Open face snowmobile helmets are a lightweight option of snowmobile helmets. They are also known as snocross helmets. These models do not feature a visor or a face shield. They are preferred by many snowmobile enthusiasts as a comfortable and stylish choice of snowmobile helmet. They also offer the sufficient protection that you may need in your snowmobile adventures. These versatile snowmobile helmets have the capability to perform well on the trails. You can stay warm on the trails by pairing your open face snowmobile helmet with snowmobile goggles of your choice. You can also include an insulated balaclava and you will be ensured with the much needed warmth.
Types Of Snowmobile Helmet
As the market is flooded with different types of snowmobile helmets, let us first see the difference between them.
Full Face Snowmobile Helmet
They are the most common type of snowmobile helmet. As the name suggests, they full cover the face and head, thereby offering maximum protection and safety. This is the most common snowmobile helmet type. They hold the much needed heat, thereby keeping your head and face away from cold. Being fully covered, there is less noise. These affordable options of snowmobile helmet may not be the most flexible.
Modular Snowmobile Helmets
Modular Snowmobile Helmets can be seen as full face snowmobile helmets which are customizable. Thus they offer more flexibility to the rider. The jaw of these snowmobile helmets can be locked down for a full face helmet style and you get an open face helmet style as the jaw is raised up. This will let you have an easy access to your face without lifting up the helmet fully.
Snocross/Motorcross/ Open Face Snowmobile Helmet
Snocross or Motorcross Snowmobile Helmets are named after snocross, the cross country snowmobile racing. These are meant for the more active riders. They offer more customization and flexibility. These models do not possess a visor or a face shield. Separate snowmobile goggles can be used in place of face shield. As the goggles lie much closer to the face, a better field of vision is possible with open face snowmobile helmets. Also, they offer better ventilation options much to the benefit of the active rider. The open face design will prevent heat, sweat and breath from fogging up your view.
Dual Sports Snowmobile Helmet
Having the shape and look of a snocross helmet, dual sports snowmobile helmets however feature a face shield. The face shields forms an easy to maintain option and do offer the sufficient ventilation and field of view.
What To Look For When Buying Open Face Snowmobile Helmets?
Based on your budget constraints and your personal preferences, you also need to look into the following factors before buying an open face snowmobile helmet.
Materials Used
The open face snowmobile helmets are usually possess fiberglass and polycarbonate shells, making them lightweight. These high quality materials also offer reliable protection with durability. They offer maximum resistance to wear and tear and are shatter resistant. The inner shell should incorporate moisture wicking properties, while being breathable with sufficient ventilation. As the open face snowmobile helmets do not possess a face shield or visor, these liners may get wet quite often and need to be cleaned regularly. In such cases, removable and washable liners will best serve the purpose.
Safety rating
Whatever be the snowmobile helmet type, safety ratings is something mandatory. Safety rating is a validation to the safety of the snowmobile helmet.
DOT (Department of Transportation) is the American standard certification for transportation vehicle gears which is a must when you are considering buying a snowmobile helmet. ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) is the European equivalent standard for DOT.
Fit and Compatibility
This is also something important whatever be the snowmobile helmet type. If not of the perfect fit, it can be quite uneasy to use the snowmobile helmet for long rides and may lead to neck strain and injuries. Open face snowmobile helmets of good fit will ensure comfortability and safety as you ride. When looking for open face snowmobile helmets online, have a thorough check on the sizing chart and the measurement instructions. You can also get an idea about if the snowmobile helmet runs smaller or larger from the user reviews.
As they have no face shield or visor, you need to make sure that the eye port is big enough to fit the pair of snow goggles you intend to use.
Warmth
Having an open face design, these helmets may not be the warmest snowmobile helmets to be around. However, by pairing it with a good pair of snow goggles and also an insulated balaclava, you can ensure that it provides the much needed warmth.
Field of vision
Due to the use of separate snowmobile goggles, these type of snowmobile helmets are expected to offer a better field of view.
Ventilation
Being meant for active riders, the open face snowmobile helmet should offer the best in terms of ventilation. By ensuring proper air flow, it will be breathable and will also prevent fogging.
Weight
As open face snowmobile helmets do not feature an added visor/ face shield, they can be the lightest snowmobile helmets. You also need to ensure that the helmet you use guarantee the protection from hard impacts while being lightweight.
Additional Features and Budget
Open face snowmobile helmets may not be the most affordable type of snowmobile helmet. However, they are available in different price ranges. You should never end up with something cheap and compromise on the safety. After ensuring that the open face snowmobile helmet that you choose possesses the sufficient basic features, you can opt for the additional features based on your budget. Features like breath boxes are advantageous. Breath box is a small accessory that fastens to your snowmobile chin bar, covering your nose and mouth. It channels your warm breath downward and out of your snowmobile helmet shield, preventing its fogging. It will also keep your mouth and nose warmer as the temperature drops.
Best Options of Open Face Snowmobile Helmets
Altitude 2.0 Carbon Fiber 3k Hi-Flow Helmet

