ARC is one of Malaysia’s most visible helmet motor brands in the RM200–RM300 range. Riders across the country, from daily commuters to weekend scooter users, choose ARC for practical reasons: comfort, fit, ventilation, and consistent local availability. 

But when faced with the many options on the market such as SGV, Gracshaw, and KYT, the real question is: what sets ARC apart?

This review takes a brand-level look at ARC helmets: how they perform, where they stand against competitors, and whether they’re still worth buying in 2025.

What Kind of Helmet Brand Is ARC?

ARC is a Malaysian-centric brand built for local riding conditions. Unlike imported helmets that prioritise cold-weather insulation or track-specific aerodynamics, ARC helmets are designed for high ventilation, daily usage, and budget-conscious customers.

You’ll typically find ARC models priced between RM180 and RM300, offering full-face and open-face formats with simple designs and updated inner linings. 

They don’t pretend to be racing helmets, but they’re well-matched to Malaysia’s stop-and-go traffic, tropical heat, and commuter priorities. So in other words, they are built for Malaysians!

ARC vs Other Helmet Brands in Malaysia

Where ARC Performs Best (And Where It Doesn’t)

1. Road Safety Compliance in Malaysia

ARC helmets are fully approved for road use in Malaysia.

All models carry the SIRIM certification (MS 1:1996), which is the mandatory legal requirement under JPJ regulations. Without this sticker, you risk fines, confiscation, or delays at unexpected roadblocks.

While ARC helmets aren’t ECE-rated, they meet Malaysia’s impact protection standards and are suitable for daily city and highway riding.

• JPJ-compliant and legally recognised
• Tested for local road conditions
• Safe for both solo and pillion use

ARC may not be built for track racing, but for the average rider getting to work or getting their groceries done, it meets the mark.

2. Comfort and Fit for Everyday Riders

ARC helmets offer reliable comfort, even in hot or long rides.

With decent internal padding and effective ventilation, ARC helmets feel surprisingly wearable across typical Malaysian conditions and it makes no surprise, this is a local helmet brand with origins from Butterworth, Penang. So rest assured, they are really built for the local roads.

• Secure but non-restrictive fit
• Functional airflow in full-face models like Ritz V and A500 SV
• Padding holds shape after daily use

“ARC helmets don’t give me that forehead pressure I used to get with LS2.” Johan City rider, KL to PJ

3. Styling and Shell Design

Simple, modern designs suited for practical riders.

ARC helmets don’t overdo the graphics or branding. The shells are clean, with subtle lines and a few colourway options including matte, gloss, and minimal decals.

• Inspired by Japanese and Italian helmet profiles
• Modern without being flashy
• Suitable for scooters, kapcai, and urban naked bikes

4. Value for Budget-Conscious Riders

ARC delivers real safety and features at under RM300 or less.

Very few helmet brands offer full-face models with sun visors and ventilation under this price point. ARC consistently does.

• Full-face and open-face models available
• Dual visor, quick-release strap, and snug padding
• Competitive pricing for local riders

Top value picks include:

• ARC A500 SV: Stylish full-face with sun visor (~RM295)
• ARC Jet CS: Compact city helmet (~RM199)
• ARC PX-1: Touring-level fit for less (~RM299)

5. Durability and Expected Lifespan

ARC helmets last 2–3 years under regular use, which is decent for a motorcycle helmet.

For the price, ARC offers a solid lifespan. While not indestructible (no helmet is), they hold up well if you avoid frequent drops and store them away from heat. If you’re able to maintain them well and clean them regularly, their shell life can go up to 5 years.

• Foam and padding remain intact for daily commuting
• Visors may scratch with time but it’s replaceable on most models
• Good wear resistance for sub-RM300 helmets

6. Nationwide Availability

ARC helmets are easy to find across Malaysia, because they’re built for us.

Unlike imported brands that go out of stock or skip sizes, ARC helmets are locally distributed and regularly restocked in both physical shops and online platforms.

Whether you’re in Klang Valley, Johor Bahru, Penang, or even smaller towns like Batu Pahat or Kota Bharu, you’ll likely find ARC helmets in your neighbourhood bike shop or online retailers.

• Stocked at major motorcycle accessory retailers
• Online availability via Shopee, Lazada, and authorised sellers
• Full size range (S–XL) is consistently restocked
• Replacement visors and padding also widely available

“You don’t have to wait for international shipping or guess your fit, just walk in, try it on, and ride out safely.” – PMAX Helmet motorcycle expert

Who Should Buy an ARC Helmet?

While ARC may not appeal to riders who want prestige, racing features, or global name brands, it does the job well and for most riders, that’s enough.

Best ARC Helmets to Buy in 2025

So we sung praises about ARC, but what aHere are the top-rated ARC helmets for different rider needs, all available in Malaysia.

ARC Ritz V

Reliable full-face helmet for everyday riders.

The Ritz V is ARC’s most balanced model for commuting and daily use. It offers strong frontal ventilation, snug fitment, and comfortable padding for long periods on the road.

• Ideal For: Daily riders, mid-range commuters
• Key Features: 4-vent airflow system, lightweight shell
• Fit Profile: Slightly snug, best for oval head shapes
• Price: ~RM289

ARC A500 SV

Stylish and practical with built-in sun visor.

A step up in design, the A500 SV adds an inner sun visor and bolder styling without sacrificing fit or comfort. Perfect for riders who want utility and edge.

• Ideal For: Riders facing strong sunlight or style-conscious buyers
• Key Features: Dual visor system, quick-release strap, angular design
• Fit Profile: Roomier interior for rounder heads
• Price: ~RM295

ARC PX-1

Touring-ready full-face helmet with wide vision.

The PX-1 is ARC’s most feature-rich helmet under RM300, built with long rides in mind. It has a wide visor aperture for enhanced lateral awareness and aerodynamic support.

• Ideal For: Intercity riders, pillions, highway cruising
• Key Features: Extended cheek padding, rear spoiler design
• Fit Profile: Intermediate oval fit, firm cheek grip
• Price: ~RM299

ARC Jet CS

Compact open-face helmet for city travel.

Designed for scooters and short-range commutes, the Jet CS is lightweight, easy to store, and comes with a tinted drop-down visor for sun protection.

• Ideal For: Urban riders, scooter users, students
• Key Features: Flip-down sun visor, slim shell profile
• Fit Profile: Low-profile fit, under-seat compatible
• Price: ~RM199

Are ARC Helmets Worth Buying in 2025? Absolutely

At Pmax Motor, we’ve worked with countless helmet brands, and ARC remains one of the most consistent performers in its price range. It’s a brand built for Malaysian roads, Malaysian heat, and Malaysian traffic.

No, ARC doesn’t match the prestige of KYT or the shell engineering of Gracshaw’s ECE-certified line. But it offers dependable safety, rideable comfort, and long-wearing design at a fair price point. That’s what many riders actually need.

If you’re looking for a helmet that fits well, breathes properly, and doesn’t cost more than your monthly fuel spend then get your ARC helmet from our store today!