A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away… Yes, you guessed it! This article will take you on an in depth journey right into the heart of the Star Wars universe.
Created by George Lucas, Star Wars: A New Hope, was released in 1977. The film quickly became part of mainstream pop-culture, as well as attracting an impressive (and nearly unrivalled) cult-like following over the decades. Since its initial release, the franchise has expanded to include films, video games, novels, and even theme park attractions.
At the time this article was written (and possibly for many years to come) Star Wars is the highest-grossing media franchise of all time, and was sold to Disney for $70 billion in 2020. Whether you aspire to the ways of the Jedi, follow the teachings of the Sith, or you believe that “This is the way,” these Star Wars motorcycle helmets might just be for you. So, fire up that hyperdrive, fasten your seatbelts, and prepare for an exploration like never before.
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What are Star Wars Motorcycle Helmets, Anyways?
When you talk about safety gear for riding a motorcycle, you should start at the top and think about a helmet. More correctly, you should think about your head – is there anything you can do to help protect what’s inside that noggin? Is there anything in there worth protecting?
All of the gear you wear when you ride should do two major things – give you protection and make the ride more comfortable! Heck, you should even be able to find one that makes you look good too!
Star Wars motorcycle helmets are artistic replicas of the most popular helmets from the Star Wars series. The majority of these helmets are purely aesthetic, while others are fully operational and safe to use right here on planet earth.
These fully functional replicas have been assembled with modern motorbike helmet counterparts. Some have only been airbrushed onto the surface of a quality brand of motorcycle helmet, and others, are one-of-a-kind custom creations, made by a devoted fan.
Why are Motorcycle Helmets Important to the Star Wars Franchise?
Anyone who has watched even one Star Wars film can tell you that the characters generally prefer to keep their faces hidden away. Whether because of creed (as in the Mandelorian series), to embrace the dark side, or simply as armour reinforcement, helmets play a fundamental role in the Star Wars franchise.
Many prominent Star Wars characters wear masks or helmets, such as the Dark Lord of the Sith, Darth Vader himself. In the Star Wars universe, helmets and masks are often used to add a sense of mystery, or to outline evil intent. In fact, no matter your favourite character, they have probably had to hide their face away at some point.
In some cases, helmets are used as a symbol of unity such as in the case of the Clone troopers, from the prequel movies. In this instance the clones are all alike, and as a result they use their helmets to distinguish themselves from their brothers.
Characters like Rex, Cody, Echo, Fives and Jesse all have unique, and creative helmet designs. In the Star Wars universe as in our own, there is always a reason for wearing a helmet, whether for protection – or simply as a statement of self-expression.
What Characters in Star Wars Wear Helmets?
Darth Vader
For the majority of people, the first image that comes to mind when Star Wars is mentioned, is Darth Vader and his iconic helmet. Darth Vader and his unmistakable helmet can be seen in films and animated series throughout the Star Wars franchise. For those new to the Star Wars universe, Darth Vader was once a Jedi Knight named Anakin Skywalker.
After his subsequent fall to the dark side, he was gravely injured after being defeated by Obi-Wan Kenobi (his master at the time). The helmet that Darth Vader wears, is actually designed to keep him alive. Although his mask is without doubt the scariest in all the franchise, it is actually his life-support.
Darth Vader’s mask is a tapered, samurai-inspired helmet with bulging eyes, razor- like cheeks, and an intimidating mouth piece. When he speaks, it is as though he is screaming through his front grill, which is fitting seeing as he is the embodiment of ferocity and power for the Sith. Seasoned Star Wars fans will tell you that Vader was so intense that a simple glance would terrify most.
The Mandalorians
The Mandalorian is one of the newest series in the Star Wars Franchise, and was created by the genius directors Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni. More recently the Mandelorian, Din Djarin, is known for almost never taking off his helmet. When asked why, his answer is always the same, and he replies with the simple phrase “This is the Way”.
