Top Five Sport Touring Helmets for Any Budget

A good helmet may be the single most important investment a sport-touring rider makes. Long days in the saddle demand more than just safety. Comfort, noise control, ventilation, and communication system compatibility all come into play when hours stretch into days. With that in mind, here are five helmets that stand out in 2025 — two at the high end, one mid-tier, and two that deliver excellent value without breaking the bank.

Shoei GT-Air 3 (High-End)

Shoei’s GT-Air series has long been a favorite among sport-touring riders, and the third generation refines the formula. Its AIM (Advanced Integrated Matrix) shell balances low weight with flexibility and protection. A CNS-1C shield provides distortion-free optics and UV blocking, paired with a larger QSV-2 internal sun visor for extended coverage. Redesigned vents channel airflow through the EPS liner, and even the chin vent includes a removable insect filter.

Aerodynamics are wind-tunnel tested to reduce resistance and lift, with Shoei claiming measurable improvements over the GT-Air 2. The helmet also integrates seamlessly with Shoei’s Sena-developed SRL3 communication system.

Strengths: Premium fit and finish, excellent visor system, advanced ventilation, integrated comms option, very stable at speed.

Drawbacks: Pricey compared to mid-tier helmets; slightly heavier than a pure sport helmet (3.91 lb).

MSRP: $779.99

More info: Shoei Helmets GT Air 3

Schuberth S3 (High-End)

German brand Schuberth has built a reputation for quiet, comfortable helmets, and the S3 continues that tradition. Certified to the latest ECE 22.06 standard, it features a new EPS structure for improved impact absorption and an emergency cheek pad release system. Touring riders will appreciate the low noise levels — around 85 dB at 100 km/h (about 62 mph) on a naked bike — thanks to the wind-tunnel refined shell and integrated rear spoiler.

A wide eye-port, Pinlock 120 anti-fog lens, and an improved sun visor add practicality. The S3 comes pre-wired for Schuberth’s SC1/SC2 systems, with antennas, speakers, and microphone built in. Weight is about 1,600 grams (3.5 lbs) in size M.

Strengths: Very quiet at speed, advanced aerodynamics, strong safety features, comms-ready with plug-and-play integration.

Drawbacks: Limited dealer network in the U.S.; premium price point.

MSRP: $599.00 (solids) / $699.00 (graphics)

More info: Schuberth Helmets S3

HJC RPHA 71 (Mid-Tier)

The RPHA 71 shows how far HJC has come in recent years. Built with a PIM EVO composite shell that layers carbon fiber, aramid, and natural fibers, it strikes a balance of strength and lightness. At around 1,500 grams (3.3 lbs), it’s competitive with higher-end options. The redesigned ventilation system includes multiple intake and exhaust vents, while the visor system is Pinlock-ready and easy to operate even with gloves.

Inside, HJC’s Multi-Cool fabric wicks moisture and feels comfortable on long rides, with cheek pads that can be swapped for a custom fit. The helmet is prepped for SMART HJC Bluetooth systems, making comms installation straightforward.

Strengths: Lightweight for a touring helmet, advanced composite shell, competitive pricing, stable at speed.

Drawbacks: Noise isolation is good but not class-leading; fit may feel snug for round-shaped heads.

MSRP: $479.99 (solids) / $569.99 (graphics)

More info: HJC Helmets RPHA 71

LS2 Vector II (Budget)

LS2 has steadily gained a following by delivering helmets with features usually reserved for higher brackets. The Vector II’s HPFC (High Performance Fiberglass Composite) shell keeps weight near 1,500 grams (3.3 lbs), and the helmet carries ECE 22.06 certification. A Pinlock 120 MaxVision insert comes included, and the twin visor system provides both clear and sun protection options.

Safety features include an emergency release system and reinforced chin strap, while comfort is aided by a removable, washable liner made from hypoallergenic materials. For riders on a budget, the Vector II offers genuine sport-touring functionality at an approachable price.

