Best Three-Quarter Open Face Helmets With Visors in 2026

The best open face helmets with visors cover your ears and the back of your head, add a shield for wind and bugs, and still feel light and airy. The Bell Custom 500, Biltwell Bonanza and Shoei J.O. are the strongest for style and build, while the HJC i20 and Scorpion EXO-CT220 add modern conveniences such as an internal sun visor.

1. Bell Custom 500

The Bell Custom 500 open face helmet is a modern interpretation of a classic from decades ago. Riders like the shape, the comfortable interior and the way it accepts snap-on bubble or flat shields. It is not the quietest helmet, and as an open face design it leaves the chin exposed. Choose it for relaxed riding in town or on back roads. Check whether the shield you want is sold separately.

2. Biltwell Bonanza

The Biltwell Bonanza open face helmet is a favorite among custom-bike owners because of its lightweight shell and simple look. It has a roomy interior with a comfortable fit for rounder heads. It uses a basic snap system for optional shields, and ventilation is minimal. If you want a clean, uncomplicated helmet that does not distract from the bike, this is a good option. If you want advanced features, look elsewhere.

3. Shoei J.O.

The Shoei J.O. open face helmet brings premium build quality to the open face category. The shell fits well, the liner is comfortable and the quality of the details is high. It is pricier than most open face rivals, and the retro look is subtle. It is for someone who rides every day and wants a long-lasting helmet. Compare it with the Bell Custom 500 if style is your priority.

4. HJC i20

The HJC i20 open face helmet blends a modern shell with an internal sun shield and a clear face shield. This makes it practical for commuters who ride in changing light. It is lightweight and offers decent ventilation. Noise levels are typical for the open face class, and some riders find the shield could be sealed better. It is a solid choice for everyday use.

5. Scorpion EXO-CT220

The Scorpion EXO-CT220 open face helmet has a streamlined profile, an included sun visor and a comfortable liner. It is especially popular among scooter riders and short-distance commuters. Expect basic noise suppression and a simple strap system. It is good value, especially for riders who want a shield without a full face’s heat.

What open face helmets are good for

Open face helmets give you good peripheral vision, plenty of airflow and a more relaxed feel than a full face. They suit city riding, scooters and cruisers. They do leave your chin and face exposed, which matters in a crash. Many riders accept that trade-off for lower speeds and short trips, but if you ride on highways, a full face or modular helmet is a safer choice.

How to choose

Shield type

Bubble shields give a retro look and extra visibility, flat shields are simpler, and internal drop-down visors are the most convenient. Make sure the shield fits securely and does not whistle or vibrate.

Ear and neck coverage

Choose a model that covers your ears and the back of your head, as a shallow shell may feel stylish but provides less protection.

Weight and ventilation

Lightweight shells are comfortable, but make sure there is enough ventilation for hot days.

Certification

Check for a DOT label, and ECE or another standard where applicable.

Common mistakes

• Using no eye protection. A shield, goggles or glasses are essential.
• Buying for the look only. Poor fit means poor protection.
• Choosing a dark shield for night. Use clear lenses after dark.
• Forgetting the strap. A loose strap can let the helmet shift in the wind.

Keeping the shield and liner in good shape

Snap-on shields scratch easily, so clean them with water and a microfiber cloth, not paper towels. Store the helmet in a soft bag and keep the shield attached or wrapped to protect it. Remove the liner every so often for washing if the helmet allows it. If the shield develops fine scratches that glare at night, replace it, as a clear view is a safety issue.

Sizing tips for retro shapes

Retro open face shells vary in internal shape. Many are rounder than modern sport helmets, which suits riders with rounder heads. Measure your head and compare with the maker’s chart. Remember that padding compresses a little with use, so a very snug new helmet is usually the right start.

Choosing a shield style

Open face helmets are only as comfortable as their eye protection. The most common options each have a distinct character.

• Bubble shields curve away from the face, give a retro look and offer a wide field of view. They can create more wind buffeting at higher speeds.
• Flat shields sit closer to the face and are lighter. They are a good match for a cleaner, minimalist look.
• Peak visors shade the eyes but do not stop wind, so wear sunglasses or goggles with them.
• Internal sun shields drop down from inside the shell. They are convenient for changing light, though they add weight and complexity.

Noise and comfort at speed

Open face helmets are noisier than full face designs because air flows freely around your ears and neck. Earplugs are the single most useful accessory, and a neck gaiter can also reduce wind noise. If you ride mostly in town, you may not notice it, but longer rides call for hearing protection.

Matching the helmet to your bike

A classic cafe-racer or scrambler often looks best with a retro helmet. A scooter or commuter bike may pair better with a more modern design with an integrated visor. Choose the style you will enjoy, but treat fit and certification as the non-negotiable foundation.

A word on cold and wet weather

An open face helmet offers little protection from cold air and rain. Layer up with a neck warmer, wear a clear shield or goggles to keep water out of your eyes, and be realistic about how far you want to ride in poor conditions. If you often ride in winter, a modular or full face helmet will be more comfortable.

Frequently asked questions

Is an open face helmet safe?

It protects the skull but not the face or jaw, so it provides less protection than a full face model. It is a trade-off suited to slower, urban riding.

Can I add a shield to any open face helmet?

Not always. Use shields designed for your specific model or compatible with its snaps.

What is the difference between a half helmet and a three-quarter helmet?

A three-quarter helmet covers more of the sides and back of the head, including the ears, while a half helmet sits higher and covers less.

Are these helmets good for scooters?

Yes, they are very popular on scooters because they are light and easy to wear.

Conclusion

For classic style, the Bell Custom 500 and Biltwell Bonanza are hard to beat. For premium quality, choose the Shoei J.O., and for practical commuting, the HJC i20 and Scorpion EXO-CT220 make sense. Focus on fit, certification and eye protection.

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