After years of buying and wearing various helmets I have come to some conclusions about helmet noise. The noise has not much to do with wind sneaking through from neck cushins or cheek cushins or visors etc., not to do with full face, open face, modular and so on, I had them all...

 

The thin outer shell of a helmet, no matter what material it's made of, acts like a drum, when wind, which is usually has some buffeting and turbulence due to front of the bike or low windshield, hits the shell, it makes the sound like drummers hitting theirs...! 

 

Even the aerodynamic shape and testing doesn't help much, because the wind is not hitting the helmet smoothly, it hits the front of the bike first, then comes with turbulence all over...

 

I actually found with no windshield at all and on naked bike, sometimes I get less noise, more smooth wind...! 

 

The only thing I think helps is how the inner layer of the helmet, the foam or whatever they use, is attached to the thin outer shell, what material it is, and how it's attached or glued to it. That makes the drum less hollow and create less noise..., to see what I mean get a small deep pan and knock on it, then fill it with water and knock again..., a lot less noise. But they use very light, foam, material to reduce weight, hence the drum effect is there, whatever they do... 

 

I haven't come across a quiet helmet yet, and that's because it's hard to impossible to make it, maybe if they use thicker layer shell, but keep it light and strong, but hard job....

 

For now I'm happy with my Forza electric windshield, it's a God sent at 120kph, I don't think I can ride without it anymore, very addictive...! 

 

Simple solution and that is earplugs bought at any construction company. Just learn how to use them properly.

 

I had proper helmets, but those is 20k or more in Thailand. I bought them half price in Europe at sale

 

 

https://www.thaiwatsadu.com/en/product/โฟมอุดหูเพื่อลดเสียงพร้อมสายคล้อง-YAMADA-รุ่น-YMD519-สีเหลือง-น้ำเงิน-60241204

1 hour ago, Agusts said:

After years of buying and wearing various helmets I have come to some conclusions about helmet noise. The noise has not much to do with wind sneaking through from neck cushins or cheek cushins or visors etc., not to do with full face, open face, modular and so on, I had them all...

In my Caberg Duke (modular), the noise most certainly comes from wind sneaking through at the neck. When "air tight", there is very little noise. However, I ride a scooter and max speed is 100 km/h so maybe that is why it is low noise.

I would think the noise in a helmet comes from the air vents.

1 hour ago, Hummin said:

Simple solution and that is earplugs bought at any construction company. Just learn how to use them properly.

 

I had proper helmets, but those is 20k or more in Thailand. I bought them half price in Europe at sale

 

 

https://www.thaiwatsadu.com/en/product/โฟมอุดหูเพื่อลดเสียงพร้อมสายคล้อง-YAMADA-รุ่น-YMD519-สีเหลือง-น้ำเงิน-60241204

 

Prefer the neoprene? ones. Pull out the "string" as that can transmit noise. 

 

 

4 minutes ago, VocalNeal said:

 

Prefer the neoprene? ones. Pull out the "string" as that can transmit noise. 

 

 

The strings are good for keeping them when you need them. I used them when skydiving, and easy to tuck under inside the suit. 

 

Personally I have used Sony earbuds with noise cancelling the last yeara, which I managed to use in my helmets.

 

https://www.soundguys.com/sony-wf-1000xm5-review-95465/

I fitted a taller screen and it cut the wind noise enough to no longer need my ear plugs.

I generally don't have a problem with helmet noise, my Shark helmets have always been good, both open and full face, noticeably better when I switched from a Norton one. 

 

Here I only do under 100kph, back in UK I had a Shoei and Shark full face doing 160kph still low noise

I always wear earplugs for anything other than a local shopping trip. 

 

I don't think you can have a helmet with maximum ventilation and low noise.. In this country/climate I chose maximum ventilation.

I use earplugs from Alpine at home, listen to music from the intercom. In Thailand I first used my Samsung Buds FE noise cancelling buds. Very effective, however they get loose after some time and then the noise is back. Best solution when they work, because they cut out the windnoise but you can still hear traffic around you clearly.

 

I replaced them with cheap plugs from shopee Caravan earplugs and bone conducting earphones. All noise mostly gone to the point you have to drive very carful as you hardy hear traffic aproaching from behind.

