12 Brain-Protecting MIPS Motorcycle Helmets You Can (and Should) Buy Right Now

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MIPS stands for Multi Directional Impact Protection System. What that means is that when your head is wearing a MIPS helmet and it strikes an object at an angle, which is how most impacts occur, the MIPS liner inside the helmet acts like a shim for your head that allows your outer helmet layers to twist independently before—or instead of—your head twisting, potentially mitigating injuries that result in a concussion or worse.

MIPS is a relatively simple technology, just a plastic layer inside your helmet that allows the helmet to move independently of your head. But even as important as the technology is, it’s in relatively few helmets so far. So have a look at this list of MIPS-equipped helmets you can buy right now.

Since I got my own MIPS helmet, I haven’t worn anything else since. Not that there’s anything in my head worth saving, but what is in there I desperately need. You, too.

Also, be sure to get a helmet that meets DOT standards at a minimum, indicated by the DOT FMVSS No. 218 sticker on the back. If you can get one that also meets the stricter ECE 22-06 standards, and that has MIPS technology in it, all the better.

Read on, then do your brain a favor and buy one. Then get a motorcycle airbag. But that’ll be a different list.

Qualifier DLX MIPS

The Qualifier DLX Mips full-face helmet has features gleaned directly from Bell’s flagship Star line at an affordable price. Those features include Velocity Flow ventilation, removable, washable liner and cheek pads, and a padded wind collar. The fancy ProTint photochromic face shield adjusts to any light conditions you’ll encounter, plus integrated audio compartments make room for your electronics.

Available in a wide variety of colors including the Hart Luck Live Matte Gold you see here.

Price: $217.46-$300.00

MX-9 Adventure MIPS

The MX-9 Adventure Mips is meant for ADV riders, who sometimes wander off pavement to find adventure. Bell says “this go-anywhere helmet gives you the best of both dirt and street. It’s designed to adapt to your version of adventure.”

The latest MX9 has an integrated anti-fog, anti-scratch clear face shield that flips up and leaves enough room for goggles in extreme conditions, or it can be removed completely. The adjustable visor can also be removed for street riding. MIPS protection, Velocity Flow ventilation, and a removable, washable, antimicrobial liner round out a highly adaptable package.

Price: $230-$260

ZR1 Range MIPS Dual Sports

In addition to being equipped with the latest Mips® technology, ZR1's Range Mips Dual Sports helmet sports a multi-density EPS liner for impact absorption, an injection molded polycarbonate shell that is lightweight, compact and strong, and a fully removable polyester moisture-wicking liner and cheek pads.

Its versatile design can be used with or without the face shield (hardware for the conversion is included). The drop-down sun visor makes the helmet versatile in all lighting conditions. There's a scratch-resistant polycarbonate shield and an adjustable and removable visor. It's DOT and ECE 22.05 approved, not as good as ECE 22.06, but still good.

Available in Flat Black, Black, and Dark Silver

MSRP $159.95

Airflite MIPS ReDoodle

With its highly detailed finish, ICON calls this helmet “...a high-voltage sugar cube,” adding that the Airflite ReDoodle is “...the Outer-Space toon-stew power-hat for which you've been waiting.”

Not for introverts.

It features the latest rotational-reduction system from MIPS, ICON’s Hydradry interior liner, an internal DropShield that includes Fog-Free Clear Fliteshield, the visually defining RST red Forceshield and superior venting.

“So get your ReDoodle and get ride-ready,” ICON intones. “You never know when someone will drop an anvil out a window. It’s looney out there.”

Airflite MIPS Demo

This unique exterior has ICON’s Rubatone finish with “a mottled vision of earth-toned hues,” as ICON describes it, while the new Forceshield enables a clear line of sight. Inside, like the ReDoodle above, the Demo features the latest rotational-reduction system from MIPS, a removable Hydradry liner, internal dark smoke Dropshield, and the included fog-free clear Fliteshield. “Wherever your next assignment takes you, the Demo will lead you through the assault,” ICON promises.

Airflite MIPS Jewel

“With gloss up front and matte out back, the Airflite™ Jewel is two sides of the same classy coin,” ICON says.

The Jewel features the latest rotational-reduction system from Mips. Hydradry interior liner, internal DropShield, included Fog-Free Clear and Dark Smoke Fliteshields, and superior venting that complete “the metallic perfection of the Airflite Jewel.”

Available in blue, gold, and silver.