If you’re one of those who have been helmet shopping in the past, you may have come across the term modular helmet. We’ve all heard stories about this new kind of snowmobile helmet.
On the surface, this might not seem like much of a difference but in reality, it can mean a lot in terms of safety and versatility.
In fact, the modular snowmobile helmet is the newest development in snowmobile helmets. They are designed to reduce injuries by providing full coverage to the base of the skull, making them a better alternative to snowmobile goggles.
But what really is a modular snowmobile helmet? Are they even safe? Well, in this article, we’ll find out what a modular snowmobile helmet is and if they are better for the snowmobiler.
You will also learn about what makes the best modular snowmobile helmet. Plus, we’ve shared some of the best snowmobile helmets to make your riding adventure more fun!
Table of Contents
Modular Snowmobile Helmets Explained
Modular snowmobile helmets (sometimes referred to as flip-up or convertible helmets) are helmets that are designed to be interchanged. It is a helmet that combines the best of both worlds: the safety of full-face helmets and the freedom associated with jet helmets. In other words, a modular helmet can be worn in different configurations depending on your need.
Although this kind of helmet is more often referred to as “modular” or “convertible,” we still mean the same thing when we say “flip-up.” A folding chin is built into the front of the helmet.
As such, this single helmet can serve two purposes: a jet when the lower portion is raised, and a full face when the lower portion is lowered.
Note that when you look at helmets, you need something that offers the safety you need for riding at greater speeds, especially on narrow trails or when with other riders nearby.
And when you factor in the cold and elements, which can be harsh at times, it sets a lot of demands on what kind of helmet you should get. Thankfully, modular snowmobile helmets provide the much-needed comfort, safety, and versatility to make your adventure more fun.
Otherwise, when it comes to choosing the right gear for your next motorized, backcountry adventure, there’s usually nothing more important than having a good snowmobile helmet.
It is obvious that modular helmets are a popular choice, particularly for city bikers. They provide more protection than open-face helmets and facilitate some of the most typical tasks that bikers perform. In the same manner, there is no denying that they provide all of the benefits associated with full-face helmets (safety, noise, weight, and so on.).
What Makes the Best Modular Helmet for Snowmobiles?
Modular helmets are mostly designed with a flip-up chin bar that enables them to switch between a full-face and an open-face configuration.
As a result, riders who prefer having an unobstructed view or to cool off quickly will find this feature to be quite convenient. Sun visors are yet another common feature of modular helmets, which shield your eyes from the sun’s glare.
Nonetheless, comfort is, by far, the most crucial component of a helmet. While still fitting snugly, as a helmet should, it should be comfortable to wear. The quality factor comes next.
Look, you need the helmet to do only one thing: keep you safe. As dire as it may sound, a helmet isn’t worth much if it can’t provide much-needed protection for your vulnerable skull.
And because of this, price isn’t really a factor when deciding which helmet is best for you. Always put on a helmet, but wear the most reliable one you can.
Never buy a used helmet as you never know what it has been through. It goes without saying that any helmet that has ever been dropped or involved in an accident needs to be replaced, regardless of price.
Modular Helmets: Opening and Closing Mechanisms
Well, of course, there’re many mechanisms for opening and closing based on each brand. However, the opening button is the most common system seen on the sides or inside of the chin bar’s middle section.
It’s good to note that some models seek to make activation as simple as possible, yet doing so exposes the button to a risky opening from unintentional touching.
As a result, it is recommended to have it concealed on the inside, but not too concealed, so that you can still press it with minimal effort even while wearing heavy winter gloves.
Similar to full-face helmets (we shall discuss them in a while), flip-up helmets come in a huge variety with widely varying prices and, of course, different features. As usual, higher cost means better materials, better craftsmanship, and more durable opening/closing mechanism components.
Advantages of Wearing a Modular Helmet
Wearing a modular helmet when cycling has many advantages. First, they provide a greater level of protection in case of an accident, given that they completely enclose your head, as opposed to open-face helmets. Modular helmets are also generally quiet, making them an excellent choice for riders who value a tranquil ride.
Most importantly, modular helmets are preferred for being highly comfortable. This is so that, even on lengthy rides, your head will remain cool and comfortable. They are often built with lots of padding and ventilation. Additionally, washable liners- that can be removed from modular helmets- come in handy to keep them hygienic and fresh over time.
Modular helmets also boast the advantage of enhanced visibility. Thus, it will be easy for you to see where you’re going and avoid potential hazards. Finally, riders like modular helmets because they appear quite fashionable and are available in a wide range of hues and patterns.
