Snowmobiling has become part and parcel of winter fun. Snowmobile helmets guarantee the much required safety when you enjoy you day with the winter adventure. As time went past, snowmobile helmets have evolved much. Choosing the best snowmobile helmet can get quite difficult. There are a wide variety of options to choose from and snowmobile full face helmets are a popular category of snowmobile helmet which provide the most support in case of accidents. They are often seen as the most affordable helmets with good protection from the elements. The article deals with snowmobile full face helmets in detail.
Types of Snowmobile Helmet
Before proceeding further, let us have a brief outline about the different types of snowmobile helmet available in the market. The type of helmet you end up choosing depends on your riding style and the amount of protection you are looking for. You also need to think of your personal preferences. The types of snowmobile helmet include:
Full Face Snowmobile Helmet
This is the most common snowmobile helmet type. They cover the full face and offer the maximum in terms of protection from the outside elements. They offer the maximum needed support when you get involved in an accident. Full face snowmobile helmets offer their best when it comes to holding the much needed heat so that your head and face gets protected from cold. Due to the full coverage, there is also less wind noise and buffeting. They are also the most affordable choice of snowmobile helmets. However, you may not get the flexibility you intend to have in terms of adjusting to the facial features of the rider.
Modular Snowmobile Helmets
Modular Snowmobile Helmets are the best possible option of snowmobile helmets to choose. They are actually customized form of full face helmets, thereby offering more flexibility when compared to full face snowmobile helmets. The jaw of these helmets when locked down leads to a full face helmet style and when raised up, you get an open face setup. So the riders can have quick access to their faces without lifting the whole helmet.
Snocross or Motorcross Style Snowmobile Helmet
Snocross or Motorcross Snowmobile Helmets are for more active riders. They are much more customizable and the design is somewhat like a mix of dirt bike helmet and full face snowmobile helmet. You can wear goggles in place of face shield. Goggles lie much closer to the face and hence you get a better field of vision. These snowmobile helmets also offer better ventilation options so that the active rider gets benefited. With the open face design, it is ensured that your heat, sweat and breath are carried away before they fog up your view.
Dual Sports Snowmobile Helmet
Dual Sports Snowmobile Helmet has the shape and look of a snocross helmet. However, they do have a face shield. The face shields are much easier to maintain when compared to separate goggles. They also offer good ventilation as well as field of view. The face shields are mostly electric, clearing your field of vision from fogging.
What To Consider When Buying Full Face Snowmobile Helmets?
Never short of options when it comes to full face snowmobile helmets. Many factors come into action when looking for the best options of snowmobile helmets. Based on your budget, personal preferences and also keeping in mind the below mentioned factors, you can get your hands on the best option of full face snowmobile helmet.
Materials Used
The Full Face Snowmobile Helmet should be made from high quality materials to ensure that you get reliable and dependable protection as well as performance with durability. In order to keep you fully protected, these life-saving gears should offer maximum resistance to wear and tear. Polycarbonate and carbon fiber shell are the best choices of material in case of the outer shell as they are shatter resistant and dent proof. ABS is also quite common. In case of inner shell, you can look for materials which offer good moisture wicking properties as well as sufficient ventilation. The inner lining, if removable, will let you wash off the dirt if any.
Safety rating
Safety ratings are important and mandatory when it comes to life saving gears like snowmobile helmets. They kind of validate 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
The perfect fit full face snowmobile helmet will ensure the much needed safety as well as comfortability while riding. If not of good fit, you can get uneasy with neck strain and associated difficulties. So when searching online, you need to have a thorough check on the sizing chart. The user reviews will further reveal if the fit of a particular helmet model is true to its specifications or if it runs smaller or larger.
Field of vision
You also need to make sure that the full face snowmobile helmet offers the necessary vision. Wider field of vision with good antifogging properties can enhance your riding experience.
Ventilation
The best full face helmet should also offer best in terms of ventilation, maintaining the proper air flow so that the snowmobile helmet is breathable and there is no issue of fogging up.
Weight
As full face snowmobile helmet comes in with added visor/ face shield, it can weigh more than other snowmobile helmet types. If possible you can also look for the best full face snowmobile helmet that offers proper protection from the hard impacts while being lightweight and durable. This is because lightweight snowmobile helmets can reduce the stress on the neck, letting you focus more on your ride.
