Dirt Bike Helmet Guide 2025: How to Choose the Right Helmet for Your Ride

Helmet Buying Guide for Dirt Bike & Enduro Riders.

Shopping for a new dirt bike helmet in 2025? With dozens of great brands, different rating and all types of shell material, it can feel overwhelming—but Steeps Factory has your back. In this guide we will explain what to look for when making your purchase, what protection ratings mean, how to find the right fit, and design features that are often overlooked.

Before you hit the ground, (despite popular belief, this is inevitable) you want to be assured you're protected. You don't want to be put in a midair situation where you're praying you have the right gear. There are multiple factors of protection when it comes to gear, but your head is a crucial part of your body. So, let's protect it.

Safety Features Explained: ECE vs DOT vs Snell

DOT

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s minimum street-legal standard. Better than nothing, but not the toughest test.

ECE 22.06

Europe’s updated test standard. Stricter impact and rotational-force testing than DOT.

Snell M2020

A voluntary high-impact test favored by racers; usually found on premium helmets.

Pro tip: if you tend to find yourself pushing the limits off road with speed and jumps often, paying the extra money for SNELL or ECE rating is worth it.

How to Get the Right Fit

A moto helmet that's too loose won't protect you, and a helmet that's too tight could cause discomfort and headaches.

Measure Your Head

With a soft tape, measure the circumference of your head exactly where the sweatband on a hat would fit. Right above the eyebrows, about in the middle of the forehead and around.

Match the Size Chart

Every company should provide a size chart on their site. If you don't see one, use the quick chat feature or send an email.

Know Your Head Shape

Round vs intermediate oval can affect fitment and make or break a well fitting helmet.

Retention Test

Tighten the chin strap so that it's almost tight, but not too uncomfortable. Your helmet SHOULD NOT be able to come off of your head with the strap fastened. There's a happy medium between too tight and comfortable.

Materials and Key Features

Shell Material

• Polycarbonate: More affordable choice, slightly heavier than other options.
• Composite/Fiberglass: Lighter option, absorbs more impact.
• Carbon Fiber: Lightest option, more expensive choice.

Ventilation

More vents = cooler temps. An often over looked feature, until you need it. Can bring more noise than a less vented helmet.

Weight

Helmets 3 lbs and under feel better for longer rides.

Removable Liners

Crucial for washing and keeping clean, and if they wear out- they are replacable. If you don't have this option, you'll probably end up wishing you did.

Trail vs Track: Picking the Right Style

Trail / Enduro

Breathability and comfort are a must.

Shop the 10 SRS Elite Helmet – Black/White

Motocross / Track

Lightweight shells, look for SNELL or ECE certification, strong peak.

Shop the One Industries X-197 Helmet – Carbon Black/Oil

Adventure / Dual Sport

Street legal visor and ventilation.

Shop the Sierra Helmet R V.3 – Black/Gray

Care and When to Replace

Replace your helmet after 5 years of use. Seems over kill to some, but 5 years of small crashes add up, and hairline fractures can occur. After every serious crash that helmet should be retired and the inner lining saved. You never know when you'll need an extra liner that wears out before replacement.

Inspect straps for wear and EPS liner for cracks, store out of direct light and wash liners frequently.

Bottom Line

The best helmet for you is what is most comfortable and provides the protection you're comfortable with and suits your riding style. That's it. The colors, gloss, appearance is a plus, not a must.

Ready to gear up? Shop our top rated dirt bike helmets and ride with confidence.Shop All Dirt Bike Helmets – Steeps Factory Questions about what gear is best for you? Email support at support@steepsfactory.com or hit the chat feature on Steeps Factory and we will guide you.