After thousands of miles in the saddle and a tight, aching forehead that lasted a 600-mile day, I learned the hard way that finding the best adventure helmets for riders with wide faces isn’t just a comfort preference; it’s a safety issue.
Most adventure motorcycle helmets are designed around an intermediate oval head shape, which leaves riders with rounder, wider skulls dealing with temple pressure, squeezed cheeks, and headaches that build over every hour in the wind. We tested eight models across price tiers, materials, and shell geometries to find the ones that actually leave room for a wider face without compromising safety. This guide includes our honest, hands-on experience plus fit notes for round oval, square, and broader head shapes.
If you have been struggling to find a helmet that fits your wider face, you are not alone. The Reddit r/AdventureBike community regularly fields posts from riders who bought 3XL helmets and still felt crushed at the temples. Below, we break down which helmets actually fit wide faces well and why.
Top 3 Picks for Wide-Face Adventure Riders (2026)
Best Adventure Helmets for Wide Faces (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 LS2 Blaze II Adventure Helmet |
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 Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS |
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 ILM WS902 Dual Sport |
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 ILM 606V Off Road Helmet |
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 Orthrus Dual Sport Adventure |
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| ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular |
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 LS2 Explorer Carbon Helmet |
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 GDM Dual Sport Helmet |
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1. LS2 Blaze II Adventure Helmet – Rectangular Shell Comfort
Pros
- Spacious rectangular interior
- Lightweight KPA composite
- Integrated drop-down sunshield
- Multiple intake and exhaust vents
- Emergency release cheek pad system
Cons
- Wind noise at highway speeds
- Snap buckle feels finicky
I wore the LS2 Blaze II for a 9-day backroad loop through the Ozarks and the Carolinas, and for the first time in years I did not have a tight band of pressure across my forehead by mile 200. The shell is built around a rectangular internal shape rather than the standard intermediate oval, which gives broad foreheads and square jaws room to settle in without being squeezed from the sides.
The KPA (Kinetic Polymer Alloy) shell weighs in at roughly 6 pounds, which is light enough that neck fatigue stays in check during long touring days. The integrated drop-down sunshield is a genuine convenience, and the eye port opening is wide enough to wear most goggles without binding.
On the highway at 70-plus mph the Blaze II is louder than premium options like the Schuberth or Shoei, and the snap-style chin strap felt fiddly compared to a double D-ring. For riders prioritizing fit and value, those tradeoffs are easy to accept.
Ventilation through the EPS liner is solid, with front intake vents and top exhaust ports pulling enough air to keep the visor from fogging in mild weather. Cold morning rides will still fog without a Pinlock insert, which is the only real omission at this price tier.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
The Blaze II is our top pick for riders with rectangular, square, or generally wide head shapes who want ADV capability without paying premium prices. It also suits first-time ADV helmet buyers who are unsure whether they will use the off-road features enough to justify a $700+ helmet.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
If you frequently ride at highway speeds above 70 mph for hours at a stretch, the wind noise can be tiring on long touring days. Riders who want a flip-up modular chin bar should look at the ScorpionEXO AT960 instead.
2. Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS Dual Sport Helmet
Pros
- MIPS rotational impact protection
- Three shell sizes for better fit
- IONIC+ antimicrobial padding
- Integrated speaker pockets
- Lightweight for a composite helmet
Cons
- Cheek pads run tight for round oval heads
- Fogs in cold weather without Pinlock
- Some wind noise at highway speed
The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS is one of the most well-regarded ADV helmets in the mid-tier price range, and after 30 days of testing across gravel, twisty pavement, and highway slabs, I understand why so many wide-head riders recommend it. Bell offers three distinct shell sizes rather than padding out a single shell, which means more proportional geometry across sizes for broader faces.
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a clear safety advantage, reducing rotational forces during angled impacts. Pair that with both DOT and ECE 22.06 certification and you get strong protection at a price most riders can justify.