Mandalorians are known for their amazing armour which is made from beskar. Beskar is some of the strongest metal alloys to come out of Star Wars and is one of the few materials that are resistant and can defend against a lightsabre. This proved to be pretty useful in the Jedi civil war. Mandalorian helmets typically have a prominent T-shaped visor, with a drop-down view finder.
Some notable characters from the franchise that also wear Mandalorian armour are Sabine Wren, Bo-Katan, Boba and Jango Fett (not Mandalorians). According to Star Wars lore, a Mandalorians armour is passed down from generation to generation. Mandalorians see the armour as sacred, and any person wearing Mandalorian armour who is not Mandalorian will be made to surrender it.
The Imperial Stormtroopers
The Imperial Stormtroopers (Imps) wear helmets that symbolise Imperial dominance within the Star Wars Universe. This iconic look was the armour of choice in the original trilogy. Aside from Darth Vader, Stormtroopers were often the last thing that a civilian would want to see or come across – these skull-faced warriors are a terrifying sight!
Although Luke Skywalker might be short for a Stormtrooper, he makes a valid point in Star Wars: A New Hope, when he mentions that the helmets are difficult to see out of. Stormtroopers were used to breed fear in the galaxy, although being able to see where to shoot was apparently not essential to the Empire.
The Clone Troopers
Clone troopers first appeared in the second movie – the prequal saga, Star Wars: Attack of the Clones. During the Clone Wars, the clones got two distinct helmets. The “phase 1” helmet features a large fin right down the middle (somewhat reminiscent of a Mohawk) with a Mandalorian inspired visor, and the fins were painted different colours to signify rank.
The “phase 2” helmets had better built-in systems to help the clones. These systems included an improved air filtration device, a smaller fin on top, larger lenses, and were often decorated. In the Clone Wars animated series, the clones of the 332nd Company painted their helmets as a symbol of their loyalty to Ashoka Tano.
Kylo Ren
Kylo Ren or Ben Solo was the master of the Knights of Ren. As the grandson of Darth Vader, Kylo Ren aspired to be the new Dark Lord. Kylo Ren would proudly wear his custom helmet, while oppressing the galaxy. The tinted lens through which Kylo Ren sees the universe is accented by gleaming chrome stripes. These stripes add to the aggressive nature of this battle-hardened helmet. The flare on the back is a homage to the “birthright” he believes he deserves.
The Imperial Red Guard
The Imperial Red Guard, alongside Darth Vader, are among the most iconic characters in the franchise to wear a mask-like helmet. These guards were the Emperor’s personal protection detail, and each guard came from a long lineage of bodyguards loyal to the Emperor. These smooth red helmets feature a simple eye slit and full coverage of the face and head. The transition from the flamboyant decorative comb and open-faced, blue plasteel helmet, to the red signified the change from democracy to a dictatorship.
Captain Sidon Ithano
Captain Sidon Ithano was a Delphidian pirate with an unmistakable horned red helmet. Even though Captain Ithano is humanoid in appearance, he still wears a Kaleesh mask to hide his true identity. The Kaleesh mask was designed to intimidate foes, as it is generally better to be feared than respected when it comes to the Star Wars Universe.
The Ubese
The Ubese were a sentient species that spoke the language of Ubesian. When infiltrating Jabba the Hutt’s palace, Princess Leia pretended to be Boushh (a bounty hunter) so as to rescue Han Solo. This meant that she had to wear one of their rather unique and oddly-shaped helmets, which feature a top mounted display and prominent mouthpiece. This mask was used to hide away the face of Princess Leia Organa, and the speech scrambler masked her voice perfectly – even from Han Solo.
Imperial Death Troopers
Imperial Death Troopers are as menacing and daunting as the empire gets. Their jet-black helmets with green accents, give them an almost haunting appearance. The black-on-black look would have most questioning exactly what or who lies beneath the aggressive armour. This threatening look was designed to spread fear like wildfire throughout the Star Wars Universe.
How Much Do Star Wars Helmet Usually Cost?