Additional Features and Budget
Whatever be the snowmobile helmet type, you always can make the choice by staying within your budget. If you have a limited budget, you can look for a good snowmobile helmet with good basic features, the one which is cheap yet not compromising on the safety aspects. If you can spend more, then you can look for additional features that will surely enhance your riding experience. 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. You can look for as many quality additional features as you want to rather than ending up with something fancy. But do have a check on your budget.
Best Options of Full Face Snowmobile Helmets
Now let us explore some of the best options of full face snowmobile helmets available in the market. The list includes a mix of options, both affordable and high end models to choose from. All the above mentioned factors have been taken into account when listing the best full face snowmobile helmets. You will surely find the best option to meet your needs based on the budget you have.
ILM Full Face Snowmobile Helmet
The ILM Full Face Snowmobile Helmet comes with a quality ABS shell and high density EPS foam which ensures the snowmobilers a safer ride. The sleek aerodynamic design will let you can catch up with the speed with comfort. It is constructed to fit better into the head and the face. The full face snowmobile helmet also features a fog resistant Pinlock insert. With the quick release strap and buckle system, it is easy to take on and off the snowmobile helmet. With the dual visor motorcycle helmet ventilation system, air keeps flowing. The fresh air is forced in and the hot moist air is forced out. There are 3 closable intake vents with a back exhaust vent allowing maximum air flow out. They also feature a removable chin curtain for providing protection from cold and the wind while you ride. The full face snowmobile helmet also has ultra-soft and comfortable liners, which are removable and washable. It has pockets for communication system speaker. This reduces the pressure to your ears, face and head when you set out on a long ride. The full face snowmobile helmet comes with an eyewear friendly design. This enhances the safety as well as the riding passion of the snowmobiler by ensuring that the glasses stay in fixed position with falling or moving off. The full face snowmobile helmet is also DOT certified. They come in four color options and sizes ranging from XS to 2XL. They are designed to be used by both men and women. The ILM Full Face Snowmobile Helmet is an affordable budget friendly version of snowmobile helmet available in the market. Detailed sizing chart and measurement instructions are available so that you can have the best fit possible. It will cost you below $200.
Vega Helmets Ultra Electric Full Face Snow Helmet
The Vega Ultra Electric Full Face Snow Helmet is another unisex full face snowmobile helmet. This budget model comes with excellent features. They feature a large polycarbonate shell design which is water resistant. There is the high density channelled air flow EPS liner for maximum impact. The model is lightweight. The fresh and aggressive design is built for speed. The Vega Full Face Snowmobile Helmet features comfort Tech dri liner system which is removable. By keeping the lid in place, you get lasting comfort even on bouncy trails. The Ultra features a multi-position clear Electric/heated shield with SURE SEAL contoured edges, which is also optically correct. The Sure Seal Edge fights fogging. These contoured edges also eliminate air and water penetration. Thereby, snow and moisture is kept off from entering in when you’re riding in extreme cold conditions. The presence of Breathbox further enhances the fog fighting capabilities. The full face snowmobile helmet is fully ventilated, though it m8ight not be the best. They feature predrilled holes for communication system speaker. The D ring strap system ensures safety with security. Both DOT and ECE certified, it comes with a five year warranty which is worth mentioning and that too at this affordable price tag. You get to choose from a few color options. Sizes ranges from XS to 6XL. Proper sizing and measurement instructions are available. It will cost you below $200.
ILM Full Face Winter Snowmobile Helmet
The ILM Full Face Winter Snowmobile Helmet is an extremely affordable option of full face snowmobile helmet. It will cost you below $100. Yet, it is found to perform well and the 4.5 rating suggests so. They also offer a better choice of color options. Made of advanced and durable ABS Shell, the full face winter helmet is lightweight. It features EPS pads. There is a thick removable, washable liner. You can make use of another pair of liners if looking for better fit. The quick release clasp and strap makes it easy to put the helmet on or take it off. They feature dual visors: clear and smoked, easing both day as well as night time riding. The visors offer a wide view and are of anti scratch type. The ventilation system is good and features one touch control vents. With the streamlined aerodynamic design, the wind noise as well as the drag is reduced. The free neck scarf can be of great use in the winter season by keeping the cold wind off and letting you stay warmer. Sizes range from S to XL. The full face snowmobile helmet is said to meet DOT and FMVSS-218 safety standards. Proper sizing and measurement instructions are available.
