If you ride in the city or go on short routes, you’ve probably wondered whether it’s worth having a jet helmet — also known as an open-face helmet — with an integrated sun visor. The short answer is yes — and in this article we explain why, what to look out for, and which models in the ADN motorcycle helmet range include one.
What is a sun visor in a jet helmet
The sun visor is a second internal screen, generally tinted, that is activated from inside the helmet without needing to stop or remove it. It slides down when there is too much light and returns to its original position when you no longer need it.
It is a small mechanism but one that completely changes the riding experience on sunny days. Without it, the only alternative is to stop, take your helmet off and put on sunglasses — or ride with your eyes half-closed, which is no solution at all.
Why a sun visor matters in a jet or open-face helmet
Jet helmets, or open-face helmets, are the most popular choice for city riding precisely because of their comfort and practicality. But they have a longstanding disadvantage compared to full-face helmets: the field of vision is wider, which means greater direct exposure to the sun.
On a normal urban journey you can move from shade to full sunlight in seconds — in a tunnel, between buildings, leaving a car park. With an integrated sun visor you manage it with a gesture, without interrupting your ride. Without one, every change in light becomes a problem.
There is another factor that many people overlook: eye fatigue. Riding with glare for several minutes creates strain that builds up throughout the day. For the commuter who uses the bike every day, the sun visor is not a luxury — it is a genuine comfort tool.
Jet helmet with sun visor vs sunglasses: which is better
Many people wear sunglasses under a jet helmet. It works, but it has three drawbacks that an integrated sun visor solves:
First, glasses add pressure on the temples — particularly on longer journeys — which can cause discomfort. Second, on days with variable light you have to stop to take them off or put them on. Third, most standard sunglasses are not designed to be worn under a helmet, which can affect the helmet’s fit and reduce its effectiveness in the event of an impact.
An integrated sun visor has none of these problems: it sits inside the helmet, activates without stopping and does not interfere with the fit of the protection.
Are open-face helmets banned in Spain?
No. Jet helmets, or open-face helmets, are not banned in Spain. In January 2024 the DGT announced a possible restriction on their use on interurban roads, but that measure has not been implemented. To this day, jet helmets are completely legal for use on any type of road, provided they are ECE 22.06 or ECE 22.05 approved.
The ADN Cosmo and Mojito are ECE 22.06 approved — Europe’s most demanding safety standard — and are valid for riding anywhere in the European Union without restriction.
Which ADN models have an integrated sun visor
In the ADN range there are two jet or open-face helmets with an integrated sun visor:
ADN Cosmo — the premium urban jet
The premium urban jet in the range. Integrated quick-release adjustable sun visor, combined with an extended outer visor for greater frontal protection. Also includes an anti-theft ring and intercom compatibility. Weighs 1,300 grams in the smallest size. Available in three solid colours: Nero Opaco, Bianco Puro and Gris Nardo.
ADN Mojito — the retro jet with sun visor
The retro-style jet in the range. Clean and understated design inspired by the vintage aesthetic, with a quick-release integrated sun visor. Accommodates prescription glasses and includes an anti-theft ring. Weighs 1,350 grams in the smallest size. Available in solid colours.
Both are ECE 22.06 approved — Europe’s most demanding safety standard — and have a removable and washable interior.
What is the difference between the Cosmo and the Mojito
Both have an integrated sun visor, but they have distinct profiles:
The Cosmo is the most fully featured jet technically — extended visor, Pinlock ready, anti-theft ring and a modern design built for everyday urban use. It is the option if you prioritise performance over aesthetics.
The Mojito is designed for those who want the sun visor but with a different aesthetic — retro lines, understated design, ideal for classic bikes, nakeds or character-filled scooters. It is the option if style matters as much as functionality.
If you have no aesthetic preference, the Cosmo is the more complete option technically. If you have a bike with its own character and want a helmet to match, the Mojito is the answer.
Which jet helmet with a sun visor you should avoid
There are jet helmets on the market with very poor-quality sun visors — visors that scratch easily, mechanisms that stick, or visors so dark they are dangerous in low light. Before buying any model, check that:
- The visor is scratch-resistant and has UV treatment.
- The activation mechanism is smooth and does not require taking your hand off the handlebars.
- The helmet has ECE 22.06 approval — not ECE 22.05 or American (DOT) approval, which is not valid in Europe.
All ADN helmets meet these three requirements as standard.
Frequently asked questions about jet helmets with a sun visor
Is it legal to ride at night with the sun visor lowered on a jet helmet?
You should not use the sun visor in the lowered position at night or in low-visibility conditions. The sun visor is designed to reduce glare in bright conditions. In low light, keep it retracted and ride with the transparent outer visor. All ADN helmets with a sun visor allow you to ride with the visor retracted without any issue.
Are open-face helmets banned in Spain?
No. Jet helmets, or open-face helmets, are completely legal in Spain. The DGT considered a possible restriction on interurban roads in 2024 but no change to the regulations has been implemented. All ADN helmets are ECE 22.06 approved and valid for riding anywhere in the European Union.
Does the sun visor replace the Pinlock?
No — they are two different things. The sun visor protects against glare. The Pinlock prevents the outer visor from fogging up in cold or damp conditions. They are complementary. The ADN Cosmo is Pinlock ready in addition to having an integrated sun visor.
Do jet helmets with a sun visor weigh more?
Slightly, yes, because the visor mechanism adds a few grams. The ADN Cosmo weighs 1,300 grams and the Mojito 1,350 grams — very reasonable weights for jet helmets with an integrated sun visor.
Can I wear prescription glasses with a jet helmet with a sun visor?
It depends on the model. The ADN Mojito is designed to accommodate prescription glasses without pressure points. The Cosmo is also compatible. Before buying any helmet, check that the manufacturer specifies that it accommodates glasses.
How much does a quality jet helmet with a sun visor cost?
The ADN Cosmo and Mojito are priced at £89.95 with free delivery. For a helmet with an integrated sun visor, ECE 22.06 approval and quality design, it is one of the best value-for-money options on the market.
Want to see all the models in the range? Explore all ADN jet helmets.
