ADVMoto gave the NEXX XD.1 high praise when it first came out in 2015 and since then, it’s been one of our favorite dual-sport helmets. It was so good that we often compared new competitor options to the XD.1 as it set the benchmark for a feature packed helmet that looked great at a fair price point.

At the 2017 AIMExpo we got a firsthand look at the new NEXX X.WED and X.WST. Although they look just like the XD.1, the new helmets come with a host of upgrades to make a great helmet even better. The X.WED is a direct replacement for the XD.1, tailoring to dual-sport and ADV enthusiasts. The X.WST is the essentially the same helmet, sans the off-road bill, which will probably be available at a lower the price point.

The NEXX X.WED features increased aerodynamics, comfort, and functionality over the X.D1

Besides some wind noise at highway speeds, we had little to complain about on the XD.1 and wondered if there was really a need to update the helmet in the first place. Speaking with NEXX representatives, we learned the updates came from input from NEXX’s own CEO, Helder Loureiro, and not customer feedback. Loureiro, who crash tested the XD.1 in May of 2015 (hit by a car exiting a parking lot), was content with the level of safety the helmet provided. Instead, the company focused on updating the aerodynamics, comfort, and functionality. While the overall shape of the shell is the same, the bill has been revised with cut-out slots to reduce drag. The forward, side vents have been removed, and the top center air inlet creates more airflow than the XD.1. The interior of the helmet has also been upgraded to increase comfort and decrease wind noise. Some of the controls for the venting and sunscreen have also been updated for easier functionality.

It’s no secret that Touratech’s Aventuro Carbon Helmet is a re-branded NEXX XD.1. At the time of this writing, NEXX plans to continue producing the Aventuro Carbon based on the XD.1, but the X.WED and X.WST will be exclusive to NEXX’s own line-up. While the helmets we saw at AIMExpo were technically prototypes, we can almost guarantee that NEXX will hit (another) home run with the new ADV helmets, which are expected to be available to order this fall. Stay tuned to ADVMoto for updates and a full review!

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