Best Mountain bike (MTB) Helmet 2022 Reviews & Buyer Guide

best mountain bike helmetTo find the most updated and best mountain bike helmets we researched several new coming models in the market. We assessed each helmet after considering its features like protection, comfort, ventilation, weight, and adjustability. A helmet is the most important piece of a cycling kit, therefore helmet manufacturing companies are continuously doing an effort in developing more cool, safe, and stylish helmets. So, mostly new coming models are better in their style and features than the previous one.

There are many flimsy helmets on the market which are very cheap. But you should not compromise on your safety. Your head and face are far more valuable than money. As a general rule “You get what you pay for”. So, make a wise decision by purchasing a helmet with a price around about 100$. A medical research found that wearing a helmet on a bicycle can prevent 85% of head injuries and greatly reduce the degree of damage!

If you are a new buyer, then before purchasing you need to read the buying guide and then decide which helmet style is suitable for your safe riding.

Our Top Picks
Best Seller

thousand unisex bike helmetThousand

Highly Rated

GIRO agiliaGIRO

Contents

Best Mountain Bike Helmets 2022 Comparison

HelmetFeaturesPrice
Thousand Bike Helmet
  • Certified protection
  • MIPS equipped
  • Comfortable dial fit system
  • Removable inner padding
  • Secret Pop-Lock
Troy Lee Full Face
  • FIDLOCK magnetic buckle
  • Adjustable sun visor
  • Go Pro Setup Point
  • Very lightweight MIPS
  • Excellent Ventilation
Giro Agilis MIPS
  • Lightweight helmet
  • MIPS technology
  • Anti-microbial padding
  • Wind tunnel ventilation system
Bell Sixer MIPS
  • Dual flow ventilation
  • X-static pads
  • Sweat guide padding
  • Integrated light/Camera mount
Giro Cinder MIPS
  • Certified protection level
  • MIPS technology
  • Sweat absorbing pads
  • 20 vent openings
Bell Formula MIPS
  • Lightweight and robust
  • MIPS technology
  • Sweat guide padding
  • 19 vent openings
FEND Folding Helmet
  • Quick folding and unfolding
  • MIPS technology
  • Certified protection
  • Award winner design
Giro Switchblade MIPS
  • Certified protection level
  • MIPS technology
  • Sweat absorbing pads
  • 20 vent openings
LIVALL Smart Helmet
  • backlights with indicator
  • Handlebar remote control
  • Anti-loss alarm
  • SOS system
POC, Axion Spin
  • Rotational impact protection
  • Breakaway visor
  • Lightweight & Robust Shell
  • Dual flow ventilation
Giro Vasona MIPS
  • Roc Loc adjustment system
  • Tough polycarbonate shell
  • Lightweight and comfy
  • 22 vent holes
  • MIPS equipped

Best MTB Helmet Reviews & Specs

In this article, detailed helmet reviews help you to find the best mountain bike helmets of 2022.

1. Thousand Unisex Adult Mtb Helmet Anti-theft

Specifications

best mountain bike helmet

  • Helmet Style: open face snow helmet
  • Available Color: Carbon Black, Arctic Gray, Daybreak Red, Gold, Titanium, Rose Gold, Speedway Creme, Stealth Black, Navy & Mint
  • Available size: Small, medium, and large
  • Weight: 0.9pound
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • Visor Type: built-in sun visor
  • Integrated dial fit system
  • Ventilation: 7 vent openings
  • Removable inner padding.
  • EPC inner foam lining
  • MIPS equipped
  • CPSC, EN-1078 and ASTM F1492 Certified
  • 1-year warranty
Prominent Features

If you want to ride the bike in cold weather conditions or there is a need to hide your hairs from dirt then this helmet is best for you. This helmet has almost all the fantastic features with a stylish look at a low price.

 Comfortable dial fit system 

The helmet comes with an internal strap that you can tighten on different head shapes. This helmet is designed by keeping in mind that every person’s head has a different shape and size. Its adjustable dial and strap provide the perfect fit for everyone. You just need to rotate the dial clockwise to tighten the belt and anticlockwise to loosen it.

You found that this helmet runs slightly large, and padding is removable if you need a little wiggle room to run large. So, if you’re in-between sizes then it better to choose downsize for this helmet.

 Eco-friendly leather strap 

The helmet comes with an internal strap that you can tighten to fit this helmet on your head. These straps are made of leather material that you can clean easily. The straps are soft and quite flexible. Due to its water-resistant property sweat cannot soak in this leather strap. These leather straps give a more expensive look to this helmet than it is.

It is essential to keep in mind that the straps are permanent and non-replaceable.

 Magnetic chin strap buckle 

The magnetic buckle allows you to fasten the chin strap with one hand. You can buckle and unbuckle the chin strap without much effort. This feature make it best mountain bike helmet for people with hand injury.

The buckle safety level is strong enough that no user reported buckle opening during an accident.

 Secret Pop-Lock 

Sometimes you have to leave your helmet behind with the risk of theft. But this helmet has a permanent solution to this problem. There is a pop lock channel behind the logo mark. The Pop Lock opening has a 1″ diameter, which fits most chain and u-locks.

This helmet is also backed by an anti-theft guarantee. According to which if your bike helmet is stolen while lock-up then you can get a replacement without any cost.

 Ventilation 

This is a close shape helmet with 7 limited vent holes but ventilation is proper for moderate weather conditions. According to test and customer reviews, this helmet ventilation system works well up to 30°C temperature.

 Certified protection 

A thousand helmets are certified with the European and North American safety standards (CE, ASTM F1492, and CPSC) for bicycle and skateboard helmets. This helmet got certification after rigorous tests like impact test, chemical test, and strap retention test for certified activities.

