No, it’s not just you. The prices of the best helmets for mountain biking on the market are creeping up each year. However, if your budget for purchasing mountain biking gear has been stretched thin, don’t skimp on the helmet. Trust us, for hurtling over rocks and dodging trees, spending a little extra on a protective and light helmet for mountain biking is actually an investment. Plus, there are many reasons why the prices are getting higher and higher. Every year there are plenty of new helmets, and they come with many great features like improved retention systems and MIPS that’ll reduce the chances of a serious injury. That being said, if you have a problem finding one for yourself, we’re here to help! Just scroll up and you’ll be able to read our list of the best mountain bike helmets!
If what you want are road bike helmets, make sure to check out the 13 best bike helmets for beginners, the 13 best bike helmets under 100, and the 13 best bike helmets with visors!
How To Choose The Best Helmets for Mountain Biking
We’re so excited to show you our list, but before that, you should know the key features that you need to pay attention to before purchasing the best helmets for mountain biking. They are:
Protection
Protection is the primary function of the best helmets for mountain biking. To provide you amazing protection, many rotational impact protection systems have been developed. The most common one is MIPS, which features a slip-plane liner integrated into the helmet, strategically placed between the foam and the pads of the helmet. This anti-concussive technology has become the standard in head protection, and it’s present on almost all of the best helmets for mountain biking available in today’s market.
Fit
Having a proper fit is important so that you’ll feel comfortable while riding and the helmet can protect your head properly. Mountain bike helmets come in a wide range of sizes, and each size is adjustable to achieve a perfect fit. To find your size, simply measure the circumference of your head on a level plane, just above your eyebrows. Besides, the helmets will have a size chart to help you determine what size you should wear.
Adjustable straps
Another important feature to consider is whether or not the helmet that you want has adjustable straps, although most of the best helmets for mountain biking should have them. The straps allow you to secure your head and the fit adjuster will tighten the helmet shell onto your head.
Weight
With a focus on maximum protection, mountain bike helmets are generally heavier than road bike helmets. While half shell helmets are usually similar in weight, lighter is always better when it comes to rider fatigue and overall comfort. While it’s your choice whether to prioritize protection or lightweight, if you look hard enough, you’ll be able to find helmets that offer you both.
Do I need a special helmet for mountain biking?
Because mountain bikers are exposed to a lot more obstacles on trails, you should use a helmet that’s specifically made for mountain biking. No matter what, they’ll always offer better protection than regular road bike helmets.
Is there a difference between road and mountain bike helmets?
Generally speaking, road helmets usually don’t come with a visor. They’re also sleeker, more compact, and have larger air vents compared to the heavier, rounder, bulkier, and airflow restricted mountain bike helmet. However, when it comes to protection, mountain bike helmets are the champion.
Giro Source MIPS Adult Bike Helmet
13
Giro Source MIPS Adult Bike Helmet is proof that you don’t have to spend a ton to get a comfortable, safe, and light helmet for mountain biking. For beginners, it offers fantastic overage, a low-profile MIPS liner, and plenty of padding. Not to mention, there’s also a decent amount of ventilation for long days over variable terrain.
Another thing that will blow your mind is that it boasts features that are typically found on more expensive helmets. One of them is a high-quality visor that’s big enough to shield the sun and can accommodate glasses or goggles. Aside from that, the fit system is also super secure and easy to use even with gloves on.
What We Love
This mountain biking helmet delivers what the majority of riders need at a great price.
Pros:
- Reasonable price
- Amazing coverage
- Low-profile MIPS liner
- Can accommodate glasses or goggles
- Offers a secure fit
Cons:
- The ventilation can be better
100% Altec Helmet
12
For a brand that usually focuses on full-face models, the 100% Altec Helmet is considered a really impressive half-shell helmet. The first thing that you’ll immediately notice after wearing this helmet is its breathability. Don’t be fooled by its limited vents, as they’re huge, strategically placed, and lead directly to an interior channel in the EPS foam shell that runs around the back of your head. Thus, your head will stay cool and relatively sweat-free even on hot days.
