Best Mountain Bike Helmets for 2024

Mountain biking is an exciting and challenging outdoor activity that requires a lot of physical exertion and skill. It’s also a sport that involves a certain degree of risk. That’s why it’s important to have the right equipment, including a high-quality mountain bike helmet.

Mountain bike helmets are designed to protect your head from impacts and reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of a fall or collision. They come in a variety of styles and designs, but all good helmets share a few key features. They should fit comfortably and securely, provide adequate ventilation, and meet safety standards set by organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

When shopping for a mountain bike helmet, it’s important to pay attention to the type of riding you’ll be doing. Different styles of helmets are designed for different types of riding, such as cross-country, downhill, and enduro. Other factors to consider include the helmet’s weight, ventilation, and adjustability.

After researching and testing various options, I’ve identified the best mountain bike helmets on the market. These helmets offer superior protection, comfort, and style, making them ideal for any level of rider. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you can ride with confidence knowing you’re wearing one of the best mountain bike helmets available.

Best Mountain Bike Helmets

As an avid mountain biker, I know how important it is to have a reliable and comfortable helmet. That’s why I’ve put together a list of the best mountain bike helmets on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these helmets will provide the protection and comfort you need for your next ride. So, without further ado, here are my top picks for the best mountain bike helmets.

Giro Fixture MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable mountain bike helmet, the Giro Fixture MIPS is a great choice.

Pros

• The MIPS technology offers additional protection in case of impact.
• The 18 Wind Tunnel vents provide excellent ventilation, which is especially important on hot days.
• The universal fit sizing ensures that you’ll get the right fit straight out of the box.

Cons

• The limited color options may not appeal to everyone.
• The visor is not adjustable, which may be a drawback for some riders.
• The helmet may not be as durable as some higher-end models.

I recently purchased the Giro Fixture MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet and have been very happy with my purchase. The helmet fits comfortably and securely, and the MIPS technology provides an added sense of safety and security. The ventilation is excellent, even on hot days, and the helmet is lightweight and easy to adjust.

One potential drawback is that the color options are limited, and the visor is not adjustable. Additionally, while the helmet feels sturdy and well-made, it may not be as durable as some higher-end models.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Giro Fixture MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet to anyone in the market for a reliable and affordable helmet.

Smith Convoy MTB Cycling Helmet

If you’re in the market for a high-quality mountain bike helmet, the Smith Convoy MTB Cycling Helmet is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Tailor-made for your head with a comfortable fit
• MIPS Safety Protection System and CPSC & CE EN 1078 certified for maximum protection
• 20 fixed vents for consistent airflow and AirEvac system to integrate with Smith eyewear to eliminate foggy lenses

Cons

• Only available in white
• May not fit larger head sizes comfortably
• More expensive than some other options on the market

I recently purchased the Smith Convoy MTB Cycling Helmet and have been extremely impressed with its performance. The helmet is lightweight and fits my head perfectly thanks to the adjustable dial on the back. The MIPS Safety Protection System and CPSC & CE EN 1078 certification give me peace of mind knowing that I am well-protected while out on the trails.

The 20 fixed vents provide excellent airflow, keeping me cool even on the hottest days. The AirEvac system is also a great feature, as it integrates with my Smith eyewear to prevent foggy lenses.

The only downside to this helmet is that it only comes in white, which may not be everyone’s preferred color. Additionally, some users with larger head sizes have reported that the helmet can be a bit tight and uncomfortable. Finally, the Smith Convoy MTB Cycling Helmet is more expensive than some other options on the market, which may not fit everyone’s budget.

Overall, I highly recommend the Smith Convoy MTB Cycling Helmet to anyone in the market for a high-quality, comfortable, and well-ventilated mountain bike helmet.