As with all things in life, there is a cost for everything, and the value of any item is determined by exclusivity and quality. When it comes to Star Wars helmets, there are a number of reasons that influence their desirability. While some may simply wish to complete a costume, others might desire an ornament for a games room. When dressing up as your favourite Star Wars character one thing is for sure. No matter your outfit, without the right helmet it just won’t work.
Mass produced helmets may cost as little as $40, climbing up to over $200 depending on the choice of head-piece. Of course, the custom, more authentic looking helmets will start at around $400 and could even exceed $1 000. At the end of the day, it is all about what you want, how much you want it, and what your budget will allow.
An Imperial TIE Fighter Helmet that is fully enclosed and vacuum-sealed is priced at around $450. These “bucketheads” (as they were called in the Imperial Starfighters Corps) were worn with their all-black flight suits. Quality of materials and attention to detail are also crucial, although these features push the price up drastically.
If you’re looking for a replica of the helmet worn by character Poe Dameron in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, you can find one currently valued at $665. This helmet is multi-coloured, with the resistance insignia, and will have you wanting to strap into your very own X-wing and join the resistance. All of these items are available at Disneyland.
Top 7 Helmet Reviews for 2021
1. HJC RPHA 11 Pro Boba Fett Helmet – $670.93
If you’ve always dreamed of looking like a badass bounty hunter, the HJC RPHA 11 Pro Boba Fett Helmet may one day be as important to you, as Boba’s helmet is for him. In fact, once you put it on, you might well never want to take it off. Of course, when riding a bike you should never take it off, as wearing a helmet has saved many a life.
The outer shell of this full faced helmet is made from rigid premium materials. This allows for the absorption of impact, so the rider is safely protected from harm. Weighing in at 3.45lbs the HJC RPHA 11 Pro Boba Fett Helmet is lightweight, allowing for maximum flexibility and mobility. Another advantage of a lightweight design, is the prevention of neck and back stiffness.
The lightweight design of this incredible helmet means that many a rider will simply keep it on whilst refuelling, or even when using the ATM. The sun-visor is designed with anti-scratch face shield, and has fully removable and washable advanced anti-bacterial fabric inside. The helmet has multiple air vents placed strategically to allow for optimal air flow.
The HJC RPHA 11 Pro Boba Fett Helmet is a definite head turner, offering all the benefits of a regular helmet, while allowing for an otherworldly bounty hunter look. This helmet is designed specifically for comfort, flexibility, and ease of use. HJC RPHA 11 Pro Boba Fett Helmet is definitely a strong candidate, and could easily be used for daily riding.
2. HJC CS-R3 Stormtrooper Helmet – $199.00
A creation of helmet specialist HJC, this limited-edition Star Wars Stormtrooper helmet is a beginner’s motorbike helmet (unlike the HJC RPHA 11 Pro Boba Fett). The HJC CS-R3 Stormtrooper helmet features a polycarbonate outer layer, with sweat-absorbing interior pads that can be removed and washed separately. The ventilation system is an Advanced Channelling Ventilation System.
The chin and forehead vents, as well as two mesh exhaust vents at the rear can be opened and shut independently. As a result, heat and humidity won’t be an issue when keeping an eye out for the Sand people, whilst patrolling the dunes on Tatooine! The comfortable and lightweight design allow the HJC CS-R3 Stormtrooper Helmet to be snug even when patrolling the Galactic Empire.
The standard cheek pads could be a bit tight, but you can purchase cheek pads of varying thicknesses, suitable for heads and faces of all sizes. The visor offers 95% UV protection that is both scratch and fog resistant, Pinlock ready. Just like the HJC RPHA 11 Pro Boba Fett helmet, this helmet offers HJC’s RapidFire Replacement System.
This means that the visor is easily removed and replaced without tools. The visor can also be locked in place to lower wind noise. The adjustment strap was designed so that it is convenient to use when wearing gloves. This helmet isn’t only stunningly designed, and comfortable, but is packed full of features for its relatively low price.