ILM Full Face Winter Snowmobile Helmet with Anti fog Pinlock Shield
Another affordable option of full face snowmobile helmet below $100, the model comes with an ABS shell and high density EPS foam. The ultra soft pads make it comfortable to wear. The Anti fog Pinlock 30 insert makes it fog resistant, ensuring safety while riding in those cold weather conditions. They also feature clear and tinted visors. The quick release buckle makes it easy to wear and take off the full face snowmobile helmet. The ventilation system makes the snowmobile helmet breathable. You can slide to open and close the vents. The top liner and the cheeks pads are removable and washable. The full face snowmobile helmet is lightweight. The DOT certified snowmobile helmet is suited for use by both men and women. Sizes range from S to XL, with a few color options. Though sizing and measurement details are given, some reviews claim size issues with the model.
Typhoon Youth Full Face Snowmobile Helmet
Typhoon Youth Full Face Snowmobile Helmet is a great option for youth, both girls and boys. Being a full face snowmobile helmet, it offers the much needed protection and safety. As it is built exclusively for the youth, it will offer the best fit too. The kids will not take off the snowmobile helmet due to uncomfortability. It features ABS small shell and is lightweight. The dual-pane shield will let you have a clear view of the trail by keeping off the fog. Anti-fog electric heated shield is also included. The extra-long cord of the shield can be hooked up to the built in RCA plug or to the sled battery. The breath box will also work to keep the fog down by deflecting the warm air. Being DOT certified, the safety of your kid is well assured. It weighs about 3 lbs. and hence it is advised not to be used by anyone below 5 years. Proper sizing and measuring instructions are available. Sizes S to XL are available. You can choose from multiple color options. The full face snowmobile helmet will cost you around $150.
HJC i10 Full Face Plus Helmet
Next up is a full face helmet option for people with big heads, the HJC i10 Full Face Plus Helmet. This is not a specific snowmobile helmet; it is more of a motorcycle helmet. But you can use it while riding your sled. Keep in mind that this may not be the warmest option for you. The HJC i10 is actually built to replace the C17 full face helmet which was available in sizes up to 4XL. HJC i10 on the other hand is available in sizes up to 5XL. This can be further advantageous for people with big heads. Available in sizes up to 4 XL, the option can also deliver a comfortable fit for people with such issues.
It features an advanced polycarbonate shell. The design also includes comfort moisture wicking liner and plush cheek pads. Both these add comfort when you are on the trails. The full face helmet offers improved ventilation. The new intakes and exhausts increase the airflow. Easy maintenance is made possible with the simple, snap-on top vents. The Pinlock lens system works well in fog buildup reduction. With the RapidFire shield replacement system, you can use many different tints and shaded lenses that are easily available. The full face helmet is Bluetooth compatible. As this is a motorcycle helmet, you cannot expect much of the extra features. But still you can have it for your rides as a good plus size full face helmet. Sizes XS to 5XL are available. All the models are DOT certified. They are available in different colors and graphic options. Priced below $200, the unisex adult full face helmet can be used by snowmobilers who have the issue of big head, but you need to expect only less warmth.
Auboa Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet
A modular helmet is actually a full face helmet with more flexibility, so we have also included this option. The Auboa Motorcycle Modular Full Face Helmet will let the rider to switch between a modular flip up helmet and full face helmet as per need with the built in hidden button. It features a quality ABS shell, making the helmet lightweight. The EPS foam padding will ensure a safe as well as comfortable ride. There are six air ventilations for intake/exhaust allowing an easy air flow for breathability and comfort. The model also features dual visors and reflective strip (for night time safety). There is the chin guard system and the cheek pads absorb sweat. Sizes range from S to XL with a few color options. The modular full face snowmobile is DOT certified and meets the FMVSS 218 standards. The unisex snowmobile helmet is another budget pick below $100. Reviews claim that they perform well with an all-round quality.
Typhoon TH158 Modular Full Face Snowmobile Helmet
Another modular full face snowmobile helmet worth mentioning is the Typhoon TH158 Modular Full Face Snowmobile Helmet. The outer material is made of ABS. The design is aerodynamic, sleek and lightweight. There is an easily removable and washable liner. The double pane shield comes with an anti fog coating. Heated electric shield and cord are included. The adjustable breath box will deflect the warm air. Chin skirt is also included which makes it more comfortable to wear. The modular full face snowmobile helmet also features retractable tinted sun visor. It features an advanced front flow ventilation system with channels for maximizing venting as well as offering comfort. The chin strap features quick release closure. The easy to actuate button allows smooth opening and closing. The snowmobile helmet is DOT certified. This is found to be a perfect choice for those snowmobilers riding with glasses on. There is enough space between the front of the helmet and underneath the visor which keeps the glasses in place. S to 2XL sizes is available. The unisex snowmobile helmet also comes with a few color options to choose from. The modular full face helmet is priced below $200.
