HOW GOOD ARE NEXX HELMETS?
AN HONEST REVIEW
When riders start looking for a premium motorcycle helmet, a handful of names usually dominate the conversation.
Brands like Shoei and Arai have earned outstanding reputations over decades of innovation, comfort and safety. They're the benchmark for many riders, and rightly so.
But every so often another manufacturer comes along and quietly starts challenging the established order.
For us, that brand is NEXX Helmets.
Over the last few months we've expanded our NEXX range because, quite simply, we've been impressed by what we've seen. Better still, our customers have been too.
So, is NEXX a genuine alternative to the biggest names in the premium helmet market?
We asked one of our customers to find out.
Who Are NEXX Helmets?
Founded in Portugal in 2001, NEXX has spent more than two decades developing premium motorcycle helmets that combine innovative engineering with distinctive styling.
While they may not yet enjoy the same household recognition as some Japanese manufacturers, NEXX has built a loyal following across Europe by producing helmets that prioritise comfort, lightweight construction and rider-focused features.
These aren't budget helmets.
They sit firmly in the premium motorcycle helmet category and compete directly with many of the industry's biggest brands.
A Real World Review, Not a Manufacturer Demo
Rather than simply telling you what we think, we wanted an independent opinion.
One of our regular customers, Martyn, spent over a month riding in the NEXX X.TR Zero Pro Carbon, covering more than 500 miles on everything from motorways to country roads, through warm summer weather and typical British rain.
This wasn't a sponsored review.
There were no talking points.
Just honest feedback from an experienced rider.
Martyn currently owns several premium helmets, including the Shoei Neotec 3, Shoei GT-Air 3 and Shoei X-SPR Pro, giving him an excellent benchmark for comparison.
First Impressions of the NEXX X.TR Zero Pro Carbon
The styling immediately stood out.
"Visually, the helmet is striking. The matt carbon fibre Zero finish is premium in appearance, and the aerodynamic styling, including the rear spoiler, complements both sport and touring bikes. The included tinted visor further enhances the overall look."
NEXX has developed a design language that's modern, aggressive and instantly recognisable, offering something refreshingly different from many traditional touring helmets.
Lightweight Comfort for Long Days in the Saddle
Comfort is one of the biggest deciding factors when choosing a motorcycle helmet, especially if you regularly cover long distances.
Martyn was impressed straight away.
"Weighing approximately 1,625 grams, the helmet feels lightweight in use and remains comfortable over extended rides. The internal padding provides a secure and snug fit, while the wide panoramic eye port delivers excellent peripheral vision."
The panoramic eye port quickly became one of his favourite features.
"This is particularly noticeable when switching between the more upright riding position of the GSA and the aggressive stance of the S1000RR."
Whether you're touring, commuting or riding more spirited roads, having excellent peripheral vision is a genuine advantage.
Ventilation That Performs in Real Summer Riding
With the recent heatwaves we've experienced across the UK, the X.TR's ventilation had every opportunity to prove itself.
According to Martyn, it didn't disappoint.
"Ventilation performance is strong. Airflow through the helmet is effective, and heat evacuation works well, even in warmer conditions."
Small details also made a big difference.
"The sun visor lever is easy to locate and operate, even when wearing thick gloves. The main visor mechanism is smooth, with a secure locking system, and the supplied Pinlock insert performs reliably in preventing fogging."
These are the everyday features that riders appreciate after months, not minutes, of ownership.
How Does the NEXX X.TR Compare to Shoei?
This is the question many riders want answered.
Martyn's verdict was surprisingly clear.
"Noise levels, including wind and engine noise, are well controlled and comparable to other premium helmets in this category."
Even more telling was his assessment of the overall package.
"In terms of build quality, comfort, safety features and overall refinement, the X.TR sits comfortably alongside established high-end options such as those from Shoei."
That's high praise from someone who already owns several premium Shoei helmets.
Martyn's Final Verdict
After more than 500 miles in a wide variety of riding conditions, the NEXX X.TR left a lasting impression.
"The NEXX X.TR Zero Pro Carbon is a well-executed premium helmet that delivers across key performance areas, including comfort, ventilation, visibility and noise control."
Its biggest strength?
"Its standout feature is the panoramic eye port, which enhances situational awareness and adds versatility for different riding styles."
Perhaps the most interesting conclusion came when comparing it with his existing collection.
"While I still favour the Shoei Neotec 3 for dedicated adventure riding, the X.TR presents strong competition when choosing between full-face options for sport riding. Alongside the GT-Air 3 and X-SPR Pro, it becomes a genuinely difficult decision."
He summed it up simply.
"Overall, the X.TR leaves a very positive impression and represents a credible alternative in the premium helmet market."
Should You Consider a NEXX Helmet?
At The Biker Company, we've always believed riders deserve genuine choice.
Premium motorcycle helmets don't begin and end with one or two brands, and NEXX is proving exactly why.
With impressive build quality, innovative features, lightweight construction and competitive pricing, the range offers a compelling alternative for riders who want premium performance without automatically choosing the obvious option.
A huge thank you to Martyn for taking the time to carry out such a thorough, independent review.
If you haven't considered NEXX before, now might be the perfect time.
Browse our full range of NEXX motorcycle helmets online, or visit us in Cheltenham to try one on and see why more riders are starting to take notice.
