride.
I also enjoy AX9’s ventilation system, featuring three front vents, a chin guard air vent, and two rear extractors. The interior DrySpeed fabric, known for its moisture-wicking properties, adds to the overall comfort by keeping sweat at bay.
The anti-scratch, UV-protective Ultravision face shield offers a wide field of vision. The visor is also pinlock-ready. The helmet features a traditional but secure double-D retention system.
Safety-wise, the AGV AX9 meets DOT and ECE 22.06 standards, providing riders with confidence in its protective capabilities.
2. Klim Krios Pro Carbon
Klim Krios Pro: Buy On
RevZilla | Amazon
The Klim Krios Pro Carbon Helmet is slightly behind the AX9 in weight. Still one of the lightest adventure helmets around, it offers many cool features and robust safety measures.
Weighing just 3.4 pounds for a large size, it is significantly lighter than many adventure helmets on the market. This is achieved by using carbon fiber on the helmet’s shell, which is hand-laid.
I particularly enjoy looking at the intricate weave lines of the carbon fiber, which is mesmerizing to me.
The Krios Pro’s key features include innovative Koroyd technology, which enhances impact performance by decelerating impact energy to protect your head. The helmet also meets ECE and DOT safety standards.
The helmet also features a Pinlock-ready face shield and a Transitions Photochromic lens. These lenses turn dark when there’s a lot of light and light when it’s darker.
I also enjoy the comfort this helmet gives, thanks to the Klimatek antimicrobial and moisture-wicking liner and cheek pads.
3. LS2 Blaze – Best Price
RevZilla | Amazon
I find it surprising that the LS2 Blaze is made as one of the lightest adventure helmets around. Its affordability also should make this helmet an excellent choice for your wallet.
Weighing 3.46 pounds for a medium size, this helmet combines the ruggedness of a modern MX helmet with features tailored for adventure riding.
The helmet’s shell is made of LS2’s proprietary Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA), which helps keep it light yet sturdy. Safety is not sacrificed here – The LS2 Blaze helmet passes DOT and ECE 22.05 certifications.
The Blaze also includes:
- Peak visor to shield against roost and debris
- Internal drop-down sun visor for convenience and
- A pinlock-ready face shield.
I found that the cheek pads are snug yet comfortable and come with an emergency release system. The ventilation system features multiple intake and exhaust ports to keep you cool and comfortable.
4. Scorpion EXO-XT9000
RevZilla| Amazon
I am happy to see Scorpion EXO-XT9000 made it to the list of the lightest adventure helmets around. The carbon fiber helmet has a modern and sleek look and looks more expensive than it actually costs.
The EXO-XT9000 is made from 3K Carbon fiber, making it lightweight at only 3.62 pounds. You should find the helmet comfortable for long rides.
The weight reduction definitely does not sacrifice safety; it meets U.S. DOT and the stringent ECE 22.06 standards, ensuring top-notch protection.
What I enjoy the most about this helmet is the Airfit liner inflation system. It allows me to customize the fit of the cheek pads to reduce wind noise and buffeting.
The helmet also includes a tool-less face shield system, making it easy for me to switch to goggles for off-road adventures.
The EXO-XT9000 also has a wide eye port that offers excellent peripheral vision. The helmet comes with a Pinlock-ready face shield that offers UV protection and anti-fog capabilities.
The Scorpion EXO-XT9000 Helmet combines lightweight construction, advanced features, superior safety, and stylish design.
5. Nolan N70-2X
RevZilla | Amazon
Nolan may not be a very popular helmet brand, but it never fails to surprise me from time to time. At 3.7 pounds, it is one of the lightest adventure helmets on the market.
The Nolan N70-2 X Helmet is an impressive crossover helmet tailored for touring and adventure riders. You can configure the helmet for eight possible configurations by removing or installing components like:
- the peak,
- face shield, and
- chin guard.
Key features include an internal sun visor with UV 400 protection, the Pinlock fog-resistant face shield, and the AirBooster ventilation system.