I use earplugs on long trips, but I don't like it at all, going to shopping mall 10 or 15km away, can't be bothered. My ear is small, none of these regular plugs mentioned fit, I have to find kid's ones and they are not good either..., generally annoying and not that effective...! I have tried many... 

 

In addition to the wind noise damaging eardrum progressively, it causes fatigue and distraction, loss of concentration and not hearing traffic well..., to me this must be the highest priority in helmet manufacturing, but I think it's their last on the list...!

 

They are more concerned about protecting our head if hit something head on at 100kph...!? Don't they realise at those kind of speeds it doesn't really matter if the skull is safe, neck or spine probably break and end it anyway, so who cares...! 

 

Marketing like this material can stand 100kph, but the other one only 80kph...!? So it's double the price...! 🙄

 

 

Most of the noise in  full face helmet comes from under the chin ? neck area   

 

I find open face helmets are much quieter  than full face  even at 120mph   ,but in cold wet weather  or long trips  Full face is preferable , i always use foam ear plugs on both types,, 

12 hours ago, liddelljohn said:

Most of the noise in  full face helmet comes from under the chin ? neck area   

 

I find open face helmets are much quieter  than full face  even at 120mph   ,but in cold wet weather  or long trips  Full face is preferable , i always use foam ear plugs on both types,, 

 

This maybe true in some ways, I have LS2 Advent modular that swing back 180 degree, all the way, so certified to ride in both configuration. The wind noise in both setup is exactly the same at 120kph...!!!? 

 

Only get some more wind draft (not noise) when used as open face. So as you say not good for cold weather. 

 

I'm convinced the noise is produced from wind turbulencem/buffet hitting the outer helmet shell, nothing to do with gaps and vents and full face or open face etc. , I have done a lot experiments to come to this conclusion... 

 

You can try it to, just put some soft foam or cushin in the gaps, or as I have for testing, cellotape the vents, block and smooth over it, I even mounted big headphone round cushins inside where my ears are, no effect, because the shell itself is making the noise, it's not coming from anywhere else, like the sides, to reach eardrum...! The headphone cushins were hollow in the middle, so ear cannal open path to the shell... 

 

I can't use earplugs much, it causes ear cannal irritation and wax build up, big problem over time... 🙄

Where does everyone in Thailand find this cold weather of which you speak?🤔  Just wear earplugs on long trips then you can buy/wear whatever helmet you want.,

2 minutes ago, VocalNeal said:

Where does everyone in Thailand find this cold weather of which you speak?🤔  Just wear earplugs on long trips then you can buy/wear whatever helmet you want.,

December January 6:00am in cm, freezing on a bike. Sweat shirt socks and gloves are required.

2 minutes ago, novacova said:

December January 6:00am in cm, freezing on a bike. Sweat shirt socks and gloves are required.

 

Ah OK I never usually rise before 8am and always wear socks and gloves.  Oh BTW I live further north, once the sun is out it's OK.

13 hours ago, liddelljohn said:

Most of the noise in  full face helmet comes from under the chin ? neck area   

 

I find open face helmets are much quieter  than full face  even at 120mph   ,but in cold wet weather  or long trips  Full face is preferable , i always use foam ear plugs on both types,, 

That depends on the helmets quality and how the wents are designet. And 120mph with an open face, you haven’t seen much yet what can happen. I mean have you seen these bugs flying around in Thailand, and sliding the ground before coming to stop uncontrollably and unconscious. 

 

Open face helmets is a no go on higher speed, and even stupid at love speeds to. 

 

 

On 7/22/2025 at 7:37 PM, Hummin said:

Simple solution and that is earplugs bought at any construction company. Just learn how to use them properly.

 

I had proper helmets, but those is 20k or more in Thailand. I bought them half price in Europe at sale

 

 

https://www.thaiwatsadu.com/en/product/โฟมอุดหูเพื่อลดเสียงพร้อมสายคล้อง-YAMADA-รุ่น-YMD519-สีเหลือง-น้ำเงิน-60241204

 

 

Not overly convinced trying to minimise what you can hear whilst riding a bike......particularly in Thailand.....is a terribly sound idea

 

 

 

6 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

 

 

Not overly convinced trying to minimise what you can hear whilst riding a bike......particularly in Thailand.....is a terribly sound idea

 

 

 

Well it is your ears, 

 

and if you travel more than x km a year, you will finely have hearing losses, and after a long life born on a farm, loved loud heavy metall as younger, flying planes for skydiving, helicopters to work offshore, and en general extremely loud working environments, it will not help riding x K`s km on a motorbike each year either. 

