Riding a side-by-side can be thrilling, but it also demands reliable head protection. The helmets below are selected for open-air trails, open cockpit vehicles, and off-road environments where airflow, visibility, and safety standards matter. Each option emphasizes impact protection, comfort for long sessions, and practical features like extra visors or ventilation. Below you’ll find five helmets that fit a range of riding styles—from open-face comfort to full-face security—so you can pick the best match for your side-by-side adventures.
| Product | Brand | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Favoto Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT Approved | Favoto | Full-face protection with anti-fog dual visors |
| ILM Full Face Motorcycle Street Bike Helmet | ILM | Versatile full-face with removable neck scarf included |
| Cartman Cruiser Scooter Half Face Helmet | CARTMAN | Lightweight, DOT certified, quick-release buckle |
| Westt Open Face Motorcycle Helmet | Westt | Open-face with sun visor and 3 panel style options |
| Axel Off Road Trail Helmet | Axel Off Road | Off-road friendly, versatile for UTV/buggy use |
Favoto Full Face DOT Motorcycle Helmet
Favoto offers a full-face helmet engineered to meet DOT FMVSS 219 standards, featuring a high-strength ABS shell and multi-density EPS foam for impact protection. A notable feature is the dual visors with an anti-fog film, allowing quick switching between clear and tinted visors for varying light conditions. The helmet includes a quick-release visor mechanism and a comprehensive ventilation system with front chin vents, top channels, and rear exhausts to reduce heat buildup on long rides. This makes it a solid choice for daytime and dusk side-by-side runs in hot or humid environments.
ILM Full Face Street Bike Helmet With Removable Neck Scarf
ILM’s full-face design combines an aerodynamic, lightweight ABS shell with a practical winter accessory. The kit includes a removable neck scarf to help seal out cold air on early morning or late-season rides. It ships with two visors—clear and smoked—providing flexibility for different light levels. The emphasis on airflow and noise reduction makes it suitable for side-by-side trails where wind can be a factor, while still offering full facial protection when needed.
Cartman Cruiser Half Face Helmet
The Cartman half-face helmet offers DOT FMVSS No. 218 certification in a lightweight ABS shell with a thick EPS liner. Its design prioritizes comfort and quick on/off wearing through a quick-release buckle, which is useful when you need to gear up rapidly between trail segments or during pit stops. While not a full-face helmet, the half-face style still provides essential frontal protection and is favored by riders who value breathability and reduced weight on longer side-by-side adventures.
Westt Open Face Helmet With Sun Visor
Westt’s open-face helmet is certified with DOT and FMVSS-218 standards, combining safety with style. The helmet features a thick EPS foam liner for comfort and impact absorption, while its design supports interchangeable side panels in multiple colors, allowing riders to customize their look. A built-in sun visor and quick-release mechanism add practicality for variable lighting while keeping air circulation high—beneficial for hot weather or dusty trails often encountered in side-by-side excursions.
Axel Off Road Trail Helmet
Axel Off Road centers on versatility with a non-DOT designation yet broad off-road applicability. The helmet is designed for use inside roll cages or open terrain, supporting activities beyond motorized riding, such as kayaking or mountain biking. While it may not carry the same regulatory labeling as a standard motorcycle helmet, its build focuses on comfort, durability, and adaptability to rugged environments—traits valuable for multi-activity side-by-side enthusiasts seeking reliable head protection in diverse settings.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Certification and safety standards: For aggressive off-road and side-by-side use, prioritize DOT or ECE certifications and robust energy-absorbing liners. If you ride in industrial or construction settings, consider ANSI-equivalent headwear for different contexts.
- Protection style: Full-face helmets maximize facial protection and wind sealing, while open-face or half-face options improve ventilation and situational awareness. Choose based on climate, altitude, and ride duration.
- Ventilation and comfort: Look for multi-vent designs, channel systems, and breathable liners. Long sessions in warm weather demand effective cooling to reduce fatigue and maintain focus.
- Visors and visibility: Dual visors or sun visors help adapt to changing light. Anti-fog coatings are crucial in humid or rainy environments to maintain clarity during quick transitions.
- Weight and fit: Lighter helmets reduce neck strain, especially on longer rides. Confirm proper sizing with adjustable cheek pads, crown fits, and secure fasteners for gloves-friendly operation.
- Interchangeable parts and accessories: Quick-release visors, neck scarves, and removable liners add versatility for seasonal use and different riding conditions.
- Intended usage: Some helmets are optimized for on-road motorcycles, while others target off-road, UTVs, or multi-activity use. Ensure the helmet aligns with your side-by-side model and typical terrain.
- Maintenance: Look for washable liners and removable visors for easy cleaning, particularly in dusty or muddy environments common to trail rides.
- Budget versus safety trade-offs: Higher-rated helmets often offer superior impact protection and comfort, but there are solid mid-range options that balance protection with price for casual or occasional riders.
Choosing the right helmet for side-by-side use involves balancing protection, ventilation, and practicality for your typical trails and weather. The listed options span open-face and full-face configurations, with features such as anti-fog visors, removable neck scarves, quick-release buckles, and varied ventilation. Consider your climate, riding style, and frequency to determine which helmet provides the best combination of safety and comfort for your adventures.