Get the best of both worlds with MCN's pick of the best flip-front motorcycle helmets

Looks aside, many riders love flip-front motorcycle helmets. The upside is obvious. You don’t have to remove sunglasses or gloves, undo the chin strap and find a safe place to put your helmet before hydrating or grabbing or bite. For the nicotine-challenged, it also simplifies things. And if you’re picking up adult beverages before heading home, showing ID is no problem. Just flip up the front and give the clerk a smile. Plus, modular helmets often give a better seal around the neck since it doesn’t need to go over your head. For some, it’s a more comfortable fit with fewer drafts and less noise. 

• Related: Best sport touring helmets chosen by MCN

Early models were noticeably larger and, some say, not particularly stylish. The added weight of extra hinges and fasteners was noticeable to some. But newer models are often indistinguishable from fixed, full face helmets, thanks to new lightweight materials and design. And of course, the view from inside is much the same as any helmet. If you think function is at least as important as fashion, you might appreciate a modular helmet. 

Tried and tested modular/flip-front helmets 

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Why flip-front over full face?

Many people swear by a flip-front motorcycle helmet and once you’ve tried one, it easy to see why. They offer excellent versatility as well as (potentially) comfort and protection and can make struggling to get your lid off for a drink or to pay for gas a thing of the past.

Another benefit is that because the helmet is put on with the flip in the up position, a modular can often give a better seal around the neck since the aperture doesn’t need to go over your head. This can mean a more comfortable fit, fewer draughts and lower noise.

One historic criticism of flip-front helmets was that the always looked ungainly and larger than corresponding full-face items. Inevitably, they are a little heavier than their full-face counterparts due to extra hinges and fasteners, but most models are available in lightweight carbon nowadays (albeit more expensive than composite) and the design on many doesn’t look like a flip.

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FAQs

Are Modular helmets safe? 

The short answer is yes. Flip-front or modular helmets are subjected to the same safety standards as any other helmet. However, the chin-bar is simply attached to the helmet rather than incorporated into the helmet as a whole. In extreme cases, the chin-bar could detach. Still, they’re significantly safer than an open-face helmet and certainly safer than no helmet at all.  

How often should I replace my helmet? 

Regardless if you’ve had an incident, a helmet should be replaced every five years. UV rays from the sun can break down plastics in the outer shell. Sweat and general wear and tear can lessen the protectiveness of the inner liners over time. And it goes without saying that any helmet should be replaced after a crash or accident.  

Can I ride with the helmet in the open position? 

It’s obviously possible, but not recommended. Manufacturers advise that modular helmets should only be worn in the closed position while riding. The flip-front feature is only designed to be used while stationary.

Safety ratings 

A word of caution: There are currently no Snell-rated modular helmets. In 20 years, no modular helmet has yet passed Snell standards. This is due to the complexity of the designs and mechanisms.  

Over in Europe however, newer ECE 22.06 standards mandate testing with the chin bar raised and closed positions, providing ‘dual homologation’. 

Older, existing ECE 22.05 rated helmets can be rated with a  “P” or “J” designation (Protective and/or Jet), or both. “P” indicates acceptable protection when the chin bar is closed, while “J” indicates adequate protection when the bar is locked open. Manufacturer recommendations aside, if you ride with the bar open, it should be both “P” and “J” approved. 

Note: the SHARP rating found on certain helmets refers to a British safety designation that tests and rates helmets for safety with a rating out of five stars, five being the most protective. 

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How MCN tests modular helmets 

The MCN team of expert journalists have decades of experience over hundreds of thousands of miles. We don’t torture test anything. We use it just like you do in the real world and in all conditions to deliver impartial helmet buying advice. 

Each reviewer tests helmets in ways both subjective and objective. This includes the helmet’s safety rating, if comms systems are compatible, type of chin strap, weight and whether it has a drop-down sun visor, removable peak or other aerodynamic properties. 

MCN covers countless miles each week and tries lots of options in a short space of time. We quickly discover which helmets feel great, which ones don’t and why. 

We only feature helmets we’ve extensively tested. Comparison helmets will be included if deemed important and relevant. Testing is ongoing and we will continually add gear and products to our site. 

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

Scoring explained 

Products are given a score from 1 to 5 stars. Beyond the ratings tab, you’ll find in-depth info on product and gear performance and attributes.  

• 1 Star – Avoid at all costs. 
• 2 Stars – Barely acceptable. 
• 3 Stars – Average or adequate. 
• 4 Stars – Above average.  
• 5 Stars – Excellent performance. 

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