Even without people telling you, you probably already know the basic fundamentals of bike helmets. They go on top of your head, protect your head while you ride, and even if they don’t always look great, they definitely offer an invaluable service. However, not every helmet that’s available on the market today is lightweight. Heavier helmets don’t guarantee better protection. That’s why you should choose a lightweight bike helmet as it can protect your head while also feel very comfortable to wear. If that’s the kind of helmet that appeals to you, you should definitely check out our list! Just don’t be surprised after knowing how light these helmets are!
If you have trouble finding a helmet for your big head, check out our list of the 13 best bike helmets for big heads! Also, if your children love to cycle with you, make sure they’re equipped with one of the 13 best bike helmets for toddlers and the 13 best bike helmets for kids!
How To Choose The Best Lightest Bike Helmets
When you’re looking for the lightest bike helmet, make sure that you pay attention to the following features:
Weight
Needless to say, the first feature to consider when buying the lightest bike helmet is, of course, its weight. Remember, heavier helmets don’t always offer better protection. In fact, they might be very uncomfortable to wear. On this list, you’ll find lightweight helmets that weigh around 0.6lbs and even lighter that offer amazing protection and comfort.
Protection
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 many bike helmets on the market offer this technology.
Fit
Having a proper fit is important so that the helmet can protect your head properly. 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. Most bike helmets on the market today should have them. The straps allow you to secure your head and the fit adjuster will tighten the helmet shell onto your head.
How much does a bike helmet weigh?
On average, a small-sized bike helmet weighs around 0.55lbs, while the medium-sized one weighs around 0.61lbs. Meanwhile, a large-sized helmet will usually weigh around 0.66lbs.
Kask Utopia Helmet
13
Many riders out there love Kask Utopia Helmet for being very aerodynamic. Made for road racing and triathlon, this helmet has a more traditional aero helmet shape, but the airflow is surprisingly very good that it can be used for training too, especially when intervals and sprints dominate the day. It’s all thanks to the deep channels that are molded into the EPS foam to direct air around your head. Plus, the helmet’s quick-dry pads will wick moisture from your head, which will further help with heat regulation and odor control.
Furthermore, this helmet’s Octo Fit harness will give a confidence-inspiring fit. It’s quite similar to the systems found in other helmets. However, this one comes with an additional plastic loop at the center back of the head and lobes on either side of the lowest part of the harness for more contact points and a more secure fit when tightened.
What We Love
If you have plenty of money and want an aerodynamic helmet, then this is a nice pick.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.58lbs
- Comfortable and secure harness
- Well-ventilated
- Offers a secure fit
- Quick-dry pads with moisture-wicking capability
Cons:
- No MIPS despite its quite expensive price tag
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LAZER Z1 Road Bike Helmet (CU)
12
LAZER Z1 Road Bike Helmet might not be the lightest bike helmet on the market, but it’s for sure one of the best-ventilated helmets to date. At high speed, it feels as if a powerful fan has been pointed at your head! It also boasts a deeper shell structure along the temporal zone, also called as T-Pro. This technology adds material around the temples, which then cuts away at the frontal zone to keep your vision unobstructed.
On top of that, there’s also this amazing technology called Advanced Rollsys System, which features a top-mounted dial connected to a band that tightens symmetrically and evenly distributing pressure across the head. What’s more impressive is the fact that this helmet is only 0.52 lbs! It’s so light that you won’t even remember you’re wearing it.
What We Love
Although many new helmets have emerged, LAZER Z1 still manages to offer one of the best ventilation systems.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.52lbs
- Well-ventilated
- T-Pro to protect your temples
- ARS for a better fit
- Even impact distribution
Cons:
- The sizes are a bit off
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LAZER Z1 MIPS Road Bike Helmet
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Yes, the LAZER Z1 MIPS Road Bike Helmet is the upgraded version of the original Z1. It brings together the already impressive strengths of its sibling with the addition of MIPS for extra protection. The MIPS will help to reduce the risk of rotational injury, while the T-Pro temple protection provides additional coverage at the temple. In the event of a crash, the Rigidity Brace System will keep the foam together, offering better protection from impacts.
Besides superior protection, this helmet also offers impressive comfort thanks to the innovative closure system that’ll tighten the helmet to your head. This system will hold the helmet in place even when you’re sweating like crazy. Another great feature that you’ll notice from this helmet is its ventilation. There are 31 vents with internal air channels that will promote excellent airflow. Best of all, this amazing helmet is just 0.6lbs. Although it’s slightly heavier than the Z1, it’s still a very lightweight bike helmet!
What We Love
The ventilation it offers is among the best.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.6lbs
- MIPS for extra protection
- Offers a secure fit
- Great ventilation
- Durable
Cons:
- Some people find the sizing a bit off
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Abus Hyban 2.0 Helmet
10
Riders that are looking for a lightweight bike helmet for everyday use should definitely consider Abus Hyban 2.0 Helmet. Available in 4 different colors to choose from, you’ll no doubt find this helmet very attractive. Another thing that you’ll love about it is that it weighs 0.67lbs, which means it’s pretty lightweight.
