Alpinestars SM3 Heat Off-Road Motorcycle Helmet

The SM3 is Alpinestars' polymer-shell off-road helmet, made for motocross, enduro and trail riding. It is a good fit for newer riders, weekend riders and anyone who wants proper Alpinestars protection at a friendlier price. It carries both DOT and ECE 22.06.

The Heat graphic is Alpinestars' design; ours comes in Matte Silver/Blue/Black, Gloss White/Purple/Pink, Gloss Red/White/Black and Gloss Yellow Fluo/Black.

The shell is thermo-injected polymer with the thickness varied where it matters, and Alpinestars quotes 1,430 g for the DOT version in size M (1,310 g ECE). Air moves through 10 inlets and 7 exhausts. Inside, a six-piece EPS and EPP liner in five densities has a low-friction coating to help with angled impacts, and the chin area was built to pass Alpinestars' own test, which is tougher than the homologation standard. Cheek pads pull out with the emergency release, crown and cheek pads come in different thicknesses, the hydration tube clips into loops in the cheek pads, and the strap closes with stainless steel D-rings.

Pick the SM3 if you want a solid, honest helmet for riding, not racing. Step up to the S-M7 for a composite shell, A-Head fitting and PLASMA inserts.

What stands out

• DOT and ECE 22.06 certified
• Thermo-injected polymer shell with varied thickness
• Six-piece EPS/EPP liner in five densities
• Low-friction coated EPS for angled impacts
• 10 inlets, 7 exhausts
• Patented visor release
• Chin area tested to Alpinestars' in-house standard, beyond homologation
• Emergency release cheek pads with 3D foam
• Hydration tube loops in the cheek pads