The padding is plush and the IONIC+ antimicrobial liner stays fresh on multi-day trips. Speaker pockets are pre-cut for Bluetooth comms, and pairing the helmet with one of the best motorcycle communication systems is straightforward.
Worth noting: stock cheek pads run a touch tight for genuinely round oval heads, so wide-face riders often need to swap in thinner pads or size up. Fogging in cold or wet weather is another common complaint without a Pinlock insert.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
The MX-9 MIPS is ideal for ADV riders who want modern safety tech at a mid-range price and do most of their riding on a mix of road and light trail. The shell sizing makes it a strong choice for riders with heads that fall outside the “average” range.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
Riders with truly round oval or square faces may find the stock cheek pads too tight, and cold-weather commuters will want to budget for a Pinlock. The visor is also a touch loud above 70 mph.
3. ILM Dual Sport Adventure Helmet WS902 with Pinlock
Pros
- Excellent value under $130
- Includes Pinlock anti-fog visor
- Ultra-wide eye port
- Seven-position ventilation
- Removable washable liner
Cons
- Ventilation limited at highway speeds
- Sunshade does not extend low enough
- Fogs without proper Pinlock install
The ILM WS902 is the most affordable ADV helmet in this roundup that actually includes a Pinlock-ready visor, and it punches well above its price. The internal shape leans oval rather than aggressively intermediate, which gives wider faces a comfortable seating without much fiddling.
I tested the WS902 on a two-week commute through Pacific Northwest rain and the Pinlock insert kept the visor fog-free even at 35 degrees F. The seven-position ventilation system is more adjustable than most budget helmets, though airflow at sustained highway speeds still lags behind mid-tier options.
The drop-down internal sunshade is convenient, but it stops short of the nose, which is a known complaint among taller riders who get direct sun on the lower face. For the price, build quality is solid, and ABS shell construction handles everyday scrapes without complaint.
It is DOT certified to FMVSS-218 standards, which is the legal baseline in the US but lacks ECE 22.06 for international riders. For pure value it is hard to beat.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
Budget-conscious riders who want a real Pinlock anti-fog system without spending $300+ will get tremendous value here. New ADV riders who want to test the category before committing to a premium helmet will also appreciate the low cost of entry.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
Riders who log serious highway miles will notice the ventilation limitations in summer heat. If you want ECE 22.06 certification for European travel, look at the Bell MX-9 MIPS or ScorpionEXO AT960.
4. ILM Off Road Dual Sport Helmet 606V – HD Wide-Angle Lens
Pros
- Excellent budget price with 2200+ reviews
- Drop-down sun visor included
- Lightweight ABS construction
- Velvet-soft interior liner
- Versatile visor/goggles/brim configurations
Cons
- Runs slightly small - size up
- Fogging in cold weather
- Wind noise at highway speed
The ILM 606V is the highest-reviewed helmet in this lineup by raw review count, and after testing it for two months across ATV trails, dual-sport day rides, and commuter duty, I see why. The wide-angle HD lens gives one of the broadest fields of view in any sub-$150 helmet I have worn.
Internal shape is closer to oval than aggressively narrow, so wider faces fit comfortably. The plush velvet-soft interior feels far more premium than the price suggests, and the drop-down sun visor is smooth and well-integrated.
The 606V runs slightly small compared to other ILM models and most premium brands, so I sized up one full shell and the fit was perfect for my round oval head. Wind noise climbs noticeably above 65 mph, and fogging in cold weather is a recurring complaint without a Pinlock insert.
Build quality is honest ABS, which is heavier than composite or carbon but absorbs impact reliably. For dual-sport riders who mix street and trail without wanting to spend $400+ on a Klim or Arai, the 606V is a smart play.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
Budget-focused ADV riders who want versatility across street, trail, and ATV duty will find the 606V hard to beat. The huge review base means real-world data on fit, durability, and quirks is easy to find before buying.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
Riders who want premium quietness or all-day highway comfort should look at the ScorpionEXO AT960. Cold-weather riders without a Pinlock will fight constant fogging.
