The 7 Best Bike Helmets To Protect Your Head And Ride In Total Comfort

Weight: 0.64 pounds | Vents: 10 | Sizes: Small, medium, large

The Propero 4 represents the latest in lid technology from Specialized. As the offspring of the California brand’s renowned S-Works Evade 3 and S-Works Prevail 3 helmets, it features an improved ventilation system and aero advantages to deliver a comfortable, streamlined fit without looking like a true aero helmet.

Scoring a perfect five-star helmet rating from Virginia Tech, the Propero 4’s efficiency comes backed by superior protection. Under the hood, Specialized’s FS3 Fit System pairs with MIPS technology to keep the helmet in place and absorb angular impacts. Micro adjustments also make it easy to wear your favorite glasses, and small outer vents on either temple allow you to store your shades when they’re not on your face.

After wearing the Propero 4 for the past couple of weeks, Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta especially likes the improved venting system that circulates air through the helmet, cooling your head and neck as you pedal. “The enhanced airflow pairs with a lightweight design that almost makes it feel as if you aren’t wearing a helmet at all,” he explains. “I wish it were a little less expensive, but the sticker price still falls below Specialized’s top-tier lids.”

Pros:

• Improved ventilation structure keeps your head cool
• Easy-to-adjust fitment system
• It’s pricey at $200, but less expensive than true S-Works helmets

Cons:

• Fit is geared towards oval head shapes

Weight: 1.5 lbs (Medium) | Vents: 6 | Sizes: Small, medium, large

With Thousand’s vibrant graphics and grade-A dome protection, this woman-owned brand takes the cake when it comes to value-driven helmets. While the Heritage 2.0’s shell is made from ABS plastic instead of polycarbonate (which makes it just a bit heavier), it features six exterior vents and interior cooling channels to improve ventilation.

Protective foam padding makes for a comfortable fit, and the structure of the helmet itself can accommodate a wider range of head shapes. A visor brim blocks sun and debris from getting in your eyes while the pinch-free magnetic buckle makes the helmet easy to get on and off.

In addition to the integrated magnetic taillight (sold separately), the Heritage 2.0 has another fun safety feature that’s isn’t exactly common. Behind the helmet’s logo mark is a hidden channel that’s designed for cyclists to slip their U-Lock or chain through. Not only does this make helmet storage super handy when locking up, but the helmet is also backed by Thousand’s Anti-Theft Guarantee. If your helmet is stolen while it’s locked up, they’ll replace it for free.

Pros:

• Affordable at less than $100
• Many colors and patterns to choose from
• Simple, universal styling that’s perfect for commutes or casual rides

Cons:

• Fairly heavy
• Not many vents

Weight: 0.65 pounds | Vents: 21 | Sizes: Small, medium, large

The Aether is Giro’s top-of-the-line cycling helmet with an excellent array of features that many riders believe more than justifies the price. To start, the helmet improves upon the standard MIPS design by nixing the plastic strip plane and using technology that integrates protection directly between layers of EPS foam. The result is a lighter helmet that many would argue is also more comfortable.

Another important aspect of the design is the arch that runs across the top of the helmet and adds structural reinforcement. The six-piece polycarbonate shell has wide air vents in between, plus deep channels inside to maximize airflow, so the quality of the ventilation is as good as it gets.

The fit can also be customized in three directions, including one that lifts the helmet slightly off the head for better cooling. In addition to the helmet’s exceptional venting and safety features, it also has useful details like a super-adjustable fit system and sunglass ports to keep your shades in place as you stop for a mid-ride coffee.

Surprised by the low price? Don’t be. This is a high-end helmet with all the bells and whistles but because it’s technically a previous-gen model, you can take advantage of the lower price tag. While some colors and sizes top out at $349, others are far less expensive.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight
• Very well-ventilated
• Available in multiple colorways

Cons:

• Some riders don’t want a previous-gen lid

Weight: 0.84 pounds | Vents: 19 | Sizes: Small-Large

The Fox Speedframe Pro Helmet redefines excellence in mountain biking headwear, seamlessly blending advanced safety features with unparalleled comfort and performance. Designed with attention to detail, it stands out as a top choice for riders seeking uncompromising protection on the trails.

