No piece of motorcycle apparel touches and protects riders in ways that a helmet does. A well-designed lid cradles your face, offers unobstructed visibility, and provides critical impact protection. Oh, and it had better look cool on your head. Enter the Shoei GT-Air 3, a premium full-face helmet introduced this year as the latest generation of Shoei’s GT-Air models.
This helmet offers several upgrades, including a shell design optimized for aerodynamics and a redesigned ventilation system with larger intake and exhaust vents. This version also includes the Pinlock EVO anti-fog insert and recesses for comms systems.
The GT-Air 3 comes in a variety of colors and finishes. I selected the Scenario TC-5, which looked bold but not obnoxious on Shoei’s website. I was delighted by how sweet it looks in the flesh, exhibiting Shoei’s renowned build quality and finishes. I was particularly impressed by the subtle purple graphic on the left side that adds lovely depth to the appearance.
The GT-Air 3 has a streamlined design that is more compact than some other touring helmets with integrated sunshields. The shell is crafted from Shoei’s Multi-Ply Matrix AIM composite that is lightweight but strong, allowing the helmet to meet DOT safety standards. Shoei claims that a size Medium scales in at 3.91 lb.
My head always feels happy in a Shoei lid, and that’s the case with the GT-Air 3. The fit is snug around my long-oval skull and my cheeks, preventing unnecessary space that would diminish the ability to effectively absorb impacts. So, snug but without pressure points.
The interior lining of the GT-Air 3 is revamped with Shoei’s 3D Max-Dry fabric, a moisture-wicking and antimicrobial material that felt plush on my face. A stainless-steel micro-ratchet chinstrap simplifies attachment and removal.
The GT-Air 3’s new shell felt stable at high speeds and did a great job of reducing wind noise. The new top and chin vents were effective at circulating airflow through the helmet, providing decent cooling in hot weather.
The helmet’s drop-down sunshield is Shoei’s new QSV-2 system, which is slightly larger and is designed to be smoother to operate via a slider mechanism on the left side of the exterior. A horizontal push or pull from a left finger raises and lowers it, which adds versatility when riding in variable light conditions.
If you like using a Bluetooth comms setup in a helmet, the Sena units will fit nicely into the pockets built into the GT-Air 3’s lower left side and the rear base. I was able to adapt a Cardo PackTalk Pro and utilized the speaker pockets integrated into the interior.
See all of Rider‘s helmet reviews here.
The Shoei GT-Air 3 has proven to be an exceptional helmet that delivers comfort and functionality, whether you’re a daily commuter or a long-distance touring rider. Its sleek design, smooth aerodynamics, and quality workmanship make it one of the best full-face helmets on the market. Prices start at $749.99 for solid colors in sizes XS to 2XL.
Positively reporting that a helmet is DOT approved without mentioning if it meets Ece or snell standards is a sure way to get me not to consider the brand. A helmet that only meets dot is not a helmet worth risking my head on. Standards are bad and self certification is a joke.
The GT-Air 3 has ECE certification in other markets, but our Shoei rep at Helmet House told us, “The US version is only DOT.” I see no reason whatsoever to doubt the protective efficacy of anything Shoei makes. Also, some studies have discovered that helmets built to Snell standards are less protective for brain injuries than some DOT-only helmets.
Has RIDER ever done a story on Shoei’s “Personal Fitting System?” I had the opportunity to have my current Shoei helmet fitted (a GT-Air 2, in fact) and it actually made a world of difference.
Rider hasn’t done a story about Shoei’s Personal Fitting System, but it is a good option to consider. Those interested can find more info here: https://shoei-helmets.com/technology/personal-fitting-system.html
Some things…when reviewing the third iteration of a helmet, where previous version owners are the primary market, we need comparisons or at least what is better or different from the previous model. Also you mentioned comms, but didn’t do us the service of stating if the previous or current Sena system that is specifically designed for the GT Air II is compatible.
I wish I could supply some notes about how the iterations compare, but the GT-Air 3 is the first GT-Air I’ve tested. FWIW, I’m fairly confident in saying that the 3 is quieter than the 2, as the 3 is perhaps the quietest helmet I’ve worn. FYI, Shoei says the GT-Air 3’s Comlink system integrates with Sena’s SRL 3.
These helmets meet ece 2026 which means, among other things, better rotational protection and stronger visors – you can look up the other benefits.