Arai helmets have long been synonymous with superior protection, innovation, and unmatched quality. Combining cutting-edge technology with a deep commitment to rider safety, Arai has emerged as the go-to choice for professional riders and enthusiasts alike. Ready to elevate your off-road experience? Let’s explore the world of Arai MX helmets and discover why they are the ultimate off-road protection in 2023.

Key Takeaways

• Arai MX Helmets provide superior safety and performance for the most demanding riders.
• The R75 Shape concept ensures a continuous curve radius of at least 75mm, while the Emergency Release System facilitates rapid removal in an emergency situation.
• Arai helmets are renowned for their commitment to rider safety, comfort and fit compared to other brands on the market.

Special History With The Brand

As the author of this article and founder of Motocross Advice, Martin Varrand, I have a long history with the Arai brand. My relationship with Arai dates back to my early riding days; in fact, Arai was one of my first helmets ever. Throughout my professional career, I rode exclusively with Arai helmets. Back then, Arai had models with removable chin protectors, a feature that has since disappeared from the motocross scene. This historical context made it particularly intriguing for me to test these new Arai helmets and gain insight into how the brand has evolved in the motocross world.

Exploring Arai MX Helmets

Arai motocross helmets, including arai dirt bike helmets, are designed with the most demanding riders in mind, providing unparalleled safety and performance. The Arai MX-V, the brand’s flagship off-road helmet, boasts a simple organic shell shape, free of exaggerated edges, ensuring a smooth and aerodynamic profile. With Arai’s commitment to safety and their extensive range of models, you’ll surely find the perfect choice for your riding needs.

Arai’s Commitment to Safety

Prioritizing rider safety, Arai employs patented materials and technology like multi-layered construction and impact-absorbing EPS foam in their designs. Moreover, Arai helmets adhere to stringent safety standards, including ECE R22-05, DOT, and Snell, showcasing their unwavering dedication to exceeding both external and internal benchmarks.

Arai’s innovative “glancing off” design philosophy and commitment to reinforcing shells and softening EPS liners provide an unmatched level of protection. These helmets undergo rigorous testing methods, including the Snell penetration test, impact energy management, and controlled impact testing, to ensure they are worthy of the Arai name.

Simple Organic Shell Shape

Arai’s design philosophy is centered around the Simple Organic Shell Shape, which is rooted in the R75 shape concept. This round, smooth shape plays a crucial role in:

• Rerouting potential impact energy
• Reducing oblique impacts
• Facilitating the helmet’s glide across uneven surfaces
• Bouncing off obstacles

Setting Arai helmets apart from the competition is their adherence to the R75 shape concept. This design, a result of decades of development, cannot be replicated by computers. The basic and simple shape, free from exaggerated edges or protrusions, creates a smooth and aerodynamic profile that enhances both safety and performance.

The Arai MX-V: An In-Depth Look

The Arai MX-V is a testament to the brand’s dedication to crafting the ultimate off-road helmet. Evolved from the highly-regarded VX-3 model, the MX-V offers a host of advanced features that cater to the unique demands of off-road riding.

Let’s take an in-depth look at the MX-V and its standout features.

R75 Shape Concept

By incorporating the R75 Shape concept, the MX-V helmet ensures a shell that is rounder, stronger and smoother. This continuous curve radius of at least 75mm in hand-built Arai helmet shells offers several advantages, including improved impact absorption, more effective distribution of forces, and reduced risk of the helmet sticking or catching on the ground during an impact.

The R75 Shape concept showcases Arai’s commitment to rider safety and protection. By adhering to this concept, Arai helmets are able to provide a higher level of protection and withstand impacts, making them a preferred choice for riders who prioritize safety above all else.

Emergency Release System

The innovative Emergency Release System is a standout feature of the Arai MX-V helmet. Designed to facilitate access to an injured rider, the system features integrated orange tabs in the cheek pads, which, when pulled, allow the pads to slide out, assisting rescue personnel in removing the helmet with greater ease.

This system provides a crucial safety benefit, allowing for rapid and secure removal of the helmet without causing further harm to the rider’s neck and spine in the event of a collision. As a result, emergency responders can evaluate and stabilize the rider’s condition more effectively.

Customization Options

Recognizing the uniqueness of every rider, Arai offers a broad range of customization options for the MX-V helmet. Choose from various sizes, designs, and finishes to personalize your helmet, or update its appearance with custom graphics and decals from companies like HYENA. With Arai’s extensive selection, you can truly make your helmet a reflection of your individual style.

Professional Riders Trust Arai

Arai helmets are the trusted choice of professional riders for their off-road adventures. With a reputation for superior construction, stringent quality control, and unwavering commitment to safety, Arai helmets have become the go-to choice for many top racers. Let’s hear from a few professionals who put their trust in Arai.