As you can see, a modular helmet is a wonderful choice if you want a helmet that gives the best protection possible without compromising on comfort or design. These adaptable helmets are perfect for all riding circumstances.
So why not try one? It might turn out to be your new favorite piece of equipment!
Problems with Modular Helmets
Well, a modular helmet has several drawbacks that we must accept, as is only logical. One, it is heavier and louder compared to a full-face helmet of the same brand and price range.
Additionally, because of its rather complex design, it has an ill drag coefficient. Although some flip-up helmets now feature seals that are adequately airtight, there isn’t a flip-up helmet that doesn’t generate noise as air leaks through the gaps.
The standardization type is yet another consideration. Many helmets do not have the chin flip-up feature as standard gear. Some of them are meant to serve in their open configuration, yet using them in their closed form is the most appropriate and secure method to do so.
To clear this out, you might want to check the letters on the obligatory standardization label, which is normally sewn to one of the straps or on the interior lining.
Other Types of Snowmobile Helmets
Snowmobile helmets are available in 3 main types: full-face, open-face, and modular. They all come with a unique mix of benefits and drawbacks (as we have seen with modular helmets), so it’s crucial to select the one that best meets your requirements.
Here is a quick overview of full-face and open-face:
Full-face Helmets
Full-face snowmobile helmets are essentially designed to safeguard your entire head, as the name suggests. They offer the maximum protection in case of a fall, making them ideal for riders who frequently find themselves venturing off-trail or encountering difficult terrain.
However, full-face helmets have significant disadvantages as well. They sometimes can be hot and stuffy, which is one of their main drawbacks. So if you’re especially a fair-weather rider, keep in mind that these helmets can be a little uncomfortable and cramped in warmer temps.
Also, these helmets might be heavy and bulkier compared to other snowmobile helmets. Because of this, they might not be as great to wear for an extended period of time.
Other than that, a full-face snowmobile helmet can be your best bet for the most defense against the elements and crash instances. The helmet is associated with little wind noise and buffeting since it completely encloses your head and has few moving parts.
Moreover, the full-face helmet is one of the most common options among trail riders and will function quite well in a range of conditions.
A full-face helmet can be a smart choice for you if you frequently ride off-trail or in difficult terrain. On the other hand, if you ride just seldom, you could want a different style of helmet.
Open Face Helmet
Perhaps the greatest benefit of open-face helmets is that they offer excellent visibility and airflow. This is particularly crucial if you want to ride for an extended period of time because it can assist prevent fogging and even keep you from overheating.
But there is a price to pay for this improved ventilation and visibility.
In particular, open-face helmets don’t provide much warmth on those particularly chilly days. In fact, open-face helmets are ideal for off-trail riding and are typically worn with goggles.
Nonetheless, these helmets typically have multiple uses as well and they are becoming more and more popular for their stylish appearance and adaptability.
Temperature regulation is another factor to think about while using open-faced helmets. In comparison to full-face helmets, these ones are often more comfortable in warmer climates, but they won’t do much to keep your head warm in cold weather.
In light of this, an open-face helmet can be a great choice for you if you reside in a region with moderate winters. But if you intend to ride in cooler weather, just be sure to bundle up!
Whether an open-face snowmobile helmet is best for you ultimately depends on your own preferences. An open-face helmet is a terrific option if vision and airflow are your top priorities. A full-face helmet meanwhile can be a better choice if you’re seeking maximum protection against weather and elements.
Tip: If you are torn between a full-face and open helmet, a modular helmet is a perfect getaway. The very best of all worlds is offered by modular snowmobile helmets. They’re excellent for riders who want the best possible protection but also want the freedom to cool off when the temperature rises.
Look, the modular snowmobile helmet essentially shares the same characteristics as the full-face helmet, with the added benefit of allowing the chin bar to be raised while stationary.
Snowmobilers who stop frequently and need rapid access to their faces will find this feature quite useful. Of course, the added moving parts of this helmet reduce its level of absolute protection, but it is perfectly acceptable and an excellent choice overall.
Motocross and Snocross
The Motocross or Snocross style of helmet is a great choice for riders who are especially more active, such as mountain and Snocross riders. The rider doesn’t wear face protection; they wear separate goggles. The goggles sit closer to the face, giving the rider a wider field of vision.
They provide a greater deal of ventilation capabilities, which is important because those riding techniques require riders to be considerably more active, which may increase their sweating.
But what is the difference between a motorcycle helmet and a modular snowmobile helmet?
Well, the only real difference between a modular helmet and a motorcycle helmet is that the latter doesn’t have dual-pane or heated visors to deal with frost and fog. They also don’t usually feature any sort of breath box to keep your face from freezing.