FXR Torque X Prime Helmet
Featuring a lightweight, yet strong, advanced polymer alloy construction, they have the dual density EPS liner. The moisture wicking comfort liner is removable and washable. There is an integrated drop down sun shade. The peak reduces lift/drag at high speeds and also offers protection from sun and roost. It features anti-fog, anti-scratch dual layer electric shield with lock and seal technology. The shield is distortion free and UV filtering. They feature quick-release, easy to adjust buckle. There is an adjustable fit breath box for keeping away the warm air. The full face helmet also features an easy to open front nose guard vent. They are DOT and ECE approved. Available in 3 color options, you get to choose from S to 2XL sizes. The full face snowmobile helmet is priced below $300.
509 Delta R3 Ignite Full Face Snow Helmet
The snow helmet actually offers multi use performance as you can switch between three configurations: full face, open face and dual sport. It comes with a polycarbonate shell construction that is lightweight and strong. They have the dual density EPS foam. It comes with glove friendly Fidlock magnetic chin strap buckle allows easy in and out. It also features the advanced Pro Series removable/washable comfort liner which is moisture wicking and cheek pads. The versatile snow helmet also features a dual pane anti scratch electric clear shield with anti fog coating and a drop down internal sun shield. The forehead and chin ventilation ports are adjustable. There is a cold weather adjustable fit breath box and cold weather chin curtain that is removable. The front nose guard vent is of easy open type. The versatile snowmobile helmet is also DOT/ECE certified. Available in the sizes XS to 2XL, there are a few color options to choose from.
Klim K1R Karbon Full Face Helmet
The latest model, KLIM’s K1R has a high quality carbon shell construction and is built strong as well as light. The modern design offers elevated design with balanced acoustics and aerodynamics. There is an ergonomic 3D padding. This new generation full face snowmobile helmet is comfortable o be put on, thereby reducing the fatigue. It has the perfect ventilation for facilitating the best rides in your life. There is a premium liner system which is removable/ washable and hypoallergic. It offers an outstanding fit without any pressure points. There are many other innovative features. You can master the riding environment with the optically superior shield system which is capable of offering the highest performance whatever be the light conditions. The proprietary adaptive lens technology will react instantly to changing UV levels. With the minimal lens distortion, there is superior clarity, reduced eye fatigue and increased light and damaging ray protection. It offers full field of vision. The full face snowmobile helmet features rear-facing reflective accent materials on the helmet liner which increases the low-light visibility thereby increasing passive safety and rider awareness. The snowmobile helmet comes with DOT and ECE certification. They are available in S to 2XL sizes. It is a costly option and is priced below $500. It is bit pricey, but is a well designed, durable option of full face snowmobile helmet.
Ski Doo Oxygen Helmet
This high end option comes with an innovative design, incorporating many technological advances. It features an M-FORGE Composite material shell, which reduces the weight of the snowmobile helmet, making it one of the lightest full face helmets available in the market. You can have a comfortable ride on the trails for even longer period. They offer a panoramic field of view offering great field of vision. The effective heating system will deliver good visibility. The full face snowmobile helmet features adjustable humidity extractor vents. It also features durable anti fog coating and anti scratch coatings. The retractable sun visor offers adaptation to the changing light conditions. The snowmobile helmet is also eyewear friendly. There are many features that justify the high end classification of this full face snowmobile helmet. They feature the NCS system which reduces noise considerably, thereby preventing hearing damages. The remote controlled heated visor makes way for easy use. Hence temperature is managed via this remote control and an air flow chamber that is manually adjusted. The built in LED light system will help you see at night. The neck skirt will keep out the cold. However, all this comes at an expensive price tag, which makes it unappealing for some riders. The DOT approved full face snowmobile helmet comes with a 4 year warranty. Sizes S to 3XL are available with 3 color options. Proper sizing and measurement instructions are available. The Oxygen Helmet will cost you around $700.
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