There’s nothing worse than waking up in a hospital and not remembering your last ride. Armed with a quality mountain bike helmet, however, you can tackle the gnarliest of terrain knowing ytrour dome will be well-protected when speeding down downhills or dissecting sketchy singletrack.
Unfortunately, for most mountain bikers, choosing the best mountain bike helmet is tougher than tackling the toughest of trails. This guide aims to solve this problem once and for all.
With years of experience shredding the trails and hours of testing put in to create this guide and the most in-depth mountain bike helmet reviews on the Web, you’re about to discover the best mountain bike helmets on the market and how to choose the right one for you. Happy riding!
Our Top 10 Mountain Bike Helmet Comparison Chart
| Model: | Our review: |
|---|---|
Bell Super 2 MIPS Helmet | Our Review |
Bell Sanction BMX/Downhill MTB Helmet | Our Review |
Kali Protectives Avatar 2 Carbon Mountain Bike Helmet | Our Review |
Best Mountain Bike Helmet Reviews
Bell Super 2 MIPS Helmet
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If you like to get your adrenaline flowing on downhills and feel your muscles burn during enduros, you can’t go wrong with the Bell Super 2 MIPS Helmet. Arguably the best mtb helmet for the money on the market today, this impressive Bell is also one of the most versatile and provides quite a lot of bang for the buck.
Similar to modular motorcycle helmets, the Bell Super 2 is convertible, allowing you to go from a full face to a half-shell helmet in just a few seconds. So, if you’re reading this mountain bike helmet review to find an all-mountain helmet suitable for every type of riding, you’ve found it.
In addition to its versatility, this super cool helmet features 23 air vents, MIPS technology for an added layer of protection, breakaway screws, integrated breakaway camera mount, and an adjustable visor system. It’s truly one of the best values around.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- 2-in-1 modular design;
- MIPS technology;
- Strong and lightweight fusion in-mold polycarbonate shell;
- Good ventilation;
- Looks great;
- Well-priced.
CONS:
- Fits a bit small due to MIPS.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]Designed for all-mountain riders who like to do it all and walk away at the end, the Bell Super 2 MIPS Helmet is well-crafted and one of the most versatile mtb helmets you’re hard-earned money can buy. If you simply want a good mountain bike helmet, look elsewhere. However, if you want one of the best, this versatile Bell may have you name all over it.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Fox Flux MTB Helmet
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Fox is known for making top-quality mtb gear, and the Fox Flux MTB Helmet is one of the brand’s best. The extremely popular trail helmet has tons of positive mountain bike helmet reviews and provides ample protection for the toughest of trails.
To do so, the Fox Flux features an extended EPS shell for added coverage. It also features 20 air vents, an awesome ratchet retention system for a great fit, removable padding, and a removable visor, making it super comfortable and one of the top mountain bike helmets in the business. For under $100, it’s a good value as well.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Strong and lightweight EPS shell;
- Extended coverage for added protection;
- Great airflow;
- Easy-to-use fit retention system;
- Lightweight;
- Very popular.
CONS:
- Visor may unsnap during a spill.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]The Fox Flux MTB Helmet is pound for pound one of the top mountain bike helmet options you’re going to find anywhere. With extended coverage, a lightweight design, excellent ventilation, and a comfortable fit, it’s not only one of the most popular mtb helmets, it’s one of the best as well.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Bell Sanction BMX/Downhill MTB Helmet
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There are a lot of cool mountain bike helmets out there these days, but the moto-inspired Bell Sanction BMX/Downhill MTB Helmet may take the cake.
While cool, this aggressively styled full face helmet is also one of the safest mountain bike helmet options as well. With a hand-laminated fiberglass shell and full face protection, you can feel confident wearing it for jumps, Super-D, and riding all over the mountain.
Weighing in at 950 grams, the Bell Sanction is also rather lightweight for a full face helmet. Combined with its 15 air vents and low price tag, it’s surprisingly comfortable and budget-friendly given the protection it provides. Just make sure to order a size or two up as it’s designed for smaller riders.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Cool moto-inspired design;
- Full face protection;
- Striking good looks;
- Fully ventilated;
- Adjustable visor.
CONS:
- Fit is quite snug.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]The Bell Sanction is one of the best mtb helmets for today’s cash-strapped downhill riders. For under $100, you get handcrafted full face protection with plenty of comfort and style to boot. Can’t argue with that!
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]POC Receptor Flow Bike Helmet
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Mixing things up, the skateboard and street BMX-inspired POC Receptor Flow Bike Helmet is all about comfort with a fair share of protection mixed in.
Speaking of protection, the POC features a top-quality EPS liner that’s perfectly in-molded to not one but two shells for maximum protection in the most crucial areas. Although it lacks a chin bar, it’s one of the safest mtb helmets around.
Like many of the stellar helmets mentioned in these mtb helmet reviews, the POC Receptor also possesses an adjustable fit system and decent ventilation to keep your dome comfy and your mind on what’s in front of you. If you’re an urban rider and not necessarily looking for the best xc mountain bike helmet, the POC Receptor is a great choice.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Fresh urban style;
- In-mold construction with dual-shell;
- Solid fit system;
- Low-profile.
