Voss 991 Carbon Full Face Helmet Review

Final up to date:June 26, 2025

Overview Abstract

For those who’re in search of the primary takeaways from this assessment, right here is my abstract of the Voss 989 Moto-V

• The Voss 991 Carbon Black retails for $419.99 USD
• DOT FMVSS 218 licensed solely
• At the moment obtainable in 3 colorways, with the Carbon Matte being pictured all through this assessment
• The helmet is made for intermediate spherical heads, and I’ve skilled some points up to now with the scale/match of the lid
• The helmet is constructed from a light-weight and high-strength carbon fiber shell
• Fast-release cheek pads and ratchet strap fastening system are two of my favourite options of the helmet
• Distinctive choice to customise the rear spoiler, in addition to quite a few faceshield shade choices to select from
• Constructed from high-quality supplies with a premium really feel
• V.I.V.S. (Voss Inside Visor System) works flawlessly with zero visible distortion and is operated by an easy-to-use slider on the helmet’s chinbar
• Very enticing worth level places the Voss 991 Carbon within the entry-level class for carbon fiber helmets
• Common/acceptable noise management efficiency
• Pinlock insert shouldn’t be included in your buy, however the helmet nonetheless supplies appreciable worth to the rider

Voss Helmets First Carbon Fiber Lid

Through the years, I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing some wonderful helmets, every bringing its personal distinctive type and options to the desk. From low cost to costly, unhealthy to good, I’ve ridden in my fair proportion.

Whereas some have been very forgettable, others haven’t been. For instance, the Voss 989 Moto-V – an awesome instance that costlier shouldn’t be all the time higher! The 989 is a improbable entry-level helmet that has many fascinating options, akin to a drop-down solar defend, however at a really aggressive and cost-effective worth level.

The 989 Moto-V assessment stemmed my relationship with Voss and led to 2 extra very thrilling critiques! The primary of which is their first-ever carbon fiber lid – the 991 Carbon!

Following Voss’s lead of attempting one thing new, I’ve determined to attempt a brand new type of assessment! As an alternative of the everyday scoring breakdown, I’m going to stroll you thru the ample professionals of this helmet, a few areas I believe Voss may work on, after which tie all of it again into the everyday scoring classes.

Positives of the Voss 991 Carbon Helmet

I’m going to present Voss credit score the place credit score is due. They’ve accomplished an awesome job on their first try at a carbon fiber helmet. They’ve even snuck in just a few neat options that I haven’t seen earlier than. With so many optimistic issues to say, right here’s my try at highlighting one of the best of one of the best.

MIPS Outfitted

A primary for me, and I’m certain a primary for a lot of of you as nicely, is driving in a helmet outfitted with a system known as Mips. To me, this is likely one of the most essential professionals of the 991 Carbon because it tremendously enhances the helmet’s protecting properties.

MIPS was initially developed by a mind surgeon and a biomechanics scientist. The system is designed to assist scale back the rotational movement of sure impacts which will in any other case be transferred to your head. Rotational movement is a typical explanation for head accidents, and the Mips low-friction layer works successfully to scale back that. 

The MIPS system could be simply noticed contained in the helmet by its shiny yellow color. It rests between the interior EPS foam and the helmet liner, and is difficult and clean to the contact. Whereas I can’t touch upon its effectiveness firsthand, the system is backed up by analysis that may be discovered on their website here.

Light-weight & Excessive Power Carbon Fiber Shell

Working together with the MIPS system is the 991’s carbon fiber development. Weighing in at round 1400 grams, the 991 Carbon was satisfying to experience in because of its light-weight shell and expertly designed aerodynamics. 

At excessive speeds with a headwind, I didn’t expertise any neck pressure attempting to stabilize my head.  I didn’t expertise a lot helmet elevate, if any in any respect, in turbulent circumstances. The aerodynamics fondly jogged my memory of my time carrying the Scorpion Covert FX, which had among the finest aerodynamic capabilities I’ve worn up to now.

Except for its light-weight, the carbon fiber shell affords superior safety over ABS or thermoplastic shells. Carbon fiber is understood for its impact-absorbing capabilities, and I used to be grateful to have that in my again pocket ought to I would like it.

Fast Launch System & Ratchet Strap

I’ve mentioned it earlier than, I’ll say it once more – all helmets needs to be outfitted with a fast launch system! I don’t care if it’s an entry-level lid or not; a quick-release system can save a rider’s life, and we shouldn’t be penny-pinching shoppers for such a considerable characteristic.

On prime of the quick-release cheek pads, the Voss 991 Carbon is outfitted with a ratchet strap chin strap. Personally, that is my favourite fastening system I’ve used up to now. My first expertise with it was on the 989 Moto-V, and I rapidly started to overlook having it as I reviewed different helmets.