EXCLUSKY Mountain Bike Helmet

If you’re looking for a lightweight, comfortable mountain bike helmet that offers great protection, then the EXCLUSKY Mountain Bike Helmet is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The helmet is incredibly lightweight, which makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
• The ventilation system is well-designed, allowing air to flow through the helmet and keep you cool on hot days.
• The single-hand dial retention system is easy to adjust, so you can get the perfect fit for your head.

Cons

• The visor is a little flimsy and may not stay in place during rough rides.
• The sizing may not be accurate for all head sizes, so be sure to measure before purchasing.
• The helmet may not provide as much coverage as some other mountain bike helmets.

I recently had the pleasure of trying out the EXCLUSKY Mountain Bike Helmet, and I have to say that I’m impressed with its performance. The helmet is incredibly lightweight, which makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The ventilation system is also well-designed, allowing air to flow through the helmet and keep you cool on hot days.

One of the standout features of the EXCLUSKY Mountain Bike Helmet is the single-hand dial retention system. This system is easy to adjust, so you can get the perfect fit for your head. It also means that you can make adjustments on the fly, without having to stop and take off the helmet.

While the visor is a nice addition, it is a little flimsy and may not stay in place during rough rides. Additionally, the sizing may not be accurate for all head sizes, so be sure to measure before purchasing. Finally, the helmet may not provide as much coverage as some other mountain bike helmets.

Overall, I would definitely recommend the EXCLUSKY Mountain Bike Helmet to anyone looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and well-ventilated helmet. It offers great protection and is perfect for both recreational and more serious riders.

SMITH Forefront 2 MTB Cycle Helmet

If you’re looking for a high-quality mountain bike helmet, the SMITH Forefront 2 MTB Cycle Helmet is an excellent option.

Pros

• The helmet offers complete Koroyd coverage for lightweight, energy-absorbing, and ventilated impact protection, making it an ideal choice for mountain biking.
• With 20 fixed vents, an Ionic+ lining for sweat-activated odor control, and lightweight, low-bulk single-layer webbing, you’ll stay cool and comfortable on even the most challenging rides.
• The VaporFit dial system offers 270-degree fit adjustment at the turn of a dial, ensuring a comfortable fit for both men and women.

Cons

• The helmet is quite pricey, making it a significant investment for anyone who wants to purchase it.
• Some users may find the helmet to be a bit tight across the temples, which can be uncomfortable during long rides.
• The helmet may not be suitable for those with larger heads, as it only comes in one size.

Overall, the SMITH Forefront 2 MTB Cycle Helmet is an excellent choice for anyone who is serious about mountain biking. The helmet offers complete protection, excellent ventilation, and a comfortable fit, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced riders alike.

The helmet is designed to be both lightweight and durable, so you can wear it on even the most challenging rides without worrying about it breaking or becoming damaged. Additionally, the helmet is available in a range of colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your personal style.

In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality mountain bike helmet that offers complete protection, excellent ventilation, and a comfortable fit, the SMITH Forefront 2 MTB Cycle Helmet is an excellent choice. It may be a bit pricey, but it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to take their mountain biking to the next level.

Demon Podium Full Face Bike Helmet

If you’re looking for a lightweight, stylish, and highly adjustable mountain bike helmet, then the Demon Podium Full Face Bike Helmet is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The graphics and design of this helmet are inspired by the Demon Team, making it a great choice for riders who want to look good while staying safe.
• The fully adjustable visor with aluminum side visor screws is a nice touch, allowing you to customize the helmet to your liking.
• The tough injection-molded thermal alloy resin polycarbonate shell and EPS foam liner provide superior protection and fit, while the 13 convenient air flow vents keep you cool and comfortable during long rides.

Cons

• The helmet is only available in one size (large), which may not fit all riders comfortably.
• The tan/black color scheme may not be to everyone’s taste.
• The price point is higher than some other mountain bike helmets on the market.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Demon Podium Full Face Bike Helmet to any mountain biker looking for a high-quality, durable, and stylish helmet. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and provides excellent protection, making it a great choice for riders of all skill levels.

