Review on Shoei GT-Air 2 Helmet (Small) (Matte Blue) by Reza Shoecraft

Some context: I cruise and never drive faster than traffic. I don't drive with a windshield. I started skating again after a few years break. I've been looking for a good full face helmet for a long time. Something light, well made, comfortable, quiet, well ventilated (if needed), with an internal sun visor and decent defogging. My previous helmets when I rode both Cruiser and Standard were a cheap BILT number and a nameless half helmet. The BILT was incredibly loud at any speed above crawl, never felt like it would fit right, and fogged up no matter what I did unless I fully opened the face shield. He also had a habit of bobbing my head in the wind at highway speeds. The half helm was... well... half helm. Easy, but that's all. It certainly won't stop bugs from getting in my face or rain (which stings me at highway speeds), and it won't help me at all in an accident unless I just hit my head. Since IIHS data shows that the vast majority of reported motorcycle accidents involve chin/jaw impacts, this was a concern for me. After some research I bought a GT Air II. It feels light on long rides, doesn't get pushed by headwinds, feels quiet, has multiple anti-fog options, is well ventilated, and is fairly comfortable. Some notes: Some helmet brands are better suited for certain head shapes, but I don't know the shape of my head. The size chart told me I needed a large, so I went for the large. Unfortunately I also had to buy some 31mm cheek pads to replace the thicker ones in the helmet. If you buy this from a motorcycle shop they will likely have the option to swap out the cheek pads at purchase at no additional cost to you. This will save you $55-$60. - All ventilation openings can be easily opened with one hand. - The internal sun visor is easy to operate with one hand. It is not on a spring-loaded clasp so it does not wear out easily.- The face shield can only be lifted with the left hand as the tab is on the left side of the underside of the face shield. It works. Ventilation elsewhere helps at higher speeds. - I've never bought additional internal communicators, so I can't tell you if they're worth it. - I read that Shoei didn't submit a helmet for SNELL's safety rating simply because it's difficult to get the SNELL rating with an internal sun visor. Not impossible, but difficult. The comparable RF 1200, also from Shoei but without an internal sun visor or optional integrated communication package, is SNELL certified. Instead of the classic double D-ring, it has a ratchet strap. Unlike the original GT Air, this ratchet strap has been moved forward to avoid neck contact. I can confirm it helps, but still feels a bit more restrictive on the neck. The field of view is very, very good for a cruiser. However, if you ride a sports bike in the folded position, you might want the RF1200 instead, as it offers a slightly better vertical field of view. Come up with one that should help with the fog. Overall I like this helmet. I wish it cost less, but at least it was cheaper than the RRP. However, I would recommend trying it on in a store to make sure it fits your head shape. I recommend it for cruising and standard travel, but sportbike enthusiasts will likely want something tailored for that riding style. Much luck!