 

And if you where an experienced rider, you should know this 

 

AI says as well documented all over the place. And with the new devices with noise cancelling, you still hear very well what you need to hear. It doesnt make you deaf, it just protects your hearing 

 

Yes, it is safe and recommended to wear earplugs when riding a motorcycle, especially at higher speeds. Wind noise is a major contributor to hearing damage, and even a good helmet doesn't fully eliminate it. Earplugs significantly reduce wind and engine noise, making rides more comfortable and preventing long-term hearing loss. 

 

 

Here's why earplugs are beneficial for motorcycle riders:

• Hearing Protection:

  Motorcycles, particularly at higher speeds, generate significant noise, primarily wind noise, which can cause permanent hearing damage. 

   
• Reduced Fatigue:

  The constant noise can be tiring and lead to fatigue, making rides less enjoyable and potentially affecting focus and reaction time. Earplugs help reduce this fatigue by lowering the overall noise level. 

   
• Improved Comfort:

  Wind noise can be incredibly irritating. Earplugs can make rides more pleasant and comfortable by reducing the distracting and loud wind noise. 

   
• No Interference with Safety:

  Quality earplugs are designed to reduce harmful noise levels while still allowing essential sounds like sirens, horns, and other traffic to be heard. 

   
• Specialized Options:

  There are earplugs designed specifically for motorcyclists, offering a balance of noise reduction and situational awareness. 

   

 

Important Considerations:

• Quality Earplugs:

  Choose earplugs specifically designed for motorcycles or with a high enough noise reduction rating for your riding conditions. 

   
• Proper Fit:

  Ensure the earplugs fit snugly and create a good seal to maximize their effectiveness. 

   
• Situational Awareness:

  Be mindful of your surroundings and the sounds you need to hear while riding.Choose earplugs that offer adequate protection without completely blocking out important noises. 

2 minutes ago, Hummin said:

Well it is your ears, 

 

and if you travel more than x km a year, you will finely have hearing losses, and after a long life born on a farm, loved loud heavy metall as younger, flying planes for skydiving, helicopters to work offshore, and en general extremely loud working environments, it will not help riding x K`s km on a motorbike each year either. 

 

And if you where an experienced rider, you should know this 

 

AI says as well documented all over the place. And with the new devices with noise cancelling, you still hear very well what you need to hear. It doesnt make you deaf, it just protects your hearing 

 

Yes, it is safe and recommended to wear earplugs when riding a motorcycle, especially at higher speeds. Wind noise is a major contributor to hearing damage, and even a good helmet doesn't fully eliminate it. Earplugs significantly reduce wind and engine noise, making rides more comfortable and preventing long-term hearing loss. 

 

 

Here's why earplugs are beneficial for motorcycle riders:

• Hearing Protection:

  Motorcycles, particularly at higher speeds, generate significant noise, primarily wind noise, which can cause permanent hearing damage. 

   
• Reduced Fatigue:

  The constant noise can be tiring and lead to fatigue, making rides less enjoyable and potentially affecting focus and reaction time. Earplugs help reduce this fatigue by lowering the overall noise level. 

   
• Improved Comfort:

  Wind noise can be incredibly irritating. Earplugs can make rides more pleasant and comfortable by reducing the distracting and loud wind noise. 

   
• No Interference with Safety:

  Quality earplugs are designed to reduce harmful noise levels while still allowing essential sounds like sirens, horns, and other traffic to be heard. 

   
• Specialized Options:

  There are earplugs designed specifically for motorcyclists, offering a balance of noise reduction and situational awareness. 

   

 

Important Considerations:

• Quality Earplugs:

  Choose earplugs specifically designed for motorcycles or with a high enough noise reduction rating for your riding conditions. 

   
• Proper Fit:

  Ensure the earplugs fit snugly and create a good seal to maximize their effectiveness. 

   
• Situational Awareness:

  Be mindful of your surroundings and the sounds you need to hear while riding.Choose earplugs that offer adequate protection without completely blocking out important noises. 

 

Properly designed filtering plugs designed specifically for motorcyclists you have a point, but.....standard foam earplugs and similar may block too much sound, reducing situational awareness.

