For motorcyclists, a helmet is more than just protective gear; it’s a life-saving necessity, a comfort-enhancing tool, and in many cases, a personal style statement. While countless motorcycle helmets are now manufactured overseas, particularly in China, Vietnam, and Thailand, riders looking to support American jobs and prioritize homegrown quality still have options. A small but passionate group of manufacturers continues to produce motorcycle helmets right here in the United States, delivering safety, innovation, and patriotism with every ride. Below, we spotlight the only two brands we found that manufacture motorcycle helmets in the USA and provide guidance on identifying authentic American-made gear.
Complete List of Motorcycle Helmet Brands Made in the USA
Based in Schroon Lake, New York, KIRSH Helmets is redefining motorcycle safety with its innovative fluid-displacement technology. Unlike traditional helmets that rely on thick foam liners, KIRSH uses a low-profile shell with a patented silicone fluid liner that absorbs and dissipates energy upon impact. All KIRSH helmets are proudly made in the USA, with design, engineering, and manufacturing occurring in New York state. Their signature CHM-1 half helmet is DOT-approved, extremely compact, and designed for both safety and style. KIRSH emphasizes domestic sourcing and supports American manufacturing jobs throughout its supply chain.
Super Seer, located in Evergreen, Colorado, has been manufacturing premium helmets since 1967. The company is best known for its police and military motorcycle helmets, but they also offer a line of high-quality touring helmets for civilian riders. Super Seer’s helmets are made in the USA and customizable with a wide range of visors, padding, and communications systems. Each helmet is handmade to order, with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on long-term durability. Super Seer works with law enforcement and public safety agencies across the country and remains one of the few truly American helmet manufacturers.
How to Find Motorcycle Helmets Made in the USA
What Does “Made in the USA” Mean?
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a product can only be labeled “Made in the USA” if it is “all or virtually all” manufactured in the United States. This means that the substantial transformation, significant parts, and final assembly must take place domestically. However, enforcement of these standards is inconsistent, and companies sometimes use vague claims such as “Assembled in the USA” or “Designed in the USA” that do not meet the same criteria.
To ensure you’re getting a truly American-made motorcycle helmet, look for manufacturers who explicitly state where their helmets are made and assembled, and don’t hesitate to ask about materials and sourcing. For more details, see our labeling guide: https://allamerican.org/research/how-to-find-made-in-usa/.
Materials
Motorcycle helmets are constructed from a variety of materials that play essential roles in impact resistance, comfort, and weight. Here are the key components and where they typically come from:
Outer Shell (Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber, Polycarbonate)
High-performance motorcycle helmets utilize advanced composites, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber. The U.S. has domestic production capabilities for both, especially in the aerospace and automotive sectors. Brands like Super Seer use fiberglass shells produced in their own Colorado facility. Polycarbonate, a more budget-friendly alternative, is also produced in the U.S., though many companies still import it from Asia due to cost considerations.
Liner (EPS Foam or Fluid Liners)
Traditional helmets use expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam as a shock-absorbing liner. EPS can be produced domestically, though many manufacturers import this component. KIRSH breaks from convention by using a proprietary fluid liner made in New York, designed to disperse impact energy more effectively while maintaining a lower profile. This innovation is developed and manufactured in-house, making it a standout feature among U.S.-made helmets.
Comfort Padding and Interiors
Interior padding, moisture-wicking liners, and other comfort features are typically made from polyester fabrics, mesh, and antimicrobial foams. While much of the raw material is sourced globally, American-made helmets, such as those from Super Seer, are assembled and stitched domestically, offering better quality control and customization options.
Straps, Buckles, and Hardware
Chin straps, D-rings, and buckles are small but vital components. These are often sourced internationally, particularly from European or Asian suppliers. U.S.-made helmets may incorporate some imported hardware, but manufacturers like KIRSH and Super Seer emphasize domestic assembly and testing for performance and safety.
Labeling
Under Title 19, Chapter 4, Section 1304 of U.S. law, imported goods must be marked with their country of origin. However, domestic products are only required to carry a “Made in USA” label if that claim is explicitly made. When a product bears that label, the FTC mandates that it must be “all or virtually all” made in the United States.
Common misleading labels include:
- “Assembled in the USA”
- “Designed in the USA”
- “Made in the USA with Global Components”
These statements often indicate that significant parts of the helmet were manufactured overseas, with only the final assembly taking place domestically. Always seek out companies that are transparent about the sourcing of each component and the location of product manufacturing.
Final Tips
If the official website doesn’t list the country of origin for the manufacturer you’re looking at, some third-party retailer sites may be able to help you out. It’s really hit or miss, but some are really transparent. When in doubt, contact the brand directly via their website chat, phone number, or email.
Before purchasing, confirm not just where the helmet is assembled but also where its materials are sourced. Reach out to manufacturers directly if necessary—brands that truly manufacture in the USA are typically eager to share their story.
Motorcycle Helmets Not Made in the USA
We identified a few major manufacturers that do not produce their helmets in the USA, as detailed below.
- Shoei: Manufactured in Japan.
- Arai: Manufactured in Japan.
- AGV: Manufactured in Italy.
- HJC: Manufactured in South Korea.
- Schuberth: Manufactured in Germany.
- Shark: Manufactured in France.
- Nolan: Manufactured in Italy.
- Bell: Manufactured in China.