In my experience, the helmet is easy to adjust and fits snugly without feeling too tight. The removable, washable helmet liner is a nice touch, allowing you to keep your helmet clean and fresh after long rides.

One thing to keep in mind is that the helmet is designed for mountain biking, so it may not be the best choice for other types of cycling. However, if you’re a serious mountain biker looking for a top-of-the-line helmet, then the Demon Podium Full Face Bike Helmet is definitely worth considering.

Smith Mainline Cycling Helmet

If you’re looking for a high-quality mountain bike helmet with excellent protection, ventilation, and comfort, the Smith Mainline Cycling Helmet is a great choice.

Pros

• Lightweight and comfortable fit
• Excellent ventilation to keep you cool and prevent fogging
• Superior protection with Koroyd coverage and MIPS technology

Cons

• Slightly expensive compared to other helmets in its class
• Limited color options
• Cheek pad kits are not as easy to remove as other helmets

I’ve been using the Smith Mainline Cycling Helmet for a few months now, and I’m impressed with its quality and performance. The helmet is lightweight, so it doesn’t feel bulky or uncomfortable on my head. It also has a comfortable fit with multiple padding sets that allow me to fine-tune the fit to my liking.

One of the best features of the Smith Mainline Cycling Helmet is its excellent ventilation. With 21 fixed vents, the helmet provides consistent airflow to keep me cool and prevent fogging on my glasses or goggles. The hybrid X-Static/Ionic+ lining also helps with sweat-activated odor control, so I don’t have to worry about any unpleasant smells.

Most importantly, the Smith Mainline Cycling Helmet offers superior protection with its Koroyd coverage and MIPS technology. The helmet is CPSC CE EN 1078, ASTM F1952 downhill, and NTA-8776 E-Bike certified, so I feel confident wearing it on any trail or terrain.

Overall, I highly recommend the Smith Mainline Cycling Helmet for anyone looking for a top-quality mountain bike helmet with excellent protection, ventilation, and comfort.

Fox Racing Dropframe Pro Mountain Bike Helmet Medium DVIDE – Nutmeg

If you’re in the market for a new mountain bike helmet, the Fox Racing Dropframe Pro is a great option. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and offers more coverage than most open-face helmets.

Pros

• The dual-density Varizorb EPS liner provides excellent impact protection.
• The MIPS system reduces rotational forces in a crash.
• The helmet offers increased coverage for the ears, jaw, and back of the head.

Cons

• Some users may find the helmet runs small.
• The fixed visor may not be adjustable enough for some riders.
• The helmet is on the pricier side.

I recently purchased the Fox Racing Dropframe Pro and have been very impressed with its performance. The helmet is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to wear for long periods of time. The dual-density Varizorb EPS liner provides excellent impact protection, and I feel confident knowing that my head is well-protected while riding.

The MIPS system is another great feature of this helmet. It helps to reduce rotational forces in the event of a crash, which can help to prevent serious head injuries. Additionally, the helmet offers increased coverage for the ears, jaw, and back of the head, which is a nice bonus for riders who want a little extra protection.

One potential downside of the Fox Racing Dropframe Pro is that it may run small. Some users have reported that the helmet feels tight, so it’s important to make sure you get the right size. Additionally, the fixed visor may not be adjustable enough for some riders, which could be a problem if you’re looking for a helmet with more customization options.

Overall, I would definitely recommend the Fox Racing Dropframe Pro to anyone in the market for a new mountain bike helmet. While it may be on the pricier side, the helmet’s excellent performance and added safety features make it well worth the investment.

Troy Lee Designs Adult | Trail | All Mountain | Mountain Bike A1 MIPS Classic Helmet

If you want a comfortable and stylish helmet for your mountain biking adventures, you should consider the Troy Lee Designs A1 MIPS Classic Helmet.