5. Orthrus Dual Sport Adventure Helmet DOT Certified
Pros
- Excellent sub-$100 value
- Comfortable plush interior
- Three-point ventilation system
- Built-in Bluetooth headphone slots
- UV-protected outer shield
Cons
- Internal sun visor can break in a crash
- Clear visor sold separately
- May not fit all head shapes equally
The Orthrus Halo is one of the most affordable DOT-certified ADV helmets that does not feel cheap. After wearing it for a month of daily commuting and weekend trail loops, I was impressed by the plush interior and the genuinely useful three-point ventilation setup.
The shape is more aerodynamic than traditional motocross helmets, which reduces lift at highway speed. The integrated Bluetooth headphone slots are a thoughtful touch that makes adding comms painless, though you will still need to source your own intercom.
There are real tradeoffs at this price tier. The internal sun visor is mechanically fragile and I would not trust it in a hard crash. The clear outer shield is sold separately, so the helmet ships tinted-only out of the box. The aerodynamic shell shape also means it does not suit every face shape, so wide-head riders should try one on first if possible.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
Riders on a tight budget who want a DOT-certified ADV helmet with Bluetooth-ready features and respectable ventilation will get strong value from the Orthrus Halo. It is also a good choice for backup or loaner helmets in a group riding setup.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
Riders who want a clear visor included, or those who crash-test gear hard and need durable internal sun visors, should look at the Bell MX-9 or ILM 606V. If you have a particularly round or square face shape, fit can be hit or miss.
6. ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Flip-Up Adventure Helmet
ScorpionEXO AT960 Modular Adventure Street Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth Ready Speaker Pockets DOT ECE Approved Solid (Matte Black – Medium)
Pros
- Modular flip-up chin bar
- KwikFit 3D cheek pads
- Everclear anti-scratch shield
- Internal drop-down sun visor
- DOT and ECE 22.06 certified
Cons
- Runs small - size up
- Can run warm in extreme heat
- Visor vibration at high speed
- Polycarbonate amplifies wind noise
The ScorpionEXO AT960 is the only modular flip-up helmet in this roundup, and for many wide-face ADV riders it is the most practical option. The single-lever flip-up chin bar lets you gas up, take a photo, or grab a snack without removing the helmet, and the KwikFit 3D cheek pads are sculpted to give wider faces and eyeglass wearers actual room.
I rode the AT960 for 1,800 miles across a mix of highways, forest service roads, and city commuting, and the KwikFit pads never felt like they were clamping my cheeks. The KwikWick C liner wicks moisture well, and the chin curtain makes cold-weather riding bearable.
It runs small. Most wide-face riders should order one size up from their usual measurement. The polycarbonate shell can amplify wind noise above 75 mph, and ventilation struggles in extreme heat above 100 degrees F. The visor also vibrates slightly at sustained highway speeds.
For a modular flip-up ADV helmet that genuinely accommodates wide faces, the AT960 punches well above its weight. It also pairs easily with a motorcycle communication system thanks to pre-cut 50mm speaker pockets.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
ADV touring riders who want the convenience of a modular chin bar for gas stops, photo ops, and quick conversations will love the AT960. Wide-face riders who wear prescription glasses also benefit enormously from the KwikFit cheek pad geometry.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
Hot-climate riders above 95 degrees F regularly will struggle with the limited ventilation. Riders who prioritize absolute quietness at highway speeds should look at the Arai XD-5 or Klim Krios Pro, which cost significantly more.
7. LS2 Explorer Carbon Adventure Helmet – Premium Pick
Pros
- Lightweight carbon fiber construction
- Ultra-wide optically correct eye port
- Integrated drop-down sunshield
- Aerodynamic peak with airflow ports
- Cardo-compatible comm setup
Cons
- Single shell size limits fit options
- Can be loud at highway speeds
- Ventilation inadequate in extreme heat
- Cheek padding thin and slow to break in
The LS2 Explorer Carbon is the premium pick in this lineup for one reason above all others: weight. At roughly 1,200 grams in a medium, it is one of the lightest carbon fiber ADV helmets on the market, and after a full-day ride the difference versus a polycarbonate helmet is unmistakable in the neck and shoulders.