CONS:
- Could use a few more air vents.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]The POC Receptor Flow Bike Helmet is a unique street-inspired mtb helmet designed for today’s style and safety-conscious urban riders. If that sounds like you, this POC won’t disappoint. With unparalleled protection in all of the right places, it’s the perfect lid for jumping stairs, sliding down rails, and tearing up the local trails.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Giro Remedy Carbon Fiber Bike Helmet
If money is of little concern and you want what many riders consider the best mountain bike helmet money can buy, say hello to the Giro remedy Carbon Fiber Bike Helmet! Developed for riders who push the limits of progression, it’s the perfect helmet for making mince meat of the gnarliest downhills.
As one of today’s top rated mountain bike helmets, the Giro remedy features an ultra-strong and lightweight carbon-composite shell, EVA-lined chin bar, EPS liner, tool-free bolt-on visor, and 14 perfectly placed asir vents with internal channeling. With rock star good looks as well, it’s hands down one of the best downhill helmets around.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Extremely lightweight carbon fiber shell;
- Very stylish and attractive;
- Great fit;
- Super comfortable;
- Excellent ventilation.
CONS:
- Expensive.
Conclusion
[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]There are some pretty awesome helmets discussed in these mountain bike helmet reviews, but the Giro Remedy Carbon Fiber Bike Helmet definitely stands out from the crowd. It’s lightweight, super comfortable, looks great, and provides incredible full face protection. In other words, it screams quality in every way.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Fox Men’s Transition Hard Shell Helmet
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If urban or park riding is more up your alley and you’re looking for a rough and ready bike helmet that’s down for anything, the Fox Men’s Transition Hard Shell Helmet may be right for you.
This street-inspired Fox mtb helmet is right at home on the streets and equipped with an ABS outer shell, EPS liner, removable and washable micro-suede liner, and 11 large venting ports for excellent airflow on the hottest of summer days. With a comfortable, easy-to-adjust chin strap and a low price tag as well, it’s a great value in every sense of the word.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Very affordable;
- Stylish urban look;
- Designed to take a beating;
- Very comfortable;
- Nice suede liner;
- Excellent ventilation.
CONS:
- Not ideal for downhills or advanced trails.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]If you’re idea of the best mountain biking helmet is one that can take a beating and provide the comfort of helmets costing five times as much, you can stop scouring through mountain bike helmets reviews because you’ve just found exactly that. The Fox Men’s Transition Hard Shell Helmet is inexpensive and one-of-a-kind, so go ahead and give a try today. I double dog dare you!
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Bell Variant Bike Helmet
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The Bell Variant is an extremely lightweight and versatile bike helmet capable of doing anything and going anywhere. Whether you’re dodging the neighborhood K-9 badass on a leisurely ride or engaged in an eight-hour all-mountain assault, the Bell Variant is loaded with features designed to keep your head comfortable, safe, and looking good.
As one of the lightest mountain bike helmet options out there, the Variant weighs in at just 22 ounces, so you don’t even know it’s there. It also features 19 air vents, an adjustable Twin Axis Gear fit system, stylish VPS visor, and a fusion in-mold construction for maximum comfort and protection. It checks all of the boxes and then some.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Extremely lightweight;
- Super comfortable;
- Excellent fit system;
- Nice visor;
- Great ventilation.
CONS:
- Chin straps could be easier to adjust.
Conclusion
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The Bell Variant is super lightweight and designed for weekend warriors and professionals alike. With a long list of features and an affordable price tag as well, it’s pound for pound one of the best mountain biking helmets around.
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Bell Sequence Bicycle Mountain Helmet
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Similar to the Variant but better looking and even more lightweight, the Bell Sequence is in a league of its own and considered by many riders as the best all mountain helmet ever made.
Although it costs more than the Variant and some of the other top rated mountain bike helmets on this list, the Bell Sequence is a great value for competitive riders and backs up its excellent reputation by featuring aggressive styling, in-mold construction, 20 large air vent channels, a VPV adjustable visor, and a Twin Axis Gear fit system.
Best of all, it only weighs a pound and fits like a glove on your head for a sleek low-profile look. Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds?
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Incredibly lightweight;
- Great construction;
- Excellent ventilation;
- Comfortable fit.
CONS:
- More inner padding would be nice.
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]The Bell Sequence Bicycle Mountain Helmet is honestly great in every way. Although some people have remarked about the need for a little more padding, it’s by far the lightest mtb helmet out there and one of the best options for serious XC racers or anyone who likes pushing the limits off the beaten path.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Troy Lee Designs Pinstripe II D3 Carbon Bike Helmet
Troy Lee got hist start performing custom paint jobs on the helmets of motocross and road racing stars during the 1980s and 90s. Since then, he’s gone on to create one of today’s best gear and helmet brands, producing first-class helmets like the TLD Pinsgtripe II D3 Carbon Bike Helmet.
