Shoei Helmets Review: Japanese Precision and Safety

By designing and refining the X-15 helmet in their state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, Shoei was able to reduce drag by 6.1% and lift by 1.6% compared to it’s predecessor the X-14. The X-15 features a Multi-Ply Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) Shell, a six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers to provide optimal impact-absorption, strength and elasticity. Packed in the X-15’s shell is a multitude of features fit for a pro and ready to boost your performance, safety and comfort.

Aerodynamic Shell Design

• Designed and refined in Shoei’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility
• 6.1% reduction in drag and a 1.6% reduction in lift compared to the X-14
• Over 150+ profile shape iterations enhance high-speed stability and reduce negative forces
• Rear stabilizer system, concave of the shell surface and pronounced edges on the top left and right sides of the helmet enhance aerodynamic performance

Multi-Ply Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) Shell

• Six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers provide optimal impact-absorption, strength and elasticity
• Four shell sizes

Multi-Piece Multi-Density EPS Liner

• Optimized impact absorption thanks to varying densities of foam in key areas
• Precise placement of multi-density EPS liner material yields a more compact, lightweight design
• Strategically-located tunnels allow cooling air to travel unrestricted through the helmet
• Small channel in the front chin bar area strategically designed to guide and receive hydration systems (including the optional Shoei Hydration tube – sold separately)

Ventilation System

• Seven (7) closable air intakes and six (6) exhaust outlets
• Air intakes are strategically shaped and located to maximize airflow and negative air pressure suction to the rear of the helmet
• Ventilation tunnels in EPS liner enlarged to 10mm deep from 6mm in the previous model for superior ventilation
• Innovative cheek pad cooling system by increasing the number of holes delivering refreshing air to the rider’s cheek area

Shoei is proud to deliver its latest iteration of the iconic flagship RF lineup, the RF-1400. The RF has been a staple bucket in the moto community since its first introduction in 1984, and years of R&D have led the evolution in safety, design, comfort, noise reduction and just all around good quality that only Shoei is prepared to provide.

Design Concept

The wind tunnel tests have refined the RF’s aerodynamics and ventilation to help evolve the design forward. Shoei managed to wring out the RF1200’s aerodynamics with a 4% reduction in drag and 6% reduction in lift. The compact, aerodynamic shell shape is made to maximize ventilation as air flows over you while doubling as the lightest SNELL approved full-face helmet in Shoei’s new offerings. No rider wants to forfeit important characteristics that most lighter helmets compromise on, such as wind noise. But the RF-1400, while being the lightest in the lineup, leaves no room for earache with its new noise reduction technology.

Quietness

The shape of the spoilered shell was designed in a wind tunnel and through that testing, Shoei was able to provide a quieter shell design while also tweaking the shape of the all new CWR-F2 shield system using their Vortex Generator technology to displace wind turbulence. An all new, airtight window beading system provides a windproof and waterproof seal so tight, you’d think it was your turn to take a crack at opening the pickle jar. The RF-1400 also sports some more voluminous cheek pads and removable ear pads to help soften the “blow” of wind noise.

Shell and EPS Liner Construction

Proprietary technology integrates a matrix of hand-laid interwoven layers of fiberglass and light-weight organic fibers to deliver a helmet that not only meets SNELL M2020 and DOT ratings, but is Shoei’s strongest, most elastic shell providing the wearer with optimal impact absorption. Adding to that, the RF-1400 is lined with a dual layer of multi-density EPS foam liner that also aids in impact absorption and allows cool air to flow unrestricted through the channels created in the liner. The precise placement of the EPS material helped shape the RF-1400’s compact, lightweight design.

Shield System

Shoei ditched the old baseplates from the RF-1200 and completely reworked the design to bring you the CWR-F2 base plate system. The system’s main purpose is to facilitate quicker and smoother shield changes that are just as rewarding as the single “pop” of finally getting the lid off that pickle jar. The new shield adjuster mechanism is smoother and more precise than ever and a redesigned baseplate gear introduces an all-new “first position” shield opening feature for advanced venting and defogging. Shoei didn’t stop there though! All new for the RF series is a conveniently located locking mechanism that distributes shield forces across both sides evenly.

The 3D injection molded CWR-F2 shield manages a distortion-free field of vision while protecting your eyes from 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays and the 2D “outside” surface combined with the 3D technology provides an aggressive look without compromising visibility. Pair it with the included, 10% wider Pinlock EVO to eliminate fog while also dismissing any woes for lateral visibility.

