Full Face vs Modular Helmet: Which is Better?

Two helmet styles dominate the market. Full-face offers maximum protection in a fixed position. Modular (flip-up) adds the convenience of lifting the chin bar. Which should you buy?

Full-Face Helmets: A single shell with fixed chin bar provides the lightest weight and simplest construction. Nothing moves, nothing breaks, nothing wears out mechanically.

SHARP testing consistently rates full-face helmets higher than modulars. Simpler construction means fewer compromise points. The chin bar is integral to the shell, not attached by hinges.

Weight typically ranges 1,200-1,500g. Aerodynamics are optimised without hinge bulge. Wind noise is generally lower than modular equivalents.

Modular Helmets: The chin bar flips up via a hinge mechanism, converting a full-face into an open face temporarily. Practical for glasses wearers, petrol station transactions, and brief stops without full helmet removal.

Modern P/J rated modulars (Schuberth C5, Shoei Neotec 3) are certified safe in both positions. The chin bar latches securely enough to protect in impacts.

Weight typically runs 1,400-1,700g due to the hinge mechanism. Added mechanical complexity means more potential failure points over time.

Safety Comparison: Full-face wins on safety data. SHARP ratings show full-face helmets averaging higher scores than modulars at equivalent price points. The fixed chin bar has no hinge to stress.

That said, quality modular helmets are genuinely safe. A 4-star modular protects better than a 2-star full-face. The difference between helmet types is smaller than the difference between good and poor helmets within each type.

Convenience Factor: Modular helmets shine in real-world use. Flip up to talk clearly. Flip up to pay for fuel without shouting. Flip up to drink water on a long ride. Flip up to put on glasses.

For commuters who interact with the world while riding, this convenience matters. For dedicated riding where the helmet stays on and closed, it's irrelevant.

Weight and Noise: Full-face is lighter and quieter. The difference is 150-300g and several decibels. Over a 30-minute commute, you might not notice. Over three hours of motorway, you will.

Touring riders often accept modular weight penalties for convenience. Sport riders rarely tolerate the extra mass.

P/J Certification: Modular helmets carry P (protective) and/or J (jet) ratings. P certification means the chin bar provides protection when closed. J certification means it's safe to ride with the chin bar open.

P/J rated helmets are certified safe in both positions. P only helmets must remain closed while riding. Check certification before buying.

Who Should Buy What: Full-face suits riders who prioritise weight, noise, and outright safety margins. Sport riders, track day participants, and those who rarely stop.

Modular suits riders who value convenience and wear glasses or communicate frequently while stopped. Tourers, commuters, and those who dislike the hassle of full helmet removal.

Our Recommendation: For dedicated riding where the helmet stays on, choose full-face. For mixed use where you're frequently interacting with the world, modular convenience is worth the trade-offs.

Either way, buy the best you can afford with the highest SHARP rating in your budget. The type matters less than the quality. Our quiz can help identify which style matches your riding patterns.