Aside from that, this light helmet for mountain biking also features solid and durable construction that will last more than you think it will if you can avoid head impacts. Another plus that we love is the fact that the finish on the polycarbonate shell doesn’t scratch easily, and there’s very little exposed EPS foam to chip away over time.
What We Love
It’s a great value for money, especially because of its impressive ventilation and protection.
Pros:
- Impressive ventilation
- Lightweight
- The polycarbonate shell doesn’t scratch easily
- Provides great protection
- Quite durable
Cons:
- Not the most versatile fit
Bell 4Forty MIPS Adult Mountain Bike Helmet
11
Here we have another helmet that’s really affordable but doesn’t perform like one. Like many other helmets for mountain biking that are costly, Bell 4Forty MIPS Adult Mountain Bike Helmet has a well-made and protective feel that offers ample coverage and a MIPS liner. It’s also very comfortable with a snug fit and an extensive adjustment range in its straps and Float fit system.
Aside from that, this helmet also comes with a huge adjustable visor that does a really impressive job blocking the sun. Even better, it’s compatible with goggles. Another thing that many people love about it is the unique sweat guide pad that manages to direct sweat out and away from the face and prevent dripping on your lenses! If that doesn’t wow you, we don’t know what will!
What We Love
It’s a budget-friendly pick that doesn’t skimp on performance or features.
Pros:
- Reasonable price
- MIPS to reduce rotational forces
- Adjustable visor
- Great sweat management
- Offers a snug fit
Cons:
- The ventilation can be improved
Smith Optics Forefront 2 MIPS Bike Helmet
10
Many people love Smith Optics Forefront 2 MIPS Bike Helmet because of its top-notch features, like the Koroyd. It’s a honeycomb-like copolymer layer made of thin plastic cylinders that crush on impact to disperse energy. It extends around the entire inside of the helmet to boost both safety and breathability. The material is so airy that it’s even used to fill the vents. Consequently, the vents are exceptionally wide.
Another thing that makes this helmet one of the best helmets for mountain biking is its superior fit. Many riders with regular-to-large-size heads who tend to have difficulty finding lids that feel right all agree that this helmet offers a snug fit. Even better, it feels very lightweight that you might forget you’re wearing it!
What We Love
It offers the best breathability compared to the best helmets for mountain biking on this list.
Pros:
- Koroyd layer to disperse energy
- Impressive ventilation
- Lightweight
- Offers a snug fit
- Integrated sunglasses holder
Cons:
- Some people might find it quite expensive
100% Status Helmet
9
Yes, 100% might not be a household name like Fox, Giro, or Troy Lee Designs, but this brand’s background in the motorsports industry has given itself years of helmet safety experience. If you’re looking for the best helmets for mountain biking, the 100% Status Helmet will immediately impress you with its reasonable weight, striking design, and affordable price tag. When we say it’s a really light helmet for mountain biking, we really mean it. It’s even lighter than other popular competitors, and its supportive padding provides all-around comfort.
Considering its reasonable price, it’s really hard to be disappointed with this helmet. Another feature that this full-face helmet boasts is the Active Cooling System that provides good ventilation, so protection doesn’t come at the cost of comfort. Besides, you’ll also be able to wash the anti-odor liner that has a soft feel against the skin whenever you want.
What We Love
One of, if not, the most protective helmet on this list.
Pros:
- Offers amazing protection
- Lightweight
- Quite affordable
- Comfortable padding
- Washable liner
Cons:
- The ventilation can be improved
Troy Lee Designs Mountain Bike A1 Helmet
8
Spoiler ahead! You’re going to meet the A2 in a bit, but before that, let us show you Troy Lee Designs Mountain Bike A1 Helmet. Although the A2 is obviously a worthy upgrade, this helmet is still one of the best helmets for mountain biking available on the market today. One of the biggest reasons why many riders still love this helmet is its excellent fit. It has that just-right feel the moment you slip it on, and the large opening and secure closure system are very accommodating for most head shapes.