Pros

• The helmet’s triple position adjustable retention system allows for a customized fit for various eyewear, head shape, and riding styles.
• The single-piece ultra-plush comfort liner is removable and washable, made of moisture-wicking material for a dry, comfortable feel.
• The reinforced polycarbonate shell, in-molded with the EPS liner, extends down the sides and back of the head for maximum coverage and durability.

Cons

• The helmet is not intended for motorized use.
• The visor adjustment requires unscrewing the three screws under the visor, and the middle one is a bit awkward to reach.
• The price may be higher than some other options on the market.

In my experience, the Troy Lee Designs A1 MIPS Classic Helmet is a great choice for those who want a high-quality helmet that is both comfortable and stylish. The adjustable retention system ensures a secure fit, while the removable and washable comfort liner keeps you dry and comfortable during long rides.

The helmet’s reinforced polycarbonate shell provides maximum coverage and durability, making it a safe option for any mountain biking adventure. However, it’s important to note that this helmet is not intended for motorized use.

One minor drawback is that adjusting the visor requires unscrewing the three screws under the visor, and the middle one is a bit awkward to reach. Additionally, the price may be higher than some other options on the market.

Overall, I highly recommend the Troy Lee Designs A1 MIPS Classic Helmet for anyone in the market for a comfortable and stylish mountain bike helmet.

SMITH Engage MTB Cycling Helmet – Adult Mountain Bike Helmet with MIPS Technology + Koroyd Coverage – Lightweight Impact Protection for Men & Women – Adjustable Visor Matte Amethyst Large

If you’re looking for a mountain bike helmet that is lightweight, comfortable, and provides excellent protection, the SMITH Engage MTB Cycling Helmet is a great choice.

Pros

• The helmet is lightweight, which makes it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
• The MIPS technology and Koroyd coverage provide excellent impact protection.
• The helmet has 20 fixed vents for consistent airflow, which helps keep you cool and prevents foggy lenses.

Cons

• The helmet is only available in one color (Matte Amethyst).
• The helmet may not fit all head shapes and sizes.
• The helmet is more expensive than some other mountain bike helmets on the market.

I recently purchased the SMITH Engage MTB Cycling Helmet and have been very impressed with its performance. The helmet is incredibly lightweight, which makes it comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Despite its lightweight design, the helmet still provides excellent protection thanks to the MIPS technology and Koroyd coverage. I feel confident wearing this helmet on even the most challenging mountain bike trails.

One of the things I love about this helmet is the 20 fixed vents, which provide consistent airflow to keep me cool and prevent foggy lenses. The Ionic+ lining also helps control sweat and prevent odor buildup. The visor is adjustable and can be moved into two positions, which is a nice feature for riders who wear glasses or goggles.

While I love this helmet, there are a few downsides to consider. The helmet is only available in one color (Matte Amethyst), which may not be to everyone’s liking. Additionally, the helmet may not fit all head shapes and sizes, so it’s important to try it on before purchasing. Finally, the helmet is more expensive than some other mountain bike helmets on the market, which may be a concern for budget-conscious riders.

Overall, I would highly recommend the SMITH Engage MTB Cycling Helmet to anyone looking for a high-quality mountain bike helmet that provides excellent protection and comfort.

Fox Racing SPEEDFRAME Helmet

If you’re searching for a mountain bike helmet that offers premium features at an affordable price, the Fox Racing SPEEDFRAME Helmet is an excellent choice. It’s designed to provide maximum protection and comfort while you’re shredding the trails.

Pros

• The MIPS impact protection system reduces rotational forces in a crash, providing an extra layer of safety.
• The moisture-wicking comfort liner is removable and washable, ensuring that your helmet stays fresh and clean.
• The helmet’s optimized venting with channeled, in-molded EPS provides efficient cooling, keeping you cool and comfortable during long rides.

Cons

• The helmet is available in only one color, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
• Some users may find the 360 fit system to be a bit complicated to use, especially if they’re new to mountain biking.
• The helmet’s goggle compatible 3-position adjustable visor may not be suitable for all types of goggles.