But manufacturers don’t recommend it as safe to use with communications hardware inside. This could affect the safety and fit of your helmet. Additionally, any modifications would void the warranty

 Versatile helmet 

Without any confusion, you can use this helmet for bicycle, mountain biking, road biking, skateboarding, roller skates, and e-scooter.

However, for faster speed in street traffic with automobiles that weigh between 1.5 to 2 tons, this helmet is not an acceptable substitute as a motorcycle helmet.

 Goggle accommodation 

You can wear glasses as well as sunglasses with this helmet. Both fit comfortably with this helmet.

Caution: You can clean your helmet’s exterior shell, interior pads, and fit system with mild soap and water, but you should not submerge it. The use of harsh chemicals is not recommended as this can affect the safety of the helmet.

Pros
  • Budget Thousand helmet.
  • Dirt protection.
  • Fit to all shape head.
  • Buckle and unbuckle without much effort.
  • Removable inner pad.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Certified safety.
  • Secret pop lock.
  • 10 different colors.
  • Accident Replacement guarantee.
  • Comfortable.
Cons
  • Helmet skin scrapes easily.
  • A little heavy.

2. Troy Lee Designs stage Full Face Mountain Bike helmet

Specifications
Troy Lee Designs stage Full Face Mountain Bike helmet

  • Helmet Style: Full face bike helmet
  • Suitable for: Mountain, road,& Enduro bike and BMX racing
  • Available color: Black/White, Midnight, Ropo Green/Gold
  • Available size: X-Small/Small, Medium/Large, X-Large/XX-Large
  • Weight: 1.52 pound
  • Shell Material: fiber reinforcement poly lite
  • Dual-density EPS and EPP inner core
  •  X-static cheek pads, neck rolls, & liner padding
  • MIPS liner
  • Visor Type: Adjustable sun visor
  • FIDLOCK magnetic buckle system
  • Ventilation: 25 vent openings
  • CPSC, EN-1078 and ASTM F1952, ASTM F2032 Certified
  • 3-year manufacturer warranty
Prominent Features

If your riding style needs full-face protection but you want to enjoy the features of a half-face bike helmet then this helmet is best for you. You can eat food and drink water without taking off this full face helmet. Moreover, you can also hear other people very clearly with this helmet on your head. This lightweight best mountain bike helmet also has excellent ventilation.

 Interchangeable pads of different thickness offer a comfortable fit 

This helmet comes with a bunch of 10 spare pads of different thicknesses. These interchangeable pads help you to do fitting adjustments on your head. These pads include:

  • Three pairs of jaw pads of thickness 35mm, 25mm, and 15mm.
  • Two neck roll pads of thickness 25mm, and 15mm.
  • Two inner liners of thickness 13mm, and 10mm

The foam inner liner attaches to this helmet via Velcro patches on the MIPS lining. All these X-static pads have anti-microbial properties to keep your helmet free from sweat smell. You can easily wash them.

Important note

There is no dial knob in the back of this helmet for fitting adjustment. So, only pads make a decent grip of this helmet on your head. After purchasing this helmet you should try every thickness pad to finely tune helmet fitting around your head, neck, and jaws.

 Dual-density EPS & EPP foam core for high and low-speed impact protection 

Expanded polypropylene (EPP) material has a range of unique properties like impact energy absorption, thermal insulation, and chemical resistance. It also has high strength to weight ratio. All these properties make this material very suitable to absorb low-speed impact. EPP inner layer feels softer to touch.

Durable expanded polystyrene EPS material has excellent shock absorbing characteristics. This material can absorb high-speed impact force and saves your skull during any serious accident.

 Vent hole near ears help you to hear very clearly 

One of the major problems with a full-face bike helmet is your limited hearing ability due to ears blockage by helmet pads. But this helmet solved this problem by giving two large vent holes perfectly above your ear. In this way, it doesn’t feel like a full-face helmet.

 The magnetic buckle is easy to manipulate with one hand 

This helmet chin straps are easily buckled by magnetic FIDLOCK. You can easily open and close this buckle with a gloved hand. Its mechanical engagement keeps it securely locked.

 Excellent ventilation through 11 air intake and 14 exhaust ports 

Troy lee worked hard to design this model. The main objective is to build a lightweight full-face helmet with maximum ventilation. There are 25 vent holes to intake cool air and exhaust hot air. Cool air circulation feels like air conditioning around your head.

Lightweight and excellent ventilation make this helmet the first choice to endure racer. The very front of the chin bar has a large opening which helps in getting fresh air to your lungs. Moreover, you can use this opening for eating and drinking purposes.

 One of the lightest full-face MIPS helmet on the market 

Its Fiber enrichment shell is very strong, lightweight, and much more rigid. This Fiberglass helmet can withstand against high-speed impact. Fiberglass is more effective for noise reduction. Moreover, the in-mold construction of this fiberglass helmet makes it very lightweight and robust.

Large vent openings also minimize the consumption of material which results in the lightweight of this helmet. Troy Lee did hard work to minimize material consumption without compromising on your safety.

 GoPro set up on the front crown point 

If you want to make a film about your riding adventure then this helmet is perfect for you. Not all the Mtb helmet has a camera mount option.

Pros
  • Lightweight full-face helmet.
  • Excellent ventilation.
  • Stylish helmet with a comfortable fit.
  • Easily accommodate goggles.
  • MIPS equipped helmet.
  • Dual-density inner foam.
  • Storage beg and GoPro mount in accessories.
  • Adjustable sun visor.
  • Bunch of 10 x-static spare pads.
  • Excellent protection level.
Cons
  • Expensive helmet.
  • Strap with jaw pads can irritate your ears.

