Some people associate bikes with childhood. Some of them use bikes as our main vehicle to commute. And a smaller number of people take biking very seriously as a hobby. Whichever halves you’re in, there’s no excuse for not using the right bike helmets. And if you’re only starting to get into this hobby, we did the research for you. Our selection of the best bike helmets for beginners is listed below!
How to Choose the Best Bike Helmets for Beginners
Choosing the right bike helmet can be a tricky task. But it will be much easier once you know how to choose them. Here are the four most important things to consider before buying your best road bike helmets for beginners:
Know what you’re looking for
To start, make sure that your choice of helmet is in line with your type of riding. Are you going to use your bike to commute? To ride through downhill? Or taking an afternoon ride for exercise? Certain types of bike helmets have different models depending on the circumstances. The best mountain bike helmets for beginners are usually equipped with visors. Some even offer a full-face design for extra protection.
Good fitting
This is what you do next after choosing the right bike helmet for you. Try it on to find out whether the helmet sits comfortably on your head. You’ll know it’s the best fit if it hugs you properly and not adding unnecessary pressure to your noggins. Your helmet should sit at least two fingers above your brows. Some helmets provide extra paddings on the straps for extra comfort. Bike helmets available on the market today are mostly equipped with a comfortable adjustment system. Finding the perfect fit for yourself is easy can quick.
If you happen to have a small head, we recommend choosing one of the best bike helmets for small heads instead. We also have a list for those with big heads.
Safety protection system
Most bike helmets for beginners are equipped with sufficient protection system. One of the most popular is the Multi-directional Impact Protection System or MIPS. Early in its development, only high-end bike helmets are incorporating this technology into their helmets. But today, you can find it even on the best bike helmets under 100. Aside from MIPS, some helmets are meant to be used for biking as well as skateboarding. These helmets are labeled as dual-certified helmets, making their use multi-purpose.
Other features
You may want to consider some additional features on your helmet. For instance, most high-end helmets these days are equipped with a dial-adjust system. This allows you to adjust the size of your helmet just by turning the knob under it. So you won’t have to put it on and off anytime you need to adjust. Another additional feature you may want to consider is visors that protect your eyes from sun glare. Weight is also especially important when you look for the best bike helmets for beginners. If your little one is also starting very early, here are our choice of the best bike helmets for toddlers.
Are cheap cycle helmets safe?
Lucky for us, many cheap bike helmets don’t compromise on their safety measures. On top of that, the qualities are on par with bike helmets from popular companies. Some helmets even cost way below the high-end helmets and you can expect similar qualities if not a carbon copy item. All things considered, you won’t have to spend a fortune on a helmet to ensure your noggins is protected at all cost.
What color bike helmet should I get?
With a bigger market of cyclist more than ever, various choice of colors comes next to natural. Ultimately, you should pick the one that best describes your personality. From variations of black to a very bright yellow, there’s something for everyone.
How much should I spend on a bike helmet?
If you’re seriously considering being a pro and money is no object, investing in high-end bike helmets is not a bad idea. Some bike helmets can cost 300 USD, but most helmets from big manufacturers usually cost around 100 – 200 USD. Anything below 100 USD is already considered budget bike helmets. If you’re aiming for the decent one, it should cost you around 130 -180 USD max.
Flybar Dual-Certified Helmet
13
Most of the reviews on Flybar Dual-Certified Helmet show how this multi-purpose helmet is beyond satisfying. People are happy with how functional and protective the helmet is. Not to mention it’s built sturdy and lightweight. Making it one of the best bike helmets for beginners everywhere.
Whether you’re taking it for a ride or strolling on your scooter, Flybar Dual-Certified Helmet is reliable. The dial-adjusting system allows for easy adjustment, making it also suitable for youth. As the size runs small, this can be both pros and cons, depending on how you see fit. It may be an advantage for adults with small heads without having to look over the kids’ section. Retailing for less than 35 USD, it’s the perfect price range if you’re looking for the best road bike helmets for beginners.
What We Love
An overall decent bike helmet for newbies!
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Easily adjustable
- Dual-certified
- Very protective
- Suitable for youth and adults
Cons:
- Sizes run small
Bell Super DH Mountain Bike Helmet
12
If you’re into dirtbike riding, you must be familiar with Bell Super DH Mountain Bike Helmet. The helmet is one of the best in its class and delivers top-notch performance. Very comfortable in both its half-shell and full-face form, it’s no brainer that the helmet is one of the best mountain bike helmets for beginners. On top of its entry features, its ATSM certification and MIPS tech boost safety downhill riding at its best.
People are very happy with how lightweight it is. In fact, it’s one of the most lightweight mountain bike helmets available today. Riding under the bright sunlight? Fret not! Its visor and great airflow system will keep your head breezy at all times. All in all, Bell Super DH is worth every penny you spend.
What We Love
A fantastic one helmet for two different types of bike riding. Perfect for downhill newbies!
