Firstly, I would never use any lid that isn't both Snell and DOT approved. That axiom has already saved my life! At present I use a Bell Star as my primary and an Arai Vector as my backup. Only rigid fullfaces for me as modulars still do not afford the either the same or better integrity in a bad get-off. I'd much rather be a little less comfortable than to be disfigured or dead. But, hey, it's anyone's choice...
Secondly, there is a good number of decent protective garment manufacturers out there. I have tried and/or researched nearly all of them. IMO, the biggest bang for most rider's bucks will be found with Olympia Moto Sports gear. They also have the largest and most diversified choices when it comes to riding gloves which are sold under the Olympia brand.
The company is owned by an avid rider who also happens to be their primary designer, so their stuff is pragmatic, high quality and constantly being improved.
They are innovators, not copycats.