 

Mind you as I only have 30% hearing one ear....what do I care......555

 

4 hours ago, Will B Good said:

 

Properly designed filtering plugs designed specifically for motorcyclists you have a point, but.....standard foam earplugs and similar may block too much sound, reducing situational awareness.

 

Mind you as I only have 30% hearing one ear....what do I care......555

 

 

Save 50% on earplugs?

 

Whilst wearing earplugs I can still hear the Google Maps lady inside my helmet.  

46 minutes ago, VocalNeal said:

 

Save 50% on earplugs?

 

Whilst wearing earplugs I can still hear the Google Maps lady inside my helmet.  

 

OMG....many a true word said in jest....finally lashed out on Airpod Pros 2 gen........f***ing went deaf .....I mean totally deaf ....in one ear about three months later.....

14 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

finally lashed out on Airpod Pros 2 gen..

6 minutes ago, CallumWK said:

 

That made my toes curl.....555

12 hours ago, Hummin said:

That depends on the helmets quality and how the wents are designet. And 120mph with an open face, you haven’t seen much yet what can happen. I mean have you seen these bugs flying around in Thailand, and sliding the ground before coming to stop uncontrollably and unconscious. 

 

Open face helmets is a no go on higher speed, and even stupid at love speeds to. 

 

 

I have been riding for 53 years  all over the world and  more than 30 years in Thailand have ridden  over 400,000 miles  in my life  and still average 15k miles a year , I have tried HJC, AGV,ARAI ,Shoei and even Shuberth  Full face helmets  , I think I know  more about it than you ,, also raced bikes on track and drag strips....yes i use full face but Open face   a lot are quieter and more comfortable ...

13 hours ago, VocalNeal said:

Where does everyone in Thailand find this cold weather of which you speak?🤔  Just wear earplugs on long trips then you can buy/wear whatever helmet you want.,

I dont just ride in Thailand , i ride  in UK, EU as well only deep ice and snow stop me ,,,

11 minutes ago, liddelljohn said:

I have been riding for 53 years  all over the world and  more than 30 years in Thailand have ridden  over 400,000 miles  in my life  and still average 15k miles a year , I have tried HJC, AGV,ARAI ,Shoei and even Shuberth  Full face helmets  , I think I know  more about it than you ,, also raced bikes on track and drag strips....yes i use full face but Open face   a lot are quieter and more comfortable ...

If you say so, Im quite happy with my well vented HJC and Shoei helmets using either ear plugs, or noise cancelling ear buds from Sony. 

 

It wasn’t ment to be a pissing contest, so I leave it to you 

1 minute ago, Hummin said:

If you say so, Im quite happy with my well wetted HJC and Shoei helmets using either ear plugs, or noise cancelling ear buds from Sony. 

 

It wasn’t ment to be a pissing contest, so I leave it to you 

My Current Helmets  are 2 Full face HJC RPA11   one in Thailand and one in UK  and a Momo open face in UK and a  Bell open face in Thailand .....always use earbuds too .

1 minute ago, liddelljohn said:

My Current Helmets  are 2 Full face HJC RPA11   one in Thailand and one in UK  and a Momo open face in UK and a  Bell open face in Thailand .....always use earbuds too .

I think we agree, and I have got a few bugs in my face myself with open face helmet, one bird with full face, and a few riding buddies had a open wound after hitting big panzer bugs in high speed as well. It happens rarely, but the more km you ride, the chance is there. 

1 hour ago, Hummin said:

I think we agree, and I have got a few bugs in my face myself with open face helmet, one bird with full face, and a few riding buddies had a open wound after hitting big panzer bugs in high speed as well. It happens rarely, but the more km you ride, the chance is there. 

 

Just to be clear, whenever I mentioned open face in any of my posts, I meant the ones with proper visor, plus flip up sun-visor in addition to the main one, I wear prescription glasses, so the sun-visor is a god sent. I get occasional bugs or debris hitting the visor, and always thankful for it, I never ride a helmet without visor, just not find it pleasant... 

 

I'm back in London now and will be looking into a custom made earplugs, I heard these could be more comfortable and maybe not bother me as much - or cause wax etc., they have home kits version or go and get impression done etc. - latter much more costly... 

 

I have more ear problem as I get older and one of the main culprits seems to be growing hair in the ear..., all the blessed aging symptoms we should look forward to...!!! ? 🙄