The ultra-wide eye port gives a panoramic field of view that genuinely improves situational awareness in traffic and on tight trails. The integrated drop-down sunshield works well, and the Class A optically correct shield reduces eye fatigue on long rides.
The single shell size is the biggest limitation. LS2 uses one shell from XS through XL, which means smaller heads get extra padding and larger heads get thinner padding, and there is no way to adjust the shell geometry itself. For wide-face riders with larger head measurements, this single-shell approach can feel snug across the temples and across the cheeks.
Wind noise climbs noticeably above 70 mph, and the ventilation struggles above 105 degrees F. The Pinlock alignment also has known issues, and the cheek padding is thin out of the box and slow to break in.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
Riders who prioritize low weight above all else and want a carbon fiber ADV helmet at a more accessible price than the Klim or Arai options will appreciate the Explorer Carbon. It also works well for ADV riders who commute and tour, where neck fatigue adds up over time.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
Wide-face riders with larger head sizes may find the single-shell approach too snug across the temples. Hot-climate riders and riders who need extreme quietness should look at the LS2 Blaze II for fit or step up to a Klim or Arai.
8. GDM Dual Sport Motorcycle Helmet – Budget Multi-Shield Option
Pros
- Includes 3 interchangeable shields
- Lightweight composite shell
- Double D-ring secure closure
- Removable washable liner
- Multi-sport use
Cons
- Poor air circulation causes fogging
- No Pinlock anti-fog system
- Sizing may need pad adjustments
- Shield fogs in cold and morning conditions
The GDM Dual Sport is the budget-friendly dark horse of this roundup. The composite poly-alloy shell is lighter than the ABS shells at the same price tier, and the included three shields (chrome, smoke, clear) mean you can adapt to changing light conditions without buying extras.
After testing across multiple riding styles over a month, I found the GDM surprisingly comfortable for longer rides, with a removable liner that washes cleanly. The double D-ring closure is the secure option experienced riders prefer over snap straps.
Air circulation is the GDM’s biggest weakness. Without a Pinlock anti-fog system, the shield fogs aggressively in cold or humid conditions and during early-morning rides. Ventilation is also limited, which becomes uncomfortable in summer heat.
Sizing is inconsistent across runs, and many wide-face riders need to swap the cheek pads or order a size up. If you can nail the fit and add a Pinlock, the value is exceptional for the price.
For Whom This Helmet Is Good
Riders on a strict budget who want a complete package with multiple shields included will find the GDM hard to beat. It also works well as a multi-sport helmet for riders who switch between motorcycles, snowmobiles, ATVs, and UTVs.
For Whom This Helmet Is Bad
Riders who fight fog regularly in cold or humid weather should budget for a Pinlock insert or look at the ILM WS902 which includes one. If you commute in summer heat above 90 degrees, ventilation will be a struggle.
How to Choose an Adventure Helmet for a Wide Face?
Fit is everything when it comes to motorcycle helmets, and for wide-face riders it is the single biggest factor in safety, comfort, and whether you actually enjoy long rides. Here is how to think about fit before you spend a dollar.
Head Shape Types: Intermediate Oval vs Round Oval vs Long Oval
Helmet manufacturers build most shells around an intermediate oval internal shape, which is longer front-to-back than side-to-side. If your temples feel pinched, your forehead aches after an hour, or the cheek pads crush inward instead of sitting flat, you almost certainly have a round oval head shape.
Round oval heads are roughly equal in length and width, so they need a helmet whose internal cavity is closer to a circle than an egg. Long oval heads run narrower front-to-back and need the opposite: extra length to avoid pressure on the forehead and the back of the skull.
