In Gear: Arai Contour-X Review

Welcome to another episode of In Gear, and this time around, we’ve got the Arai Contour-X. First released in 2023, the Contour-X has two clear mission objectives: make it sporty and as comfortable as possible. But that doesn’t mean the Japanese brand is forgetting all that we know it for, because the hallmark traits of excellent peripheral vision and top-notch build quality are still major pieces of this premium helmet puzzle.

Those familiar with Arai will recognize the Peripherally Belted Complex Laminate Construction (PB-cLc2), also utilized in the brand’s upper-crust offerings, which include the Quantum-X, Signet-X, and Corsair-X helmets. As we learned during the Contour-X’s release in 2023, the laminated fiberglass shell does have some minor updates to its resins and AR mats. Naturally, we’re also seeing the familiar R75, egg-inspired shell shape deployed, as per the usual for Arai. The roundish design promotes what the brand refers to as its "glancing off" philosophy, which is said to help mitigate impact forces by allowing the helmet to easily deflect off surfaces. Most importantly, Arai has widened the helmet’s entry point by 5mm to ease pulling this lid on and taking it off.

So, what is the Contour-X about? Arai has created an all-around road helmet that has a few specific streetwise features. To that end, an aerodynamic spoiler is standard fare on this lid, which helps to encourage stability at speeds. In addition, keen-eyed Arai fans will notice that the lower outside edge is much flatter than other helmets within the brand’s range to facilitate mounting communication devices. On the same note, precut speaker pockets and thoughtful wire-routing features within the neck roll make it primed for com systems.

Fitment is classic Arai, designed with an intermediate oval shape that suits the majority of riders in North America. The internal liner is exceptionally plush and supportive without being oppressive; it gently cups the jaw for a secure but pressure-free fit. When long days in the saddle are on the docket, the luxurious liner does seem quite appealing. In addition, the Facial Contour System (FCS) cheek pads will allow owners to dial in fitment for riders and make sure that you’re achieving an optimal fit.

On the ventilation front, the Contour-X offers a total of 13 vents (intake and exhaust) working in harmony with air channels within the multi-density EPS liner. The latest feature is the new raised two-position 3D Arai logo, which also serves as a main vent. As it stands, airflow is on par with other Arai lids and above average for most road helmets. In our experience, the Corsair-X can flow more air. All the vents can be manipulated with a gloved hand, though the raised logo can be a touch fiddly in our experience. Those who wear glasses will also be pleased with the eyebrow vents and their ability to defog quite quickly. On that note, all Arai helmets boast pre-cut channels in the helmet padding for bespectacled folk, which completely alleviates any pressure points that can occur with other helmets.

Saving a bit of coin for those in the Arai pipeline is the VAS-V (Variable Axis System) shield featured across all the helmet maker’s street-related products. Peripheral vision is as good as we’ve come to expect, offering great vision. A Pinlock 120 is standard, as is a clear face shield. As we’ve noted in past Arai reviews, there is a learning curve when operating the face shield itself — you’ll come to terms with it eventually, but there are more user-friendly solutions from competitors. Those new to the Arai family will want to check this video to understand visor installation.

Our medium Contour-X tips the scales at 3 pounds 5 ounces; not the lightest when compared to carbon fiber lids, but by no means the heaviest in the land. The Contour-X balances sporty features with real-world practicality, but above all, this is a darn comfortable lid. Anyway, jam your head in a premium handcrafted melon protector and find out for yourself.

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works.

Become a Motorcycle.com insider. Get the latest motorcycle news first by subscribing to our newsletter here.