The second generation of the bestselling 509 Altitude series is those looking to ride harder. The new hand lay-up carbon composite construction makes the open face snowmobile helmet lighter, yet stronger, and even more comfortable. It features the Pro series liner and cheek pads. The active riders need good ventilation features and the new 509 Altitude 2.0 Carbon Fiber 3K Hi-Flow Helmet maximizes airflow by incorporating open upper and rear vents. It also features a 40% larger chinbar intake. The improved design also incorporates Go-Pro mounting capability. With the Fidlock chinstrap closure, easy in and out is possible. You also get the perfect fit between helmet eyeport and 509 goggles. The Pro-Series Breathbox offers complete protection. It is removable for optimal air flow. XS to 4X sizes are available in three shells rather than a single shell which caters to the optimal fit and minimal weight. They are also available in different color variations. However, they are not the most affordable open face snowmobile helmets.
509 Tactical 2.0 Helmet With Fidlock

The 509 Tactical 2.0 Helmet with Fidlock features innovative eyeport protection and high-performance venting. The polycarbonate blend shell offers stiffness and good absorption. The deep shell will offer full coverage, while the intermediate oval shape offers excellent fit. Uncompromised protection is offered with the precise fit, lightweight open face snowmobile helmet. It features Fidlock magnetic strap buckle for easy in and out .The design features advancements with respect to comfort as well as performance. With the Venturi Venting the moist air is pulled out, without letting in the cold air. The on/off shutter is present inside the helmet. There is an adjustable visor. The removable VEES eyeport protection is designed to offer a seamless coverage with 509 goggles. The microfiber lining is quick drying and comfortable. It also features a removable arctic chin curtain. The DOT and ECE approved open face snowmobile helmet comes in 3 shell designs with size ranging from XS to 4 XL. You can choose from different color options. It will cost you below $250.
Fxr Clutch Evo Helmet

The FXR Clutch Evo Helmet features a lightweight, strong, advanced polymer alloy shell. The 2 shell sizes which ensure optimal fit as well as comfort and safety. You get the much needed protection from the dual density EPS liner. The design features 15 port ultra high flow ventilation system which delivers good ventilation by letting out the moist air without allowing the cold air in. The adjustable ultra hi flow peak reduces the drag when you race in high speed. The hi flow peak is also lightweight and glove friendly, featuring 3 point break away screws. They also feature the extended rubber nose frost and roost guard. The rear diffuser disperses the impact load off to the compatible neck braces. The sternum pads offer the added protection to the sternum, jaw and chin by the sternum pads. The quick release easy to adjust buckle allows easy in and out. There is a removable and washable comfort liner that wicks away moisture. The unisex open face snowmobile helmet is DOT and ECE certified. Available in sizes XS to 2XL, a few color options are available. It is priced below $200.
Castle X Mode MX Youth Flow Snowcross Helmet

The snowcross helmet features an aerodynamic, modern shell design created with CAD technology. The shell is made of Advanced Polycarbonate Composite injection molding. The multi-density EPS liner offers protection and is also included in chin bar laterals. They feature removable and washable interior padding system with a plush fit. It wicks away perspiration and is also hypoallergenic and antibacterial. The open helmet design features large eyeport allowing great fitment to most goggles. They also have eyeglass friendly cheek pads. With the quick release chin strap buckle system you can have micro adjustments for secure comfort. The advanced ventilation system allows easy air flow from front to back in the helmet via the air flow channels in the EPS liner, thereby removing excess heat and moisture. You can have optional breath box, which is sold separately. The helmet meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218 (FMVSS 218). They are available in a few color options with sizes S and M. It is priced below $120.
Fly Racing Kinetic Vision Helmet

