Nexx Helmets: Everything You Need to Know

John Burns
by John Burns

From Portugal with love

Nexx helmets has been producing motorcycle helmets since 2001, in Portugal, and is proud of the fact that it’s still 100% located in Amoreira da Gândara, 160 miles north of Lisbon. Why? Because “we believe in having all our knowledge concentrated; this not only allows us to maintain our unique philosophy but also, as we develop and produce our helmets, we know them inside out and we can support and improve them better than anyone else. Plus, doing everything in-house allows us more flexibility while providing a higher level of Customization and Service.”

Nexx helmets are now sold in at least 60 countries, though Nexxes seem to be rare on the ground in the US. That rareness means we haven’t even reviewed a Nexx helmet at MO, far as I can tell. But our most excellent contributor and gear connoisseur Thai Long Ly has owned several of them. TLL says:

“Yes, I have a NEXX or two. Have had several, actually. The X.R2, X.R2 Carbon and a Blade. The plusses are they’re super lightweight… incredibly light, actually. Aerodynamics are excellent, as is the peripheral vision. The view port is wide and tall, so you see everything. No whistling and because it’s so light, you get minimal neck fatigue when on a long haul. They’re not too expensive, either.

“The minuses: They’re not the most robust things I’ve ever had. The lining peels, the fit and finish degrades with time, and the thing just kinda falls apart with continued use. Oh, and they’re kinda loud… not as serene as a Shark or even Arai, but quieter than most barnyard animals.

“Overall, I love the way they cheat the wind; a result of the incredible lightweight construction combined with excellent aerodynamics. For long rides or track days, this is a great helmet to rock. Don’t be afraid to scuff it up or scratch the finish as you’ll have to replace it soon enough anyway.”

In Nexx’s defense, Tai rides a lot, and his high energy lifestyle shortens the lifespan of lots of things. YMMV, and Nexx offers a two-year warranty on all its helmets, of which there are now quite a few – ranging from a newish retro line and extending into the usual sport, touring, modular and adventure categories. Which leads us nicely into a quick look at a few of Nexx’s latest and greatest lids.

Table of Contents

X.R2 Carbon

Refined aerodynamics and acoustics, compared to the original carbon-fiber R1, produces an even more comfortable ultra-light helmet – just 2.8 pounds, claims Nexx. This one fits long oval head shapes best, but Nexx’s Ergo Padding System is claimed to allow a perfect fit on different head shapes, as well. Inside the sleek c-f shell, you’ll find an anti-sweat, anti-allergic X.MART DRY fabric inner lining, removable and washable of course. Anti-noise cheekpads and a chin curtain reduce noise. Two intakes and four outlets are designed to flow lots of air, along with a visor ventilation system. A removable breath guard helps reduce fogging, and the anti-scratch, easy locking visor is Pinlock ready. Aerodynamic Trim and an aero rear spoiler are designed to slice cleanly through the wind.

Bottom Line

  • Light makes right

X. Vilitur Carbon Zero

Nexx’s modular touring helmet also uses an aerodynamic 100% carbon-fiber shell, to fit intermediate oval heads from 2XS to 3 XL via three shell sizes. The locking mechanism is an all-metal Super Locker 360º double pivot system for ultimate security. Double rubber seals at chin bar and face shield, and vortex generators in the chin are claimed to improve aerodynamics and reduce buffeting. The panoramic eyeport is filled with an optically correct anti-scratch Pinlock-ready face shield, sealed with  Nexx’s X-SWIFT quick release visor mechanism, and backed by an internal sun visor that negates the need for a tinted shield. Vented via two intake and two exhaust vents and lined with a moisture-wicking, washable X.MART DRY fabric liner, the Vilitur also comes with two action camera bracket mounts and is compatible with Nexx’s X-Com 2 coms system.

Bottom Line

  • All that and 3.65 pounds

Part of Nexx’s “Garage” series, this one goes for retro off-road style, but packs modern comfort and technology inside its lightweight X-MATRIX Shell. Two air vents just below the removable beak flow lots of air, and a bunch more ventilation in the carbon-reinforced mouthguard flow even more. The soft anti-sweat, anti-allergic fabric liner is quick drying, removable and washable. How retro? That’s the “Super Hunky Concrete” graphic pictured.

Bottom Line

  • Scramble in style

Nexx Helmets FAQ

Are Nexx helmets any good?

Helmet choice is such a personal thing. The most important thing is fit, and the longer you’re going to be wearing a helmet at a time, the more critical that becomes. Also light weight. Nexx is a less common helmet brand, which means they’re going to be harder to find in a retail store to try on in person, which is the best way to go (there’s a Nexx store locator here). When buying online, be sure to check the seller’s return/exchange policy in case the fit winds up not being quite right. Nexx makes very nice, light helmets – but the fit’s the thing. Know thine own noggin, read as many reviews as you can before ordering.

Who makes Nexx helmets?

All Nexx helmets are developed and manufactured at the company’s headquarters in Amoreira da Gândarain, Portugal, since 2001. Nexx is proud to be one of the few remaining manufacturers in Europe, and its helmets are sold in over 60 countries.

What is the best motorcycle helmet for the money?

That’s almost like asking what’s the best food to eat for the money? What are you hungry for, what is your taste, and how much money do you have to spend? Nexx helmets are very nice helmets if you’re in the mood for something light, but most of them are on the more expensive side. Like many of the finer things in life, it pays to shop around for sales; fashionable high-end helmets from boutique manufacturers like Nexx helmets tend to get deeply discounted when new models are introduced.

Additional Resources

NEXX Helmets Announces 2019 Collection

The 10 Best Motorcycle Helmets You Can Buy Today

Best Modular Motorcycle Helmets

Best Motorcycle Touring Helmets

Best Motorcycle Racing Helmets

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John Burns
John Burns

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