3. Giro Agilis MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet

Specifications

best mtb helmet

  • Helmet Style: open face helmet
  • Color of 2022 models: Matte Black /bright red, Matte Black, Matte White, Yellow, Black Craze, Matte Gray/White/Red, Matte Gray Green, Matte White/Urchin
  • Available size: Small, medium, and large
  • Weight: 0.66 pound
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • Roc Loc 5.5 adjustment system
  • Visor type: no visor
  • Ventilation: 32 vent openings
  • Anti-microbial padding.
  • EPC inner foam lining
  • MIPS equipped
  • CPSC Certified
Prominent Features

It is a low price Giro MIPS helmet that provides a great fit to the oval-shaped head. This helmet provides excellent air circulation which makes it best mountain bike helmet for summer season.

 Lightweight helmet 

In-mold construction of polycarbonate shell is not only enhanced material strength but also minimize the consumption of polycarbonate material. Furthermore, there is no visor in this helmet, so visor weight is also eliminated from the total weight of the helmet. All of this results in a relatively lightweight helmet.

 Wind tunnel ventilation system 

There are 32 vent openings including 8 full-length front-to-back channels all around the head. These channels push fresh and cool air around your head and force out hot air. It is very effective and causes cooling by evaporating sweat in hot weather conditions.

 Roc Loc 5.5 fit system 

Due to the Roc Loc 5.5 fit system, you found this helmet very comfortable. You can do fore and aft movement of the helmet on your head with one hand. Roc Loc 5.5 fit system can balance the helmet slightly off the top of the head which allows air to pass over the head and exhaust from the back.

You can easily tighten the helmet by using the dial in the back. Roc Loc fit system offers an easy one-hand operation. Its strap and buckle are also made of good quality. Customers are well pleased with this helmet fitting system.

If your head size is on the edge of medium and large then it better to choose the upper size for this helmet.

 MIPS integrated helmet 

This Giro helmet is designed to give maximum impact protection. Giro helmet equipped with MIPS technology can reduce the amount of rotational force that otherwise may result in head injury.

 Anti-microbial padding 

This helmet has anti-microbial padding which has a property to keep your helmet free from sweat smell. The pads are attached to the helmet interior with double side tape. So, you can easily remove it for washing purposes.

 Sunglasses accommodation 

There is no any type of visor that comes with this helmet. But this helmet can accommodate sunglasses easily and comfortably.

 Comfortable 

This helmet fits right on your head without being bulky. Moreover, their adjustments are simple. Its lightweight with excellent ventilation makes it the best mountain bike helmet for hot weather conditions. This helmet is very comfortable to wear.

Pros
  • Lightweight.
  • Excellent ventilation.
  • Budget MIPS helmet.
  • Sunglasses adoptable.
  • Excellent fitting adjustment.
  • Unisex helmet.
  • Extensive range of colors.
  • Removable interior padding.
Cons
  • No sun visor.
  • Short strap for big face.

4. Bell Sixer MIPS Adult Mountain Bike Helmet 2022

Specifications

Highly rated among the basted mountain bike helmets

  • Helmet Style: Open face helmet
  • Color of 2022 models: Matte Black, Black /Gold, White/Black/Blue/White, Blue/Black, Black/Camo, Green /infrared
  • Available size: Small, medium, and large
  • Weight: 0.9 pound
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • Visor Type: 4 positions adjustable sun visor
  • Fit system: Float fit race
  • Ventilation: 26 vent openings
  • X-static padding.
  • EPC inner foam lining
  • MIPS equipped
  • CPSC and EN-1078 Certified
Prominent Features

Bell Sports has decades of experience in designing helmets and this bell helmet is the high noon of all that experience. This helmet doesn’t have any weak points at all so we can say it is best mtb helmet 2o21. Mostly Bell helmet fit nicely to round shape head.

 High protection level 

Helmet EPS inner soft pads covered by a hard polycarbonate shell can absorb high impact force. It gives excellent coverage to your head and keeps you safe in case of an accident. This helmet is constructed in a mold. So, there is no chance of piece separation during the collision. Moreover, CPSC & EN1078 certification also proved that you can use this helmet for cycling, skateboarding, and roller skates.

This helmet also comes with the most modern MIPS technology. This technology lets the helmet slide relative to the head and adds protection against the rotational force. This slip-plane technology minimizes rotational forces transfer to your brain during an impact.

 Float fit race adjustment system 

This system is integrated with a dial that is suspended off the back of the head. This dial allows you to do the fitting adjustment with micrometer sensitivity. Due to float fit race system helmet sits properly on your head and there is no pressure point and undue movement.

With a Float fit race system, you can rotate the helmet up and down in 22mm of adjustment. You feel this helmet like a cap.

 Dual flow ventilation 

There are 26 vent openings including two full-length front-to-back channels on the top of the head. These vent openings increase cool air circulation around your head and reduce overheating in summer.

Moreover, there are 4 openings in EPS pads across the brow which let hot air escape upward from your brow and cause sweat to evaporate.

 X-static pads 

X-static pads have thermodynamic silver fiber woven in. it material has anti-microbial properties to keep your helmet free from sweat smell. These X-static pads are also washable. The pads are attached to the helmet interior with double side tape. So, you can easily remove it for washing purposes.

 Sweat guide padding 

X-static pads are designed in such a way that it can channel the absorbed sweat to drips away from your brow and keep your eyes sweat-free.

 Non-twist tri-glides chin strap 

Its Tri-glide chin strap position perfectly around your ears and chin because the strap remains flat. The non-twistable strap is quickly adjustable. It not only looks great but also saves rider time.

The strap system is great but if you have a larger head.

 Adjustable visor 

Its visor comes with an adjustment mechanism to move the visor up and down in 4 steps. You can adjust the visor position with one hand to keep sunlight out of your eyes. You can also place goggles above your brow by moving the visor to an up position.

 Integrated light/Camera mount 

The square on the top of the helmet is for the camera mount. . You can hook a Go Pro to it without having a separate sticker attachment. If you have a light that has an size similar to a Go Pro or something like that then you can also attach it.