Engineered with MIPS technology and a dual-density EPS liner, the Speedframe Pro delivers optimal impact absorption by mitigating rotational forces and reducing the risk of head injuries. Its 19 strategically placed vents promote airflow, keeping you cool and focused during demanding rides. The adjustable visor enhances visibility while the Fidlock magnetic buckle and 360-degree fit system offer hassle-free adjustments for a secure and personalized fit. Lightweight yet rugged, it delivers a blend of comfort, safety and performance that instills confidence on any terrain, making it a preferred choice for discerning dirt riders.

Pros:

• Plenty of airflow courtesy of 19 vents
• 360-degree fit system delivers secure, comfortable positioning
• Style points for the sleek design and fun colorways

Cons:

• Not quite as comfortable as other Fox MTB helmets

Weight: 0.87 pounds | Vents: 20 | Sizes: Small, medium, large

While the Smith Forefront 2 MIPS is technically on its way out, we really like that it works well for casual commuters, road cyclists or mountain bikers in need of full coverage for a variety of tasks. Shred some mountain trails in the morning, then strap it on for a casual errand-running ride in the afternoon.

Like most mountain bike helmets, it comes with a handy visor to keep the sun (or debris) out of your eyes when you’re on the trail. The three-position visor also moves up and down to offer eyewear integration, so you can stash your shades right on the helmet. And when glasses or goggles are on your face, AirEvac channels promote airflow to prevent them from fogging up.

MIPS technology, paired with a lightweight Aerocore in-mold construction, patented Koroyd material and an integrated skeletal structure make this one of the safest helmets on the market. Internal air channels combine with 20 optimized vents and open intake and exhaust ports to maximize ventilation while a cooling liner helps prevent your head from overheating. The VaporFit adjustable fit system makes it easy to find a secure fit in seconds and the integrated camera and light mounts mean you’ll always be able to see what’s ahead (and behind) you while capturing footage if you feel so inclined.

Pros:

• Superb safety construction
• Eyewear, light and camera integration points
• Lots of color options to choose from

Cons:

• Still a bit pricey for a value-driven helmet
• This style is on it’s way out, so be sure to snag it while you can

Weight: N/A | Vents: 10 | Sizes: Youth Small-Adult XL

While some helmets can be used across categories, BMX and mountain bikers who plan to hit gnarly trails loaded with obstacles simply cannot get away with a commuter or road helmet. In some cases, a standard mountain biking helmet may not even provide the protection you need.

This is where full-face helmets come into play. Sure, they’re a lot bulkier and heavier than pretty much every single other helmet on the market, but if you’re a rough rider hitting rugged trails or downhills, you may not be able to get away with anything less. As such, riders may want to opt for a full face helmet that’s designed to protect every aspect of your head.

The Mongoose Title Full Face helmet is ideal for BMX riders and mountain bikers who require maximum face and head protection but don’t want to be bogged down by the added weight (and cost) that’s frequently associated with full face helmets. This helmet’s ABS hardshell construction provides lightweight durability along with full coverage padding for 360 degrees of comfort. It comes with 10 air vents, a pivoting visor, a goggle strap channel and it can suit a wide range of riders, as it’s available in eight sizes for both youth and adults.

Pros:

• Available in both youth and adult sizes
• Full coverage padding and protection

Cons:

• Available in a limited number of colors

Weight: 0.71 pounds | Vents: 16 | Sizes: One size

Whether your little one is riding down a suburban street, in the driveway or along a winding bike trail, they need just as much protection (if not more) as adult riders. The Fixture MIPS II youth helmet from Giro appeals to kids with bright, fun colors and it also has an integrated sun shield to keep the sun out of their eyes. Parents will appreciate that the helmet provides a high level of protection: In addition to an easy-to-adjust fit system that delivers a proper fit, the helmet has 16 vents for breathability and comfort, further ensuring they keep it on at all times. The helmet is made with MIPS technology, which redirects energy and provides more protection during angular impacts to help protect your young rider.

Pros:

• Bright, fun colors that kids will love
• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited colorways