In addition to Snell, European helmets have their own testing certifications.

I use a modular Shark Evoline. Has no Snell rating, but even higher European certs.

 

First, the certifications are all different....don't get wound up on it. If it is DOT it's fine. Snell and the others are different certifications....with different tests. Some sources like the DOT test and some think SNELL is better.....some think some of the European tests are better. Some tests use Blount objects and penetration....some use bounce tests on concrete....

With that...helmets need to be tried on and fitted properly. The one that is the most comfortable is the best helmet. They all have different designs and shapes.....I have several helmets....all different....ALL FF helmets, all DOT and SNELL approved....my favorite is a Shoei....light,small profile, and good ventilation. Lots of good ones...some are more expensive than others. For a less expensive DOT and SNELL approved helmet, try Scorpion Helmets....I have one and my wife has one....
You cant go wrong with a Shoei....or an Aria....they cost more but they are really good.

 

A Snell FF. More expensive ones will have better venting, more comfortable padding, more features, better aerodynamics, quieter, etc. etc.

You can likely find a new Shoei or Arai for $300 for a good sale price. A top-of-the-line, multi-colored unit is around $600. $400 is a good price.

Shoei and Arai are very good and easy to find. Depends how your head is shaped many times. Arai's have, last I checked, a more difficult to remove shield. They also tend to have the chin piece closer to the chin.

Sorry, that's all false.

SNELL develops test standards for decades to most closely replicate impacts seen by motorcyclists.

Modulars CAN be tested, if they are submitted. I recently learned on here there is one brand with a Snell approved modular.

It's a LOT more than a step ladder test.

Protecting the head better is a tough claim if a $150 vs. a $600 pass the Snell test.

GREAT helmet. Light, removable lining, easy to install a comm. system.

The X-12 offers the same protection EXCEPT a little noisier but has a bladder on top push off the skull rather than being PULLED off by EMTs.

ECE is not higher, it is simply different. Arai has a FF that offers all 3 certs, DOT, SNELL and ECE.

If you race in the US, you likely are required a SNELL. If you ride in Europe, ECE, race likely an ECE and after that, FIA which is race only and I'm not even sure if it covers motorcycles.

 

Far as protecting your head, what makes a $500-$600+ Shoei helmet better than a $250 HJC?. Are there any studies that show this.

Fashion, fit and finish, and the like is one thing but as far as making a hill of beans difference in the outcome of a motorcycle accident I'm not convinced that more money equals more safety.

 

Exactly. If they all meet the same standard, you can't know.

I would add features and aerodynamics your F,F&F list above.

 

I contest the "DOT" its fine statement. DOT has standards, but it's more of self-declaration and they test randomly? I believe.

SNELL the companies have to apply, and has more rigorous standards.

You can't race with a DOT-only helmet. You have to have SNELL and there are reason(s).

 

I love my Nolan. Its light and its fully Snell/DOT compliant.

 

I wear a Shoei RF-1000, it is the 1100 predecessor. I got mine from Competition Accessories in the close out section. They have some of the RF-1100 buckets on clearance now. I bet you find something you she will like.
Oh and also the Bell full face helmets are great build quality, light weight and good airflow.
Bargains-Specials-Helmets

 

Great suggestions, I'm sure I'll be able to find something she likes that also gives her the best protection.

 

Ya kinda makes me wounder if my $50 dollar Daytona 3/4 helmet is any good as far as protection! I love the way it fits and how light it is but will it protect?