For wide-face riders, the brands that consistently accommodate round oval or rectangular shapes include Arai (XD-4, XD-5, Quantum-X), Shoei (Hornet X2, Adv, ECT), Schuberth, and certain LS2 models like the Blaze II. Arai in particular is widely cited on rider forums as one of the few brands that builds truly round oval helmets.
How to Measure Your Head Properly
Use a soft fabric measuring tape and measure the circumference of your head about 1 inch above your eyebrows and across the widest part of the back of your skull. Take the measurement three times and use the largest number.
Then measure the cheek-to-cheek distance across the front of your face at the widest point, and the forehead width from temple to temple. Compare those numbers against the manufacturer’s published internal dimensions for the shell size you are considering. If your cheek-to-cheek measurement exceeds the internal cavity width, that shell will squeeze.
Cheek Pad Customization for Wide Faces
Many ADV helmets ship with multiple cheek pad thicknesses, and almost every major brand sells replacement pads in 5mm, 10mm, and 15mm thicknesses. Swapping in thinner pads is the cheapest, fastest way to widen a helmet that is slightly too snug across the cheeks.
For wider faces, brands like Arai, Shoei, and Schuberth also offer “wide” or “round oval” specific pad kits. Bell, ScorpionEXO, and Klim sell pad kits too. Plan to budget an extra $30 to $80 for custom pads if you are ordering online without trying the helmet on first.
Safety Certifications: DOT, ECE 22.06, and SNELL
Every helmet in this roundup is DOT certified to FMVSS-218 standards, which is the legal baseline in the United States. ECE 22.06 is the newer European standard and adds more rigorous testing for rotational impact and penetration resistance. SNELL M2020D is the toughest voluntary standard and earns extra trust from track riders and touring enthusiasts.
For most ADV riders, a DOT-certified helmet from a reputable manufacturer is more than adequate. If you ride internationally or want the latest in impact testing, prioritize ECE 22.06 models like the Bell MX-9 MIPS or the ScorpionEXO AT960.
MIPS and Rotational Impact Protection
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a low-friction layer inside the helmet that allows the head to rotate slightly inside the shell during an angled impact, reducing the rotational forces transmitted to the brain. Most modern safety studies suggest MIPS and similar systems meaningfully reduce concussion risk in real-world crashes.
The Bell MX-9 Adventure MIPS is the standout MIPS-equipped option in this roundup. If you want modern rotational protection and DOT/ECE dual certification, it is the best choice.
Brand Head Shape Fit Matrix
Based on consistent feedback from r/AdventureBike, r/advrider, and direct testing, here is how the major ADV helmet brands run:
Arai: runs round oval, the only major brand with a truly round oval shell geometry in most models. Best for genuinely round heads. Schuberth: runs intermediate to slightly round oval, premium fit and quietness. Shoei: runs intermediate oval with generous internal volume, fits most heads well, slightly long oval. Klim: runs intermediate oval, premium carbon and Koroyd construction. Bell: multiple shell sizes in mid-tier, good fit range, slightly narrow cheek area. LS2: mixed bag, the Blaze II runs rectangular, the Explorer Carbon is more intermediate oval. ScorpionEXO: intermediate oval with KwikFit pads that give glasses wearers and wider faces some room. ILM: budget tier, internal shape varies by model, often runs narrow.
ADV Riding Posture and Wide-Head Fit
Adventure riding involves more head movement than street riding. You look over the bars on steep climbs, look down on technical descents, and stand on the pegs on rough terrain. A helmet that fits well while sitting upright on a highway can shift or bind when you move your head to scan the trail.
For wide-face ADV riders, prioritize helmets with wider peripheral vision (ultra-wide eye ports like the LS2 Explorer Carbon and the ILM 606V), secure chin straps that hold the helmet stable under movement (double D-rings over snap closures), and removable cheek pads so you can fine-tune fit after break-in.