On top of that, you’ll also get high-quality and plush padding that holds up well over the long-term and plenty of coverage. Plus, the comfort liner that’s made of anti-microbial and moisture-wicking material for a dry and comfortable feel is washable. While it’s certainly not better than the A2, this helmet will save you quite some money with zero compromises in terms of comfort, which makes it a really great value considering its durable build.
What We Love
It has a very premium build along with a comfortable fit.
Pros:
- Offers a snug fit
- Plush and comfortable padding
- Washable liner
- Very durable build
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Its ventilation can be improved
Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS
7
Weighing just 1.5lbs, Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS is a very, very light helmet for mountain biking. But considering it’s manufactured by Troy Lee Designs, you shouldn’t be surprised. Even though it looks big, it’s actually so light that you’ll feel like you’re wearing nothing. Don’t worry, despite being very lightweight, it doesn’t sacrifice in terms of features.
The amazing features that this helmet offers include 25 well-placed vents that maximize airflow and a magnetic Fidlock system that makes buckling quick and easy. On top of that, it also comes with 2 different liners, 2 different neck pads, and cheek pads at 3 different thicknesses for the perfect fit! It might not be a cheap helmet, but its premium build and impressive features certainly justify the high price tag.
What We Love
This helmet packs a lot of features into a good-looking helmet.
Pros:
- Super lightweight
- Provides great protection
- Well-ventilated
- Magnetic Fidlock system
- Offers a perfect fit
Cons:
- Expensive
Smith Optics Convoy MIPS
6
As the prices of some of the best helmets for mountain biking tend to get higher each year, it’s really nice to see a high-quality yet wallet-friendly option like Smith Optics Convoy MIPS pop up. For such an affordable price, you’ll get a solid helmet for mountain biking that’s highly adjustable. Besides its amazing price tag, this helmet also comes with nice ventilation with a total of 20 huge vents and also a MIPS liner.
Another thing that’ll make you fall in love with this helmet is its weight. It’s a very light helmet for mountain biking, and it’s super easy to dial in a snug and comfortable fit thanks to its 4 available sizes. From S to XL, you’ll definitely find one that fits your head. Even better, it’s available in 5 different colors to choose from. If you want something aside from black and white, you can opt for the yellow or blue option.
What We Love
An ideal pick for those looking to save money without compromising on quality.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Highly adjustable
- Well-ventilated
- Lightweight
- Available in many sizes and colors
Cons:
- Not a standout in coverage
POC Tectal Race SPIN Helmet
5
When it comes to protection, we think no one can touch POC Tectal Race SPIN Helmet. Among all the best helmets for mountain biking, it manages to stand out for its impressive protective qualities. This helmet has a deep fit and provides the best head coverage of any helmet out there. Aside from that, it also features SPIN technology. Thanks to that, it can reduce the consequences of rotational violence during an oblique impact. Plus, the excellent fit and amazing sizing adjustment system will ensure a secure and comfortable wearing experience.
Furthermore, this helmet also offers impressive ventilation. As a light helmet for mountain biking, it’s very comfortable to wear as it doesn’t put any pressure on the head and neck. We also love that it comes with an adjustable visor and a goggle strap retention system, as they make this helmet even more versatile.
What We Love
The superb protection and comfort this helmet offers makes it worth your money.
Pros:
- Provides great coverage
- SPIN technology
- Lightweight
- Well-ventilated
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Quite expensive
POC Octal X SPIN Helmet
4
If you’re looking for a lightweight helmet for mountain biking, then POC Octal X SPIN Helmet is the ultimate choice. While its unique aesthetic might not appeal to everyone, few can dispute its presence. Compared to the regular Octal helmet on which it’s based, this one has made some structural refinements to strengthen its shell, using aramid bridge technology to hold everything together in the event of a crash or impact.
