Shoei VFX-W Motocross, Supercross, Off-Road Motorcycle Helmet Review
Shoei helmets are widely regarded as top-shelf products when it comes to head protection, the VFX-W off-road helmet reinforces the Japanese company’s reputation. The contemporary design and countless safety features make it one of the best motocross, supercross, and off-road helmets on the market.
The Shoei VFX-W is a great looking helmet – I am a huge fan of its unique shape and design – but it is no secret that Shoei’s priority is safety. Shoei’s proprietary AIM+ technology allows it to make the shell stronger and lighter by combining special fiberglass and organic fibers. The Dual Layer, Dual Density EPS Liner enhances the helmets ability to absorb impacts.
When I first tried the Shoei VFX-W on, it was an extremely tight fit, but it breaks in rather quickly. The helmet cups around your head, which makes it a little tough to get on, but provides a comfortable, secure fit once on your head.
The double-D rings that secure the chinstrap are easy to manipulate even with thick gloves on. I also like that the viewing window is large, as it allows for better peripheral vision and larger goggles.
Weighing in at just over three pounds, the Shoei feels very light on your head, which is a huge plus; the last thing you want is to have a big weight on your head in the event of a crash.
The 3D Max-Dry liner inside the VFX-W is easily removed for washing by pulling on the small tabs inside of the helmet. The Sleek Mouthpiece includes a removable filter and a wire screen to protect the rider from roost, as well as dust.
The V-430 Sleek Visor has great adjustability, which I found quite useful because you can lower it to protect from roost, or raise it for better range of vision. The plastic visor hardware is also convenient because you can adjust or remove the visor without tools. The hardware is designed to breakaway in the event of a crash, reducing risk of neck injury.
The Shoei VFX-W has eight vents that are always open, but riding on a motocross track where the speeds are relatively low, I did not feel much ventilation.
An Emergency Quick Release System (EQRS) releases the cheek pads, which minimizes load when removing the helmet from an injured rider. Fortunately, I did not test this feature. Snell approval will provide a sense of security for owners, who also get a five-year warranty with the Shoei VFX-W.
Riders of varied dirt disciplines–Justin Barcia, Josh Strang, and Destry Abbott–wear the Shoei VFX-W, demonstrating its adaptability for different conditions.
At $614 for the Shoei VFX-W with the Sear TC-2 graphics (plain white is $500 less), this is not an inexpensive helmet. However, when engaging in sports such as supercross, motocross and off-road riding, the possibility of a head impact cannot be ignored; wearing the Shoei VFX-W helmet gave me a great sense of security and confidence.
Photography by Don Williams
