One look is enough to know and feel everything about the Shoei Qwest motorcycle helmet. The sole purpose of this helmet is to provide a lightweight, optimizing fit, and more comfort for the rider with minimum noise. From the paint to the interior fit and protection to the ventilation, this full-face motorcycle helmet has every necessary feature and quality to wear in any weather.
The more you learn about the Shoei Qwest helmet the more you will understand that this helmet is made for extreme conditions. In this Shoei Qwest Helmet Review, we describe the main attributes of this motorcycle helmet and how it will serve you in different circumstances.
Read Also: Shoei RF-1200 Helmet Review
Shoei Qwest Motorcycle Helmet Review
Shell Design & Aerodynamic Stability
The Qwest helmet has Shoei’s strongest, lightest, and most flexible shell. The Shoei Qwest helmet has the AIM+ (Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus Multi Fiber) shell construction. The helmet comes in 4 different sizes with six-ply matrix technology that expanded the fit options for different head shapes. But, Shoei’s Qwest motorcycle helmet is a little different from the RF and other series of Shoei helmets in terms of internal shape, as it better fits people that have a round-shape head. What that means is that its internal shape will fit a wide majority of people with this head shape. The Shoei Qwest is very light yet is one of the most durable helmets available on the market. It will reduce the chances of severe head injuries during a crash.
If you want to know about the aerodynamic properties of the Shoei Qwest helmet, I would be happy to tell you that Shoei Qwest is aerodynamically stable and wind-tunnel tested. And its shell-integrated spoiler reduces lift and drag as well as reducing the pressure of the weight of the helmet on the neck while riding at high speeds.
Face Shield & Visor
The Shoei Qwest helmet provides a wide vision and overall, excellent visibility. The helmet also features the latest CW-1 shield system, which is better than its predecessors. It is both wider and taller than the previous CX-1V and protects you from 99% of harmful UV rays. It has the feature of an optional CWF-1 2-D Pinlock equipped racing shield with tear-off posts and the CW-1 Pinlock-Prepared face shield accommodates the Pinlock EVO Fog-Resistant System. Both are sold separately.
Not just that, the Q.R.S.A (Quick-Release Self-Adjusting) Base Plate System gives you an easy shield removal and installation system. On top of that its spring-loaded base plate technology ensures a waterproof and wind-resistant seal.
Ventilation System & Airflow
The ventilation system of the Shoei Qwest helmet performs very well from the airflow provided by the upper vent and the lower vent.
First, let’s discuss the airflow system through the lower vent. As for ventilation, Shoei Qwest features a lower air intake/defroster vent for better airflow. It has a large chin vent port with a shutter that you can open or close, even with riding gloves on. This chin vent increases airflow inside the helmet without any road noise. The air streams to the back of the face shield and from there to the face. On hot, sunny days, this vent will help you to stay cool for many hours. But, make sure you don’t open this chin vent in dusty conditions otherwise the dust will start accumulating and if it remains open all the time, the dust could eventually block it.
Now, let’s go to the upper vent and the uniquely positioned exhaust vents that help to balance the airflow. The upper vents direct air to the front along the top of the head and then exits through rear exhaust vents, which are not quite effective enough for proper ventilation. In addition, these front upper vents are not so quiet either. But, Shoei did an excellent job to keep the noise levels down.
The truth is, sometimes noise levels also depend on helmet fit and the type of clothing, as well. So, as far as we are concerned, the Shoei Qwest is a very good helmet that keeps noise relatively low.
Interior & Comfort Level
The Shoei Qwest has multi-layer, removable, washable, and replaceable cheek pads that provide a better fit and more comfort. Even if you wear eyeglasses in a helmet, it has customizable cheek pads that are available in six thicknesses for customization.
What We Learned
Notable Features: Protection
Best Suited For: Adventurous Riders
Shoei Qwest Video Review
Final Words:
| Safety | |
| Airflow | |
| Comfort | |
| Noise | |
| Value |
The Shoei Qwest helmet is one that has been designed to provide 100 percent protection for the wearer. Shoei has put a lot of effort and attention towards the comfort of those who wear this helmet. Thus, the helmet is lightweight, comfortable, quiet, and fits well. The Shoei Qwest helmet’s Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus Multi Fiber shell construction guarantees a durable and flexible shell. The helmet comes in four different sizes, as well as six-ply matrix technology for the perfect fit.
The ventilation system is comprised of the upper and lower vents. The airflow from both the top and bottom vents are well-balanced. The ventilation is sufficient to allow you to take your ride in comfort. Its CW-1 Shield includes the Pinlock EVO Fog-Resistant System and the Quick Release Self Adjusting Base Plate System offers 99% protection from harmful UV rays. The shield has a wind-resistant and waterproof seal, as well. The Shoei Qwest helmet’s lavish interior has removable, washable, and replaceable cheek pads to make the helmet more comfortable. You can also customize the cheek pads for wearing eyeglasses. Despite some of its noise issues, the Shoei Qwest helmet is a great purchase. With its incredible protection, we recommend that you wear the Shoei Qwest helmet during adventurous rides to increase your safety.
Shoei Qwest Helmet
️Pros: Strongest, lightest, and elastic shell, Shell-Integrated Spoiler reduces lift and drag, Wider and taller face shield, Customizable Cheek-Pads
Cons: A little Noise Issue
I have had a Qwest since 2014.. I ride a Goldwing and its perfect for that riding position. I have a phone set up in it also and it works great.
Having survived a crash at 60+ mph I can attest to this helmets level of protection. Needless to say I’m going to need a new helmet and Icon armored vest. The doctors say the helmet definitely saved my life. Who cares if it looks big!!!!
Good point. Another advantage to wearing a full face helmet is the fact that no matter how goofy you think you look in all of your gear nobody will ever know who you are because your face is completely hidden behind the enormous lid. Seriously though why do do many people seem to care so much about how they appear when it comes to protecting the vital parts of our bodies that will keep us riding for years to come? I can attest from 3 years of ownership that the Shoei Quest is an excellent helmet for multiple purposes. I have spent 1172 miles and 20 hours inside of a Shoei Quest and it remained comfortable to the end. I have been overly impressed with the helmet and would recommend to the majority of riders. If you primarily ride adventure or sport bikes there are likely better helmets to suit you. This helmet has been an excellent commuter and long distance touring helmet along with the ability to perform well enough in standing positions and for very spirited riding through the twisties.
Thanks for a comment Mathew!
Yes, the Shoei Qwest is without a doubt one of the best full-face helmets. Unfortunately, it is now discontinued and they have stopped the production. So, if you can still find one for sale, definitely buy it.
Surprised there hasn’t been any mention of it’s comical size. This is a HUGE helmet. Good review otherwise, spot on.
Thank you for leaving a comment Mike.
Yes you are right, but most SNELL rated helmets are actually comically big. This is caused by a thicker layer of lining inside of the shell.
Cheers!