Interior

The RF-1400 is equipped with a fully removable, washable, replaceable and adjustable interior made from Max-Dry materials to absorb and dissipate sweat two times quicker than traditional nylon. The cheek pad fabric is soft and durable to provide comfort and a plush fit and the voluminous pad material is multi-layered for improved stabilization and keeps decibels down in the helmet. Customize your fit with the optional interior components offered in different sizes.

Ventilation Performance

Pardon us for being a bit long winded here, but we want you to know just how great this helmet is. Let’s direct that wind a bit more. The ventilation system has 3 channels to manipulate 6 entryways of air for your comfort: 2 in the center, 2 in the chin bin and 1 on each side of the temples. The relocated center/forehead vent offers an additional air vent hole compared to its predecessor, while the side vents are larger for greater air intake as well. The large, no-fuss 3 position lower vent shutter is easy to use with gloves on while riding and the RF-1400 has a redesigned enlarged exhaust vent with 4 outlets to push the hot air out while getting in all that sweet, cool air.

Summary

Shoei once again has found the right recipe to bring a spectacular helmet at a fair price on the market. The RF-1400 offers more than what most riders seek in a helmet and this latest offering of the flagship presents a wonderful melting pot of a timeless design, aerodynamic performance, ventilation, quietness, ease of use, comfortability and an utmost quality in build, materials and manufacturing that only a Shoei can provide.

Featuring an improved ventilation scheme, the GT-Air II includes the lengthened QSV-2 drop down sun visor which provides 5mm more coverage for instant sun relief.

Like its flip-up cousin, the Neotec 2, the GT Air 2 has a micro ratchet chin strap and is designed to integrate with the GT-Air II specific SRL 2 Bluetooth Communication System by Sena (sold separately) for a clean and low profile installation.

Aerodynamic Shell Design:

• Aerodynamic properties maximized through extensive wind tunnel testing and professional riders’ feedback
• Multi-piece EPS liner enhances impact absorption and ventilation
• Molded air spoiler reduces drag and lift as well as diminishes pressure on the rider’s neck while riding at speed

Advanced Integrated Matrix (AIM):

• High performance fiber materials combined with elastic organic fibers to create a shell structure that is ultra-lightweight, rigid and resilient
• Three shell sizes: XS-SM, MD-LG, XL-2XL

CNS-1 Shield System:

• CNS-1 three-dimensionally curved shield is both wider and taller than the CX-1V it replaces
• Includes Pinlock Anti-Fog Lens for more coverage of the CNS-1 shield
• Dual-Ridge window bead increases contact with the shield to reduce wind noise
• Scratch-resistant shield coating
• 99.9% protection from harmful UV A&B rays

Sun Shield Visor System:

• Built-in QSV-2 sun shield gives riders instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion
• Visor meets ANSI Z80.3-2010 standard for non-prescription eyeglasses
• Large and easy to reach slider activates the 3D injection-molded inner sun shield
• Distortion-free shield blocks 99% of harmful UV rays
• Forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield, allowing the integrity of the GT-Air’s inner EPS liner to remain intact

Ventilation System:

• Redesigned upper air intake vent positioned to maximize air volume into the helmet interior
• Enlarged lower intake vent reduces shield fogging and increases ventilation
• Upper and lower intake vents are easy to operate even with gloved hands
• Rear/neck vents allow for effective air exhaust
• Three intake, six exhaust vents
• Breath guard and chin curtain included

Interior System:

• 3-D Max-Dry center pad and multi-layered, polyurethane foam cheek pads
• Chin curtain prevents wind entry and reduces noise
• Cheek pads are replaceable or removable for maintenance
• Eyeglass compatible interior
• E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Quick-Release System) allows emergency medical personnel to easily remove the cheek pads from the helmet of a rider involved in an accident, in turn making the Shoei GT-Air more easily removable

Micro Ratchet Chin-Strap:

By designing and refining the X-15 helmet in their state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, Shoei was able to reduce drag by 6.1% and lift by 1.6% compared to its predecessor the X-14. The X-15 features a Multi-Ply Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) Shell, a six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers to provide optimal impact absorption, strength, and elasticity. Packed in the X-15’s shell is a multitude of features fit for a pro and ready to boost your performance, safety, and comfort.