Now that I’m again with it whereas driving within the 991, I forgot how good it’s to have. The ratchet strap makes taking the helmet on and off so easy. Enjoyable reality, it’s the one fastening system that Ashley is ready to use on her personal. I’ve all the time mounted her helmet for her, however whereas carrying the 991 on just a few events, she’s accomplished it herself. The system is so fast and simple to make use of, and I like it.

Aggressive & Modern Styling

For the aim of this assessment, I used to be driving and modeling the 991 Carbon Matte Carbon Helmet. This was my favourite shade/design possibility out of the three that the helmet is at present supplied in. Carbon fiber print helmets flip heads, and the 991 isn’t any exception. 

Except for the modern print, the helmet sports activities an aggressive type with a large entrance chin vent and top-of-head vent. Just like their 993 Moto-S, the vents have sharp edges and detailing that nearly mimics a tooth-like look. 

To me, the look of the helmet screams velocity and pairs effortlessly with no matter gear I’m carrying. I’m very grateful that it doesn’t have the identical massive Voss logos on the chinguard, just like the 993 Moto-S. For my part, the helmet seems way more tasteful and premium with out them.

Customizable Rear Spoiler & Loads of Faceshield Colours

One thing that was completely new to me was having the ability to customise the rear spoiler on the helmet. Usually, they’re affixed in place, however on the 991 Carbon, you may take away it with an Allen key and swap it for both a violet or teal one (at a further value).

Such a small element makes the world of distinction within the total design of the helmet. Personally, I caught with the included spoiler because it was the darkest of the three choices, however for riders wanting so as to add a little bit of shade or aptitude, this can be a nice, low-cost means to try this! The teal and violet look sharp and would seemingly add a ton of visibility to drivers from behind.

Except for the rear spoilers, Voss has a big number of further face shields you should buy for the 991 Carbon. They’ve some colours I haven’t seen supplied earlier than, akin to Gold or Chrome. 

I requested for Chrome, as I believed it seemed wonderful in opposition to the carbon fiber print on the helmet, in addition to an ideal match on my bike. After wanting via the web site once more, I noticed I like all of them. The Iridescent, Purple Iridescent, and Blue are extraordinarily vibrant faceshield choices that present nice added visibility. 

For my part, the rear spoilers and faceshield should not overpriced. The value level is truthful at $49.99 and proper according to what you’d pay from different helmet producers. I usually see them on sale for $29.99, which is an insane worth and an awesome alternative to fill up.

Excessive High quality Development

As with every product I assessment, I look it over with a fine-tooth comb to try to discover producer defects, high quality management issues, and in any other case neglected elements. With the 991 Carbon, I used to be very pleased with my outcomes.

Except for just a few bubbles within the carbon fiber wrap, I didn’t discover any issues by way of the standard of the helmet and its interior makings. The cheek pads are dense and agency, but compressible for rider consolation. The vents open and shut easily and don’t look or really feel like low cost plastic development.

V.I.V.S. – Voss Interal Visor System

One thing that’s actually begun to develop on me is inside visor techniques. At first, I wasn’t an enormous fan as I discovered there was loads of visible distortion whereas driving with one, however I later discovered that was distinctive to the one I used to be driving with.

The secret’s the scale of the visor. My first expertise was on the 989 Moto-V, and I had a tough time driving it as I discovered that my visual view was not coated by the drop-down visor was distracting me and straining my eyes.

 With the 991 Carbon, I didn’t have this drawback in any respect. Actually, the V.I.V.S. coated my total visual view, leaving nothing uncovered aside from a small portion on the bridge of my nostril. I used to be additionally a giant fan of the slider used to function it. It’s in a really handy spot and is straightforward to make use of with a gloved hand. 

Aggressive Worth Level

Beginning at simply $419.99, the Voss 991 Carbon is an especially competitively priced helmet that might fall inside our entry-level class on our Best of Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmet list. 

Carbon Fiber helmets are all the time costlier than ABS or thermoplastics just because they value extra to make. What units them other than the competitors is whether or not or not they’re well worth the greater worth level.

With my expertise driving in Voss helmets and lots of different carbon fiber helmets, it’s my opinion that the Voss 991 Carbon is nicely value its price ticket. I’ve come to my conclusion from how snug it’s to experience in, its distinctive means to be custom-made (rear spoiler), quick-release and ratchet strap system, and total optimistic expertise.

I believe an awesome comparability can be the HJC RPHA 71 Carbon. Positive, the HJC helmet was extra snug to experience in, however for $200 much less, the Voss 991 Carbon is a improbable different with the identical security certification and a handful of comfort options. 

