Your cart

Your cart is empty

The History of SHARK Helmets: From French Racing Roots to Global Motorcycle Icon

The History of SHARK Helmets: From French Racing Roots to Global Motorcycle Icon

When it comes to premium motorcycle helmets, few brands carry the racing pedigree, innovation, and credibility of SHARK Helmets. Born on the racetracks of France and proven at the highest levels of motorsport, SHARK has become one of the most respected helmet manufacturers in the world.

From MotoGP champions to everyday riders, SHARK helmets are trusted for their uncompromising approach to safety, aerodynamics, and performance. Here’s a deep dive into the history of SHARK Helmets — and how the brand earned its place at the top of the helmet world.


The Origins of SHARK Helmets

SHARK Helmets was founded in 1929 in Marseille, France, originally operating as a manufacturer of safety equipment. It wasn’t until the late 1970s that SHARK turned its attention to motorcycle helmets — and that decision would change the brand forever.

From the beginning, SHARK focused on one clear goal: design helmets that could survive the demands of professional racing. This racer-led philosophy still defines the brand today.


Racing DNA: Built on the Track

SHARK’s rise is inseparable from its involvement in elite motorcycle racing. The brand quickly became a fixture in Grand Prix racing, working closely with professional riders to refine helmet safety and aerodynamics under real-world race conditions.

Some of the biggest names in motorcycle racing history have worn SHARK helmets, including:

  • Jorge Lorenzo – Multiple MotoGP World Champion

  • Johann Zarco – MotoGP race winner

  • Scott Redding – MotoGP & WorldSBK rider

  • Randy de Puniet – MotoGP veteran

Rather than designing helmets in isolation, SHARK uses continuous rider feedback from MotoGP, WorldSBK, and endurance racing to evolve each model.

This race-developed approach is a major reason SHARK helmets are known for exceptional stability at speed and reduced rider fatigue.


Innovation That Changed Helmet Design

SHARK has consistently pushed the boundaries of helmet technology. Some of their most important innovations include:

Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel Development

SHARK was one of the first helmet brands to use advanced wind tunnel testing to optimise shell shape, spoiler design, and airflow management. This results in helmets that remain stable at high speeds and in turbulent air.

Multi-Density EPS Systems

To improve impact absorption, SHARK developed multi-density EPS liners, designed to manage different impact forces across multiple zones of the helmet.

Lightweight Composite Shells

Using materials such as carbon fibre and aramid, SHARK reduced helmet weight without compromising safety — a crucial factor for comfort on long rides and race days.

Visor & Optics Technology

SHARK helmets are renowned for their optical clarity, anti-fog systems, and quick-release visor mechanisms, giving riders confidence in all weather conditions.


SHARK and Safety Standards

Safety has always been central to SHARK’s identity. Every SHARK helmet is designed and tested to meet — and often exceed — global safety standards, including:

  • ECE certification

  • DOT certification

  • FIM Homologation (for select race models)

Many SHARK helmets are FIM-approved, meaning they are certified for use in professional world championship racing — one of the highest safety benchmarks in motorcycling.


Iconic SHARK Helmet Models

Over the years, SHARK has released several standout helmet models that helped define the brand:

Each model reflects SHARK’s focus on real-world rider needs, not just race-day performance.


SHARK Helmets Today

Today, SHARK Helmets is recognised globally as a premium helmet manufacturer, with products sold in over 80 countries worldwide. Despite its global reach, the brand remains proudly French, with design and development still rooted in Europe.

Modern SHARK helmets combine:

  • Race-inspired aerodynamics

  • Advanced safety materials

  • Aggressive, unmistakable styling

  • Comfort for everyday road use

Whether you’re commuting, touring, or pushing limits on the track, SHARK offers a helmet built for the job.


Why Riders Choose SHARK Helmets

Riders choose SHARK because the brand delivers:

  • Proven race pedigree

  • Industry-leading safety technology

  • Comfort at speed

  • Bold, modern design

At MotoHeaven, we back brands that are built by riders, for riders — and SHARK Helmets fits that ethos perfectly.


Shop SHARK Helmets at MotoHeaven

If you’re looking for a helmet with real racing heritage, uncompromising safety, and cutting-edge design, SHARK Helmets deserve a spot at the top of your list.

Explore the full range of SHARK motorcycle helmets at MotoHeaven, with fast Australian shipping and expert rider support.

Previous post
Back to Articles