The Fly Racing Kinetic Vision Helmet comes with a durable and lightweight polymer shell and features a dual-density EPS liner. The open face helmet offers True Functional Ventilation (TFV). In TFV, where when you are in motion, air is forced through multiple air intake vents and is passed through aligned vent channels in the EPS liner and further exiting out through the multiple rear exhaust vents. There is a removable and washable comfort liner and cheek pads which absorb sweat while providing ventilation. There is also a custom molded rubber trim with integrated nose guard. It features a high flow replaceable mouthpiece. The DOT and ECE approved helmet is available in three shells and four EPS sizes provide a precise fit. The open face snowmobile helmets are available in the sizes XS to 2XL. Youth sizes are also available. It will cost you below $150.
Fly Formula CP Rush Helmet
The ECE/DOT approved open face snowmobile helmet features Adaptive Impact System (AIS). With the polycarbonate alloy shell construction, the helmet is extremely lightweight shell with excellent penetration resistance. The Impact Energy Cells made of RHEON, maximize absorption of low-speed linear and rotational impacts thereby reducing forces transmitted to the brain. The multi-density Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Technology delivers a softer EPS. Also, the critical zones have been fine-tuned, which offers a progressive response to low-speed and high-speed impacts. As it features expanded volume EPS, so the strategic areas of the helmet have more impact absorbing EPS and hence more suspension between your head and the ground. Also, with the EPS chin bar you get an additional element of impact mitigation. Also, the clavicle shell relief zone creates a soft zone filled with EPS which further helps in reducing clavicle injuries. The open face snowmobile helmet features custom molded rubber trim with integrated nose guard. The True Functional Ventilation (TFV) offers maximum ventilation. Optional cold weather breath guard is also included. They also come with Quick-Dry comfort liner and quick release cheek pads made of moisture-wicking, anti-microbial material which is removable and washable. Overall, the helmet gives quiet a good amount of protection and safety. They are available in a few color options with sizes ranging from XS to 2XL. Youth sizes are also available. It will cost you around $250.
KLIM F5 Koroyd Helmet

Built on the F5 chassis, the KLIM F5 Koroyd provides unrivalled all day comfort and comes in with next level safety and ventilation features. You get best head protection along with the best snowmobiling experience and it is considered as one of the safest helmets in the industry.
They utilise the Koroydis technology, a next generation energy absorbing technology. As a result, a unique structure is engineered with innovative energy management. During an impact, the Koroyd cores crush homogeneously, thus decelerating the energy from the impact. This reduces the final trauma levels. Also, the MIPS brain protection system acts as a low-friction layer reducing the rotational motion which gets transferred to the brain from angled impacts the head. The F5 Koroyd comes with a full KLIM Karbon Fiber Shell and dual density EPS liner. The shell structure is such that it provides maximum strength, while being lightweight. The extra-large eye port will offer an enhanced field of vision. With the Fidlock Starp closures, it is extremely easy to take the helmet on and off. One of the most ventilated helmet in the industry, there are18 intakes and 8 exhaust vents and it features a direct vent EPS design. It is designed as such to intake air at speed or exhaust heat while at low speeds or when stopped. The moisture-wicking Drylex comfort liner is made of anti-microbial and anti bacterial materials. The Breathbox offers anti fogging capabilities. The open face snowmobile helmet is neck brace compatible. Also, the design is focussed to offer a good fit while maintaining good comfort. They are DOT approved open face snowmobile helmet available in 5 color options. With 3 shell sizes and 3 EPS sizes, size availability ranges from S to 3XL. It will cost you below $600. Though a high end option, they are loaded with features, make it a worthy option to lay your hands on.
TOBE Vale Helmet

