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The Shoei Company is a Japanese manufacturer and distributor of high-tech motorcycle helmets which compete internationally at the high end of the market. Shoei helmets are famous for their aesthetic qualities, their toughness and durability and, in recent years, for their versatility as well. As an example of the latter, the Shoei helmet product line now includes the Hornet-DS, a rider-configurable helmet which makes this single helmet suitable for both on-road and off-road riding.

The Shoei helmets are distinguished objects of industrial design as these helmets not only serve the main function of shielding the rider’s head but are also noticeably beautiful. The sleek design is the most notable feature of Shoei helmets. Adding to this is the adequate ventilation that the helmet has ingrained into its structure lessening rider fatigue. Once again the Hornet-DS helmet from Shoei is worth mentioning. We can’t help thinking whether this helmet has been designed for its looks rather than function as its frontal projection from the cranium and termination in the nosepiece makes it an apt Star Wars prop. The beauty of this helmet adds to its inventive qualities and has been scientifically designed for: 1] safety of the head; 2] adequate air passage within the helmet structure to keep the face and head sufficiently fresh and dry.

A Shoei helmet is amazingly tough. The forerunners of the modern Shoei helmet were produced for the construction industry in Japan. The first motorcycle-specific Shoei helmet was produced in 1960. This Shoei helmet met official Japanese industrial standards for toughness and subsequent editions of the Shoei helmet have always had impact resistance and durability as the primary considerations governing their design. Many of the company’s helmets meet the requirements of the Snell Memorial Foundation’s M2005 rating. The Snell Memorial Foundation’s rating system has sometimes come under attack for being excessive in its safety standards. Those versions of the Shoei helmet that have received the Snell M2005 rating may therefore be justly considered to be among the safest motorcycle helmets in the world. It is to be noted that it was in a Shoei helmet, the GRV, that Kevlar and carbon fiber technology were first used in motorcycle helmets.

In 1965 sales were boosted by the decision of the Honda Motor Company to endorse the Shoei Helmets in conjunction with Honda motorcycles. Since that time Shoei has remained at the forefront of their field. Many Shoei Helmets have won both safety and industrial design awards over the decades.

Despite being a well-known and sought after brand internationally, Shoei Helmets are all still manufactured in Japan. The Shoei company takes great pride in keeping their entire manufacturing operation under close supervision in their Iwate, Japan plant, where all products are make. It is no wonder that Shoei Helmets are prized not only in Japan but in the United States and other countries as high quality and desirable helmets for all kinds of motorcycle riding.

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