With the top mountain bikes already expensive, many people believe that skimping on the helmet is a good way to save their budget. However, any avid mountain biker will tell you that falling is inevitable. The best mountain bike helmet is designed to ensure that you stay safe and takes those bumps with a minimum amount of damage. To get you started, the Giro Hex Mountain Bike Helmet is an excellent option with world-class features.
Whilst mountain biking through many terrains, I have found that you cannot avoid every bump and fall. Eventually, your luck will run out and you might take a massive bump. The mountain bike helmets might be a little more expensive now, but the technology is designed to ensure that your life is always protected. It could also save you from serious head and neck injuries.
We have taken a deeper look into mountain bike helmets to understand some of the fundamentals. In this article, you will learn all about the top mountain bike helmets and how they could potentially benefit you. We have also done some legwork to find the most important features you should keep in mind when selecting one.
Best Mountain Bike Helmets On The Market Today
With so many different options, most people are struggling to find the best helmet. Thankfully, we have done numerous tests to ensure that you do have the opportunity to make the best decision. Here is our breakdown of the best mountain bike helmets on the market today:
Top Pick: Giro Hex Mountain Bike Helmet
Giro is one of the leading brands when it comes to mountain biking helmets. The Giro Hex Mountain Bike Helmet is quite expensive, but it has been constructed from lightweight synthetic materials. It includes 21 air vents that have been spread out, making it possible to have maximum breathability. This will be one of the main additions to keep you cool.
The helmet features a new technologically advanced fitting system and a micro-dial has also been included. This will enable you to adjust the fit to be more comfortable when you need it. It also works flawlessly with eyewear but lacks the ability to store your eyewear once you are taking it off. The helmet is also perfect for individuals with larger heads.
Unfortunately, it is a little pricey. It might not be the best helmet for beginners, but if you consider yourself a serious mountain biker, this is a great helmet to choose from. Color-matched visors have also been included and the helmet is available in multiple different colors. This is perfect for those who love to match their gear.
Runner-Up: Giro Foray MIPS Helmet
In a close second place, we have the Giro Foray MIPS Helmet. It also works with the Roc Loc 5 fit system and synthetic materials have been used in the construction. The helmet also features an extremely slim design and this helps to keep the weight down to a minimum. For ventilation, 21 vents have been included for added breathability.
The EPS liner that has been included offers excellent moisture-wicking technology. This will keep as much sweat as possible from dripping into your face. Multi-Directional Impact Protection technology has been included as this will help impact to reduce the pain from any bumps and bruises that have been sustained.
In terms of price, the price is actually affordable compared to the previous model. This is one of the top intermediate helmets, but it can also be used by beginners. If you are looking for the best protection for your head, this is an excellent option to consider. We would recommend it to beginners and intermediate riders with the best mountain bikes.
Best High-End Helmet: Smith Optics Forefront MIPS Adult MTB Cycling Helmet
With a lightweight polycarbonate construction, the Smith Optics Forefront MIPS Adult MTB Cycling Helmet is one of the best helmets you can use an intermediate rider. Aerocore materials have been added and this is perfect for aerodynamics. It also enables the bike to provide you with the best possible ventilation.
We love the unique honeycomb structure. This makes the helmet much more effective when absorbing impacts from your falls. MIPS liners are also used for additional protection, but the helmet does not include a decent inner lining that will absorb as much of moisture as you might have to endure. For this reason, you might need to add your very own liner.
However, we have found another benefit from the honeycomb design and this is the ability to help heat escape effectively. It might be one of the most expensive helmets on the market today, but its durability is off the chart. We highly recommend this helmet for advanced riders taking on tough terrains.
Best Helmet for Women: Giro Montara MIPS Helmet
Female riders also have the right to have a state-of-the-art helmet and the Giro Montara MIPS Helmet is available for men and women. The ergonomic design should be perfect for women and it molds to the shape of your head. Polycarbonate has been used in construction, ensuring hardness and the best possible durability.
While only 16 vents have been included in the construction of the helmet, it still gives you decent ventilation. The helmet features an additional visor that can be used if you don’t like having glasses when riding. For added comfort, EPS foam is included which makes the helmet soft and absorbs as much moisture as possible.
The helmet might be a little expensive, but it is definitely worth it if you are a female rider. Antimicrobial properties are also included and this is perfect for female riders to avoid the ugly stench of sweat. We highly recommend the Giro Montara MIPS Helmet for both men and women as they have two different versions available.
Best Helmet for kids: Schwinn Thrasher Youth Helmet
Children always love to follow in the footsteps of their parents and they love mountain biking. However, you need to keep them safe and give them the best possible gear. The Schwinn Thrasher Youth Helmet features a synthetic design and it is available in 4 different colors to meet the needs of any child looking match their bike.
An additional visor has also been included and this will keep the child fully protected from the elements. 20 air vents are designed into the helmet, making it possible to have the best possible ventilation as well. The helmet also offers full adjustability, making it perfect for children to use as they age. The recommended age of the helmet is around 12 years old as well.
Since it is not as functional as some of the other helmets, it is also really affordable. When you are looking for a cheap helmet to go with an affordable bike for a youth rider, this one should do the trick. We would highly recommend the helmet for both boys and girls and it can be found in a wide variety of different colors.
Key Features To Consider When Choosing The Best Mountain Bike Helmet
Now that you have seen some of the top helmets, you might be wondering which features we used to pick them. With so many helmets and brands on the market today, you should definitely keep this guide in mind. Here are the most important features to keep in mind when you are choosing a new helmet for your mountain bike:
Fit
We believe fit is the most important aspect. If the helmet does not feel comfortable, it might not be ideal to ride with. You should always look at the fit chart to ensure that you buy the right size. However, most of the helmets can also be adjusted and this will add to the functionality.
Materials
Mountain bike helmets are made from various different materials. However, they range in quality and durability. Whilst carbon is used for some of the elite helmets, it is really expensive. Polycarbonate plastic is one of the top materials for beginners and intermediate riders. If it is roto-molded, you will also have more durability.
Additional Extras
Many of these helmets come with additional extras. While these might not appeal to you as a beginner, they could make a difference as you get better. The visor is important and it could help keep you protected from the elements. Additionally, the vents are equally important as they help to keep your head cool in hot conditions.
The final extra you should keep in mind is the inner lining. We love the EPS inner lining for comfort and moisture-wicking abilities. Nevertheless, if your helmet does not come with this lining, it can be replaced and added if you feel the need. Having the best gloves should also make a massive difference.
Wrap-Up
A mountain bike helmet is not the place you should skimp on. Your safety is fundamentally important and the sport can be dangerous at times. If you are to ensure you stay protected, you need the best possible helmet to do so. These helmets we have reviewed are highly rated and recommended for their specific tasks. They also complement the top mountain bikes.
We would like to thank you for reading this article and encourage you to share some of your thoughts. Let us know in the comment section what you consider to be the best mountain bike helmet. We would also love to read some of your comments on the great helmets we have missed.