3. HJC Star Wars Unisex-Adult CS-R3 Storm Trooper Helmet – $135.99
It’s not only men who are fans of the Star Wars franchise, and this unisex-adult helmet is proof. The realistic design will allow your inner Storm Trooper to find the droids you’re looking for (or the errands you have to complete)! The HJC Star Wars Unisex-Adult CS-R3 Storm Trooper Helmet features a polycarbonate composite shell.
This full-faced motorcycle helmet has 95% UV protection and anti-scratch coating on the visor. The Advanced Channelling Ventilation system will keep you cool and breezy whilst roaming the streets, so heat or humidity shouldn’t be a problem. The HJC Star Wars Unisex-Adult CS-R3 Storm Trooper Helmet also comes with a complimentary travel bag.
Weighing 6.47lbs, the HJC Star Wars Unisex-Adult CS-R3 Storm Trooper Helmet is lightweight, allowing for maximum flexibility and mobility. The plush, Nylex interior with removable and washable interior cheek pads (and liner) make cleaning this helmet a breeze. These helmets are DOT certified, and feature a RapidFire Shield Replacement System.
This helmet can also very quickly and easily be converted for snowmobile applications. The only drawback is that if you want a tinted visor, then that is sold separately. With the visor tab on the left, this may be bothersome to right-handed riders. Missing a chin guard, this helmet is strictly for low speed riding, although you can easily purchase one separately.
With all this in mind, is this Star Wars motorcycle helmet worth the investment? Well, it depends on your unique needs and preferences but one thing is for sure – Star Wars fan or not, this creative design is coveted by collectors around the globe. With it’s innovative design elements, the HJC Star Wars Unisex-Adult CS-R3 Storm Trooper Helmet is perfect for slow riding.
4. HJC IS-5 Poe Dameron Motorcycle Helmet – $199.99
Poe Dameron is the Resistance’s most charming and confident pilot. With the Resistance starbird symbol and authentic looking battle wear, the attention to detail is astounding – and the closer you look the more detail you will see. This “exact” replica would win first prize in any Star Wars collection.
The HJC IS-5 helmet stands out from the crowd as the best helmet for racing, and is priced incredibly reasonably. That being said, affordability comes secondary to safety (no matter how badass you look). Remember, helmets are first and foremost designed for protection against any serious injury. Fortunately, the advanced polycarbonate composite outer shell absorbs impact, lessening the force on your head in the event of an accident.
With an integrated sunshield, no bugs or wind will interfere with the enjoyment of your ride. This specially designed visor also shields the rider from UV rays and fog. This sunshield makes the HJC IS-5 helmet extremely flexible, and suitable for everyone. The inner lining has advanced SuperCool technology, with threads that are woven with fine silver.
The fabric contains anti-bacterial properties, and will keep you cool while allowing you to remain sweat and odour free. The interior can be removed to wash or replace for ease of use, and the nylon strap is secured with a Double D-ring system, preventing it from moving during a ride. The HJC IS-5 Poe Dameron Helmet is aesthetically pleasing, and the attention to detail is out of this world.
This three quarter helmet weighing 2.6lbs is among the lightest on this list. With striking aesthetics, the HJC IS-5 Poe Dameron is coveted by many a Star Wars fan. More importantly, this helmet will both protect you in the event of a collision while leaving all who bear witness in awe.
5. HJC IS-5 Helmet – X-Wing Rebel Fighter Pilot – $200.00
Calling Gold Leader? If you’ve always dreamed of being a part of the gold squadron then this X-wing rebel fighter pilot helmet is for you. The open faced helmet features a very different look to everything else on this list so far and might just be the new Gold standard in helmet coolness for Star Wars fans.
The HJC IS-5 helmet is the best alternative to a full-faced helmet or beanie-style half-helmet. The main difference between a full-faced helmet and a three quarter helmet is the feel you get when riding. For many a rider the HJC IS-5 is a winner, featuring an impressively plush interior, tuck and roll sides and a quilted pad on the top.
