Shoei X-15 vs RF-1400

Two helmets, two jobs

The X-Fifteen is built for the track. Its listings describe a wind tunnel shell that reduces drag and lift for stability at high speed, the CWR-F2R racing shield with a double shield lock, a chin bar designed for helmet hydration systems, a breath guard, a chin curtain and the E.Q.R.S. emergency cheek pad release. That kit is aimed at a rider in a tucked position on a sport bike at high speed.

The RF-1400 is Shoei's street flagship. Its listing focuses on lower drag and lift compared with the RF-1200 (4% and 6% less), a quieter spoilered shell, Vortex Generators on the CWR-F2 shield, airtight window beading and removable ear pads. That is a helmet built for comfort over a long day on the road.

Spec table

These specs come from the Shoei listings for each helmet. Prices are for solid colors; graphics cost more.

See the Shoei lineup explained →

Why the X-15 is not for every rider

A race helmet is shaped to work when your head is tucked low behind a fairing and you look up through the top of the eye port. Sitting upright on a naked bike, a cruiser or an adventure bike, that same shape can catch more wind and leave you looking through a different part of the shield than the designers intended. The X-Fifteen listing says it works on street as well as track, and many riders do use it that way, but its features are tuned for a racing crouch.

Race extras also add cost you may never use. A hydration ready chin bar and a double shield lock matter in a race. On a commute they add little. The RF-1400 instead puts its effort into quiet running and a comfortable interior, which most road riders value more over a long day.

If you ride track days a few times a year, the RF-1400's DOT and Snell M2020 ratings are worth checking against your track's rules. Some tracks and race organizations require Snell or ECE. Our DOT vs ECE vs Snell guide explains the differences.

Fit, comfort and noise

Both helmets offer removable, washable Max-Dry liners. The X-Fifteen's independently adjustable center pad with replaceable sections lets you fine tune crown fit, which matters when your head is held at an angle for long periods. The RF-1400 adds removable ear pads aimed at reducing wind noise.

Neither listing gives a measured noise figure or a weight. If noise is your priority, the RF-1400's listed sealing features point in the right direction, but fit plays a large role. Read our helmet wind noise fixes and get your size right with the Shoei helmet size chart.

Note.Wear earplugs on any ride above town speeds. Even quiet helmets let in enough wind noise to cause hearing damage over time.

Which to buy

The price gap is large. At listing prices the RF-1400 costs about $430 less than a solid X-Fifteen, which covers a good intercom or a set of armored gloves.

• Buy the X-Fifteen if you ride a sport bike with a tucked position, do regular track days or race, and want ECE 22.06 and Snell on the label.
• Buy the RF-1400 if you ride on the street, tour or commute, sit more upright, and care about noise and price.
• Consider the GT-Air 3 if you want a sun visor and an SRL3 intercom option; see Shoei GT-Air 3 vs RF-1400.
• Compare other brands in our best full face motorcycle helmets guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is the X-15 the same helmet as the X-Fifteen? Yes. Shoei sells it in the US as the X-Fifteen; X-15 is the common shorthand.

Is the X-15 safer than the RF-1400? Both list DOT and Snell. The X-Fifteen also lists ECE 22.06. That is a broader set of certifications, but the right fit for your head and riding position matters more for your protection.

Can I use the X-15 on the street? Yes, it is DOT approved and the listing says it works on street and track. Expect it to suit a sport riding position best.

Does either helmet have a sun visor? Neither listing mentions an internal sun visor. Use a tinted shield where legal, or look at the GT-Air 3.