Besides being comfortable to wear, this helmet also offers amazing protection, mostly thanks to its durable ABS shell. Plus, it also boasts plenty of vents to keep your head cool when you’re riding under the sun. Meanwhile, those who often ride at night will be thrilled to know that this helmet comes with a reflector, making it highly visible in low light conditions.
What We Love
It’s one of the most comfortable helmets for everyday use.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.67lbs
- Available in 4 different colors
- Durable ABS shell
- Well-ventilated
- Comes with a reflector
Cons:
- Some people find it too small
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PHZ Adult Bike Helmet
9
If you’ve never heard of PHZ Adult Bike Helmet before, don’t worry, as you’re probably not the only one. PHZ isn’t a well-known brand in the cycling industry, but it does a splendid job designing this budget-friendly helmet. It’s among the lightest and lowest-profile on the market, and it’s loaded with features that’ll make your ride more comfortable and safer. That said, one of the features that people love the most is its plug-in rear LED light. It’ll provide great visibility on the streets, especially at night.
Weighing 0.62lbs, this lightweight bike helmet is also super comfortable to wear. Plus, the soft inner pads are removable and washable, allowing you to keep them clean all the time. There are also enough vents that manage airflow by pulling cool air in through the front and pushes it through an air-channel matrix to reduce overheating. The shell is quite durable too, as it can absorb impacts really well.
What We Love
Despite being cheap, it still manages to offer great comfort.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.62lbs
- LED light
- Removable and washable pads
- Well-ventilated
- Durable shell
Cons:
- Sizes run small
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Giro Synthe MIPS Road Cycling Helmet
8
Next, we have Giro Synthe MIPS Road Cycling Helmet. It’s a premium road bike helmet aimed at bringing all of the features that you want. It’s very comfortable to be worn every time you throw a leg over your bike. This helmet uses a Roc Loc Air Fit retention system, which unlike most helmets, will keep the inner foam suspended away from your head and increase the helmet’s ability to keep your head cool.
Weighing 0.59lbs, you best believe that this helmet is very lightweight on the head. Despite being a lightweight bike helmet, it still offers great protection. There’s also a sunglass perch, which is a really nice addition to the helmet. Anyone who has ever lost their sunglasses while trying to thread them through their helmet vents can attest.
What We Love
It’s a lightweight and aerodynamic helmet that’s comfortable enough to be your daily go-to helmet.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.59lbs
- Very comfortable
- Well-ventilated
- MIPS for added protection
- Features a sunglass perch
Cons:
- Quite expensive
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Bell Stratus MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet
7
There’s a myriad of bike helmets available on the market today. Thus, it’s very easy to overlook a helmet like Bell Stratus MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet. However, to do so would be a huge mistake. For starters, this helmet is jammed full of holes, featuring 18 vents for excellent airflow. By wearing this aerodynamic helmet, your head will always stay cool even when you’re riding under the sun.
The fit of this helmet can also be dialed in with the retention dial on the back, which isn’t as finessed as the Roc Loc system, but it gets the job done. Plus, you’ll also get MIPS for added protection at just a fraction of the price it costs on other helmets, which makes this helmet a great value.
What We Love
It’s a great pick for those looking for a budget-friendly and lightweight bike helmet without sacrificing important features.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.61lbs
- Provides excellent airflow
- Aerodynamic design
- MIPS for added protection
- Very affordable
Cons:
- The straps and retention dial aren’t as finessed as other helmets
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Kask Rapido Road Cycling Helmet
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Another lightweight bike helmet available out there is the Kask Rapido Road Cycling Helmet. In fact, it’s the lightest bike helmet on this list. Whether you ride for fitness or to push yourself in competition, you’ll definitely enjoy this helmet’s sleek styling, aerodynamic design, and comfortable fit. One of the highlights of this helmet is its MIT technology. It guarantees a higher level of safety and full protection thanks to the polycarbonate layer that covers the shell on the top, on the base ring, and on the back.
Besides the superior protection, it also offers amazing ventilation that’s achieved by featuring 24 huge air vents. They’ll keep fresh air flowing over your head so you won’t easily overheat. Moreover, there’s the Up and Down fit system that will ensure that this helmet can be adjusted to your head shape for a snug fit. Plus, this precise fit is also complemented by the soft interior pads. Best of all, it’s only 0.47lbs!
What We Love
It has the perfect balance of features for riders who are a little more budget-conscious.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.47lbs
- Comfortable fit
- Aerodynamic design
- MIT technology for better protection
- Well-ventilated
Cons:
- Some people find it too small
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Shinmax Bike Helmet
5
Perhaps the most underrated bike helmet out there is Shinmax Bike Helmet. This sleek and modern-looking helmet isn’t just stunning but also lightweight. Weighing only 0.68lbs, you’ll feel really comfortable wearing it even when you’re on the road for hours. Plus, it offers amazing protection too. With its tough and durable polycarbonate shell and EPS foam, this helmet can slow down impacts and provide your head with maximum protection.