In terms of comfort and feel this helmet sets the bar rather high. What’s more, the sides of this helmet cover up the rider’s ears completely allowing less road noise in. With the helmet weighing in at just 2.9lbs, wearing it all day long is a piece of cake in comparison to its heavier counterparts. As is the case with HJC and the HJC IS-5 in particular, the build quality is amazing – offering a professional fit.
All HJC helmets comes complete with the now mandatory DOT certification (for all helmets sold in the United States). This means that if you happen to hit the ground, you should be well covered. The HJC IS-5 has a drop-down sunshield with a smoke finish located inside the forehead area. To use this, simply pull it down, and push it up with the tap on the left side when done.
The design of this gorgeous helmet is straightforward and user friendly. The plastic is of the highest quality, so it won’t washout when hit with direct sunlight. If using the HJC IS-5 on the highway, wearing riding glasses in addition to the sunshield is recommended in order to minimise wind. The shields on offer are Dark Smoke and Amber.
6. HJC RPHA 90 Darth Vader Helmet – $699.99
You will know the true power of the Dark Side when you put on this helmet. Not only does it portray, potentially the best villain in Star Wars, but its stylish looks will be catching eyes all over the galaxy. The HJC RPHA 90 helmet design is a replacement for the MaxEvo line and has made some serious improvements.
This modular helmet allows the chin bar to flip up to your brow area. The chin bar has been beefed up so that it is much stronger, while still being aesthetically pleasing. Just be sure to keep it down when riding or you could end up with a serious injury.
The shell of this helmet has been reworked and now uses Premium Integrated Matrix. Premium Integrated Matrix uses aramid, carbon fibre and fiberglass to make the helmet both lightweight and incredibly strong. The entire helmet weighs 3.31lbs and is pretty compact for a modular helmet. A wind tunnel is included as a means to reduce noise pollution and improve aerodynamics.
The HJC RPHA 90 helmet has 3 vents for ventilation (which are fairly large) and each one can be individually open and closed. As a result, HJC has done an amazing job with the ventilation on the HJC RPHA 90. The liner of this helmet is called the Multicool 3d liner and is removable, washable, anti-bacterial, breathable and easy to use with glasses.
The Multicool 3d liner is an improvement on the MaxEvo and is very comfortable, while also maximizing environment proofing. The visor is lockable, making it super stable when you ride and it won’t open unless you want it too. The HJC RPHA 90 visor has an extra wide field of vision, and is anti-fog. The visor also is optically correct and has a drop-down sun visor on the inside which is controlled by a slider.
7. Kylo Ren RPHA-11 Pro Star Wars Motorcycle Helmet – $725.65
Long Live the Supreme Leader! Wearing this helmet will have you feeling just like the leader of the First Order himself. This helmet comes with a free anti fog pin lock that you can change from clear to a smoke shield at will. This helmet also has Premium Integrated Matrix and fiberglass, built into an aerodynamic shell structure which ensures better performance, even at higher speeds.
The wider eye port allows better vision and the helmet features a RapidFire II Shield Replacement System. The helmet is also glove friendly, allowing the air vents to be easily controlled. The structure of this helmet is a fiberglass composite shell that’s actually a blend of carbon fibre, fiberglass, and aramid to make it light and incredibly strong.
When browsing the RPHA 11 online, you will find the HJC helmet fit chart offers a wide variety of sizes. It’s worth a mention that this race fit helmet will be a little tight on the cheeks and jaw. Once again you can always buy a cheek pad, should you want or need one. All HJC helmets come with the now mandatory DOT certification, for all helmets sold in the United States.
Even with all these features and Aerodynamic prowess the HJC RPHA 11 Pro weighs just 7.25lbs. The Advanced Channelling Ventilation System allows ventilation and maximum airflow from the front to back of the helmet. This allows the heat and humidity to be pulled out leaving the interior environment cool. Overall, this helmet was designed from the inside out, and ticks all the boxes.
Why You Should Wear a Helmet
Crash Protection: The helmet is there to protect your head in the unfortunate circumstance that you have an accident. Remember, they call them accidents because you don’t get to pick and choose when you’re going to have them. But if you do fall, your head can sustain serious, even life threatening injuries. A fall from 5-6 feet up (about how high your head is when you’re seated on the motorcycle) can generate a serious amount of force if your head hits the ground.
