GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet Review: The Ultimate Blend of Style, Safety, and Value?

There’s an undeniable allure to riding with an open-face helmet. It’s a connection to the road, a sensory experience that a full-face helmet, for all its benefits, can sometimes mute. You feel the wind, smell the changing seasons, and hear the world around you with greater clarity. For years, I’ve searched for a helmet that captures this classic spirit without sacrificing modern safety and features. The journey is often fraught with compromise. You find a helmet that looks great but feels flimsy, one that’s safe but fits like a fishbowl, or one packed with features but carrying a wallet-crushing price tag. The fundamental challenge is finding that perfect balance: the freedom of an open design, the reassuring grip of a secure fit, and the practical features that make every ride better. This search led us directly to the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet, a contender that promises to deliver on all fronts at a price point that seems almost too good to be true.

Before You Buy: A Rider’s Guide to Choosing the Right Open-Face Helmet

A Motorcycle & Powersports Helmet is more than just an item; it’s the single most critical piece of safety gear you will ever own. It’s a key solution for preventing or mitigating head injury in the event of an accident, but its role extends far beyond that. A good helmet reduces rider fatigue by cutting down on wind noise, protects your eyes from debris and insects, shields you from the elements, and provides a platform for communication systems that can make long rides safer and more enjoyable. The main benefit is, of course, life-saving protection, but the ancillary benefits of comfort, convenience, and enhanced riding experience are what separate a merely adequate helmet from a great one.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the daily realities of city commuting, cruising scenic backroads, or enjoying a ride on their ATV or UTV. They value the expansive field of vision and the sense of freedom an open-face helmet provides, particularly in warmer climates. It’s for the rider who prioritizes comfort and convenience for moderate-speed journeys. However, it might not be suitable for those who engage in high-speed track racing, aggressive canyon carving, or serious off-road motocross, where the added protection of a full-face helmet with a chin bar is non-negotiable. For those riders, a dedicated full-face or motocross helmet would be a more appropriate alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Fit: A helmet’s first job is to fit correctly. An improper fit is not just uncomfortable; it’s dangerous. Measure the circumference of your head and consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart. The GLX M14 is listed as having an Oval shape, which fits the majority of riders. Pay attention to pressure points and ensure the helmet is snug without being painful, as the padding will break in slightly over time.
• Performance & Features: Look for key performance indicators. The most important is safety certification; the GLX M14 is DOT (FMVSS No. 218) approved, which is the minimum standard for street riding in the US. Beyond that, consider features like integrated sun shields, ventilation systems, and the quality of the primary visor. The M14’s inclusion of a quick-deploy sun shield and a bonus smoke shield adds significant practical value.
• Materials & Durability: The outer shell, typically made of a thermoplastic like the Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) used here, is your first line of defense, designed to distribute impact forces. The inner Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam liner is the most crucial part, as it compresses to absorb and dissipate the energy of an impact. The quality of interior materials like microfiber liners and faux leather trim, as seen in the GLX M14, contributes to long-term comfort and durability.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Daily usability is key. A quick-release buckle, like the one on the M14, makes putting the helmet on and taking it off effortless and secure. For long-term hygiene and comfort, a fully removable and washable interior liner is a must-have feature, allowing you to keep your helmet fresh ride after ride.

Choosing the right helmet is a deeply personal decision that balances safety, style, and budget. The GLX M14 aims to hit a sweet spot in all three categories.

While the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing the GLX M14: First Impressions and Core Features

Pulling the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet from its box, the first thing we noticed was the finish. The Matte Black is sleek, understated, and feels surprisingly premium for its price point. At just 2.1 pounds, it feels substantial enough to be protective without hinting at the neck fatigue that can plague heavier helmets on longer rides. The initial tactile impression is one of quality construction. The synthetic leather trim is stitched neatly, and the microfiber inner liner feels plush against the skin. In the box, we found not just the helmet itself, but also the removable peak visor, a complimentary smoke shield, and a soft carrying bag—a generous package that immediately adds to the helmet’s value proposition. The integrated sun shield mechanism felt smooth and positive, snapping into place with a satisfying click. Compared to other budget-friendly helmets that can feel plasticky and cheap, the M14 presents itself as a more serious piece of equipment. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of the complete package.