You’ll also find an adjusting knob at the back of the helmet and side straps that you can use to adjust the size so that the helmet can fit your head properly. Aside from that, there’s also a detachable magnetic visor that will protect your face from the wind, dust, and sand. Of course, it’ll also block the harmful UV rays. Furthermore, this helmet also comes with 7 breathable vents that will effectively reduce air resistance and sweating.
What We Love
The visor that this helmet offers is among the best.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.68lbs
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Offers a snug fit
- Detachable magnetic visor
- 7 breathable vents
Cons:
- Some people find it too small
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Kask Mojito X Bicycle Helmet (CU)
4
Your search for the lightest bike helmet might be over once you meet this helmet. Kask Mojito X Bicycle Helmet offers almost everything that you’d expect from a premium-quality helmet. It’s lightweight, highly adjustable, has excellent ventilation, and offers great comfort. The only thing that doesn’t meet expectations is the price, which is half what you might expect from a high-performance helmet.
Like we said just now, this helmet is a lightweight bike helmet. It only weighs 0.48lbs, and it comes with 26 air vents which do a fantastic job of letting cool air in at the front and getting rid of hot air out of the back. Comfort and fit are also very good, as they can securely fit your head. That’s thanks to the well-positioned and relatively slim padding and the rear dial adjustment system, which can be rotated up and down to make sure that the back of your head is held securely.
What We Love
It’s an all-around helmet for cyclists who prioritize having a perfect fit but don’t want to spend too much.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.48lbs
- Well-ventilated
- Highly adjustable
- Offers great comfort
- Available in 14 color options
Cons:
- All of the decals are stickers that are prone to peeling off after a year or 2
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Giro Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet
3
Who doesn’t love a stylish, affordable, and lightweight bike helmet? Giro Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a high-quality helmet with impressive safety features. Featuring a streamlined shape and technology that you often see on helmets that cost twice or even thrice as much, this helmet is quite comfortable and its multitude of vents will keep your head from overheating.
Using Giro’s in-mold construction, this helmet keeps the weight to a minimum and improves the durability of the shell. Don’t be surprised, as it weighs only 0.5lbs! Yes, it’s even lighter than some of the helmets on this list. Plus, adjusting the fit on the fly is super easy, thanks to the one-handed dial adjustment that the Roc Loc MIPS system offers.
What We Love
It’s a very affordable and lightweight bike helmet that boasts high-end features.
Pros:
- Weighs only 0.5lbs
- Very affordable
- Great ventilation
- Durable shell
- Roc Loc MIPS system for easy adjustment
- Offers great protection
Cons:
- Some people find the helmet too small
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Bell Z20 MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet
2
The Bell Z20 MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet isn’t just your typical lightweight bike helmet. Weighing 0.6lbs, this impressive helmet from Bell stands out from the pack with its class-leading comfort and ventilation that comes in a modern and stylish package. With a MIPS liner that’s built into the adjustable headband retention system and the right amount of padding, this helmet is easily one of the most comfortable on the market.
Like we said just now, the ventilation that it offers is amazing. The numerous large vents provide excellent ventilation, allowing your head to stay sweat-free even on the hottest days. That’s not all, because this helmet is available in 21 different designs to choose from. Yes, you read that right. Add that to its jaw-breaking features, and you’ll have yourself a premium helmet that’s worth your money.
What We Love
It’s ideal for any riders looking for the ultimate in protection, comfort, style, and ventilation.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.6lbs
- Available in 21 different designs
- MIPS liner for better protection
- Very comfortable to wear
- Highly-ventilated
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a visor
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Giro Syntax MIPS Helmet
1
Giro Syntax MIPS Helmet isn’t just very comfortable, but it’s also a super lightweight bike helmet. Weighing only 0.6lbs, we can say it’s among the lightest! It’s a well-ventilated helmet that deals well with all kinds of road riding. Plus, the patented Roc Loc 5 Air MIPS design will suspend the helmet off the top of your head so cool air can pass over your head. It also allows you to customize the fit and comfort of the helmet with just one hand.
Meanwhile, the outer shell of this helmet has In-Mold construction. It uses a durable polycarbonate outer shell with an impact-absorbing foam liner. On top of that, it’s also available in 5 different colors to choose from that can be seen on the road, which is a big plus. If you’re looking to upgrade your previous helmet and are on a budget, we really recommend this helmet.
What We Love
It’s a lightweight helmet that offers excellent ventilation and fits comfortably on any type of head.
Pros:
- Weighs 0.6lbs
- Well-ventilated
- Offers a snug fit
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Available in 5 different colors
- Quite affordable
Cons:
- Despite its weight, for some people, it’s still a little bit heavy
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