Sturdy Chin Vent

The chin vent on the Voss 991 Carbon works exceptionally nicely, and I’m extraordinarily grateful for that as the highest vent felt absent to me. The chin vent together with the breath deflector successfully strikes cool air throughout your face, forcing scorching air out the rear exhaust. Riders ought to word that the open and shut perform on the helmet could also be difficult to function with a gloved hand, because the slider has a reasonably clean design, making it difficult to get a grip on it.

Areas for Enchancment

Like with something, there may be all the time room for enchancment! The 991 Carbon isn’t any completely different, and whereas the next strategies shouldn’t be routinely assumed as damaging, they’re areas that I hope Voss will contemplate for future developments and helmet drops!

DOT FMVSS No. 218 Licensed Solely

For those who’ve learn my critiques earlier than, you already knew I used to be going to touch upon how the 991 Carbon is barely DOT FMMVSS No. 218 licensed. Whereas I’m conscious that Voss is at present engaged on attaining ECE 22.06 certification, they’ve not but achieved it. 

Being their first carbon fiber lid, and having the added safety of the MIPS system, I’d’ve liked to see them endure the certification course of previous to releasing the helmet and hitting the market with a top-of-the-line ECE 22.06 helmet!

Solely 3 Colorways/Designs to Select From

What I’ve discovered to like and anticipate from Voss is a big selection on the subject of shade and design choices. Maybe I used to be spoiled with the 11 choices to select from when reviewing the 989 Moto-V, however I hoped to see extra choices for the 991 Carbon!

Take the Scorpion Exo-Eclipse, for instance, this helmet hit the market with 3 stable colours to select from, in addition to 7 additional designs to select from underneath the Pivot and Lunar strains. Do you need to pay extra for them? Completely! However riders are keen to take action. For those who’re spending tons of of {dollars} on a helmet, what’s a few additional bucks to get one thing you actually love?

With the 991 Carbon being Voss’s costliest line of helmets, I’m assured they are going to proceed to drop extra colours and design choices, however for now, riders are restricted to selecting between 3.

Dimension/Match Could also be a Concern

Initially, I used to be supposed to do that assessment on the finish of 2024, nevertheless, I had some points with the match of the helmet. Having reviewed the 989 Moto-V, I figured the scale of the 991 can be the identical and requested for a medium.

Sadly, the helmet didn’t match. My chin was decrease than the chin guard within the helmet. After a fast measurement trade, I quickly discovered that a big helmet fastened the issue, however now the helmet was too large. 

For no matter purpose, I made a decision to try to assessment the 991 Carbon once more this 12 months, hoping one thing had modified. To my shock, the brand new medium helmet match me higher than the one I had tried on final 12 months. Whereas the helmet was borderline too small for me, it match, and I used to be capable of put on it and assessment it. 

With my expertise in thoughts, please you’ll want to assessment the scale information previous to ordering. I haven’t seen any critiques on-line mentioning the identical subject I had, so it might be distinctive to me, but it surely’s all the time finest to make sure you’re ordering the fitting measurement for you. Not all helmets match the identical!

Noise Management

One of the vital frequent complaints I see with Voss Helmets is in regard to noise management. I’m not a lot of a stickler on the subject of street noise whereas driving, however I’ll admit that the previous Voss fashions I’ve ridden in are on the louder facet.

The 991 Carbon isn’t any exception to that, and I expertise a good quantity of street/wind noise whereas driving. It’s actually not as loud because the Ruroc Atlas 4.0 Carbon I reviewed, however in no way is it a quiet helmet. 

This can be a nice space for Voss to enhance, as a quiet helmet will enhance the general experience. However for those who’re like me, make use of these built-in speaker pockets, put in your favourite music, and benefit from the experience. 

Pinlock Insert Not Included

Sadly, a pinlock insert shouldn’t be included in your buy of the 991 Carbon helmet. With out one, the faceshield fogs up pretty simply and severely limits the general driving expertise. In fact, this isn’t an issue that’s distinctive to this helmet, which is why pinlock inserts exist within the first place.

Whereas it’s not unprecedented to promote the pinlock insert individually, I’d argue it’s as a rule included inside this worth vary. I consider the price incurred by Voss to incorporate the insert is significantly decrease than the perceived worth to riders. Taking issues a step additional, giving riders the choice to improve the included Pinlock 70 to a Pinlock 120XLT can be an awesome upsell.   

One other factor to think about with the 991 is the variety of add-on choices riders have. Voss is seeking to capitalize on their distinctive changeable rear spoiler and ample faceshield choices. It’s my perception that riders can be extra more likely to buy these add-ons in the event that they don’t need to consider the price of a pinlock insert as nicely.

Scoring Breakdown of the Voss 991 Carbon Full Face Helmet

After masking the professionals of the helmet and exploring just a few areas of enchancment, every part I’ve acknowledged above has been taken under consideration with a purpose to rating this helmet. I’ve additionally factored in my total driving expertise, in addition to private preferences.