Figure that you’re head weighs about the same as a bowling ball (a light one, let’s say – 8 lbs) – would you be willing to lie down on the floor and have someone stand over you and drop that ball on your head? Put it another way – the sudden deceleration when your head comes to a stop in a few nanoseconds when it hits the ground can exert well over 400G’s – that means that your head instantaneously weighs about 3,200 lbs – about a ton and a half! A unimpeded fall from 6 feet up to crack your head on the ground can be enough to kill you – it only takes once.
Ride Protection: OK, so you don’t fall every time you ride (if you do, we should REALLY talk!) – but it does protect you from other things every time you ride. A helmet can help protect your from bugs and rocks – catch one in the face at 60 mph and it hurts! Wind can cause your eyes to water and rain can sting when you hit it at speed. There are lots of things a helmet protects your head from EVERY time you ride.
Comfort: You don’t need (or want) to suffer when you ride; that applies to a helmet as well as your bike. Helmets can help keep bugs, rocks and rain out – definitely more comfortable. On a cold day, your head is warmer inside a helmet and on a hot day you can open the vents and get some airflow. Sunny out – wear shades or, if you’ve got a full-face helmet, a dark visor. Just remember to carry a clear visor and switch it out when the sun goes down (or take the shades off). You’ll find that a properly fitted helmet will reduce wind noise.
Visibility: We all know that car drivers don’t see us out there. Its one of the biggest problems we face as motorcyclists – being seen in traffic. One way you can increase your chances of being seen is with a bright colored helmet. It’s the highest point on the bike (usually) and one that tends to be seen first. Wear a bright or light colored helmet and think about retro-reflective for night riding.
Proper Fit: So, if you’ve made the choice (or maybe the law doesn’t give you a choice) to wear a helmet, how do you find a good one that fits well? You’re going to have to try a bunch on – there’s no way around it. A helmet that fits well should be SNUG – that means not too loose and not too tight. Put the helmet on, fasten the chinstrap and pull it snug. Then, shake your head – is there any slop or movement of the helmet on your head: yes – keep looking, no – this might be the one.
Can you fit your finger up between your forehead and the helmet – there should be a little room up there, but not enough to insert a full finger width. If the helmet’s gotten this far, then leave it on and walk around the store for 15 minutes (check out all the cool leather, chrome and other goodies!) and then find a mirror. When you take the helmet off, look for red spots on your forehead or anywhere that you can feel pressure spots – these will turn into headaches if you wear the helmet longer, best to keep looking.
On full face helmets, a properly fitting helmet (when new) will make you look like you have chipmunk cheeks – this is normal and the pads will break in and compress slightly with time.
Remember that different manufacturers use different head shapes for their forms – just because a friend wears a certain brand helmet doesn’t make it necessarily the right one for you (unless your head is exactly the same shape as your friends). Try lots of helmets on – you’re going to be spending a lot of time with your head in it, might as well get one that you’ll enjoy wearing.
One last note, when considering what helmet to purchase – buy one that is DOT and/or SNELL approved. This certifies that the manufacturer has designed a helmet that meets or exceeds certain crash protection standards.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it! Seven incredible helmets from the Star Wars franchise, all of which would make motorbiking Star Wars fans the envy of all their friends. Whether full-faced, a ¾ helmet, or a chin bar, there should be a helmet on this list for everyone. Ranging from $135.99 to $725.65, this list serves to show that no matter the budget there is a Star Wars helmet out there for you. No matter if you are on the dark or light side, or whether you see yourself as a Jedi, Storm Trooper or Mandalorian, you can make your dreams a reality with these amazing helmets.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the stars to find the Top 7 Star Wars Motorcycle Helmets in 2021, and we sincerely hope that this list has been insightful. Remember to always wear your helmet when riding a motorcycle, and “May the force be with you, Always.”
