Shoei vs Arai: how the two premium brands differ

The short version: two philosophies

Arai describes its shells as designed to glance off impact forces. In practice that means a round, smooth outer shape with few sharp edges, and shield mechanics (the Variable Axis System, or VAS) that sit low and flush so less hardware sticks out. The Corsair-X listing describes a PB-SNC2 shell with Super Fiber reinforcement aimed at being stronger and lighter with good glancing off properties.

Shoei puts more of its marketing weight on aerodynamics and noise. The RF-1400 listing says wind tunnel work cut drag by 4% and lift by 6% compared with the RF-1200, and talks about Vortex Generators on the shield, airtight window beading and removable ear pads to keep wind noise down. Shoei shells use its AIM (Advanced Integrated Matrix) construction of fiberglass and organic fibers.

Both approaches produce well regarded helmets. Neither brand is a bad choice; the right one is the one that fits your head and suits how you ride. If you want a deeper look at the safety question, read are Arai helmets safer.

Head shapes and fit

Fit matters more than brand. A helmet that is the wrong shape for your head creates hot spots, moves at speed and protects less well. Arai is unusually clear about shape in its listings. The Signet-X is a long oval for narrow heads with a pronounced forehead, the Corsair-X is an intermediate oval that Arai says fits most North American heads, and the Quantum-X is a round oval for heads that are slightly wider than they are long.

The Shoei listings used here do not state a head shape, and we will not assign one. Shoei does offer adjustable interior parts: the X-Fifteen listing describes an independently adjustable center pad system with replaceable sections, and the GT-Air 3 offers a 3D center pad and cheek pads in several thicknesses. Try each brand on, or measure carefully and use our helmet size finder and the helmet head shapes guide before you order.

Note.Sizes differ between brands. A medium Shoei and a medium Arai are not guaranteed to fit the same head. Always check each brand's own size chart.

Model against model: spec table

The table below sticks to what each Amazon listing states. Prices are listing prices at the time of writing and change often.

See the Shoei lineup explained →

Shield systems and visibility

Shoei's CWR-F2 shield on the RF-1400 uses side Vortex Generators that the listing says reduce wind turbulence. The X-Fifteen gets the CWR-F2R race shield with a double shield lock and an included Pinlock lens. On the GT-Air 3 and Neotec 3, Shoei adds an internal drop down sun visor, which suits touring riders who do not want to carry a tinted shield.

Arai uses its VAS shield across the street range. The Corsair-X listing explains that the variable axis lets the shield pivot sit lower on the shell, keeping the shell smoother, and that a dual function lever releases both the side cover and shield pin for quick changes. A de-mist latch position cracks the shield slightly open, and a clear Pinlock insert comes with the Corsair-X. None of the Arai full face models listed here has an internal sun visor.

If you change shields often, practice on both before you commit. Our guide on how to replace a helmet visor covers the basics, and how to install a Pinlock insert helps with fogging.

Safety ratings

Every helmet in this comparison is listed as meeting DOT FMVSS 218, the legal minimum for road use in the US. The Shoei RF-1400 also lists Snell M2020, and the X-Fifteen lists DOT, Snell and ECE 22.06. The Arai listings shown here state DOT only. That does not mean the Arai models lack other certifications in other markets; it means the US listing does not confirm them, so check the label on the helmet you receive.

If the alphabet soup is confusing, our DOT vs ECE vs Snell comparison explains what each test covers, and the helmet rating decoder reads a label for you.

Lineups: where each brand is stronger

For adventure riding, both brands sell peaked helmets: the Shoei Hornet X2 and the Arai XD-5. Compare those in our best adventure motorcycle helmets guide.

• Modular helmets: Shoei sells the Neotec 3. Arai does not make a modular street helmet; see does Arai make a modular helmet.
• Head shape choice: Arai offers clearly labeled long, intermediate and round oval shells.
• Built in sun visor: available on Shoei touring models such as the GT-Air 3 and Neotec 3.
• Intercom integration: the GT-Air 3 listing says it is designed for the optional Sena SRL3 unit.
• Entry price into the brand: the Arai Regent-X and Shoei RF-1400 both list in the $550 to $660 range depending on color and size.

Frequently asked questions

Is Arai safer than Shoei? Both brands meet DOT and sell helmets with additional ratings. The listings do not support calling one safer across the board. Fit and correct sizing make a larger difference for an individual rider than the badge.

Which is quieter, Shoei or Arai? Shoei markets noise reduction heavily on the RF-1400 and GT-Air 3, with sealed window beading and ear pads. Noise also depends on your bike, windscreen and fit, so wear earplugs either way.

Do Shoei and Arai sizes run the same? Not reliably. Measure your head and check each brand's chart, then try the helmet on for at least 20 minutes.

Which brand makes a modular helmet? Shoei does, with the Neotec 3. Arai does not offer a modular street helmet.