Truly a marvel of engineering, the high performance open face helmet is incredibly lightweight helmet which comes at a very affordable price point. This aggressive, modern snowmobile helmet is constructed using High Resistant Light weight Thermoplastic. It will best serve the needs of the most demanding snowmobilers. The included removable breathbox integrates well with TOBE goggles for a flawless fit. While the Double D-ring retention system will deliver the maximum security for your entire wild rides and adventures. They feature multiple vents to ensure proper ventilation and breathability. Also, with the washable antimicrobial padded liner, you get fresh and unparalleled comfort. With the added foam filter insert in the chin vent you can cross over to your dirt bike in the spring. The DOT and ECE approved open face snowmobile helmet is available in sizes XS to 2XL and in a few color options. It will cost you below $200.
Typhoon K27 Women’s Snocross Snowmobile Helmet

The Typhoon K27 women’s snowmobile helmet is meant exclusively for the adventurous female riders. The MX style snocross helmet with open face design is lightweight. The polycarbonate outer shell is strategically designed with the perfect shell, eliminating the unwanted helmet lift, while offering the necessary protection from impacts to keep you safe.. This open face design helmet will benefit those female riders who want to ride in style with a stylish motocross appearance and yet wear separate cold weather rated goggles rather than using heated face shields and cords. The eyeport is designed so as to fit all popular snocross snowmobile goggles. Proper ventilation is ensured by the interior airflow channeling with intake vents, channel vents and exhaust vents allowing air flow and condensation eliminating ventilation which keeps you comfortable. The easy to install and adjustable breath box can be attached between the shell and the cheek pads which help in removing ice and fog from the goggles. The open face snowmobile helmet also features a chin skirt. The 3 point sun visor offers added strength. The removable and machine washable liner along with the cheek pads are moisture wicking as well as comfortable. There is a standard chin strap d ring closure and strap keeper. The open face women’s snowmobile helmet comes at a very affordable price range and is priced below $100. The women’s snowmobile helmet is also available in some cool color options with sizes ranging from S to 2XL.
O’Neal Adult 2 Series Helmet

Constructed with ABS which is lightweight, they come with ultra-push removable/washable liner. With the multiple air vents proper ventilation is guaranteed. The helmet offers good breathability. They also feature Double-D release chin strap and height adjustable visor. There is a rubber roost nose guard. With a race inspired graphic design, the affordable open face helmet provides good temperature regulation and hence is great even for winters. The DOT and ECE approved helmet is available in the sizes XS to 2XL. They are also available in 2 color options. It will cost you below $150.
HJC Cl-XY II Youth Ellusion Helmet

The open face snowmobile helmet comes with an aggressive and attractive design. Care is also taken to ensure the ease and comfort for the rider. They feature an Advanced Polycarbonate Shell using CAD technology which is designed to be lightweight. With a large, repositioned eye-port they allow optimization of the view for downward visibility. The dual-position goggle band fitment can be adjusted based on the rider’s comfort and preference. The extended visor blocks sunlight, while also protecting the rider from debris. The material used in the visor is so flexible that it will bend instead of break. The tool-less and changeable mouth vent allows for easy cleaning. The open face snowmobile helmet comes with “ACS” Advanced Channeling Ventilation system allowing airflow from full front to the back which flushes the heat and humidity up and out. The SuperCool Interior keeps the rider cool as well as fresh. It features moisture-wicking and antibacterial fabric that is removable and washable. The DOT approved open face snowmobile helmet is available in the sizes S to XL with a few color options. It will cost you below $150.
Scorpion VX-R70 Snocross Helmet

The Scorpion VX-R70 comes with an advanced TCT Composite shell construction which is lightweight. They feature dual density EPS liner system. They come with a large goggle eyeport to offer optimum vision. Other features include: titanium D-Rings, a tool-less quick-change chin vent system, shatter and resistant Aero-Tuned Visor. The ScorpionEXO standard KwikWick II liner offers extreme moisture control for comfort. Also the AirFit cheekpad system will allow for a custom snug fit. With the Aero-Tuned Ventilation maximum breathability is ensured. There is also a detachable chin strap cover. The open face design snocross helmet is both DOT and ECE approved. They are available in many color options. It will cost you below $150.