On the Road: A Detailed Performance Analysis of the GLX M14

A helmet can look great on a shelf, but its true character is only revealed on the open road. We spent several weeks putting the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet through its paces in a variety of conditions, from stop-and-go city traffic to breezy coastal highways. Our goal was to test its core promises of safety, comfort, and real-world functionality to determine if it truly is the value king it appears to be.

Safety & Protection: More Than Just a Sticker

The absolute, non-negotiable function of any helmet is protection. The GLX M14 is built around a hard Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) shell and a dense Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam liner, the combination responsible for passing the rigorous DOT FMVSS No. 218 certification. While we (thankfully) conduct our tests without crash-testing them, the real-world evidence from other riders provides the most powerful testament. We were profoundly impacted by one user’s review, which stated, “This helmet helped save my husband’s life,” after a serious rollover accident involving an ejection. There is no lab test or marketing claim that can speak louder than that. It confirms that the engineering and materials are not just for show; they perform their critical duty when it matters most.

In hand, the helmet feels solid. The build quality belies its budget-friendly price, giving a sense of confidence. The quick-release buckle on the chin strap is intuitive and engages with a secure click, holding the helmet firmly in place. While riding, there’s a distinct feeling of being well-protected. The helmet doesn’t shift or lift at moderate speeds, and the coverage around the back and sides of the head is substantial. For the city commuter or cruiser, this level of certified protection is exactly what’s needed, providing peace of mind on every journey. This focus on safety is a feature that really sets it apart in the crowded entry-level market.

Comfort and Fit: The Good, The Bad, and The Snug

A safe helmet that’s uncomfortable will inevitably be left at home. GLX clearly invested in the M14’s interior. The microfiber liner is soft, breathable, and feels great even on warmer days. After a few hours in the saddle, we experienced no significant pressure points or “hot spots,” a common complaint with ill-fitting helmets. The liner is also fully removable and washable, a crucial feature for maintaining hygiene over the long haul. The ear pockets are deep and well-padded, though some users noted they seem to “float” slightly, which can increase perceived wind noise.

However, fit is where we encountered the M14’s most significant and widely discussed quirks. First, the sizing. We found it to run a touch larger than some other brands. This was confirmed by a number of users, with one helpfully advising, “if you normally wear a large full face helmet i would recommend getting a medium on this one.” Our advice is to measure your head carefully and, if you’re between sizes, consider opting for the smaller one. The second, more pressing issue for some, is the chin strap. Several riders, particularly those with larger necks or jaws, found the strap to be too short, even when fully extended. One user documented this clearly, showing the strap squeezing their neck uncomfortably. While it wasn’t an issue for our primary tester, it’s a critical point of consideration for potential buyers. Finally, there’s the aesthetic of the fit. Like many DOT-approved open-face helmets in this price range, it has a noticeable “high-profile” or “mushroom” look, a result of the thick EPS liner required for safety. While some riders don’t mind, those seeking a very low-profile look may find it a bit bulky.

Rider-Focused Features: Visors, Vents, and Connectivity

This is where the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet truly shines and punches far above its weight. The integrated dual-visor system is a game-changer at this price. The primary clear shield is optically correct and provides a wide, unobstructed field of view. The internal, retractable sun shield is easily deployed via a slider on the side of the helmet, allowing for instant adaptation to changing light conditions—no more fumbling with sunglasses. To top it off, GLX includes a completely separate smoke shield in the box, giving you three distinct visual options right out of the gate. We found the shields effective at blocking wind, though as one user accurately noted, at very high highway speeds, some air can still find its way to your eyes. This is a common trait of open-face designs, but the M14 performs better than most.

