What makes 1Storm's modular helmet appealing is that it gives you a choice of two of three desirable features: cheap, certified and quiet. By choosing the cheap and certified option, 1Storm provides you with a clear visor as compensation for the inevitable wind noise that you'll hear when riding at higher speeds. At this price point, I believe that's a compromise many consumers will accept, particularly on a commuter helmet.
The shell is made from a lightweight thermoplastic alloy. This is why the helmet remains relatively affordable without weighing as much as a construction helmet. The company self-certifies it to FMVSS 218, the U.S.
Department of Transportation standard every helmet sold in the U.S. must meet. That's how DOT certification works: the manufacturer tests and stamps, and then the government checks. In reading the buyer feedback there is no evidence of any corners being cut here, which is important since counterfeit DOT stickers on budget helmets are a legitimate issue on Amazon.
Before you decide on this helmet, compare it to others that have been certified in our motorcycle helmet comparison table.
Build Quality and Safety
The UV-coated thermoplastic shell will help prevent fading due to long-term exposure to sunlight after using your bike for a year with the helmet parked outdoors. The chin bar swings up and locks, which is the primary purpose of a modular, and the dual-lens design is somewhat underrated. An internal smoked lens takes care of sunny conditions, while the external lens takes care of all other conditions. A clear lens is also provided for nighttime riding. Three lenses for the price of a helmet that costs less than a tank of gas.
Comfort and Fit
Both the interior padding and cheek pads are removable and washable. Many riders understand why removing your helmet and pulling off the sweaty padding after a long ride home during July is better than listing several spec sheet features. The chin bar also swings up easily with one hand so you don't have to wrestle with the helmet when you need to grab something quickly or talk to someone at a red light.
As far as sizing goes: the manufacturer claims that it fits true to size. However, we recommend measuring your head with a flexible tape measure and ignoring your hat size. If you're a rider between sizes, go up by one size and you'll likely be happy. To view the current price and see which sizes are currently available, check out the Amazon listing for the 1Storm modular helmet.
What Amazon Reviewers Say About This Helmet
There are 19 user reviews that average 4.7 stars. Both the ease of operation of the flip-up chin bar and the functionality of having multiple visors for day and night visibility receive praise repeatedly throughout reviews. Multiple reviewers complimented the manufacturer for providing interior padding they didn't expect at such a low price, and the free clear visor as well.
The complaints about the product mirror those commonly experienced with other budget-friendly modular helmets. Some riders reported that it ran a little smaller than their head measured, so they recommended purchasing larger. Other riders mentioned that the high-speed wind noise was noticeable and consistent with other affordable modular helmets. There are no complaints within the negative comments section that suggest there was some type of defect with the product, only that there are common trade-offs that occur when reducing prices.
Who Is This Helmet Best Suited For?
This helmet is suitable for commuters who spend time sitting in traffic with their chin bar up while stopped. It is also suitable for touring riders who frequently stop and would prefer to feel airflow without needing to wear another helmet. Lastly, this helmet is ideal for riders transitioning from a half-shell to a full-face helmet for increased protection at highway speeds, yet who still desire open air ventilation when commuting.
Track riders should avoid this helmet, as well as anyone looking for a premium helmet with minimal wind noise. While there are real wind noise complaints associated with this product, a premium modular helmet with proper seals costs multiples of its price. the 1Storm offers what most commuters truly need: a functional flip-up chin bar, a dual lens system (smoked visor for daytime and an outer visor for low light), and a washable interior liner. Check the Amazon page for the 1Storm modular helmet for current stock levels, and review additional budget options in our helmet reviews blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does This Helmet Have DOT Certification?
Yes. It is certified to FMVSS 218, which is the federal standard for helmets sold in the United States. Like all DOT helmets, manufacturers certify themselves to FMVSS standards. Based upon buyer feedback, it appears that 1Storm did not place a cosmetic sticker on their products.
Are There More Than One Visor Included in the Helmet?
Yes. You receive a smoked visor internally for daytime conditions, an externally facing visor for all other daylight hours, and an additional clear lens is provided in the box for nighttime riding. Therefore, you can enjoy daytime, twilight and nighttime riding without purchasing additional lenses.
Is the Interior Padding Able to Be Washed?
Yes. The padding, including the cheek pads, is removable and washable. Any person who has had to pull their helmet off after wearing it in sweltering heat in July knows how important that is.
How Does the Flip-up Chin Bar Function?
The chin bar swings up and locks in place, and swings back down into position for full face protection when desired. One motion allows you to accomplish this easily even when wearing gloves.
What Are the Available Sizes?
Adult sizes. Regardless of whether you buy hats based upon your head size or use different methods to determine your head circumference, always take the time to measure your head with a flexible tape prior to ordering. If you fall between two sizes, most customers found going up by one size helped them find a comfortable fit.
Is the Helmet a Good Value?
For a certified modular helmet with dual visors and a washable liner, I believe that 1Storm provides excellent value compared to similar convertible models from major brands. You give up quietness and premium finishes, however you retain the true modular experience. For those seeking a first modular or an additional helmet, I think that's a reasonable exchange for the money spent. It is also a common second helmet for riders who keep a premium lid for weekend duty.
Does the Wind Noise Make It a Dealbreaker for Commuting?
For around-town speeds, most owners say no. The noise becomes a real factor above roughly 45 mph, which is also where a commuter spends the least time. If your ride is mostly surface streets and city traffic, the trade buys you modular convenience for budget money.