Safety – 75%

The 991 Carbon has a high-strength carbon fiber shell that gives immense safety, alongside the built-in MIPS system. That is the primary helmet I’ve worn that makes use of the MIPS system, and I’m pleased to see the crew at Voss take the initiative to incorporate that of their design and construct.

Nevertheless, with that being mentioned, the helmet is barely DOT licensed. As riders, we search for security certifications not solely as reference factors, however to know the producer has accomplished their due diligence in making a protected product that meets, or exceeds, the best requirements within the business.

Curious how the Voss 991 Carbon stacks up in opposition to the competitors? Take a look at our Best Full Face Helmet list for 2025 to check.

Design & Construct – 95%

I like the design and construct of the 991 Carbon. I believe the helmet seems wonderful and feels even higher. The elements and mechanics have a premium really feel to them and don’t spark any high quality management issues.

I particularly liked the quite a few faceshield choices and the power to vary the rear spoiler. The chrome faceshield I used was the proper little bit of added visibility I wished on the street, and was actually a head turner.

The one downside I discovered with the design is the aforementioned lack of various shade and design choices. If I do know Voss, this is not going to be the case for lengthy and I’m certain a slew of latest designs will drop quickly.

Visibility & Air flow – 80%

The chin vent on the Voss 991 Carbon labored time beyond regulation, whereas the highest vent remained nearly absent. I consider the MIPS system was stopping me from feeling any reduction from the highest vent. That being mentioned, the vent didn’t make an audible whistle, which isn’t unusual for a big vent it’s measurement.

When it comes to visibility, the helmet has an awesome FOV, large V.I.V.S with zero visible obstruction, and a simple to make use of faceshield elimination system. The faceshield observe itself is powerful and able to holding the defend firmly throughout 5 presets.

Dimension, Match & Consolation – 80%

General, the helmet was snug to experience in, nevertheless, the match was simply not proper for my head. Being made for an intermediate spherical head, this wasn’t a shock to me, as I’m an intermediate oval. 

Except for that, I consider the MIPS system is what induced me to have additional points with the match. On the finish of the day, I used to be capable of experience and revel in driving in a helmet that wasn’t made for my head form. As such, I don’t assume riders can have any subject with the 991 Carbon as long as they seek the advice of Voss’s measurement information first.

Noise Management – 75%

As I beforehand talked about, the Voss 991 Carbon is pretty loud, however actually exhibits a little bit of enchancment over the 989 Moto-V and 993 Moto-S. Is the helmet the quietest I’ve worn? No, but it surely isn’t the loudest both. General, it does a good job of controlling wind/street noise, and with correct ear safety, it’s passable.

Options – 90%

I discovered the 991 to haven’t solely numerous options, however significant options that really made a distinction to my driving expertise. For instance, the quick-release system and ratchet strap. I liked how simple it was to take the helmet on and off. The ratchet strap is much superior to the everyday D-ring type strap, for my part.

Different notable options embody the V.I.V.S., built-in speaker pockets, glasses-compatible cheekpads, built-in neck gaiter, MIPS system, customizable spoiler, and extra!

Worth for Cash – 90%

When it comes to worth for cash, the Voss 991 Carbon nearly receives an ideal rating! Priced as an entry-level carbon fiber helmet, this feature-packed lid affords distinctive worth to riders in search of a protected and cozy helmet with a carbon fiber shell. 

For my part, the one factor that might take this helmet from a 90% to a 100% is to incorporate a pinlock insert and a second faceshield together with your buy, or by receiving further security certifications.

Remaining Verdict

For those who’re seeking to get right into a sporty, non-expensive, but very giving carbon fiber helmet, the Voss 991 Carbon is the helmet for you. With many considerate options and choices to customise, this helmet makes an awesome addition to any rider’s gear set.

The ample faceshield and rear spoiler choices had been one in all my favourite components of the helmet. With the ability to customise and showcase my type was a refreshing feeling in comparison with the everyday black on black/white on black I experience in.

Hopefully, sooner or later, we’ll see Voss meet/exceed ECE 22.06 certification, as beforehand talked about, and I can add this helmet to my listing of among the most secure lids available on the market. Till then, it nonetheless makes an awesome alternative for every kind of riders!

Professionals

• MIPS security system outfitted
• Light-weight & high-strength carbon fiber shell
• Fast-release cheek pads and ratchet strap
• Customizable rear spoiler
• Plenty of distinctive faceshield choices to select from
• Drop-down solar defend (V.I.V.S)
• Aggressive worth level

Cons

• DOT FMVSS No. 218 licensed solely
• Solely 3 colorways/designs to select from
• Dimension/Match could also be a priority
• Pinlock insert not included in your buy
• Minimal reduction from the highest vent

The place to Purchase

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