Ventilation is handled by two simple, closeable vents on the top of the helmet. While not as complex as the multi-port systems on high-end touring helmets, they provide a noticeable channel of cooling air over the scalp, which is especially appreciated in urban traffic or on hot Arizona days, as one rider mentioned. Perhaps one of the most forward-thinking features is the inclusion of dedicated speaker pockets. We easily installed a third-party Bluetooth communication system, and the speakers fit perfectly into the recessed compartments. This comms-ready design is a modern convenience that makes navigation, music, and rider-to-rider communication accessible without needing to modify the helmet. It’s thoughtful inclusions like these that make the M14 an incredibly compelling package for the modern rider. You can check the latest price and available colors to see just how much value is packed in.

What Other Riders Are Saying

Across the board, user feedback for the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet paints a picture of a product that delivers exceptional value, albeit with a few specific caveats. The most powerful endorsement comes from users who have been in accidents, with one poignantly sharing that the helmet was instrumental in saving her husband’s life, calling it “one of the most honest and hardest reviews I have ever written.” This real-world validation of its protective capabilities is a recurring theme.

Many riders praise it as the perfect package of “protection, style, and comfort,” highlighting its lightweight feel and excellent wind-blocking for a three-quarter helmet. Its value is a constant point of praise, with one user noting it “checks all the boxes for only $63.” However, the criticisms are just as consistent. The most common complaint is the short chin strap, with multiple users of average to larger builds finding it uncomfortably tight. The sizing is another point of discussion, with several riders recommending sizing down. A few also mentioned the bulky, “gigantic mushroom” appearance, a common trade-off for DOT certification in this style of helmet.

How the GLX M14 Stacks Up: A Look at the Competition

No product exists in a vacuum. To truly understand the value of the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet, it’s essential to see how it compares to other popular options on the market. We’ve selected three distinct alternatives to highlight who might be better served by a different style or feature set.

1. TRIANGLE Full Face Motorcycle Helmet DOT Approved

The most significant difference here is the design philosophy. The TRIANGLE helmet is a full-face model, offering a higher level of protection by including an integrated chin bar. This is the ideal choice for riders who spend a lot of time on the highway or prioritize maximum safety above all else. While you lose the “wind-in-your-face” feeling of the GLX M14, you gain superior protection from impacts, weather, and road debris. If your riding style involves higher speeds or you simply want the peace of mind that comes with full facial coverage, the TRIANGLE Full Face is a compelling alternative.

2. TRIANGLE Full Face Motorcycle Helmet Dual Visor

This second TRIANGLE helmet takes the full-face concept and adds a key feature shared with the GLX M14: a dual visor system with an internal sunshield. This makes it a direct competitor for riders who love the M14’s convenience but demand the protection of a chin bar. It effectively offers the best of both worlds—all-weather, all-light usability combined with maximum impact protection. For the all-season commuter or long-distance tourer, this TRIANGLE model represents a step up in versatility and safety from an open-face design, making it a worthy consideration.

3. ILM Youth Kids ATV Motocross Helmet Goggles Gloves

This ILM package serves to highlight a completely different target audience. It’s a motocross-style helmet designed specifically for youth riders on ATVs and dirt bikes. The design prioritizes maximum ventilation for strenuous off-road activity and features a large eye-port designed to be used with goggles. It also comes as a complete set with gloves and goggles included. This isn’t a competitor for the adult street rider considering the GLX M14; rather, it’s the perfect example of a specialized helmet. If you’re looking for gear for a young off-road enthusiast, the ILM package is a far more suitable choice.

The Final Verdict: Is the GLX M14 the Right Helmet for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is clear: the GLX M14 Open Face Motorcycle Helmet represents one of the best values in the motorcycle gear market today. It successfully delivers on its promise of combining classic open-face style with modern, essential features and, most importantly, legitimate, life-saving DOT-certified protection. The inclusion of a dual-visor system, a bonus shield, and communications-ready speaker pockets are features typically reserved for helmets costing two or three times as much.

It is the perfect helmet for a huge segment of the riding population: the daily commuter, the weekend cruiser, the scooter rider, and anyone who wants a safe, comfortable, and incredibly functional helmet without breaking the bank. While its flaws—namely the potentially short chin strap and the somewhat bulky profile—are real, they are far outweighed by its strengths. If you fit its sizing profile and are looking for maximum bang for your buck, we can’t recommend it highly enough. For a feature-rich and safe riding experience, you can check the current price and order yours here.