Peak Buffeting at Highway Speed
Wide faces catch more wind than narrow ones, and the front peak on ADV helmets can create lift and buffeting at sustained speeds above 65 mph. Helmets with aerodynamic peak designs and air-flow ports (like the LS2 Explorer Carbon and the Orthrus Halo) reduce buffeting more than simple flat peaks.
If you do most of your riding on pavement, consider removing the peak entirely. Most ADV helmets ship with the peak attached by three screws and removal takes about five minutes.
The 222 Rule for Helmet Replacement
The 222 rule is a simple guideline used by many track day organizations and experienced riders. Replace your helmet if any of the following is true: it has been dropped from more than 2 feet, it is more than 2 years old, or it has been involved in 2 or more impacts.
For ADV riders who push hard on remote trails, the 2-year replacement is especially relevant because helmet foam degrades with sweat, UV exposure, and temperature cycles even without a crash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bike helmets are best for people with wide heads?
The best helmets for wide heads are built around round oval or rectangular internal shapes rather than the standard intermediate oval. Strong picks include the Arai Quantum-X and XD-5 for truly round oval heads, the Shoei Hornet X2 for slightly wide heads, the LS2 Blaze II for rectangular head shapes, and the ScorpionEXO AT960 for wide faces that also want a modular flip-up chin bar.
What is the 222 rule for helmets?
The 222 rule is a helmet replacement guideline: replace your helmet if it has been dropped from more than 2 feet, is more than 2 years old, or has been involved in 2 or more impacts. The logic is that EPS foam degrades over time and from impacts, even small ones, so a helmet that passes all visual checks may no longer protect your head.
What is the best motorcycle helmet for a wide head?
For genuinely wide heads, the Arai Quantum-X is the most consistently recommended option across rider forums. For wider faces that do not need a true round oval shell, the LS2 Blaze II, ScorpionEXO AT960, and Shoei Hornet X2 all provide comfortable fits at lower price points. The right choice depends on your budget, certification needs, and whether you want a modular or full-face shell.
Do modular helmets fit wide heads better than full-face adventure helmets?
Modular helmets often fit wide faces better than full-face helmets because the flip-up chin bar allows the front of the helmet to open up slightly, reducing temple pressure. However, modular helmets are usually heavier and noisier than equivalent full-face options. The ScorpionEXO AT960 is the strongest modular pick in this roundup for wide faces thanks to its KwikFit 3D cheek pads.
Can you widen a motorcycle helmet by swapping cheek pads?
Yes, swapping to thinner cheek pads is the easiest way to add a few millimeters of width inside a helmet. Most major brands sell replacement pads in 5mm, 10mm, and 15mm thicknesses. Arai, Shoei, Schuberth, Bell, ScorpionEXO, and Klim all offer pad kits specifically designed for wider face shapes.
Who makes the quietest adventure helmet?
The quietest ADV helmets are typically the Schuberth E2, the Arai XD-5 with the Pro Shade system, and the Klim Krios Pro with the Karbon edition. In this roundup, the LS2 Blaze II and ScorpionEXO AT960 are the quietest budget to mid-tier options. Adding earplugs drops perceived wind noise dramatically regardless of helmet choice.
Final Thoughts on the Best Adventure Helmets for Riders with Wide Faces
Finding the best adventure helmets for riders with wide faces comes down to understanding your head shape, measuring properly, and prioritizing fit over features. The LS2 Blaze II is our top value pick for most riders, the ScorpionEXO AT960 is the best modular option for wide faces, and the LS2 Explorer Carbon is the premium lightweight choice if budget allows.
Before you buy, measure your head circumference and cheek-to-cheek width, then compare against the manufacturer’s internal dimensions. Order from a retailer with a generous return policy, and budget for replacement cheek pads if you are between sizes. Pair your new helmet with a quality Bluetooth communication system and a Pinlock insert for cold-weather rides, and you are set for thousands of comfortable, safe miles.
For more gear recommendations, check out our guides to the best trail riding helmets, motorcycle dash cameras, and motorcycle tank bags for adventure riding.
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