Pros:
- Convertible to half-shell
- Downhill-certified
- Great ventilation
- Lightweight
- Very comfortable
Cons:
- Flimsy straps
Schwinn Intercept Bike Helmet
11
If you’re looking for a highly affordable bike helmet, Schwinn Intercept Bike Helmet is a great choice. This helmet is one of the best road bike helmets for beginners for many reasons. But the first thing that hooks you right away is the price tag. Retailing for less than 20 USD, it’s not surprising that this helmet gains a great number of fans online.
People are praising Schwinn Intercept for its durable material. Some users are satisfied with the build material considering its low range of price. It’s also very lightweight and the design allows decent room for air, keeping your head breezy at all times. Another important highlight of this helmet is it caters to a wide range of sizes. So if you happen to have a larger head size than average people, this should be one of your top choices for bike helmets.
What We Love
An affordable bike helmet and it does the job well!
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Durable
- Lightweight and airy
- Suitable for big heads
Cons:
- Thin paddings
- Issues on the strap system
Smith Podium TT
10
Even though it falls in the expensive category, Smith Podium TT proves that it’s a great bang for the buck. That, if you have no objection to spending a few hundred more for your first bike helmet. Considering everything it has to offer, buying this helmet is a great investment. Not to mention how it will last for at least a couple of years.
Decent airflow may be a big deal when you spend hours pedaling your bike. And Smith Podium TT’s airflow design provides great breathability. And of course, this affects how lightweight the helmet is. Smith’s adjustable fit system is no doubt a top-tier adjustment system. Finding the perfect fit for your head can be done in a breeze. If you see yourself spending a huge amount of time cycling in the future, this should be your daily drive.
What We Love
Seriously great choices of colors. The helmet also provides top-notch comfort.
Pros:
- Adjustable fit system
- Maximum airflow
- Great fantastic color options
- Detachable, magnetic visor
- Very comfortable
Cons:
- Very expensive
Lazer Blade+ Helmet
9
Looking at the vents alone, you can tell that Lazer Blade+ Helmet provides a terrific cooling system. Something you’ll need when you look for the best bike helmets for beginners since you’re not used to the heat and sweats yet. With its comfortable lightweight feature, you won’t feel like wearing one as you ride through the streets.
Lazer Blade+ Helmet is one of the best road bike helmets for beginners that doesn’t sacrifice function for fashion. Its sleek design is balanced with the high performance. This is another top-tier helmet you can wear on weekend trips or the daily commute. With all these high-end features, you can bring it home for less than 100 USD. All the more reasons to buy it!
What We Love
High-end design and features with a mid-range price tag.
Pros:
- Comfortably lightweight
- Excellent performance
- Cool and well-vented
- Provides great fit
Cons:
- Lack of quality in the retention system
Giro Montaro MIPS Adult Cycling
8
Possibly one of the sleekest looking for the best mountain bike helmets for beginners, Giro Montaro MIPS Adult Cycling is up for the job. One of the first things that you’ll appreciate is how it offers overall head protection, from your forehead all the way to the base of your head. This is important when you’re out taking your bike through the rough terrains.
Aside from the model, it’s made durable and lightweight. A combination that anybody will love especially when they’re spending a good amount of money. The adjustable visor is especially useful when you’re riding through the mountains on a bright day. Its rubber strap grippers will help you better adjust your comfort to find the best fit in this helmet. Overall, the helmet is going to be a solid option for many people.
What We Love
Covers all the bases and beyond.
Pros:
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Offers overall head protection
- Equipped with an adjustable visor
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable Giro bike helmet
Smith Optics Signal with MIPS
7
If you’re in the market for an affordable bike helmet with MIPS, Smith Optics Signal is your best choice. For less than 100 USD, you’re getting yourself the Smith standards bike helmet and features found in high-end bike helmets. Its friendly price tag with top-notch quality makes it one of the best road bike helmets for beginners.
The helmet is built durable, it’s more than enough for your daily commuting gear. Its decent airflow makes it very breathable. Something you definitely need while you power through busy streets every day. That being considered, you also need a comfortable helmet that sits on your head for hours. And Smith Optics Signal with MIPS nails it too.
What We Love
An all-around great bike helmet at an affordable price.
Pros:
- Friendly price tag
- Protective
- Durable enough for day-to-day commuter
- Well-ventilated
- Comfortable to wear
Cons:
- Not the best looking helmet
Giro Cinder Cycling Helmet
6
If you’re looking for more than decent road bike helmets for beginners at a mid-range price, this is your answer. Giro Cinder Cycling Helmet manages to deliver performance with everything it has from a high-end quality bike helmet. All of that in a super lightweight helmet with a solid design!
People are praising its versatility too. Giro Cinder is suitable for any weather conditions although you should note that it may get warm in hot weather. Thanks to the MIPS liner and the helmet’s shape, these two features are responsible for the comfort you’ll enjoy. It hugs the head so well and the MIPS liner helps to alleviate some direct contacts with EPS foam liner.
Giro Cinder uses the company’s very own Giro’s Loc Roc. It’s one of the most comfortable adjusting systems you can find in bike helmets. The fine grip will provide easier handling to find the perfect fit for you at any time possible.
What We Love
You can settle on this mid-range level bike helmet, no one is going to judge. All things considered, it’s fairly decent.