Strengths: Affordable, feature-rich, respectable weight, solid safety certification.

Drawbacks: Ventilation is adequate but not exceptional; visor mechanism lacks the polish of more expensive brands.

MSRP: $279.

More info: LS2 Helmets Vector II

Scorpion EXO-T520 (Budget)

Scorpion’s EXO-T520 blends commuter practicality with long-haul touring features. Built with an advanced polycarbonate shell and certified to both DOT and ECE 22.06, it weighs about 1,600 grams (3.5 lbs) in size M. The Ellip-Tec II visor system allows quick, tool-free shield swaps, while the EverClear® no-fog coating and Pinlock-prepared shield maintain visibility. A retractable SpeedView sun visor adds versatility.

Ventilation comes from dual forehead, chin, and rear exhaust ports, paired with aero-tuned EPS channels. Inside, Scorpion’s KwikWick III liner is moisture-wicking and washable, with KwikFit cheek pads for glasses wearers and an emergency release system. The helmet is EXO-COM communication ready, ensuring easy Bluetooth integration.

Strengths: Excellent value, versatile features, emergency quick-release system, comms-ready.

Drawbacks: Wind noise is noticeable above highway speeds; finish quality trails higher-end brands.

MSRP: $219.95

More info: Scorpion EXO Helmets T520

Quick Reference: Full Comparison Table

Helmet	US MSRP	Buffeting / Noise Performance	Key Features
Shoei GT-Air 3	$779.99	Wind-tunnel tested; very low buffeting	AIM shell, CNS-1C visor, QSV-2 sun visor, SRL3 comms ready, micro ratchet chin strap
Schuberth S3	$599.00 (solids) / $699.00 (graphics)	~85 dB at 100 km/h; spoiler reduces buffeting	ECE 22.06, Pinlock 120, SC1/SC2 comms, quietest in class, ratchet chin strap
HJC RPHA 71	$479.99 (solids) / $569.99 (graphics)	Good stability, mid-tier quietness	PIM EVO shell, ~1500 g, SMART HJC comms, Pinlock ready, double D-ring chin strap
LS2 Vector II	$279 USD	Noticeable buffeting at higher speeds	HPFC shell, Pinlock 120 included, twin visor, ECE 22.06, quick release buckle chin strap
Scorpion EXO-T520	$219.95	Adequate for commuting; noisier at highway	Polycarbonate, Ellip-Tec II, EverClear shield, EXO-COM ready, double D-ring chin strap

Choosing the Right Helmet

Every rider’s head is different, and what feels perfect for one may not work for another. Here are a few points to weigh when comparing helmets:

• Safety Standards: Look for ECE 22.06 certification alongside DOT.
• Fit and Comfort: Shoei tends toward an intermediate oval fit, while HJC and LS2 may feel rounder. Comfort liners and multiple shell sizes matter over the long haul.
• Noise Control: For riders covering hundreds of miles at freeway speeds, a quiet helmet can make the difference between arriving refreshed or exhausted.
• Ventilation: Sport-touring means exposure to hot summer days and chilly mountain mornings. Adequate venting with glove-friendly controls is key.
• Buffeting: Stable aerodynamics are essential. Premium lids like Shoei and Schuberth stand out for minimizing turbulence, while budget helmets may trade some stability for price savings.
• Features: Internal sun visors, Pinlock shields, and comms compatibility all enhance convenience on long trips.
• Budget: Spending more generally yields better noise control, lighter weight, and premium materials. But today’s budget helmets, like those from LS2 and Scorpion, show that solid protection and useful features are within reach at lower price points.

Final Thoughts

The right helmet balances protection, comfort, and practicality for the kind of riding you do most. Shoei and Schuberth represent the pinnacle of sport-touring refinement, while HJC strikes a balance between quality and affordability. For those keeping costs down, LS2 and Scorpion offer compelling helmets that won’t feel like compromises.

Whichever way you go, invest time in fitment — because the best helmet for sport-touring is the one that feels like it’s not there, mile after mile.