 Comfortable 

All of its features like ventilation, easy adjustment, fitting, and padding rated it as the best mountain bike helmet of 2022 for long period riding in summer. These entire high-end features cost some additional weight of this helmet. But it does not above the limit. It’s just 0.9 pounds in weight.

Pros
  • Excellent dual ventilation.
  • Great strap system.
  • Adjustable visor.
  • Excellent protection level.
  • Comfortable.
  • MIPS helmet.
  • Camera mount.
  • Anti-microbial X-static pads.
  • Sweat guide pads.
Cons
  • A little heavy.

5. Giro Cinder MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet

Specifications

Giro Cinder MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet

  • Helmet Style: open face helmet.
  • Color of 2022 model: Matte white, Black fade/highlight yellow, Matte black/charcoal.
  • Available size: Small, medium, and large.
  • Weight: 0.66pound.
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell.
  • Roc Loc 5 air fit system.
  • Ventilation: 26 vent openings.
  • Thermoforming roll cage.
  • Air-Fx padding.
  • EPC inner foam lining.
  • MIPS equipped.
  • CPSC Certified.
Prominent Features

We choose Giro Cinder after comparing it with Giro Synthe which almost double in price. But the quality and features of both helmets are almost the same. Both of these models are the top-end product of the Giro brand.

 Thermoforming SL roll cage 

The most unique thing about this helmet is the use of the thermoforming technique. In this technique, a polycarbonate sheet is heated to manipulate on EPC inner foam. This covering layer of polycarbonate enhanced the structural support of the EPC inner. This sheet acts as a second shell to enhance the strength and integrity of the helmet.

Due to this technique helmet give more penetration resistance as well as helps to disperse impact during a collision.

 Ponytail accommodation 

There are large numbers of female riders who don’t feel comfortable with a helmet only because of their long hair. But this helmet can accommodate ponytails of women’s hairs. All unisex helmets have this option.

 Excellent ventilation 

This helmet can suspend slightly off the top of the skull which allows directly cool air to pass over your head. Moreover, there are 26 vent openings including 8 full-length front-to-back channels on the top of the head. These channels exhausts heat out of the helmet and thrust the cool air in. This effective cool system is engineered in Giro’s category-leading helmet test lab.

 Hard-body compact shape 

Strong and tough polycarbonate material is fused in a mold of compact shape. It gives a single large piece without any joint.

Other than material toughness its compact shape gives a boost to the strength of the outer cage. This is the best mountain bike helmet with market-leading protection.

 Adjustable fit system 

There is a dial on the Roc-Loc fit system in the back of the helmet it gives about 7cm of adjustment. This dial allows you to tune fit tension around your head with one hand. Roc Loc fit system also allows you to rotate the helmet up and down for better adjustment.

If you’re in-between sizes then it better to choose a large size. Since if you wear anything on your head like a sweatband that will increase your head size.

I found this helmet has a lot of space on the side. It is probably designed for a round head.

 MIPS Equipped 

This Giro helmet is designed to give maximum impact protection. Giro helmet equipped with MIPS technology can reduce the amount of rotational force that otherwise may result in head injury.

 Comfortable helmet 

This helmet does not offer only market-leading protection but also its comfort level is at peak level. Its feature like ventilation and easy adjustable fitting rated it as the best mountain bike helmet for a long session of riding in summer.

You can also use sunglasses with this helmet. This helmet can accommodate sunglasses easily and comfortably.

These entire high-end features cost some additional price for this helmet. But it does not above the limit. It is completely worth the money.

Pros
  • Double shell protection.
  • Hardbody compact shape.
  • Vent with internal channels.
  • Air fx padding.
  • Easily adjustable fit.
  • Lightweight and comfortable.
  • MIPS helmet.
  • Removable inner pad.
  • Ponytail & goggles accommodation.
Cons
  • Limited color options.
  • A helmet without any visor.
  • A little expensive.

6. Bell Formula MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet

Specifications

Bell Formula MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet

  • Helmet Style: Open face helmet
  • Color of 2022 model: Matte/Gloss Black/Gray, matte/Gloss Gray
  • Available size: Small, medium, and large
  • Weight: 0.62 pound
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • MIPS equipped
  • Float fit adjustment system
  • Ventilation: 19 vent openings
  • Removable sweat guide pad.
  • EPC inner foam lining.
  • CPSC Certified.
Prominent Features

If you want a lightweight mountain bike helmet with MIPS protection then this helmet is designed for you. You will find this helmet better than expected. It is the best value mtb helmet. Mostly Bell helmet fit nicely to round shape head.

 The lightweight and robust material 

In-mold construction of a shell makes this helmet robust and lightweight. In the mold, the construction gives a single large piece without any join which minimizes the consumption of polycarbonate material. Furthermore, there is no visor in this helmet, so visor weight is also eliminated from the total weight of the helmet. All of this results in a lightweight and sturdier helmet.

 MIPS helmet 

Its price was great too compared to other helmets with MIPS. Its MIPS technology lets the helmet slide relative to the head and adds more protection against rotational force during an accident. This helmet also gives more protection to the back of your head.

 Inner construction 

Helmet EPC inner covered by a hard polycarbonate shell. EPC material provides excellent thermal insulation and water-resistant. it can also absorb high impact force and save your skull from any fracture.

 Comfortable head retention system 

This helmet head retention system is easily adjustable because of a twisting knob in the back. This simple dial knob is over-mold by rubber material which prevents dial loosening due to vibration. So, Quick-adjust fastening retains for a prolonged period by keeping straps flat in the proper position.

The chin strap is as adaptable as any other quality helmet strap. These entire features make the helmet fits better than any other helmet.

 Non-twistable chin strap 

Its chin strap position perfectly around your ears and chin because of its non-twistable strap. The flat strap is quickly adjustable. It not only looks great but also saves rider time.