Overall, the Fox Racing SPEEDFRAME Helmet is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality mountain bike helmet that offers premium features at an affordable price. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and provides excellent protection, making it an ideal choice for all types of riders.

The helmet’s MIPS impact protection system is a standout feature, as it provides an extra layer of safety in the event of a crash. The removable, washable moisture-wicking comfort liner is also a great feature, as it helps to keep the helmet fresh and clean.

The helmet’s optimized venting with channeled, in-molded EPS is another great feature, as it provides efficient cooling, keeping you cool and comfortable during long rides. The 360 fit system allows you to dial in your perfect fit every ride, making it easy to get the perfect fit.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality mountain bike helmet that offers premium features at an affordable price, the Fox Racing SPEEDFRAME Helmet is an excellent choice.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a mountain bike helmet, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best product. Here are some features to look for:

Fit

A proper fit is crucial for a helmet to provide the best protection. You want a helmet that fits snugly but comfortably on your head. Look for helmets with adjustable straps and padding to ensure a proper fit.

Safety Standards

Make sure the helmet you choose meets safety standards set by organizations such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the European Committee for Standardization (CE). Look for stickers or labels on the helmet that indicate it meets these standards.

Ventilation

Mountain biking can be a sweaty activity, so you want a helmet that provides adequate ventilation to keep you cool. Look for helmets with plenty of vents and channels to allow air to flow through.

Coverage

A good mountain bike helmet should provide coverage to protect your head and face from impacts. Look for helmets with extended rear coverage and a visor to shield your eyes from the sun and debris.

Weight

A heavy helmet can be uncomfortable and can cause neck fatigue on long rides. Look for helmets that are lightweight but still provide adequate protection.

Visor

A visor can be a useful feature to have on a mountain bike helmet. It can help shield your eyes from the sun and provide extra protection from debris. Look for helmets with adjustable visors that can be moved up or down depending on the conditions.

By considering these features, you can find a mountain bike helmet that fits well, provides adequate protection, and meets your needs for comfort and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a high-quality mountain bike helmet?

When looking for a high-quality mountain bike helmet, there are several features that you should consider. First and foremost, the helmet should be certified by a reputable safety organization like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the European Committee for Standardization (CE). Additionally, the helmet should have a secure and comfortable fit, with adjustable straps and a retention system. Look for helmets with good ventilation, lightweight construction, and removable and washable padding.

How do I choose the right size when buying a mountain bike helmet?

Choosing the right size for your mountain bike helmet is crucial for ensuring proper protection and comfort. To determine your helmet size, measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows and ears with a tape measure. Match this measurement with the sizing chart provided by the helmet manufacturer. If you are between sizes, it is generally recommended to go with the larger size for a more comfortable fit.

Is it necessary to get a full-face helmet for mountain biking?

Whether or not you need a full-face helmet for mountain biking depends on the type of riding you plan to do. Full-face helmets offer more protection for your face and chin and are typically recommended for downhill or freeride mountain biking. However, if you primarily ride cross-country or trail, a standard half-shell helmet may provide adequate protection.

What are some recommended mountain bike helmets for those on a budget?

If you are on a budget, there are still plenty of high-quality mountain bike helmets available. Some recommended options include the Giro Fixture MIPS, Bell Nomad MIPS, and Fox Proframe MIPS. These helmets offer good protection and comfort at a more affordable price point.

How often should I replace my mountain bike helmet?

It is generally recommended to replace your mountain bike helmet every 3-5 years, or after any significant impact or crash. Over time, the materials in the helmet can degrade and become less effective at protecting your head.

Can a mountain bike helmet really reduce the risk of concussion, and which models offer the best protection?

While no helmet can completely eliminate the risk of concussion, wearing a properly fitting and certified mountain bike helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injury. Some models that offer excellent protection include the Bell Super DH MIPS, Giro Switchblade MIPS, and Fox Proframe MIPS.