This SanQing half helmet is for riders looking for a particular style on a budget. It's an easy way to add style, but sacrifices serious protection. You'll have a very lightweight shell, which will look good, but leaves your face uncovered.
Specifications and Safety Certifications
This SanQing helmet says it meets DOT (Department of Transportation) and FMVSS-218 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards #218) regulations. The listing also includes ECE-2205 compliance. Compliance with these testing specifications ensures that this helmet has met minimum requirements for testing in a controlled environment. Due to its open-face design, however, this helmet provides limited coverage for your upper body, specifically your face. As such, you're relying on the strength of the shell (ABS plastic) to protect your head. While ABS is a suitable material for budget-conscious consumers, the relatively thin nature of the shell may cause it to break upon impact if you were to crash at high speeds.
Interior comfort is achieved via a breathable moisture-wicking pad. Moisture-wicking pads help prevent the buildup of moisture caused by perspiration during warmer weather conditions. The pad will provide some level of protection upon impact, though it will never be able to replace a more substantial liner.
Adjustment is handled using a single touch fastener. Single touch fasteners are quicker to remove and install than standard chin strap fasteners. Therefore, you don't need to spend time adjusting the strap in case of an emergency.
The paint job comes in Bright Black, a timeless style that suits nearly every bike configuration. No flashy graphics adorn this helmet. You shouldn't worry about fading or excessive wear due to visual stress.
Fit and the Sizing Issue
The manufacturer clearly states that this helmet runs small. With budget items, the manufacturing process doesn't always follow the same tolerances as higher end products. Before ordering, please ensure you accurately determine your head circumference with a flexible measuring tape. Please refer to the manufacturer's size chart below:
| Size | Head Circumference |
|---|---|
| Medium | 55, 56 cm |
| Large | 57, 58 cm |
| XLarge | 59, 60 cm |
| XXLarge | 61, 62 cm |
If you normally wear a certain size in helmets, expect this one to run smaller than that. This can lead to discomfort due to constant pressure on your head, potentially resulting in a headache within 30 minutes of riding. Conversely, if the helmet is too large, it will likely move excessively during braking maneuvers. Movement of the helmet may obstruct your line-of-sight.
Therefore, finding the correct fit is the number one priority when purchasing this helmet. Given the fixed nature of this shell, we would advise adding one to two sizes larger than normal to compensate for your overall head shape.
Ultimately, this helmet may not adequately perform in terms of protecting your entire cranium in the event of an accident if it doesn't properly fit. The padding will offer some shock absorption capabilities. However, it cannot make up for insufficient contact between the shell and your head. Ideally, you would like the helmet to push against your head evenly with minimal pressure.
In either case (pressure on foreheads and/or temples), it is unlikely that you've found the proper fit for your head.
What You Sacrifice at this Price Point
You'll miss out on several modern amenities available in today's helmets. Specifically, there is no integrated sun visor that can shield your eyes from direct sunlight. You'll need to rely on your sunglasses to filter out the sun. Unfortunately, most sunglasses tend to sit poorly under helmets because there isn't sufficient space created for them by the lack of a visor. This creates a void in which both air and water can enter through. This can result in watery eyes that impair your ability to safely navigate roadways.
This helmet lacks integration for Bluetooth technology. Thus, you will be unable to hear audio or receive calls while riding. You will be forced to choose from wearing earphones or riding with nothing.
One more thing about the half shell design. Your jawline and face are completely exposed. In a crash where you land facing down, your chinbone is almost certainly going to be the first object to strike pavement. This represents the trade-off associated with owning an open-faced motorcycle helmet. Open-faced helmets allow for unobstructed airflow and freedom. They simply lack the structural support that full-face helmets provide.
As such, this helmet was not designed for high-speed applications where impacts are far more likely to occur.
Amazon Buyer Feedback
Buyers of this SanQing helmet have provided it with an average rating of 4.4 stars from 639 reviews on Amazon. This is a significant sample size and suggests that most buyers felt positive regarding their purchase. Many reviewers praised the quality of the shell relative to price point. Buyers said it looked great in person versus photos taken online. Most riders mentioned that the weight was consistent with their expectations as well.
However, many reviewers mentioned issues with sizing. Some suggested buying one to two sizes larger than typical.
You can check the current listing on Amazon.
Full spec rows live in the helmet comparison table, and more guides are in the blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SanQing helmet DOT approved?
The listing states it meets DOT and FMVSS-218 standards and also claims ECE-2205 compliance. Check the certification sticker inside the shell when yours arrives.
What size should I order?
The listing warns the fit runs small. Measure your head circumference and compare it to the size chart, and many buyers recommend sizing up if you sit between sizes.
How much does it weigh?
About 1.3 pounds, which is light enough that most riders stop noticing it on short rides.
Does it have a visor or Bluetooth?
No. There is no drop-down visor and no built-in audio. Plan on sunglasses for sun and a separate headset if you want intercom or music.
What bikes does it suit?
The German half shell look fits scooters, mopeds, cruisers, and Vespa-class riding at city speeds. It is not aimed at highway speeds or full-face protection.
Can I wear glasses with it?
Yes, though the open face design means sunglasses sit exposed to wind. Riders who wear prescription glasses usually manage fine at city speeds, since the shell does not press the frames into your temples.
How does it compare to a full-face helmet?
There is no comparison in coverage. A full-face protects your jaw and chin. This helmet covers the top of your head only, which is the trade you make for the airflow and the classic look.