 Sweat guide padding 

Its inner pads are designed in such a way that it can channel the absorb sweat to drips away from your brow and keep your eyes sweat-free.

 Perfect for the summer season 

There are 19 vent openings including 7 full-length front-to-back channels on the top of the head. These vents on this helmet keep you as cool as you can be in 95 degrees Fahrenheit temps with high humidity. This is the best mountain bike helmet for the summer season.

Caution: The liner can be removed and cleaned. Bell recommends: clean the helmet using a soft cloth or sponge, warm water, and mild soap (such as mild dish soap). Removal of the liner does not appear necessary because it is fully exposed.

Pros
  • Budget MIPS helmet.
  • Best for the summer season.
  • Lightweight & comfortable.
  • Sweat guide pads.
  • Easy to adjust fitting.
  • Great value for the money.
Cons
  • This helmet comes without any visor.
  • Limited color in 2022 models.
  • Some customer has complained about sweat guide pads.

7. FEND Folding Helmet for mountain bikes

Specifications

FEND Folding Helmet

  • Helmet Style: Open face folding helmet
  • Available Color: Matte Black, Matte Yellow, and Matte White
  • Available size: Small (21.5”-22”), medium/ large(22”-24”)
  • Weight: 0.88pound
  • Durable ABS Shell Material
  • Easy goggles accommodation
  • Integrated dial fit system
  • Ventilation: 16 vent openings
  • EPC inner foam padding
  • CPSC and EN-1078 Certified
Prominent Features

If you need a bike helmet for riding some distance to work or study on regular basis then this helmet best for you. You can easily fold this helmet to store in a backpack. There is no need to lock this helmet with your bike. This helmet is always with you in your beg.

 Quick folding and unfolding 

There are many folding helmets in the market. But one thing that makes this helmet unique is its smooth and quick folding and unfolding mechanism. After folding the volume of the helmet reduce to 50 %. This best mountain bike helmet folds into a shape that can fit in your backpack easily.

 Perfect fitting size and shape 

This helmet has an 8” length and 6.3” width for medium/ large size. 95% of the people find that this shape fitting comfortable. If you’re in-between sizes then it better to choose a medium/ large size. Because there is an extra set of thicker foam pads included in the box so you can customize the fit.

There is also a dial fit adjuster and adjustable straps for you to customize the fit. If for some reason the helmet does not fit perfectly then you can return it with a full refund.

 Certified protection 

Some customers are suspicious about the safety of the folding helmet. But its protection level is fantastic due to ABS shell material and impact-absorbing EPS core. This helmet designer spent years making this helmet convenient and incredibly safe. This helmet got CPSC and EN-1078 certification after passing the impact test wherein it greatly reduces the impact on the rider’s head.

 Versatile product 

EN-1078 certification proves that you can use this helmet for skateboards, roller skates, and e-bikes/scooters under 20mph.

 Award winner design 

This helmet design has won the red dot design award and Edison award in 2018.

The red dot design award is a German international design prize awarded by Red Dot GmbH & Co. KG. This award is giving for unique design innovation every year. The competition focuses on young up-coming talent all around the world.

Edison award is an American company that runs an annual competition for horning excellence in innovation.

 Ventilation 

16 vent openings keep your head cool. These vent sizes and shapes are designed to maximize heat exchange in the skull section of the head form. So, in hot weather, you don’t need to remove this best mountain bike helmet because of thermal discomfort.

 Comfortable 

Great helmet for a great price. Its secure fitting with excellent ventilation makes it very comfortable to wear. Moreover, you can store this helmet comfortably in your bag because of 50% easy folding.

 Accessories 

A storage bag is given as incentives with this FEND helmet that make a difference between a premium and standard product. You do not only get a helmet but also a helmet storage bag in the same budget.

Pros
  • Award winner unique design.
  • Smooth folding and unfolding.
  • Easy to store in your bag.
  • Dial fit and strap adjustment.
  • Certified protection.
  • Lightweight and comfortable.
  • Perfect fit for every one.
  • Refund able.
Cons
  • Not a MIPS helmet.
  • Long hair can tangle in a helmet.

8. Giro Switchblade MIPS Adult Cycling Helmet

Specifications

Giro Switchblade MIPS Adult Cycling Helmet

  • Helmet Style: Convertible, full face to open face
  • Color of 2022 model: Matte Portaro gray/red. Matte warm black, Matte black
  • Available size: Small, medium, and large
  • Weight: 1.10 pound
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • Visor Type: sun visor and spare visor to mount camera
  • Ventilation: 20 vent openings
  • EPC Inner foam lining to absorb impact
  • CPSC, EN-1078 and ASTM 1952-DH Certified
  • Removable chain bar
Prominent Features

Due to this model’s popularity and excellent design Giro did not do any modification in 2022 except the color. Giro introduced three new attractive colors in the 2022 model of this helmet. The new model comes in Matte Portaro gray/red. Matte warm black and Matte warm black colors.

 Versatile helmet 

In this helmet, you can easily remove the chin bar to convert a full-face helmet to a half face. It is a great option if you want protection during the downhill section and comfort when climbing uphill. You can also remove the chin bar to improve ventilation in hot weather conditions.

Moreover, CPSC, EN-1078, and ASTM 1952 certification proved that you can use this helmet for cycling, skateboarding, roller skates, and downhill mountain racing.

 Certified protection level 

CPSC certified helmet can cover impacts closer to speed 15-30mph (25-50kph). But ASTM 1952 downhill standardize helmet gives much more coverage to your face because it is tested at a higher impact level. In other words, ASTM 1952 standards are more stringent than CPSC standards. Moreover, this helmet meets all certifications with and without a chin bar.

 Impact-absorbing MIPS technology 

This helmet comes with MIPS technology to reduce rotational forces that transfer to the rider’s brain during an impact. MIPS technology lets the helmet slide relative to the skull and adds more protection against the rotational force transfer to the brain. It does this by using slip-planes.

