There’s a good reason why many states require riders to wear helmets, even if they don’t require any other protective gear. Our heads are more fragile than we’d like to believe, and a helmet is not where we want to cut corners when it comes to safety. Full-face helmets offer more protection than open-face ones, but they have drawbacks as well. For some riders, modern full-face helmets just don’t mesh with the style of their classic or vintage motorcycles. Sure, we can poke fun at riders who prioritize style over safety, but why not explore some helmets that offer both? Arai is one of the top dogs in the helmet game, and its Classic-V open-face helmet combines the brand’s focus on safety with a classic look that suits many vintage-style bikes and gear combos. I’ve been wearing the Arai Classic-V while testing the 2025 Honda Dax 125, a retro-inspired miniMoto. Not only does the helmet match the aesthetic and style of the bike, but the helmet’s open-face design allows refreshing airflow during slow-speed riding. The Classic-V’s shell features Arai’s proprietary peripherally belted, complex laminate construction. Like other Arai helmets, the shell is round and smooth, which allows it to glance off obstacles upon impact. It has an intermediate-oval interior fit and a one-piece, multi-density liner that offers optimal protection in a thinner profile, resulting in a smaller, lighter helmet. A size-medium Classic-V weighs just 2 lb, 11 oz. On the forehead are three channels for air to flow in. From there, the air follows hidden air channels in the crown before exiting through three holes in the EPS liner in the back. This ventilation system helps keep the top and back of your head cool while the face receives unobstructed fresh air. As I’ve experienced with all the Arai helmets I’ve worn, the Classic-V is very comfortable and pleasant to wear. Because it’s open-faced, it allows more wind noise than you’d get with one of Arai’s full-face helmets, but it’s quieter than I expected and even quieter than some of the budget full-face lids I’ve worn. The helmet’s faux-leather trim, optional snap-on visor ($13.95), and button-closure goggle-strap holder are all functional and useful features that add to the Classic-V’s vintage appeal. My only complaint is that the visor is difficult to fully snap onto the helmet, requiring more effort than should be necessary. For riders who want a vintage-style helmet and reliable head protection, the Arai Classic-V is one of the best options available. It’s kept my head cool and comfortable while riding around on the Dax, and it’s reassuring to know my head is covered by Arai’s safety technology. See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here. The Arai Classic-V is available in sizes XS-XL in four metallic Metashine colors (Red, shown, Green, Brown, or Blue) for $539.95 and four solid colors (Black, Black Frost, Modern Gray, or White) for $519.95. Shop for Arai Classic-V Helmet The post Arai Classic-V Open-Face Motorcycle Helmet Review appeared first on Rider Magazine.