Structurally, both options are the same, so if you’ve got a nice street helmet and would like to wear it out whizzing a sled, then go for it. You just could get a little cold.
The Best Modular Snowmobile Helmet
When it comes to gear, snowmobiling offers greater challenges than what you’d get from other motorized sports. As such, you need to pick something that boasts all the safety features you need for cruising at higher speeds, on narrow trails, and even with other riders nearby.
Here are the 5 best modular snowmobile helmets you should check out.
509 Delta R3L Ignite Helmet
The 509 happens to be one of the top choices on the list and it’s by no surprise, considering all the innovation. The modular snowmobile helmet design was approached differently with the Delta R4 Ignite helmet, and it just works. It boasts the company’s Ignite two-pane heating feature, which provides clear, fog and ice-free vision in below-freezing temperatures.
The face shield on the 509 is large enough for a wide field of vision. And with the touch of a button, it instantly flips up. The 509 helmet also features their renowned Fidlock magnetic strap fastening as well as climate control venting for warmth and ease.
Overall, the 509 is one of the most reliable modular snowmobile helmets out there thanks to all these characteristics and the fact that it has one of the greatest looks out there.
Typhoon TH158 Dual Visor Snowmobile Helmet
Typhoon may not be as well-known as some other helmet manufacturers, but that doesn’t mean their products aren’t up to par. The dual visor TH158 snowmobile helmet clearly demonstrates this.
For the clearest vision possible on your upcoming snowy ride, Typhoon TH150 helmets boast dual-pane shields that prevent fogging and are also treated with an anti-fogging substance.
The helmet also comes with an adjustable chin skirt and breath box so that your face remains warm and shielded from the wind. Regarding the helmet’s modular design, the face readily opens with a simple push of a simple.
Not forgetting the built-in retractable sun visor that comes in handy when riding on those sunny afternoons.
HJC i90 Modular Electric Snowmobile Helmet
Arguably the most high-tech helmet! The advanced tech features that HJC has incorporated in the i90 Modular Electric Snowmobile Helmets demonstrate that they’re veterans in the game.
The HJC HJ-33 two-Lens Frame-free Snow Shield, which is compatible with both DC and AC current, the glove-pleasant middle one-touch close/open locking mechanism, and Advance Channeling Ventilation (ACV), which has seven intakes and dua exhaust vents included in the helmet, are just some of the features that set the i90 apart from other regular touring helmets.
Additionally, the SMART HJC 20B and 10B Bluetooth communicators are easily compatible with this helmet. Overall, the HJC i90 has unquestionably earned a spot on our line of the best snowmobile helmets thanks to these features.
Castle X CX950 Modular Electric Snow Helmet
The Castle helmet is, to put it simply, fantastic when it comes to modular snowmobile helmets! It sports a cutting-edge LG polycarbonate casing that Scorpion created. It boasts an electronic, dual lens shield and a simple, flip-up chin bar.
With this helmet, a full field of vision is provided via the ultra-wide eyeport, which also enables riders to wear almost any type of prescription eyewear. And it is simple to take off the visor if you don’t want to use it.
The Kwikfit padding on the helmet is antibacterial and customizable. Moreover, ports are available for additional communication systems. The lid has a five-year warranty and comes with a chin skirt and a breath box.
This is definitely one of the top electric modular snowmobile helmets on the market today.
Ski-Doo Modular 3
Of course, we can’t end the talk over the finest modular snowmobile helmets without mentioning a Ski-Doo product.
The Modular 3 is one of the company’s cutting-edge helmets you can use when riding in even the worst weather conditions. The Modular 3 has a lightweight and durable Polycarbonate shell, an optically accurate two-lens visor, a customizable sun shield that is operated by a button, and a handy quick-release chin strap.
It also features a Breath Evac fog-resistant mask system and a front push-button discharge that is built into the jaw portion. One of the nicest characteristics is that it can also receive the majority of Bluetooth communication devices, allowing you to keep in touch with all of your trail companions. No matter what kind of sled you ride, you should consider this helmet.
The Bottom Line
All things considered, snowmobile modular helmets may not provide the same level of warmth and protection as a full-face helmet, but they are perfectly acceptable. And when it comes to versatility, a modular snowmobile helmet could be just the thing you need to explore the mountains and have the time of your life. Just remember to wear glasses or some sort of eye protection when riding your snowmobile, whether it’s a full-face or a modular helmet.
We hope you enjoyed our article and that it answered any questions you may have had about the various types of helmets, and whether modular helmets are a great choice for you.
Happy riding this winter!
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