 Sweat absorbing pads 

The inner pad lining of this helmet is hydrophilic and antimicrobial. The hydrophilic pad can absorb sweat up to 10 times more than its weight. So, sweat never drips into your eyes. And antimicrobial nature of pads helps to reduce the odor of sweat. Moreover, you can remove its interior padding for washing purposes.

 Roc Loc fit system 

This helmet is equipped with the Roc Loc adjustment system. Roc Loc fit system offers an easy one-handed operation for fitting adjustment on your head. Its back knob helps to make a quick adjustment with one hand during cycling. This feature makes it premium to sport level helmet.

Mostly Giro helmet fits nicely to the oval-shaped head.

 P.O.V plus visor 

Its P.O.C plus visor comes with an adjustment mechanism that lets you move the visor up and down in 4 steps.

You can adjust the visor position with one hand to keep sunlight out of your eyes. These 4 steps include three riding positions and a high position to store the goggle above your brow.

You can use glasses and sometimes goggles with this helmet without any problem

 Accessories 

There is an extra visor in accessories with a go-pro mount where you can install the camera to capture all the moments of your riding tour.

 Excellent ventilation 

Roc Loc Air DH fit system to balance the helmet slightly off the top of the head which allows air to pass over the head and exhaust from the back. Moreover, there are 20 vent openings to increase cool air circulation around your head, jaws, and neck. This air circulation also evaporates sweat quickly which causes a cooling effect.

 Lightweight and comfortable 

Polycarbonate outer shell material is fused in a single mold. In-mold construction makes helmets lighter than a traditional helmet. Moreover, the inner foam liner material is not only ultra-light in weight but also soft enough to maximize the comfort level.

Its features like lightweight, aerodynamic shape and easily adjustable fitting rated it as the best mountain bike helmets for downhill riding.

You can also use the helmet speakers with it. It’s completely worth the money.

Pros
  • Convertible helmet.
  • Excellent protection level.
  • Comfortable & lightweight.
  • Easy adjustable fitting.
  • Hydrophilic inner pads.
  • MIPS technology helmet.
  • Adjustable visor mechanism.
  • ASTM 1952-DH Certified.
  • Spare visor with camera mount.
Cons
  • Expensive helmet but its quality is worth the money.
  • Helmet convertibility is not smooth enough.

9. LIVALL Smart Bike Helmet with Auto Sensor LED 2022

Specifications

best mountain bike helmet

  • Helmet Style: Half-face smart helmet
  • Color of 2022 model: Black
  • Available size: Medium
  • Weight: 0.9 pound
  • Bluetooth connectivity up to 10m range
  • LED Smart lighting with indicators
  • Integrated 2 Stereo speaker
  • -42dB windproof microphone
  • SOS  rescue system
  • Group functionality via walkie-talkie up to 30m range
  • Handlebar remote control
  • Rechargeable battery capacity: 600mAH
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • Dial fit adjustment system
  • Ventilation: 12 vent openings
  • EPC inner foam lining
  • CPSC, EN1078 & AS/NZS 2063 Certified
  • 2-year warranty
Prominent Features

This smart helmet is integrated with the most advanced technology. Other than protection this helmet has so many features that you never even knew before now. The quality of sensors and navigation instruments in this helmet is excellent. This helmet is going to replace all old fashion helmets in the future and will be best mtb helmet of 2o21.

 LED backlights with indicator 

The most attractive and important feature of this helmet is the LED backlight and indicators. This LED back light is control by an automatic lighting sensor. This sensor automatically turns-on the warning light in dark conditions.

Warning backlight is also controlled by gravity acceleration senor. This sensor activates the back warning light if you suddenly apply brakes. The light activates 3 sec to draw the attention of behind vehicles.

Left and right indicator signals allow you to alert behind cars about your turning direction. Indicator signals are only controlled by the handlebar remote. Both helmet and handlebar remote connected to your mobile phone via Bluetooth.

 Hand free operation 

This helmet has Bluetooth, speakers, and a microphone. You can play music and make a voice call without taking the handoff from the bike handle. But first, you have to install the LIVALL app on your mobile. This app built a communication link between the handlebar remote, helmet, and your mobile phone.

You can quickly answer your phone call by using the remote control.

There are also volume control buttons on the remote.

You can also set direction by using GPS navigation in the LIVALL app. You can take direction guidelines by helmet speakers without seeing the route on the mobile screen.

 Handlebar remote control 

Left and right arrow buttons give a signal to the indicator and up and down arrow buttons are used to change speaker volume. The red center button uses to answer the phone call.

The remote camera button turns on and off the camera of your mobile. If you put your smartphone on the bike handlebar by using a phone holder then you take pictures and save them in the gallery of your smartphone.

You can also communicate with your group member via a walkie-talkie by simply pressing the walkie-talkie button on the remote.

There is no need to charge the remote. You can replace the 2032 battery easily when you notice a delay in the control functions of the remote.

   Group functionality 

You can communicate with other models of LIVALL by creating a room in the app with your group member. There should be a maximum of 200 members in this group. This walkie-talkie communication occurs through Bluetooth. This means a limited range of fewer than 30 meters for communication.

 Anti-loss alarm 

This helmet also helps you to keep your mobile phone safe. If you forget your mobile phone to someplace then this helmet gives you an alarm after 15m distance from your phone. This feature helps you to remind your phone place.

 Auto-off feature save battery charging 

Its 600mAH battery takes 2 hours to be fully charged and can provide 3 to 6 hours’ use with Bluetooth speaker and LED Lighting, working at the same time. So, the auto-off feature helps to maximum battery life. The auto-off feature automatically turn-off the helmet after disconnecting it with the phone within 15min.

