Best Mountain Bike Helmets

The Bell Super 3R is expensive, there are no two ways about it. This is the model that's been designed to accommodate not only MTBs but also electric MTBs and even motorcycles. The full-face construction is convertible to open-face, so you can switch between extra comfort and extra protection. The no-twist tri-glides that are using quick-adjust fasteners make sure the straps remain flat and positioned properly. Meanwhile, the GoggleGuide Adjustable Visor system will be able to accommodate both glasses and goggles, working with as well as without the visor attached.

Above this system, there's an integrated camera mount that's so seamless you won't need zip ties and tapes to attach the camera to the helmet. Plus, the mount's designed to break away upon impact, reducing injury risks.

The MIPS™ system goes without saying since premium MTB helmets do not come without it these days. What does not go without saying is the silver fibers the padding is woven with, minimizing bacteria and fungi buildups. On the negative side, the helmet's pretty heavy but that's to be expected when you take into account the adaptable construction and its convertible design.

Bottom line, from grinding climbs at low speeds to wide-open descends from rowdy trails, this mountain bike helmet will be there for you, adapting to different riding scenes and protecting from impact.

The Troy Lee Designs A2 Jet is quite close to what most riders want when trying to find that perfect balance between comfort and safety. The helmet's pretty lightweight and not too obtrusive yet packing enough protection means to ensure that most falls lead to no major issues.

First and foremost, we have the Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS™) with low-friction padding reducing the rotational motion that's transferred to the brain from angled impacts to the head. To go with MIPS and the obligatory X-Static™ padding that are premium mountain bike helmets are using nowadays, the model's also adopting dual-density EPP + EPS liners that provide extra protection against low- and high-speed impacts.

Plus, aside from reducing impact, the above-mentioned padding will be reducing odor buildups and increasing moisture-wicking, all while ensuring an optimized fit. On the fit subject, there are also semi-adjustable chin strap dividers with their low profile that accommodate all head shapes.

All things considered, even without mentioning the company's awesome break-away visor screws, the Troy Lee Designs A2 Jet is among the best MTB helmets you can find, comfortable, secure, and well-ventilated to support and sustain the most ambitious riding ventures.

The Giro Fixture is that affordable helmet that you can even compare to premium models from some perspectives, with the helmet's price not even approaching these high-end, expensive models.

The biggest contributor here that makes the comparisons valid is the Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS™) that's usually reserved for pricey helmets, redirecting energy when you crash into something and minimizing the rotational force that comes from some impacts. Besides MIPS, the model's featuring UniversalFit™ sizing, sculpted not only with boosting the appearance aspirations but also making the helmet fit most heads on the first try. When that's not the case though, the Roc Loc Sport fit system will allow you to adjust this helmet within seconds.

With the product's low price and MIPS addition, trade-offs are inevitable. The model's EPS lining is not a trade-off in and of itself since that's what most mid-range MTB helmets are adopting these days but the padding loses its volume with time, so those riders who are prone to testing the helmet might be forced to replace the padding within the first ~2 years.

Apart from that, when the dirt is calling, the Giro Fixture is there to answer that call with you, offering reliable protection and a snug fit.

The Demon United Podium puts safety above anything and everything else. This relatively low-profile helmet is lightweight (~2 pounds) and durable but, before that, the in-mold polycarbonate makes the model tough enough to handle most impacts. You can choose not only between different paintworks but also helmets with and without MIPS. The sizes sometimes run small though, so we'd recommend taking that into account too.

Not unlike most mid-range models, this one comes equipped with EPS lining. Here though, the lining is removable and washable, so you'll be able to keep the helmet's inside nice and neat and, with the material's quick-drying properties, hit the trails without waiting ages for the lining to dry out.

The model's full-face design is not as lightweight as its counterparts with an open-face profile, that much is certain. What else is certain is that the helmet will be able to protect your chin and your jaws, something that you cannot say about open-face models. Also, with 13 strategically placed vents, the helmet will be keeping the air flowing even during the hottest summer months.

In short, the Demon United Podium is what you bring to those trails where face plants are more likely than most outcomes.

The Exclusky Adult Mountain Bike Helmet is about as inexpensive as MTB helmets get without sacrificing safety and security. With multi-density EPS foam inside, the helmet will be effectively absorbing impact energy and reducing serious injury chances, while the extended rear-shaped construction will be protecting even the head's cranial part. On the other side, you have the fully adjustable visor that you can move upward when necessary to secure the broadest sight and reverse the movement when the sun gets too obstructive.

Besides the visor, you have the standard chip strap but also this single-hand dial retention system in the back, which are important since most injuries occur when the helmet is too small or too large. The chin strap does not last though but, considering the helmet's affordable price, you can replace the strap and still pay much less than you'd pay for most helmets with comparable specs.

Last but not least, the model's armed with 18 vents that promote great circulation. These vents are insect-proof, not only preventing most bugs but also some elements from getting inside.

To sum up, without paying through the nose, the Exclusky Adult Mountain Bike Helmet will let you explore the roughest, most rugged mountain trails with style and confidence.