A modular motorcycle helmet that meets legitimate safety standards, flips open when needed and costs less than 100 dollars? Sounds like a dream. But the HAX Amatista makes it possible by combining those qualities and coming with both DOT and ECE 22.06 approval. So what gives? Is there something cut corner-wise about this helmet or will it live up to what we'd hope for someone on a tighter budget?
Specs
- Type: modular flip-up
- Shell material: light weight ABS
- Safety certifications: DOT FMVSS-218 and ECE 22.06
- Visor system: dual visor. A clear main shield and a lower internal drop down sun shield
- Ventilation: multiple inlets and exhaust vents
- Liner: fully removable, washable moisture wicking
- Chin bar: release with a simple one action mechanism and locking
- Warranty: one year limited
At least the specs look pretty good given the price point. ABS shells are generally expected at this level. The removable liner is a welcome addition as well. That really helps make cleaning easier after a long day of riding.
Safety
The major benefit of the HAX Amatista is its double certification: DOT (FMVSS-218) for the US market and ECE 22.06, which is the newest and safest helmet safety standard offered by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. ECE 22.06 replaces ECE 22.05, introduced new and harsher impact test methods, multi-point impacts, rotational acceleration testing, and increased numbers of tested speed ranges and angles.
Getting an ECE 22.06 approved helmet at any price is a major step forward. Getting one at below 100 bucks is truly extraordinary. The high density EPS inner lining of the Amatista will help distribute and absorb energy when impacted and the ABS shell will work in conjunction to absorb and spread force. The modular chin bar mechanism was designed to lock safely in place during crashes. The flip-up capability provides added convenience without sacrificing structural integrity per certification requirements.
Additionally, the dual visor system has a secondary function beyond aesthetics. It is designed to allow the user to quickly adapt to changes in lighting conditions. By simply raising or lowering the internal drop-down sun visor, users can go from bright sunlight through a shaded area such as a tunnel without having to remove a tinted visor and potentially cause distractions while driving.
While safety is clearly your top priority and your budget is low, the ECE 22.06 certification on the HAX Amatista is likely the biggest selling point. If you're interested in getting a more complete understanding of how helmets compare in terms of safety ratings please visit our motorcycle helmet comparison.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
Reviews from existing customers purchasing the HAX Amatista provide varying perspectives, however overall they paint a fairly accurate picture of who will enjoy using this helmet.
Positive comments made by reviewers:
- Affordability. Buyers are extremely impressed with value provided at this price point. Many commented that the build quality exceeds what is typically found at much higher prices.
- Modular design. Reviewers appreciated the ease of opening the chin bar for fuel-ups or for brief conversations at intersections.
- Dual visor. Users enjoyed the included sun visor and called it a feature typically associated with much pricier helmets.
- Comfortable fit. Reviewers stated that the Amatista fits comfortably around their average shaped heads. Several commenters even noted that there was little to no break-in time before comfortable use.
Negative comments worth noticing:
- Noise levels. As with almost every modular helmet priced similarly to the Amatista, wind noise can be heard at highway speeds. Therefore earplugs are highly recommended.
- Fitting issues. Sizing can be inconsistent. Several reviewers advise ordering a size up from your usual, especially if you fall between sizes.
- Ventilation. While sufficient for casual commutes or short stop-and-go city riding during warm weather, riders indicated that airflow could become restrictive during warmer months.
- Chin bar latch. A couple of reviewers noticed it took them some practice to get smooth operation out of the chin-bar latch initially. However, they did state it loosened once they got accustomed to operating it.
For the most part, customer sentiment toward the Amatista indicates that this helmet represents an enormous amount of value for its price category. With respect to potential downsides, it appears that refinement areas such as noise reduction and air flow efficiency will probably occur as you increase your price point. You can read the full set of owner reviews on Amazon to see how the feedback breaks down by size and color.
Who Is This Helmet For
As previously stated, the HAX Amatista is not competing with premium touring helmets from Shoei or Schuberth. It absolutely understands where its rider falls.
Buy this helmet if:
- Budget conscious commuters. You need a certified ECE 22.06 modular helmet for your daily commute at a price below 100 dollars.
- New riders. You are just beginning to assemble your first bike package on a tight budget. The Amatista leaves plenty of space in your budget for a good jacket, gloves, and boots.
- Scooter and small-displacement riders. Your trips consist primarily of urban/suburban routes, stop-and-start traffic, red lights, etc., or short highway segments.
- Backup or passenger helmet shoppers. You are shopping for an inexpensive backup helmet that is safe enough to meet your needs as a passenger on another bike.
Do not buy this helmet if:
- Long-distance riders. You ride extensively at highway speeds for prolonged periods of time. Therefore you'll want better noise isolation, enhanced ventilation, and lighter weight.
- Track and high performance riders. You should purchase a full face helmet with a fiberglass or carbon shell.
- Riders with non-standard head shapes. The Amatista fits best to average to round oval head shapes.
If you fall into the first group then the HAX Amatista delivers. If you're considering other styles of helmets see our full collection of motorcycle helmets. We've reviewed several other modular models including our LS2 Strobe II review and HJC C91 review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the HAX Amatista ECE 22.06 certified?
Yes. The Amatista has received certification to ECE 22.06, which is the current European helmet safety standard implemented in 2024. ECE 22.06 includes more stringent rotational acceleration testing than previous standards, expanded angle ranges and impact points not previously tested under ECE 22.05, and more.
In addition to meeting these standards it is also certified to DOT (FMVSS-218) for sale in the United States.
Does the HAX Amatista have a built-in sun visor?
Yes. The dual visor system features a clear outer visor along with an internally deployable drop-down sun shield which can be easily operated by sliding a lever on the side of the helmet. Thus eliminating the need to carry an extra tinted visor or swap shields mid-ride.
Is the liner removable and washable?
Yes. The interior padding is entirely removable and machine washable allowing owners to maintain cleanliness after extended hot weather rides or heavy usage. At this price point many budget helmets include fixed liners.
What head shape does the HAX Amatista fit best?
The HAX Amatista has been designed to accommodate average to round-oval head shapes. Owners with long-oval or unusual head shapes may experience pressure points against their forehead or temples. When selecting a helmet always take the manufacturer's recommendations seriously as measured head circumferences using a soft tape measure will give you the best results for fitting properly. Some Amazon reviewers recommend sizing up if you are between sizes.
Is the HAX Amatista good for highway riding?
It works fine for occasional highway riding but it was never intended for prolonged high speed highway riding. At highway speeds you will hear wind noise significantly greater than premium helmets. Also the ventilation isn't great either. We would strongly suggest wearing earplugs at highway speeds due to excessive wind noise.
What warranty does the HAX Amatista come with?
HAX warrants their products for one year from date of purchase for defect in materials or labor.
Note that many premium helmet manufacturers offer 3 to 5 year warranties, although they obviously cost considerably more than the Amatista.
The HAX Amatista demonstrates that serious safety certification no longer necessarily comes at a serious price tag and that it is one of the lowest priced ECE 22.06 certified modular helmets available on the market today. To explore further options within our selection of motorcycle helmets browse our motorcycle helmet section or read more reviews on our motorcycle helmets blog or buy now on Amazon.