I have found a helmet that splits the difference (price-wise) between a full-face lid and a half shell. That helmet is the 1Storm modular helmet. It can be purchased online today for approximately 78 dollars. When purchasing this helmet you receive DOT certification to fmvss 218 along with a flip-up chin bar. The helmet also comes equipped with a dual visor setup. One visor provides sufficient coverage for both very bright and darker environments. If you are looking for a helmet that will provide you face protection while allowing you to continue communicating during stops (such as at a red light), i believe it will be difficult to find another helmet at this price.
There is a stigma associated with modular helmets that they do not meet the same standards of safety as a full-face helmet due to the inherent structural weakness associated with the hinges compared to a full-face helmet. That is certainly something to consider. However, what the 1Storm offers is a truly functional flip-up design using two smoked lenses and an additional clear visor provided in the packaging for lower-light riding applications.
Build Quality & Safety
The shell of the 1Storm is made of a lightweight thermoplastic alloy which allows the helmet to remain light-weight yet affordable. In addition to meeting DOT fmvss 218 certification (the federal certification required for helmets sold in the u.s.), the shell also features a UV coating to prevent the color from fading over time due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. You can compare it against other DOT lids in our motorcycle helmet comparison table before you decide.
The other notable feature of the 1Storm is the dual lens coverage. While an internal smoked visor provides adequate coverage in bright sunlight, the external visor provides coverage in all lighting conditions. Additionally, the clear visor provided in the package may be used when you are riding into dusk or darkness.
Comfort & Fit
The interior of the 1Storm is well padded and both the padding and cheek-pads are removable for cleaning. Being able to remove the liner and clean it after several months of wearing the helmet in hot temperatures is important. The chin-bar also flips up with ease, making it easy to communicate or grab a drink when stopped.
In terms of sizing, the manufacturer claims the helmet will run true-to-size however we recommend measuring your head with a flexible tape instead of relying on your hat size. Like most helmets in this category, riders who fall between sizes typically opt for a larger size for added comfort. If you want to see the current asking price and available sizes, check the 1Storm modular helmet on Amazon before you commit.
What Amazon Reviewers Have to Say About This Helmet
As of now, there are 19 user-submitted reviews averaging a 4.7-star rating. Reviewers were overwhelmingly positive about the functionality of the flip-up mechanism and how effective the dual visor system was in providing visibility in both bright and low-lighting conditions without requiring additional purchases. Many reviewers also commented positively regarding the comfortable interior padding and included spare clear visor for low-light riding applications.
Negative comments were primarily related to fit issues. Some reviewers stated that the helmet ran slightly smaller than expected and recommended ordering a larger size. Other reviewers mentioned experiencing wind-noise at high-speeds, which is relatively normal across most budget-friendly modular helmets. None of these comments indicate that the helmet has any major flaws, only minor trade-off's associated with a lower cost product.
Who Is This Helmet For?
This is ideal for commuter cyclists who spend significant amounts of time sitting in traffic and desire to raise/lower their chin-bar quickly for communication purposes while stationary. This is also perfect for long-distance travelers who plan to frequently stop at restaurants or gas stations and desire ventilation options while stopped. Finally, new riders transitioning from a half-shell style helmet who still wish to maintain an "open" riding experience will appreciate this modular design which provides full-face protection during faster-paced riding segments and allows them to ride open when they're cruising slowly through heavy traffic areas.
However, track riders seeking ultra-minimalist designs with emphasis on reduced weight and ultimate stiffness will likely pass on this helmet. Modular chin-bars inherently lack the structural integrity of a fixed full-face shell, thus reducing overall performance capabilities.
For the money, the 1Storm covers the essentials a commuter actually uses. The flip-up bar, the dual visor setup, and the washable liner are the three features that come up again and again in buyer feedback, and all three are present here at a price that undercuts most modulars on the market. If you want a convertible lid for street duty without chasing a premium brand, this is a sensible stop. Check the 1Storm modular helmet on Amazon for current availability, and browse our other helmet reviews for more budget options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 1Storm modular helmet carry DOT approval?
Yes. It meets DOT fmvss 218 certification requirements for sale and road-use within the united states. Certification is legitimate and not simply cosmetic.
Does the helmet include more than one visor?
The helmet includes an inner smoked visor, an outer smoked visor, and a spare clear visor. Therefore, you'll have both bright-daytime and nighttime riding applications covered without needing to purchase additional visors.
May the interior liner be removed and cleaned?
Yes. The interior padding (including cheek-pads) may be easily removed for washing. Having the ability to wash your interior liners after extended periods of wear in warm weather climates adds greatly to overall wearer satisfaction.
How does the flip-up chin-bar operate?
The chin-bar swings upward and locks into place, providing ample opportunity to communicate (talk), consume beverages/drinks, etc., while paused at a stoplight. Once satisfied, merely swing the chin-bar downward and enjoy complete face-protection once resumed riding.
Which sizes are offered by this manufacturer?
Standard adult sizes are available. We highly recommend measuring your head circumference using a flexible tape-measure prior to determining your desired size. If you fall between two different size ranges, many users find it beneficial to go-up a size range for added comfort levels.
Is the 1Storm a good value for the price?
For a DOT-certified modular with dual visors and a washable liner, the price lands well below most convertible lids from bigger brands. You give up some premium fit and finish, but you get the core modular experience for a fraction of the cost. For a first modular or a spare lid, that trade is worth making.