In addition to its unquestionably stylish design, the TLD II D3 Carbon exceeds a range of safety standards and features an advanced carbon composite construction, EPS liner, dual-density shock system, 14 air intakes, fully adjustable visor, titanium D-ring chin strap, and a removable and washable Coolmax liner.
On top of all that, it offers full face protection and comes with a helmet bag and replaceable visor as well, making it one of the top mtb helmets on the mountain.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Very stylish and well-made;
- Strong and lightweight carbon fiber construction;
- Great ventilation;
- Comfortable and durable;
- Full face protection;
- Extra goodies included.
CONS:
- A little pricey for the casual rider.
Conclusion
[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]This awesome carbon fiber helmet has all of the elements to be the best mountain bike helmet on this list and in your closet. If you’ve been reading countless mountain bike helmet reviews hoping to find a super stylish model that excels in every category, you can stop right now because you may have just found what you’re looking for with the TLD II D3. It’s that good.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Kali Protectives Avatar 2 Carbon Mountain Bike Helmet
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Do you like the stylish full face look of the TLD II D3 and want a helmet that’s just as stylish but even more lightweight? If so, this nifty little helmet from Kali Protectives is sure to fit the bill.
The fresh and stylish full face mtb helmet features a carbon shell with Composite Fusion Plus technology, resulting in a helmet that only weighs 822 grams!
With an EPS liner, breakaway visor, removable and washable liner, anti-microbial pads, and much more to offer as well, it’s a great option if you root for the underdog and want one of the best helmets for mountain biking being made today.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]PROS:
- Hip and stylish good looks;
- Lightweight carbon fiber shell;
- Made with Composite Fusion Plus technology;
- Great fit.
CONS:
- Not for the average rider (but who wants to be average).
Video Review
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[wpsm_testimonial by=”Mark Nichols” image=”http://riskyhead.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/mark.jpg”]If your ears perked up reading this mtb helmet review and you want to run with the big dogs once and for all, then go with your gut and get this awesomely unique full face helmet today. It has all of the features you need and the style you want to rule the local bike park or tame the mountain each and every weekend.
[/wpsm_testimonial] [wpsm_divider top=”20px” bottom=”20px” style=”solid”]Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mountain Bike Helmet
There are dozens of companies making mountain bike helmets these days and even more helmets out there vying for your attention. While it may seem nice to have your pick of the litter, sometimes having too many options can actually be a bad thing.
To help you navigate the waters and pick out the best mountain bike helmet for you, here are some important factors to consider prior to clicking the buy button:
Safety
Fancy features and lightweight designs are nice and all, but mountain bike helmets are all about safety. When you’re shopping for the best helmet for mountain biking and considering a helmet’s safety, its construction and choice of materials is paramount. It also helps to check for any CPSC, EN, or ASTM safety certifications.
Construction
Mountain bike helmets are generally constructed one of two ways: they’re either in-molded or feature a separate shell and liner. The majority of riders prefer in-molded helmets for their structural integrity and improved protection. A mountain bike helmet with an in-molded shell and liner pay cost a little more, but take it from someone with years of trail riding experience, you’re better off going the in-molded route if your budget allows.
Ventilation
Ventilation is another key factor when deciding on a mountain bike helmet. However, more vents doesn’t always mean better ventilation. A helmet with fewer air vents can have awesome ventilation if the vents are properly placed and funnel air through internal passages.
Fit
Next to safety, fit is one of the most important factors to consider when picking out a quality mountain bike helmet. A good helmet should have an adjustable retention system to help you achieve a perfectly snug fit that will keep your head in place and protected during a spill.
Comfort
Fit and comfort go hand in hand. However, in order to ensure you stay as comfortable as possible when hitting the trail, the type and amount of padding used for the interior of a helmet should also be considered. Removable pads are always nice because you can customize the helmet to your head for a great fit. Plus, you can wash them to keep the inside of your helmet clean and smelling good as well.
Visors and Camera Mounts
Visors help block the sun and are definitely a nice feature to have on a mountain bike helmet, especially if you don’t have a decent pair of goggles or shades. Some helmets even have adjustable visors, allowing you to adjust them to your liking or even remove them altogether. Camera mounts are another neat feature to consider, especially if you like watching yourself shred up the trail in first person POV.
By keeping these factors in mind and considering your style, budget, and needs, you’re guaranteed to find the best mountain bike helmet for you in no time at all.
Making the Decision
If you filled your water bottle up with Red Bull and manged to make it this far, then you deserve to take a Power Bar break and a few deep breaths, because you’ve just learned more about mountain bike helmets than John Tomac or any modern-day pro. Now comes the easy part: picking one out.
With hospital visits getting more expensive year after year, you can’t afford to not protect your noggin by choosing an inferior helmet just because it looks cool or has a low price. As you can see from the reviews above, there are plenty of affordable mountain bike helmets out there made to perform , protect, and take a beating.
So, if you want to ride in style and protect your dome, consider your needs, think about the each of the factors mentioned above, and do yourself a favor by clicking the buy button on an awesome helmet today! Second place is the first loser, so what are you waiting for?