Pros:
- Super lightweight
- Suitable for versatile use
- Comfortable
- Solid design
Cons:
- It may be warm under the helmet on a hot day
Bell Annex Commuter Helmet
5
It does what it says in the best ways possible. Commuters love Bell Annex Commuter Helmet for many good reasons. And that’s beyond its sleek, modern design you won’t find in other best road bike helmets for beginners.
First things first, this helmet is very comfortable to wear. It features a Float Fit, which is a micro-adjustable dial that allows you to find the perfect fit as you wear them. The thick, anti-microbial padding serves as extra comfort. As for its safety measure, Bell Annex is equipped with MIPS tech. The back design drops down low and that ensures more safety for you. Especially through the back of your head.
What We Love
The best bike helmets for beginners who commute!
Pros:
- The easily adjustable venting system
- Thorough coverage to the back of your head
- Equipped with MIPS
- Great design
Cons:
- Not the best sweat management system
Schwinn Trasher Bike Helmet
4
Gaining an impressive number of fans online, it’s hard to miss Schwinn Trasher Bike Helmet. Many people are praising its extremely protective features. Saying the helmet has saved them with its strong material. The super friendly price tag is what also attracts customers the most. Given its versatile design, it’s also one of the best mountain bike helmets for beginners.
People who spent a whole day cycling wearing this helmet admit comfort is never an issue. And we’re talking about 8 to 10 hours of use here. Again, considering the price, Schwinn Trasher is constantly exceeding people’s expectations. Even though it’s equipped with a rather thin padding, it’s up for the job.
While other best bike helmets for beginners can make you look goofy as you wear them, this one’s a little bit better. All in all, this is a great bike helmet if you’re new to cycling. It covers all the base and beyond, without breaking your wallet.
What We Love
Providing the bare minimum and does so much more for a bike helmet that cost less than 50 USD.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Highly protective
- Extremely comfortable
- Equipped with a built-in visor
- Adjustable padding for more comfort
Cons:
- Sizes run small
- Some users mentioned issues with durability
Giro Synthe
3
With extensive appraisals and several Editor’s Choice awards, we can’t skip on Giro Synthe as one of the best mountain bike helmets for beginners. The helmet comes in a semi-aerodynamic profile which gives plenty of room for airflow. It’s perfect for a ride in any different weather conditions. This is truly an all-around great bike helmet,
First of all, the Giro Synthe seems to cover it all. From sufficient interior, padding to provide the best comfort, very adjustable fit, and a good amount of ventilation; all of these are packed in a lightweight and extra strong outer shell. As for a more advanced system, the helmet is already equipped with MIPS and Giro’s very own Roc Loc system to help dial in a breeze and comfortable way.
Comfort may be a subjective issue but the good news is, Giro Synthe manages to fit different sizes and shapes. And when it comes to a great-looking helmet, there’s no doubt that everyone will agree that this helmet is one.
What We Love
Great looking and low profile bike helmet!
Pros:
- Extra strong shell
- Very well-ventilated
- Equipped with Roc Loc Air Fit system
- Comfortable and lightweight
Cons:
- Expensive
POC Tectal Race Spin
2
This helmet is the perfect helmet for anyone with an oval-shaped head. Also, not only POC Tectal Race Spin offers great comfort, but it also provides maximum protection. Something you definitely need when you’re looking for the best mountain bike helmets for beginners. The better coverage of this helmet also makes it one of the most protective helmets available today.
POC Tectal Race Spin is made to take a beating, that’s one thing for sure. Its MIPS tech is equipped to provide decent safety features. The helmet is also well-ventilated, so you can say goodbye to sweaty heads as your power downhill. People are also very happy with how comfortable it is to wear. Considering you may spend mountain bike riding for a good couple of hours, this helmet should be one of your best choices. More factors why it’s very comfortable also includes the straps, size adjustment, helmet shape, as well as ventilation.
What We Love
All in all a great gear for everything from commuting to mountain bike riding.
Pros:
- Built sturdily
- Equipped with MIPS
- Super-sleek design
- Best suited for oval heads
- Adjustable visor
Cons:
- It’s maybe too expensive given its regular qualities
Bell Formula Adult Bike Helmet
1
With a price of no more than 100 USD, this bike helmet provides features found in helmets double its price. And that’s not the only reason why it’s sitting at the first rank of our list. Bell Formula Adult Bike Helmet offers top of the class quality for mid-range price bike helmets.
The helmet is available in two versions: with and without MIPS. With a 20 USD difference, it’s definitely worth the extra couple of bucks. Especially when we’re talking about one of the safest and most prominent protection systems in bike helmets. People are very happy with its decent ventilation system. Combine that with its lightweight posture, you’re getting yourself one of the best bike helmets for beginners.
The helmet is equipped with an easily adjustable retention system. This is one of the trickiest features found in a bike helmet as it’s very subjective. But you can rely on Bell Formula Adult Bike Helmet for sure.
What We Love
Everything you need in a bike helmet for less than 100 USD.
Pros:
- Lightweight and airy
- Comfortable fit
- Easily adjustable retention system
- Equipped with MIPS tech
Cons:
- The sweat management is not so good