 SOS system 

If the helmet hits then SOS system activate. If you do not cancel the alarm in 90 sec then the LIVALL app automatically sends a help message to your 3 emergency contact numbers. This message also includes your position with your track record. This is the best mountain bike helmet with this latest technology. LIVALL app is also compatible with STRAVA, SIRI, and IHEALTH.

 Certified protection 

The most important purpose of every helmet is to give impact protection. Helmet EPC inner covered by a hard polycarbonate shell. EPC material provides excellent thermal insulation and water-resistant. It can also absorb high impact force and save your skull from any fracture.

This helmet is certified with the Europe, Australia, and North American safety standards (CPSC, EN1078 & AS/NZS 2063) for bicycle, e-scoter, and skateboard. This helmet got certification after rigorous tests like impact test, chemical, and strap retention test for certified activities.

 Acceptable Comfort 

This helmet has 12 vent openings which give good ventilation but this helmet is good for temperature less than 20°C. There is also a dial fit adjuster and adjustable straps for you to customize the fit. If for some reason the helmet does not fit perfectly then you can return it with a full refund.

This helmet weight is not very light but it is acceptable for short duration riding. Weight has limited the use of this helmet for riding some distance to work or study.

Overall it is the most attractive and comfortable helmet.

Caution: The charging cable is propriety design and it could be hard to find and replace if lost or broken.

Pros
  • Attractive look.
  • Waterproof helmet.
  • Most advanced technology helmet.
  • Suitable for bicycle, e-scoter, and skateboard.
  • Most safe helmet for city traffic roads.
  • USB charging cable.
  • Leather sun visor.
  • Hand free operation.
  • One-handed dial fit system.
  • Charging port with waterproof gasket.
Cons
  • Only comes in medium size.
  • Not suitable for hot weather conditions.
  • Need to charge again and again.
  • Not a lightweight helmet.

 

10. POC, Axion Spin Mountain Bike Helmet

Specifications
best mountain bike helmet reviews

  • Helmet Style: open face helmet
  • Available Color: Pink Matt, Hydrogen white, Green Matt, Blue Matt, Lead Blue Matt, Matt Black, Matt White, and Uranium Black
  • Suitable for: Mountain, road & Enduro bike
  • Available size: Small, Medium/Large & X-large
  • Weight: 0.76pound
  • SPIN protection technology
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • EPS inner foam lining
  • Dial fit adjustment system
  • Ventilation: 15 vent openings
  • Soft, comfortable, and hydrophilic pads
Prominent Features

The most noticeable and unique features of Axion SPIN are lightweight, easy to clean, awesome look, and high-end Enduro protection at an affordable price.

 SPIN technology to enhance rotational impact protection 

Shearing pads inside (SPIN) technology involve soft silicone pads lining inside the helmet. It does not allow impact force to transfer to your head during a collision. Silicone pads dissipate the impact force without compromising on ventilation and comfort.

 Breakaway visor adds extra safety 

Its adjustable visor is attached with a break-away system that detaches from the helmet on an impact. It minimizes the amount of torque that may transfer to the neck in certain crashes.

 The dial knob in the back is easy to adjust 

You can make air-tight adjustments around your head by using a dial in the back. 360’ rotation of dial adjusts the comfortable fit around your head. Moreover, its back knob helps you to make a quick adjustment with one hand during cycling. Overall it is the best MTB helmet with a comfortable fit.

 One solid piece of the shell gives excellent coverage to your head 

The in-mold constructed polycarbonate shell is very lightweight (345g) and robust. , There is no chance of piece separation during the collision. Moreover, extended coverage design offers maximum head protection especially on the back of the head in case of an accident.

Furthermore, its EPS foam absorbs impact force and saves your skull during a collision.

 Dual flow ventilation keep your head cool in summer 

This helmet’s unique design allows cool air to pass directly over your head through 13 big vents opening. Moreover, 2 vent openings across the brow let hot air escape upward from your brow and cause sweat to evaporate.

Pros
  • Budget helmet with SPIN technology.
  • Lightweight & comfortable.
  • Easily washable.
  • Non-twistable tri-glides straps.
  • Excellent quality helmet.
  • Cool for a long day riding session.
  • Extra safety due to break-away visor.
  • Exceptional head coverage.
  • Unique airflow channel.
Cons
  • Tight fitting for round shape head.
  • Relatively short chin strap for chubby face.

11. Giro Vasona Unisize Women MIPS Helmet

Specifications
best mtb helmet reviews Giro

  • Helmet Style: open face helmet
  • Color of 2022 model: Matte Glacier, Matte Black, Matte Titanium
  • Suitable for: Mountain & road bike
  • Available size: Universal Women (19.68”-22.44”)
  • Weight: 0.66pound
  • Shell Material: Polycarbonate shell
  • EPS inner foam lining
  • Roc Loc Sport fit system
  • Ventilation: 22 vent openings
  • Quick-dry pads
  • MIPS equipped
  • CPSC Certified
Prominent Features

This best mountain bike helmet is specially designed for women after considering their head shape. This helmet’s price, fitting, and style perfectly meet the needs of women riders.

 This MIPS equipped helmet reduces rotational force 

Its price is great as compared to other MIPS helmets. MIPS technology lets the helmet slide relative to the head and adds more protection against rotational force during an accident.

 Tough polycarbonate outer shell with EPS inner foam core 

The in-mold constructed polycarbonate shell makes this helmet one solid piece. There would be no crack or wrap like other cheaper helmets. Moreover, in-mold construction enhances material strength with relatively low consumption of polycarbonate material. Its inner EPS foam is very lightweight and robust enough to absorb high impact force during the collision

 The Fit system offers an easy one-hand operation 

This helmet is equipped with the Roc Loc sport fit adjustment system. Roc Loc fit system offers an easy one-handed operation for tuning strap tension around your head. By a simple turn of the back dial knob, you can tune the 2.7” adjustment range. This feature makes it premium to sport level helmet.