I found the fully removable Clima Comfort interior lining comfortable, providing a snug but comfortable fit.
Nolan did not skimp on safety, ensuring the N70-2 X passes DOT. It also has P/J homologation, allowing you to use the helmet with the chin guard open or closed.
6. Bell MX-9 Adventure Mips
RevZilla | Amazon
The Bell MX-9 is one of the most popular adventure helmets on the market. At 3.74 pounds, it is not the lightest, but it is light enough to make the list of the lightest adventure helmets.
The helmet has a lightweight polycarbonate shell, available in three sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit while minimizing bulk. It is also sleek, with a modern, robotic look.
I particularly appreciate the MX-9’s Mips (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System). This system helps reduce rotation forces during a crash, reducing brain injury.
The MX-9 comes with a two-point adjustable and removable peak visor, updated for better airflow. The integrated Nutrafog II face shield is also:
- anti-fog,
- anti-scratch, and
- Has UV protection.
The helmet also excels in ventilation with its Velocity-flow system and chin bar vents. You can also open or close the mouth vent, and fixed chin bar vents.
You would also appreciate the interiors of the MX-9, it comes with a moisture-wicking, removable, and washable liner and cheek pads. There’s also speaker pockets for Bluetooth communication devices.
7. HJC DS-X1
RevZilla | Amazon
The HJC DS-X1 Helmet is a versatile dual sport, Weighing in at 3.74 pounds, it is one of the lightest adventure helmets in the market today.
Made with an advanced polycarbonate composite shell, it offers a balance between lightweight and cost. You also get a motocross-style visor and full-face shield, providing sun protection and maximum visibility.
I find the large eye port perfect for goggles, making the DS-X1 excellent for off-road riding. Its visor is also pinlock-ready.
I think you would also appreciate the helmet’s SuperCool interior. It is moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial, removable, and washable, promoting hygiene and comfort.
The ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation System effectively manages airflow well. I also like the speaker pockets and glasses grooves – it will be easy to wear glasses or install communication systems with this helmet.
The DS-X1, also passed DOT approval and the use of advanced CAD technology for superior fit and comfort. Its aerodynamic visor reduces drag, and the adjustable slots ensure stability at high speeds.
8. Arai XD-5
RevZilla | CycleGear
If budget is not too much of an issue, you’ll likely enjoy the Arai XD-5 very much. It may not be the lightest adventure helmet around, but it is still lighter than many ADV helmets.
Plus, you get so much more with the slight increase in weight.
The XD-5 is also one of the safest helmets on the list, passing DOT, ECE 22.06, and Snell M2020.
The helmet features a PB-CLC2 shell constructed from a uniformly strong vacuum-formed Super Fiber. Arai claims that it is 30% stronger than traditional fiberglass, offering a robust yet lightweight helmet.
The XD-5 has a rounder, smoother shell than its predecessor, the XD-4. It serves to increase aerodynamic performance, and also enhances the “glancing off” capability to better protect you during crashes.
The helmet also boasts a versatile VAS-A face shield system, which can be easily removed for goggle use, and is Pinlock ready to prevent fogging. The adjustable vents and rear AR Spoiler efficiently manage airflow, ensuring a comfortable ride in various conditions.
Lightest Adventure Helmets For Your Comfort
Here you go, some of the lightest adventure helmets your money can buy today. These helmets offer you comfortable and safe rides while sparing your neck from excess weight.
If you just want a quick recommendation to pick up and go, get the AVG AX9. If you want the cheapest on the list, get the LS2 Blaze. If you want an updated model, the Arai XD-5 is your choice.
Think you need more recommendations for adventure helmets? Check out some of the posts I have made recently:
- 10 Best Adventure Helmets For All Budgets
- The 3 Safest Motorcycle Brands Today
- 5 Best Carbon Fiber Helmets
Michael’s Summary And Conclusion
Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations:
NO/NO