Aerodynamic Shell Design

• Designed and refined in Shoei’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility
• 6.1% reduction in drag and a 1.6% reduction in lift compared to the X-14
• Over 150+ profile shape iterations enhance high-speed stability and reduce negative forces
• The rear stabilizer system, concave of shell surface, and pronounced edges on the top left and right sides of the helmet enhance aerodynamic performance

Multi-Ply Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) Shell

• Six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers provides optimal impact-absorption, strength, and elasticity
• Four shell sizes

Multi-Piece Multi-Density EPS Liner

• Optimized impact absorption thanks to varying densities of foam in key areas
• Precise placement of multi-density EPS liner material yields a more compact, lightweight design
• Strategically located tunnels allow cooling air to travel unrestricted through the helmet
• A small channel in the front chin bar area is strategically designed to guide and receive hydration systems (including the optional Shoei Hydration tube

• Seven (7) closable air intakes and six (6) exhaust outlets
• Air intakes are strategically shaped and located to maximize airflow and negative air pressure suction to the rear of the helmet
• Ventilation tunnels in EPS liner enlarged to 10mm deep from 6mm in the previous model for superior ventilation
• Innovative cheek pad cooling system by increasing the number of holes delivering refreshing air to the rider’s cheek area

Field of Vision

• Revised eyeport trajectory from previous model increases the upper field of view by 5mm
• DKS-304 PINLOCK EVO lens system is 10% larger than its predecessor and improves lateral field of vision thanks to relocated pins outside of the eyeport

Wind tunnel testing optimized the Neotec 2’s aerodynamics to perform in a variety of riding positions. The integrated shell spoiler is repositioned to better reduce lift and drag at speed, while the Aero Deflector along the chin bar adds stability. A micro ratchet chin strap makes securing the helmet and removing the helmet quick and easy. Noise Isolator cheek pads improve the seal along the neck opening of the helmet to keep turbulent air out. The 360 Pivot Locking System secures the chin bar in the down locked position and a multi-piece EPS liner made out of varying densities of foam absorbs impact energy. The Shoei Neotec 2 is designed to integrate with the Sena SRL Communication System for a clean and low profile installation. All of these features combine to produce one of the ultimate long distance touring helmets.

Aerodynamic Shell Design

• Aerodynamic properties are maximized through extensive wind tunnel testing
• Dual-layer EPS liner enhances impact absorption and ventilation
• Four shell sizes and five liners present increased fit options that help to comfortably fit most head sizes from XS through XXL
• Shoei’s exclusive, state-of-the-art shell forming technology incorporates the aerodynamic advantages of a spoiler right into the shell of the Neotec 2
• Vortex Generator on the face cover and visor works to reduce noise and manage air flow around the helmet

Flip-Up Face Cover and Face Shield

• 360º Pivot Locking System made of high quality stainless steel components, ensures a safe and secure closure
• Enlarged single-button release for chin bar and shield allows ease of use with riding gloves
• Increased space inside the chin bar was added by adjusting the shape to create a smart and light design
• Opening the face cover up will automatically close the face shield

Sun Shield System

• Built-in QSV-1 inner sun shield gives riders instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion
• Meets ANSI Z80.3-2010 standard for non-prescription eyeglasses
• Large and easy to reach slide switch activates the 3D injection-molded inner sun shield
• Distortion-free shield blocks 99% of harmful UV rays
• Forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield. This allows the integrity of the helmet’s inner EPS liner to remain intact.

Ventilation System

• Shoei’s wind tunnels helped to reveal the optimal balance between airflow and silence
• Large lower vent shutter for ease of use with riding gloves optimizes air flow while in the riding position
• All-new exhaust outlets flank adjustable upper air  intake for improved hot-air expulsion

Noise Reduction

• All-new Noise Isolator cheek pads deflect wind and reduce unwanted noise
• New airtight window bead and the chin bar’s Vortex Generator lip reduce noise and manage airflow around the helmet
• Enhanced shell shape improves noise control and aerodynamics
• Included chin curtain

3D Interior Liner System

• Entire interior liner (cheek pads, upper liner, and chin strap covers) is easily removed for cleaning or replacement
• Each component of the inner liner is ergonomically designed to offer the ultimate in safety, fit, and comfort
• Comfortable, 3D helmet liner material quickly dissipates moisture
• Eyeglass compatible interior is optimized for many different sizes of eyeglasses, while still minimizing gaps that can cause excess interior noise

Shoei is proud to deliver its latest iteration of the iconic flagship RF lineup, the RF-1400. The RF has been a staple bucket in the moto community since its first introduction in 1984, and years of R&D have led the evolution in safety, design, comfort, noise reduction and just all around good quality that only Shoei is prepared to provide.

Design Concept

The wind tunnel tests have refined the RF’s aerodynamics and ventilation to help evolve the design forward. Shoei managed to wring out the RF1200’s aerodynamics with a 4% reduction in drag and 6% reduction in lift. The compact, aerodynamic shell shape is made to maximize ventilation as air flows over you while doubling as the lightest SNELL approved full-face helmet in Shoei’s new offerings. No rider wants to forfeit important characteristics that most lighter helmets compromise on, such as wind noise. But the RF-1400, while being the lightest in the lineup, leaves no room for earache with its new noise reduction technology.