 22 vent hole with decent airflow 

This helmet is designed aerodynamically to maximize cool airflow around your head. . You can use it all through summer and can stay pretty cool. Moreover, quick-dry pads cause the cooling effect by evaporating sweat in hot weather.

 This lightweight helmet is very comfortable for long riding season 

It has a super simple and easy adjustment mechanism! It is very lightweight and comfy with the right amount and spacing of padding that you almost don’t feel it on your head.

Pros
  • Super lightweight helmet.
  • Budget helmet with MIPS technology.
  • Non-twistable tri-glides black straps.
  • Full hard body coverage.
  • Easily removable visor.
  • Universal fit women size.
  • Roc Loc sport MIPS fit system.
  • Ponytail accommodation.
  • Excellent ventilation.
Cons
  • Tight-fitting strap for chubby face.
  • Not suitable for big size head.

Things you need to consider before purchasing best mtb bike helmet.

I. Helmet safety standards

All the best mountain bike helmets in the US must meet with (CPSC) bicycle helmet standards. It is also acceptable in Canada, China, Taiwan, Japan, and Brazil. The standards cover most safety requirements of a bicycle helmet. Many other certification organizations like Snell, ANSI, ASTM, EN & CE still exist but their approval requires in the specific application.

  • Snell B-29 certified helmet for the harder than the CPSC
  • ASTM F1952 certification used for downhill mountain bicycle helmet
  • EN-1078 certified helmets are safe for cycling, skateboards, and roller skates.
  • CE is a European base standard but it did not qualify helmet as legal in the US

II. Helmet fitting

Helmet fitting is not standardizing under any test. The helmet shape is selected by the individual manufacturer. That is why some helmet brand like Giro fit nicely to oval shape head and other like Bell fit perfectly to round shape head.

To give the best protection helmet need to fit so perfectly that there is no pressure point and undue movement. So, before purchasing best mountain bike helmet you need to confirm your head circumference. Measure your head circumference just 1inch above your eyebrow and ears.

Helmet size according to head circumference available in market

  • Extra-large: > 24.75″
  • Large: 23.25″–24.75″
  • Medium: 21.75″–23.25″
  • Small: 20″–21.75″
  • Extra small: < 20″

Almost all the helmet has dial knob to do perfect fitting adjustment in the given range

III. Helmet weight

Before purchasing a best mountain bike helmet, weight is most important to consider because during a ride you have to adopt a relatively unnatural position. Sitting and leaning forward for a long riding session can be tricky for your neck. An extended neck position with a heavy helmet on your head creates pressure on the joints and soft tissues of the neck. It can irritate and make your ride difficult over time.

On average a half-face mountain bike helmet weighs about 300g. Variation in weight is largely depended on price and style. A full-face helmet is almost double in weight as half face helmet.

IV. Helmet style, features & types

Mountain bike helmets come in different shapes with some unique features like removable chin bar, fix or removable visor, eye shield, backlight, magnetic buckle, camera mount, Bluetooth connectivity, intercom, ponytail, and goggles accommodation. Spend the money for what you need during the ride. Despite safety and fit, helmet look sometimes becomes very important for you.

There are the following types of mountain bike helmet

i. Open face mountain helmet

Design for rougher terrain and aggressive nature of riding. It gives more protection to the back. It gives uphill riding protection.

ii. Full face or downfall helmet

This helmet type protects the entire head, chin, and face. With increase protection, you have to compromise on ventilation & weight. However, modern design offers more ventilation with full-face protection. It gives protection during downhill mountain biking.

iii. Convertible helmet

In the convertible MTB helmets, you can remove the chin bar to convert a full-face helmet to a half face. It is a great option if you want protection during the downhill section and comfort when climbing hills.

V. Helmet ventilation

Today helmet companies cleverly design best mountain bike helmets to maximize protection with excellent ventilation. To maximize cool air circulation around your head, dual flow ventilation system is very effective.

Very large vent openings are not always better. Helmets with small vent openings offer the best snow, rain, and dirt protection to your head.

VI. Helmet inner pads

Some helmets come with fix inner pads which are difficult to wash. Try to choose a helmet with removable inner pads. Quality helmets come with removable hydrophilic and antimicrobial inner pads. These pads can absorb sweat as well as reduce sweat smell.

Sweat guide pads are also very helpful in a hot humid environment. They drip sweat away from your brow and keep your eyes sweat-free.

Pads with insect-proof net keep your helmet free from mosquitos and other insects.

VII. Visor type

All best mountain bike helmets have some sort of visor to protect our face especially eyes from sunlight, rain, and dirt.

There are many shapes and styles of visors available in the market. All visor types can be categories into the following two main types.

i. Built-in visor

It permanently seals with the helmet. This type of visors is part of the entire structure of the helmet. They are long enough to keep rain and sunlight out of your eyes.

ii. Detachable visor

You can remove and reattach this type of visor from your helmet. The detachable visor comes in different forms like an eye shield and sun visor. You can replace a detachable visor according to your riding habit and weather conditions.

VIII. Impact-absorbing MIPS technologies

If you want to ride the bike with greater peace of mind then you should purchase a helmet that comes with MIPS technology. Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) technology lets the helmet slide relative to the head. it adds more protection against the rotational force which causes brain injury. It does this by using slip-planes. Helmets with this technology are marked with a small yellow logo. And best mountain bike helmets with MIPS technology are relatively expensive.

Conclusion

After doing research over several models, we are able to shortlist these 13 best MTB helmets. I described every helmet with its unique features. All of these are highly desirable best-selling helmets. This article will help you to choose the helmet that most accurately suits your riding needs. If I share my experience my favorite mountain bike helmet among these isIt best suits my taste and requirements. And I hope after reading this article, you have found your best mountain bike helmet.

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