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Deal.ai › Compare

Fox V Core Helmet vs Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet

Both are DOT-certified motocross helmets with rotational-impact protection and a breakaway visor. The Alpinestars SM3 is the better pick for most riders: it adds ECE certification, weighs less in the same size, has more vents, and carries a 4.8 rating from 364 owners. The Fox V Core is a solid, simpler option with a double D closure and a wide spread of shell and EPS sizes, but it lacks ECE certification and is heavier.

  • Choose the Fox V Core if you want a straightforward Mips motocross helmet with a double D strap and a precise fit across many shell sizes.
  • Choose the Alpinestars SM3 if you want a lighter helmet with both DOT and ECE certification, more venting, and a strong record with owners.

Prices

  • Fox V Core Helmet: $138.99 at Amazon (last seen Nov 11)
  • Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet: $229.00 at Amazon (last seen Nov 13)
  • Difference: the Fox V Core Helmet is $90.01 cheaper than the Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet at the latest prices (Nov 11 and Nov 13)
Fox
Fox V Core Helmet

Fox V Core Helmet
4.8(5 ratings)
$138.99at AmazonChecked Nov 11
See all prices and details
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Pros
  • Mips rotational protection
  • Double D closure holds securely
  • 4 shell and 5 EPS sizes for a close fit
  • Removable, washable liner and cheek pads
  • Visor releases on impact
Cons
  • DOT only, no ECE certification
  • Heavier than the SM3 in the same size
  • Fewer exhaust vents
Alpinestars
Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet

Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet

4.8(364 ratings)
$229.00at AmazonChecked Nov 13
See all prices and details
Visit Amazon

Store links may earn us a commission. As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

Pros
  • DOT and ECE certified
  • Lighter in medium
  • 10 intake and 7 exhaust vents
  • Size-specific EPS in every shell size
  • High owner rating from a large sample
Cons
  • Closure type not confirmed as double D
  • Fewer published shell-size options

What separates them

Fox V Core HelmetAlpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet
Safety certificationDOT onlyDOT and ECE 22.06
Rotational protectionMips linerPatented rotational impact system
Weight (medium)About 1470 gAbout 1430 g DOT, 1310 g ECE
Ventilation9 intake, 4 exhaust10 intake, 7 exhaust
Shell sizing4 shells, 5 EPS sizesSize-specific EPS for each helmet size
ClosureDouble DNot specified as double D
LinerRemovable and washableComfort liner, removable
Owner feedbackLimited rating data4.8 out of 5 from 364 ratings

Price history

  • Fox V Core Helmet: lowest $138.99 on Nov 11 at Summit Racing.
  • Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet: lowest $229.00 on Nov 13 at Amazon.

Prices at every store

Fox V Core Helmet

  • Topo MotorsportsNew

    In stockReturn policy

    $139.99Checked 21 h ago
    Visit Topo Motorsports
  • All American KTMNew

    In stockReturn policy

    $159.95Checked 21 h ago
    Visit All American KTM
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $138.99Free shippingChecked Nov 11
    Visit Amazon
  • Summit RacingNew

    Availability unknown

    $138.99Checked Nov 11
    Visit Summit Racing

Store links may earn us a commission.

All 16 stores and price history →

Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet

  • A G Racing LimitedNew

    In stockShips from the UK · duties may applyReturn policy

    $203.00Checked Nov 13
    Visit A G Racing Limited
  • Dune GoonsNew

    In stockReturn policy

    $229.95Checked Nov 9
    Visit Dune Goons
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $229.00Free shippingChecked Nov 13
    Visit Amazon
  • AlpinestarsNew

    Availability unknownReturn policy

    $229.95Checked Nov 13
    Visit Alpinestars

Store links may earn us a commission.

All 4 stores and price history →

Specs compared

SpecFox V Core HelmetAlpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet
Impact protectionMips® equipped—
Shell constructionInjection molded polycarbonate & ABS—
Shell and EPS sizes4 shell and 5 EPS sizes—
Intake vents9 intake—
Exhaust vents4 exhaust vents—
CertificationMeets DOT certifications—
LinerRemovable and washable comfort liner and cheek …—
Visor systemVisor Release System—
Weight (XS)1445±50 g—
Weight (M)1470±50 g—
Weight (L)1570±50 g—
ClosureDouble D Style—
Show all 19 specsShow fewer specs
SpecFox V Core HelmetAlpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet
Style—Off-road
Department—Men's / Unisex
DOT Certified—Yes
ECE Certified—Yes
For Kids—Yes
Size—Small
Use—Motorcycle

What reviewers say

Alpinestars SM3 Solid Helmet

  • 4.8 / 5364 ratings

Owners rate the SM3 highly, praising the light feel, the airflow and the secure fit. Complaints center on wind noise and the visor pulling at higher speeds.

What people mention
  • WeightPraisedRiders say it feels light for a certified off-road helmet, which helps on long motos.
  • VentilationPraisedOwners report the many inlets and exhausts move real air when riding hard.
  • FitPraisedThe size-specific EPS and multiple shell sizes give a close, secure fit for most riders.
  • NoiseCriticisedSeveral owners find it loud at speed compared with other helmets.

Questions and answers

Which is better for track and trail riding?
The SM3 suits both better. It is ECE certified, which many tracks and events require, and it vents more for slow trail work.
Which helmet is lighter?
The SM3. Alpinestars lists about 1430 g in DOT trim and 1310 g in ECE trim for medium; the Fox V Core is about 1470 g in medium.
Does the Fox V Core have Mips?
Yes. The V Core uses a Mips liner to reduce rotational motion in certain impacts.
Is the SM3 worth stepping up to?
For most riders, yes. You get ECE certification, less weight and more vents, and owners rate it highly.
Which has a safer strap?
The Fox V Core uses a double D closure, which is the standard for racing. Alpinestars does not list double D for the SM3, so check the buckle before buying.
Can I wash the liner in both?
The Fox liner and cheek pads are removable and washable. The SM3 liner is removable; follow Alpinestars' care instructions.

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