Quietness

The shape of the spoilered shell was designed in a wind tunnel and through that testing, Shoei was able to provide a quieter shell design while also tweaking the shape of the all new CWR-F2 shield system using their Vortex Generator technology to displace wind turbulence. An all new, airtight window beading system provides a windproof and waterproof seal so tight, you’d think it was your turn to take a crack at opening the pickle jar. The RF-1400 also sports some more voluminous cheek pads and removable ear pads to help soften the “blow” of wind noise.

Shell and EPS Liner Construction

Proprietary technology integrates a matrix of hand-laid interwoven layers of fiberglass and light-weight organic fibers to deliver a helmet that not only meets SNELL M2020The SNELL Memorial Foundation is still largely considered the gold standard for helmet safety. SNELL M2020 certification uses the most aggressive anvil profile, known as an edge anvil, and demands a ridiculously low 275 g maximum energy transfer after two blows. SNELL testing is designed with the energy levels and safety requirements of the racetrack in mind, and this is reflected in the additional testing for characteristics such as stability and ease of removal in an emergency. SNELL technicians look for the weakest point in the helmet and target that point when testing. Technicians will strike multiple locations, testing until they are satisfied an accurate indication of the helmet’s energy-management ability has been attained. Also listed as SNELL M2020D. and DOT ratings, but is Shoei’s strongest, most elastic shell providing the wearer with optimal impact absorption. Adding to that, the RF-1400 is lined with a dual layer of multi-density EPS foam liner that also aids in impact absorption and allows cool air to flow unrestricted through the channels created in the liner. The precise placement of the EPS material helped shape the RF-1400’s compact, lightweight design.

Shield System

Shoei ditched the old baseplates from the RF-1200 and completely reworked the design to bring you the CWR-F2 base plate system. The system’s main purpose is to facilitate quicker and smoother shield changes that are just as rewarding as the single “pop” of finally getting the lid off that pickle jar. The new shield adjuster mechanism is smoother and more precise than ever and a redesigned baseplate gear introduces an all-new “first position” shield opening feature for advanced venting and defogging. Shoei didn’t stop there though! All new for the RF series is a conveniently located locking mechanism that distributes shield forces across both sides evenly.

The 3D injection molded CWR-F2 shield manages a distortion-free field of vision while protecting your eyes from 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays and the 2D “outside” surface combined with the 3D technology provides an aggressive look without compromising visibility. Pair it with the included, 10% wider Pinlock EVO to eliminate fog while also dismissing any woes for lateral visibility.

Wind tunnel testing optimized the Neotec 2’s aerodynamics to perform in a variety of riding positions. The integrated shell spoiler is repositioned to reduce lift and drag at speed, while the Aero Deflector along the chin bar adds stability. A micro ratchet chin strap makes securing the helmet and removing the helmet quick and easy. Noise Isolator cheek pads improve the seal along the neck opening of the helmet to keep turbulent air out. The 360 Pivot Locking System secures the chin bar in the down-locked position and a multi-piece EPS liner made out of varying densities of foam absorbs impact energy. The Shoei Neotec 2 is designed to integrate with the Sena SRL Communication System for a clean and low-profile installation. All of these features combine to produce one of the ultimate long-distance touring helmets.

Aerodynamic Shell Design

• Aerodynamic properties are maximized through extensive wind tunnel testing
• Dual-layer EPS liner enhances impact absorption and ventilation
• Four shell sizes and five liners present increased fit options that help to comfortably fit most head sizes from XS through XXL
• Shoei’s exclusive, state-of-the-art shell-forming technology incorporates the aerodynamic advantages of a spoiler right into the shell of the Neotec 2
• The Vortex Generator on the face cover and visor works to reduce noise and manage air flow around the helmet

(Motion Energy Distribution System), a specially inserted module of the EPS liner designed to absorb sudden impacts by reducing rotational acceleration to the head in the event of a crash. Shoei’s in-house testing showed rotational energy to be reduced by 15% in comparison to that of the VFX-W off-road helmet. The shell is constructed with high performance AIM+ (Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus Multi-Fiber), a combination of fiberglass and organic fibers. The result is a rigid, ultra-lightweight, yet elastic structure.

