If you’re like me and found yourself standing in front of a wall of motorcycle helmets, wondering whether a full face or modular helmet is the right pick, I totally get it. I had the same confusion a few months ago when I decided to upgrade my old helmet. I ride every weekend, sometimes longer tours, sometimes just in-city rides, and I really wanted a helmet that could keep up with my mixed riding style. Safety, comfort, and flexibility were all on my mind. So, Are Modular Helmets as Safe as Full Face?

After weeks of reading, asking biker friends, and even trying helmets at local stores, I ended up choosing a P/J approved modular helmet. In this post, I’ll share exactly what I learned during that process and explain the real-world safety of modular helmets compared to full face ones. If you’re also torn between the two, this article should make things clearer.

Still unsure what a modular helmet actually is and how it works? This guide breaks it down so you can better understand if it’s the right fit for your riding needs.

Understanding the Basics: Full Face vs. Modular

Let’s start with the basics. A full face helmet is one solid piece. It covers your entire head, including the chin, and doesn’t open up. It’s the classic design you probably associate with racing and maximum protection.

A modular helmet, also called a flip-up helmet, looks a lot like a full face helmet but has one key difference: the front section (chin guard) can be lifted up, usually with a button. That means you can open the front and expose your face without taking the helmet off.

At first glance, that seems like a clear advantage for modular helmets, right? But is it just as safe?

What Safety Means in Motorcycle Helmets

Helmet safety is mainly determined by:

• Shell strength
• Inner padding and impact absorption
• Secure fit
• Certifications and approvals

Both full face and modular helmets can be equally safe if they’re approved by the right authorities and used correctly. But there’s a small twist when it comes to modular helmets: the type of approval matters more than you might think. Want a deeper dive into the safety aspects? Are modular helmets safe explains how they’re tested and what to look for when choosing the right one.

Helmet Approvals: The J, P, and P/J Labels

Here’s what I didn’t know at first but found extremely useful:

• J (Jet): This approval means the helmet is tested only for use without the chin guard. If your modular helmet only has J approval, the chin guard is not protective.
• P (Protective): This approval is for helmets tested with the chin guard down. These are like full face helmets in terms of protection. But here’s the catch, you are supposed to ride with the chin down only. Lifting it while riding is not allowed.
• P/J (Protective/Jet): This is what I ended up choosing. A helmet with both P and J approvals is tested for both conditions, with chin guard down (like a full face) and up (like an open face). So, you’re legally and safely allowed to ride with the chin up or down.

This gave me the freedom I wanted for city rides and the protection I needed for highways.

What I Noticed Using a Full Face Helmet

Before I switched, I was using a basic full face helmet. There’s no doubt that it felt solid. I always felt secure, and the fit was snug. These are the things I really appreciated:

• Lightweight: Full face helmets are often lighter than modular ones, since they don’t have any moving parts.
• Less wind noise: With no gaps or hinges, the wind noise was minimal. This was a big deal for long rides.
• Strong chin protection: Since the shell is one piece, there’s less chance of mechanical failure in the event of a crash.

But there were also a few things that bothered me. It was hard to take quick breaks. I had to completely remove the helmet just to talk, drink water, or show my face at toll booths. On hot days, I really wished I could open the front for some air. If you’ve ever wondered about using a racing helmet on a motorcycle, this car helmet vs motorcycle helmet comparison clears up the differences and why they matter.

Are Modular Helmets as Safe as Full Face?

No, they are not completely safe like full face helmets, but, after switching to a P/J approved modular helmet, my rides became more convenient, especially for the kind of riding I do.

Here’s what stood out:

1. Flexibility in City Rides

I often ride in heavy traffic or through town where speeds are low. With my modular helmet, I can keep the chin up while cruising at 20-30 km/h, especially on summer days. The airflow makes a big difference, and I feel more connected to my surroundings.

2. Comfort on Stops and Breaks

Whether I’m pulling up to grab a coffee or having a quick chat with a fellow rider, I just flip up the front and I’m good. No need to remove the entire helmet every time. That convenience alone made me love modular helmets more.

3. Highway Rides with Chin Guard Down

When I hit the highway, I simply lock the chin guard in place and get full protection. My modular helmet feels just as secure as my old full face helmet when it’s locked down.

4. Useful for Glasses Wearers

This is something I didn’t think about until I wore my modular helmet. If you wear glasses, it’s much easier to wear and adjust them when you can open the front of your helmet. Full face helmets can be a pain in this regard. Worried about helmet theft? Here’s how you can lock your motorcycle helmet to the bike securely without damaging it.

But Are Modular Helmets As Safe?

If your modular helmet is P/J approved, then yes, it’s just as safe as a full face helmet when the chin guard is locked down.

The only thing to remember is this: Don’t ride at high speeds with the chin guard up, unless your helmet is designed and tested for it. Even P/J approved helmets offer less protection when open. The approval means it won’t fail completely, but obviously your chin is still exposed.

Also, modular helmets are often heavier due to the hinge mechanism and reinforced parts. If you’re a racer or doing long rides that demand light gear, this might matter. For me, the small weight difference was worth the extra flexibility.

Quick Comparison Between Full Face and Modular Helmets

Final Thoughts: What Should You Choose?

If your riding style is mainly high-speed and long-distance touring, and you value a quieter and slightly lighter helmet, a full face helmet is probably best for you.

But if you ride both in the city and on highways, go on weekend trips, need better airflow in traffic, or wear glasses like I do, a P/J approved modular helmet offers the best of both worlds.

I personally love the fact that I can lift the chin guard at a red light to take a breath or even talk to someone without having to pull the whole helmet off. Yet, when I hit the highway, I lower the chin guard and get the same sense of protection I used to feel with my full face.

Remember, not all modular helmets are the same. Always check for the P/J approval label on the strap before buying one. That’s your best assurance that the helmet has been tested for both positions and will offer reliable protection. Looking to enjoy music or GPS directions while riding? Follow this simple guide on how to add audio to CHIPS wireless helmet for a seamless audio experience.

One Last Tip from Me

When you shop for a helmet, don’t just order one online based on looks or deals. Visit a store if possible. Try it on. Move the chin guard up and down. Feel how secure it locks. Ask about the approval label. This hands-on check made all the difference for me.

So, are modular helmets as safe as full face? Yes, with the right model and approval, they absolutely can be. And if your rides are anything like mine, you might even find them safer because you’ll be more comfortable and focused on the road.

Stay safe and ride smart.