Which Is Right For You? Bell Mag Vs OMP J-R Open Face Helmets
Helmet comparison, November 2022
Two of the open face helmets we are asked about most are the Bell Mag and the OMP J-R. Both are entry-level, both are approved to FIA 8859-2015, and on paper they look very similar, so it is fair to ask which one to buy.
Here is how they compare, what each one does better, and the full face OMP and Bell helmets we have in the showroom if you decide an open face is not for you.
- Bell Mag and OMP J-R: two entry-level open face helmets
- Both approved to FIA 8859-2015
- Bell Mag: fibreglass shell, adjustable peak with antiglare sunscreen
- OMP J-R: composite shell, white anti-dazzle peak, HANS posts fitted
- Neither comes prepared for an intercom kit
What is on this page
The Bell Mag
The Mag is a new, entry-level open face helmet from Bell, with a modern design. It has a lightweight fibreglass shell and an adjustable peak fitted with an antiglare sunscreen, which helps on a low sun.
It comes in a titanium silver metallic finish and is approved to FIA 8859-2015. Bell aimed it at amateur drivers who want an affordable open face helmet without giving anything away on safety.
The OMP J-R
The J-R is OMP’s modern open face helmet. Its shell is a lightweight composite, and inside is a highly breathable, fire retardant lining. It comes in white with a grey and red design, and has an anti-dazzle white peak with a tinted visor strip.
The J-R is supplied with HANS posts fitted, which saves a job if you are pairing it with a head and neck restraint. It is not prepared for an intercom kit, so it is aimed at circuit and speed events over rallying with a co-driver. It is approved to FIA 8859-2015.
Side by side
| Bell Mag | OMP J-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Open face | Open face |
| Approval | FIA 8859-2015 | FIA 8859-2015 |
| Shell | Lightweight fibreglass | Lightweight composite |
| Peak | Adjustable, with antiglare sunscreen | White anti-dazzle peak with tinted strip |
| Finish | Titanium silver metallic | White with grey and red design |
| HANS posts | Check the version | Fitted |
In short, the two are closely matched. The J-R’s fitted HANS posts are a practical advantage, while the Mag’s adjustable peak and sunscreen suit anyone who races into a low sun. The finish is down to taste. Garreth’s advice is to let fit decide: try both on, and pick the one that sits snugly without pressure points. Our guide to measuring for a helmet explains how.
If you need a full face
We have OMP and Bell full face helmets on display too. The OMP GP-R has a lightweight composite shell and good ventilation, with four intakes on the chin and eight vents on top. Its standard sized eyeport takes both classic visors and the touring sun peak, so it suits everything from single seaters to GT cars.
The Bell GP3 Sport has a light, strong composite shell, a duckbill spoiler, four chin vents and three adjustable top vents, and Bell’s double screen anti-fog visor. Whether you need open or full face depends on your car and your series, and our guide to open face or full face helmets goes through the rules.
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What approval do the Bell Mag and OMP J-R have?
Both are approved to FIA 8859-2015.
Does the OMP J-R have HANS posts?
Yes. It is supplied with HANS posts fitted.
Can I fit an intercom to the OMP J-R?
It is not prepared for an intercom kit, so it is better suited to circuit and speed events than rallying.
Two closely matched FIA open face helmets. Try both and buy the one that fits.
Fit decides more than the spec sheet. Call us and come in to try the two helmets back to back.