The mud guard is specially shaped so as not to interfere with the wearing of goggles. Dedicated plastic tabs help hold the mud guard firmly in place during serious off-road riding conditions. The braced nose cover has been designed to improve safety: it features mesh to filter dirt and dust, and aluminum mesh to prevent roost from entering the mouth and is easily removed for cleaning and maintenance. The VFX-EVO’s newly-designed, adjustable visor designates the top position on the helmet as default, based on the preference of many top-ranked riders. A straight line is formed from the visor top to the helmet shell to ensure upward visibility. The adjustment system is facilitated with a special screw fixing nut, installed beneath the upper center of the visor, holding it firmly in place and keeping the nut from coming loose and falling into the helmet.

By designing and refining the X-15 helmet in their state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, Shoei was able to reduce drag by 6.1% and lift by 1.6% compared to it’s predecessor the X-14. The X-15 features a Multi-Ply Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) Shell, a six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers to provide optimal impact-absorption, strength and elasticity. Packed in the X-15’s shell is a multitude of features fit for a pro and ready to boost your performance, safety and comfort.

Aerodynamic Shell Design

• Designed and refined in Shoei’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility
• 6.1% reduction in drag and a 1.6% reduction in lift compared to the X-14
• Over 150+ profile shape iterations enhance high-speed stability and reduce negative forces
• Rear stabilizer system, concave of the shell surface and pronounced edges on the top left and right sides of the helmet enhance aerodynamic performance

Multi-Ply Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) Shell

• Six-ply matrix of fiberglass with lightweight organic and high-performance fibers provide optimal impact-absorption, strength and elasticity
• Four shell sizes

Multi-Piece Multi-Density EPS Liner

• Optimized impact absorption thanks to varying densities of foam in key areas
• Precise placement of multi-density EPS liner material yields a more compact, lightweight design
• Strategically-located tunnels allow cooling air to travel unrestricted through the helmet
• Small channel in the front chin bar area strategically designed to guide and receive hydration systems (including the optional Shoei Hydration tube

. Featuring an improved ventilation scheme, the GT-Air II includes the lengthened QSV-2 drop down sun visor which provides 5mm more coverage for instant sun relief.

Like its flip-up cousin, the Neotec 2, the GT Air 2 has a micro ratchet chin strap and is designed to integrate with the GT-Air II specific SRL 2 Bluetooth Communication System by Sena (sold separately) for a clean and low profile installation.

Aerodynamic Shell Design:

• Aerodynamic properties maximized through extensive wind tunnel testing and professional riders’ feedback
• Multi-piece EPS liner enhances impact absorption and ventilation
• Molded air spoiler reduces drag and lift as well as diminishes pressure on the rider’s neck while riding at speed

Advanced Integrated Matrix (AIM):

• High performance fiber materials combined with elastic organic fibers to create a shell structure that is ultra-lightweight, rigid and resilient
• Three shell sizes: XS-SM, MD-LG, XL-2XL

CNS-1 Shield System:

• CNS-1 three-dimensionally curved shield is both wider and taller than the CX-1V it replaces
• Includes Pinlock Anti-Fog Lens for more coverage of the CNS-1 shield
• Dual-Ridge window bead increases contact with the shield to reduce wind noise
• Scratch-resistant shield coating
• 99.9% protection from harmful UV A&B rays

Sun Shield Visor System:

• Built-in QSV-2 sun shield gives riders instant relief from sun glare in one quick motion
• Visor meets ANSI Z80.3-2010 standard for non-prescription eyeglasses
• Large and easy to reach slider activates the 3D injection-molded inner sun shield
• Distortion-free shield blocks 99% of harmful UV rays
• Forehead area of the outer shell is raised slightly to accommodate the internal sun shield, allowing the integrity of the GT-Air’s inner EPS liner to remain intact

Ventilation System:

• Redesigned upper air intake vent positioned to maximize air volume into the helmet interior
• Enlarged lower intake vent reduces shield fogging and increases ventilation
• Upper and lower intake vents are easy to operate even with gloved hands
• Rear/neck vents allow for effective air exhaust
• Three intake, six exhaust vents
• Breath guard and chin curtain included

Interior System:

• 3-D Max-Dry center pad and multi-layered, polyurethane foam cheek pads
• Chin curtain prevents wind entry and reduces noise
• Cheek pads are replaceable or removable for maintenance
• Eyeglass compatible interior
• E.Q.R.S. (Emergency Quick-Release System) allows emergency medical personnel to easily remove the cheek pads from the helmet of a rider involved in an accident, in turn making the Shoei GT-Air more easily removable

Micro Ratchet Chin-Strap:

• 100% stainless steel interlocking mechanism
• Quick, smooth and easy to operate

Safety Certification:

• DOT