I have a full face Shoei helmet. I felt that if I was going to wear a helmet I wanted it to be one I felt was comfortable. When the weather is warm I can open the shield up and get all the air I want. When the weather is cold I can close the shield and keep my face warmer. I wouldn't have that as an option if I had the open face helmet. My advice is to try several different helmets on. Make sure you like what you are wearing. Full face will give you more protection BUT if you don't like wearing it (and don't wear it) then the open face is better then nothing. Good luck with your decision.