Another notable feature offered by this helmet is the extreme ventilation. When wearing this bike helmet, your head will stay cool and you’ll feel nothing but comfort. To perfectly suit the needs of cross-country mountain biking, this helmet has also added robustness and protection. Even better, the internal shearing pads will help to reduce the effects of an oblique fall by reducing the amount of force transmitted to the head.
What We Love
One of the lightest bike helmets for mountain biking available on the market.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Offers a snug fit
- Great ventilation
- Durable and strong shell
- Internal shearing pads to reduce the effects of an oblique fall
Cons:
- Not everyone finds the design appealing
Troy Lee Designs Mountain Bike A2 Helmet
3
If you know how successful and popular A1 is, then you’ll definitely want to try out Troy Lee Designs Mountain Bike A2 Helmet. As one of the best helmets for mountain biking, it retains A1’s high levels of comfort with a few notable upgrades. To start, the ventilation of this helmet is improved with wide channels at the front and expansive openings at the back. When you wear this helmet, there’ll never be a moment where your head isn’t cool.
Also, this amazing helmet’s safety suite has been modernized, making it a great match for aggressive bikers. Available in 8 different designs, it comes with 2 types of foam, which are EPS and EPP. The former can be found in most bike helmets for absorbing impacts at high speed, while the former is for low-speed crashes. Together with the MIPS liner and breakaway hardware on the visor, this helmet is built for techy climbs and rowdy descents.
What We Love
It’s a really worthy upgrade from the A1.
Pros:
- A popular choice among mountain bikers
- Very comfortable
- Great ventilation
- Available in 8 different designs
- EPS and EPP liner for extra protection
- Low-profile design
Cons:
- The visor doesn’t slide high enough to fit a pair of goggles
Giro Chronicle MIPS Adult Dirt Cycling Helmet
2
Just like Fox Racing Speedframe Pro, Giro Chronicle MIPS Adult Dirt Cycling Helmet is designed t be a mid-range offering. However, it amazingly outperforms many of its much more expensive counterparts. There might be many best helmets for mountain biking out there, but at less than half the price of some of the heavy hitters, this helmet is totally an excellent value with no glaring weak points. Perhaps one of the best things about this helmet is its versatile fit, as it can fit the majority of head shapes.
On top of that, this helmet also sits low on the head for a better fit, and the Roc Loc harness system pulls even tension around the whole head. With MIPS integrated into its interior, this helmet provides modern protection and peace-of-mind out on the trail. What amazes us is despite the limited number and size of the vents, it still ventilates pretty well!
What We Love
Easily the best pick that won’t destroy your bank.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Versatile fit
- Very durable
- Comfortable to wear
- Offers great protection
- Ample ventilation
Cons:
- Basic features
Fox Racing Speedframe Pro
1
Don’t ever let Fox Racing Speedframe Pro’s mid-range price tag fool you. Despite its affordability, it’s actually one of the best helmets for mountain biking available out there. You’ll even be more surprised to know that this helmet might be better than some helmets on the market that cost significantly more. It packs all the essential features everyone would expect from a top-tier helmet, including a MIPS rotational impact system, dual-density EPS foam, a goggle-accommodating adjustable visor, and a highly adjustable harness system.
Out on the trail, it’s one of the most comfortable helmets that are on this list. This is also because it feels quite light on the head. Another reason for you to adore this helmet is that it’s well-ventilated. It offers amazing airflow and offers a secure and snug fit. Best of all, it has Virginia Tech’s 5-star rating in its Bicycle Helmet Ratings program.
What We Love
It offers high-end features without the expensive price tag.
Pros:
- Quite affordable
- Comfortable harness
- Highly adjustable
- Dual-density EPS foam
- Durable construction
- Well-ventilated
Cons:
- Many other helmets are lighter