Justin Barcia on Arai MX-V

Long-term Arai-sponsored athlete Justin Barcia is no stranger to the brand’s exceptional helmets. Barcia has collaborated with Arai for the MX-V Barcia 3 Frog helmet, a testament to his confidence in the product.

Barcia appreciates the wide eyeport and ventilation features of the Arai MX-V helmet and has even collaborated with Troy Lee Designs to create a custom graphic design for his helmet. As a professional racer, Barcia’s endorsement of the Arai MX-V speaks volumes about the helmet’s performance and protection capabilities.

Adrien van Beveren’s Interview at EICMA 2017

Dakar rider Adrien van Beveren shared his experience with Arai helmets at EICMA 2017, highlighting the brand’s commitment to rider safety and performance.

Van Beveren, who utilizes the Arai MX-V helmet for his Dakar races, is yet another professional rider who trusts in the quality and protection offered by Arai products. His positive experience with the brand only further solidifies Arai’s status as a top choice for off-road enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Comparing Arai to Other Brands

The comparison of Arai helmets with other top brands like SHOEI, 6D Helmets, and Bell Helmets is common. While each brand has its own unique features and benefits, Arai consistently stands out for its commitment to safety, comfort, and fit.

Let’s delve deeper into how Arai helmets stack up against the competition.

Protection Comparison

Arai helmets are designed to offer superior protection compared to other brands on the market. Through their R75 shape concept, emergency release system, and simple organic shell shape, Arai helmets provide an unmatched level of protection.

In crash tests, Arai helmets have consistently outperformed their competitors, passing high-speed impact tests such as FIM’s helmet certification and meeting the Snell standard. This focus on safety and performance has earned Arai a loyal following among riders who prioritize protection above all else.

Comfort and Fit

When it comes to comfort and fit, Arai helmets are second to none. Their unique One-Piece, Multi-Density Liner provides a thinner and softer EPS liner, ensuring a superior fit and wear right out of the box.

Arai also offers unmatched customization options, including multiple interior shapes, an extensive selection of interior liners, and removable cheek pads. The brand is the only company to offer multiple interior-fit shapes, as well as peel-away temple and cheek pad layers for personalized fitting. These features make Arai helmets not only comfortable but also adaptable to a wide range of head shapes and sizes.

How to Choose the Perfect Arai Helmet

Selecting the perfect Arai helmet requires considering a variety of factors, including your riding style, budget, and personal preferences. With so many options available, it may seem overwhelming at first. Thankfully, we’ve compiled a guide to help you make an informed decision and choose the ideal Arai helmet for your needs.

Riding Style: MX, Enduro, or Off-Road?

Identifying your specific riding style is key to picking the right Arai helmet. Whether you predominantly ride MX, Enduro, or Off-Road, Arai has a helmet designed to cater to your unique needs.

For those who often ride MX, Enduro, and Off-Road, the Arai VX-Pro4 helmet is an ideal choice. This versatile helmet offers advanced features and protection, ensuring you’re well-equipped for any off-road adventure.

Budget Considerations

When it comes to Arai MX helmets, there’s really only one model that stands out: the high-end MX-V. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality and protection it provides make it a worthwhile investment for any serious rider.

To find the best deals on Arai helmets, consider checking out the following retailers:

• RevZilla
• Motorcycle Closeouts
• Riders Discount
• Cycle Gear
• Dennis Kirk
• eBay

By shopping around and comparing prices, you can find the perfect Arai helmet in stock for your needs without spending too much money.

Summary

Arai MX helmets have earned their reputation as the ultimate off-road protection in 2023. With their unwavering commitment to safety, innovative designs, and a plethora of customization options, it’s no wonder professional riders and enthusiasts alike trust Arai helmets. By considering your riding style and budget, you can find the perfect Arai helmet to elevate your off-road experience and protect yourself on the trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Arai so expensive?

Arai’s commitment to quality and detail makes them a costly helmet choice. Their single-piece inner shell made up of multiple densities for structural integrity is more expensive to make and they are hand-made in Japan, making the cost of production be passed on to customers.

Are MX helmets safe for road use?

MX helmets can be used for street riding, however they may not be as safe as dedicated street helmets due to their lack of aerodynamic and noise dampening design features, as well as a face shield. MX helmets still offer protection, but should only be used for slower speeds.

Why are Arai helmets so good?

Arai helmets are renowned for their quality and attention to detail, as each helmet is still handcrafted with precision by the family-owned factory in Japan. This dedication to excellence makes it clear why Arai helmets come at a premium cost.

Do MX helmets expire?

MX helmets do have an expiry date, usually set at 3-5 years from the purchase date by most manufacturers. This is because the helmet weakens after long use and exposure to the elements such as UV rays and dirt.

What makes Arai helmets stand out from other brands?

Arai helmets stand out for their commitment to safety, unique designs, and custom fit options, making them a top choice for riders.