Simpson motorcycle helmets are a favorite among many riders out there (I own one), but you might be asking, are they any good? Well, this article takes a look at that question as well as where the helmets are made, the history of the company, and the best Simpson helmets out there. Let’s dive in.
Are Simpson Helmets Good?
Let’s start with safety. A lot of Simpson helmets come with DOT and ECE approval and Simpson is known for Snell certification, which is required for many types of racing. Add to all of that some truly high-quality materials for the shell of their helmets and their EPS, not to mention the chin straps, and all the other stuff you need in a good helmet, and I feel confident saying Simpson helmets are safe.
In terms of comfort, Simpson helmets offer what you want. With soft materials designed to wick away sweat and keep your head cool in warm temperatures. Ventilation is generally good in Simpson motorcycle helmets and they’re
The helmets are relatively affordable compared to some other helmet brands, which makes it a good choice for riders who are on a budget. They’re also available in a variety of colors and styles, so riders can find a design that they like.
As far as I can tell, these helmets are perfectly fine helmets for motorcyclists everywhere. If you want a good safe helmet and find the Simpson designs attractive, I say go for it.
Where are Simpson Motorcycle Helmets Made?
Simpson actually makes quite a lot of its products in the USA. A lot of the company’s auto racing products are made in North Carolina, according to the company’s website. However, when it comes to its performance products—like its motorcycle helmets, the story gets a little more complicated.
According to different reviews, some helmets are made in the USA and some are made by manufacturers in Europe and elsewhere. If having a helmet made in the USA is a big deal for you, then you may want to do some extra research or reach out to Simpson customer support to confirm the product’s manufacturing origin.
Simpson Motorcycle Helmets History
Simpson’s motorcycle helmet history actually starts with auto racing. Bill Simpson was a drag racer in the 1950s, and he had an accident while driving. This led to the first fire suit for racers.
After a while, Simpson expanded into other motorsports safety equipment, and eventually into motorcycle helmets. Today, the company is one of the to names out there. The company’s strong heritage among racers means its products are held in high regard, even for non-racing products. It’s a history that’s full of stories of the safety products the company creates actually saving lives, and it’s cool to see Simpson staying strong after all this time.
Best Simpson Motorcycle Helmets
Simpson offers a good list of motorcycle helmets, but there are a few of them I would avoid. Below I’ve thrown together my favorite Simpson products. These are the helmets I would spend my own money on, and I have no problem suggesting you do the same.
1. Simpson Ghost Bandit
Bending classic tough guy styling, the Ghost Bandit is a Simpson helmet designed 100% for motorcyclists. It comes with some high-quality materials and some truly great features.
You get a lightweight composite shell, high-quality EPS, tool-free shield removal, an internal sun visor, integrated speakers and boom mic pockets, dual adjustable chin vents, and a removable chin and nose air dam.
Overall, this has everything a rider could need, and you’ll find that these helmets are moderately priced. The Ghost Bandit could be the only helmet you own and you’ll have a safe, comfortable, and badass helmet.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
2. Simpson Mod Bandit
Are you looking for the classic, badass Bandit styling, but you want a modular helmet design? That’s exactly what the Simpson Mod Bandit is. This helmet brings you the styling in a filp-up style design.
You get a tri-composite or carbon fiber shell, high-quality EPS, a one-hand chin bar opening mechanism, the ability to lock the chin bar in the open position, comm unit compatibility, multiple intake vents, good exhaust venting, integrated spoiler, removable and washable hypoallergenic interior liner, and a face shield that’s Pinlock ready.
The Mod Bandit is my personal favorite of the Simpson lineup. It’s cool looking, functional, comfortable, and just generally gives you everything you need. If you’re a modular helmet fan, like I am, then you’ll love this helmet.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
3. Simpson Bandit Outlaw
Take the classic styling of the Ghost Bandit and make it more aerodynamic, and you get the Bandit Outlaw full-face helmet. This lid is perfect for a wide variety of riders.
It features most of the the same materials as the Ghost Bandit, so you get a lightweight composite shell, high-quality EPS, good ventilation, an easy-to-see-out-of face shield, and it is SNELL 2020 approved.
It’s a little more simple than some of the other Simpson helmets in the lineup, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s just darn good and brings that styling that everyone wants.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
4. Simpson Speed Bandit
The sleekest helmet in the Simpson lineup in my opinion is the Speed Bandit. It offers that Simpson motorcycle helmet style in a streamlined and even more badass-looking design. Add to that some seriously good features and you have a hell of a helmet.
This DOT and ECE approved helmet offers a polycarbonate shell, advanced EPS, low-pressure venturi venting at the Speed Brow, chin vents, and a massive face shield that is Pinlock ready. It also has a hypoallergenic, comfortable interior that’s removable and washable, and it’s ready for a Bluetooth communication unit with speaker pockets.
If you’re looking for a Simpson helmet that comes with a super reasonable price tag, then you should look no further than the Speed Bandit. It’s one of the most affordable helmets in the Simpson lineup.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
