When it comes to mountain biking, the helmet you choose can make or break your experience. An ill-fitting helmet can be a constant source of discomfort, while an inadequate one can compromise your safety. But with the countless options available today, how do you find the perfect match? This blog post will guide you through the maze of mountain bike helmets, helping you discover the best mountain bike helmet options for 2023, understand the latest safety features, and learn how to ensure a comfortable fit. So strap in, and let’s get started!
Short Summary
- Explore the best mountain bike helmets of 2023 for comfort, safety and ventilation.
- Look out for features like MIPS technology, adjustable fit systems and lightweight protection to enhance your helmet’s protective capabilities.
- Maintain your helmet regularly with cleaning, inspection and replacement every 3-5 years or after a crash.
Top Picks for Mountain Bike Helmets
In the world of mountain biking, not all helmets are created equal. Some stand out for their superior comfort, others for their advanced safety features, and a select few manage to combine both. Let’s dive into our top picks for 2023, the crème de la crème of the best mountain bike helmets that offer the perfect balance of comfort, safety, and ventilation for the best mountain bike experience. These MTB helmets are the Fox Speedframe Pro, Troy Lee Designs A3 and Smith Convoy.
The Fox Speedframe Pro is a game-changer in the mountain biking helmet industry. Its lightweight and aerodynamic design, coupled with an adjustable visor and MIPS liner, positions it as one of the top MTB helmets. Meanwhile, the Troy Lee Designs A3 promises a premium trail helmet experience with its dual density foam and MIPS liner. Lastly, the Smith Convoy offers a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on key features such as adjustable fit, MIPS liner, and adequate ventilation.
These top picks cater to different riding styles and budgets, yet all prioritize the rider’s safety and comfort. Whether you’re an enduro enthusiast, a trail conqueror, or a cross-country explorer, there’s a helmet for you. Now let’s delve deeper into each of these helmet champions.
Fox Speedframe Pro
The Fox Speedframe Pro emerges as a crowd favorite for many reasons. With its excellent ventilation, comfortable fit, and adjustable peak, it offers a riding experience that is hard to rival. However, one downside is the absence of a crash-replacement policy, which can be a consideration for some riders.
This helmet features an integrated dial tension alteration system known as the Mindset 360 fit system. This fit system allows for a customizable fit, ensuring that the helmet is snug yet comfortable, regardless of your head shape. The lightweight design of the helmet further enhances the comfort, making it a strong contender in the mountain bike helmet game.
The Fox Speedframe Pro is not just about comfort, it also champions safety. The helmet features a dual density EPS co-molded with EPP, a MIPS brain protection system, and an EPP-lined chin bar. Weighing 690 grams in size M/L, it meets CPSC requirements, making it a safe bet for every ride.
Overall, the Fox Speedframe Pro scores high in terms of comfort, safety, and style. While its lack of a crash-replacement policy can be a minor setback, its performance on the trails makes it a worthy investment.
Troy Lee Designs A3
Next on our list of top picks is the Troy Lee Designs A3. This helmet is TLD’s premium trail helmet, featuring two layers of foam and a MIPS liner. It’s a helmet that promises not just comfort, but also peace of mind. The Troy Lee Designs A3 has received a five-star rating from the Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings project. This recognition speaks volumes about the helmet’s commitment to safety. The Sweat Glide EVA foam brow pad included in the helmet design helps to deflect excess perspiration, ensuring that your ride remains comfortable even under the sun.
When it comes to ventilation, this helmet does not disappoint. The Troy Lee Designs A3 offers a notable breeze over the head when worn, which is a significant advantage in warm weather or during strenuous rides.
The Troy Lee Designs A3 offers comfort and safety in a robust package. It’s a helmet that does not compromise on either aspect, making it a worthy investment for any mountain biker. However, with a price tag $60 higher than Fox Speedframe Pro, it may not be the first choice for budget-conscious riders.
Smith Convoy
Last but not least, in our top picks is the Smith Convoy, a budget-friendly option with a lot to offer. This helmet features an adjustable fit, a MIPS liner, and adequate ventilation, making it suitable for recreational riders on moderate terrain. The Smith Convoy is equipped with MIPS rotational impact protection, which reduces the force transferred to the brain during a crash. This safety feature, coupled with a comfortable fit and lightweight protection, makes the Smith Convoy a compelling choice.
In addition to offering essential safety features, the Smith Convoy does not compromise on comfort. Its fixed visor and elevated protection design ensure that riders can enjoy their ride without any discomfort.
Overall, the Smith Convoy proves that you don’t need to break the bank to get a helmet that offers both safety and comfort. Its features and price make it an excellent choice for recreational riders looking for a budget-friendly option.
Enhanced Safety Features
When it comes to mountain biking, safety should never be compromised. That’s why modern helmets come equipped with a host of enhanced safety features designed to protect you in the event of a crash. These features include cutting-edge technologies such as MIPS and other impact protection systems.
MIPS, or Multidirectional Impact Protection System, is a technology that reduces the rotational forces on the brain during an impact. This technology is engineered to diminish rotational forces on the brain in the event of an impact, thus enhancing helmet safety. MIPS is now a standard feature in most helmets and has become synonymous with safety in the biking community.
But MIPS isn’t the only player in the game. Other impact protection systems, such as in-moulding, EPS foam, a tough material core, and extra coverage, are also employed in mountain bike helmets. These systems work together with MIPS to provide comprehensive head protection, ensuring that you stay safe on your rides.
Innovations in safety technology don’t stop here. Other technologies like SPIN, EPP, and GelMotion also provide similar protection against rotational impact and the risk of concussion. With all these safety features at your disposal, you can ride with confidence knowing your helmet has got you covered.
MIPS Technology
MIPS technology is a game-changer in the world of helmet safety. This innovative feature, incorporated into many mountain bike helmets, is designed to reduce the force transferred to the brain during a crash. How does it do this? By employing a low friction layer that moves inside the helmet.
The functionality of MIPS technology is simple but effective. It is designed to decrease rotational forces on the brain during a collision. This layer aids in absorbing and redirecting the energy of an impact, thus reducing the strain on the brain.
The primary advantage of utilizing MIPS technology is the enhanced safety it offers. By reducing rotational forces on the brain during an impact, MIPS technology decreases the risk of serious injury. This makes MIPS a worthwhile investment for any mountain biker.
In conclusion, MIPS technology is a valuable safety feature that can help reduce the risk of serious injury during an impact. It is worth investing in as it can significantly reduce the strain caused by an impact.
Other Impact Protection Systems
In addition to MIPS, there are other impact protection systems that offer similar benefits. These include technologies like WaveCel, SPIN, and Koroyd, which are increasingly being incorporated into helmet designs. SPIN, or Shearing Pad INside, is a technology designed to reduce rotational forces on the brain during an impact. Similar to MIPS, this technology is incorporated into the helmet design and adds an extra layer of protection for your brain. Koroyd is another impact protection technology used in helmets. This honeycomb-like structure is implemented by brands such as Smith and Endura in their helmet designs. It is designed to compress and deform when impacted. Despite this, it still retains its porosity, which allows air to pass through and heat and moisture to disperse. Bontrager and POC are also independently developing their own rotational motion impact technology for helmets. All these technologies are contributing to making mountain bike helmets safer than ever before.
Lightweight and Ventilated Options
While safety is paramount, comfort and breathability are equally important in a helmet. After all, a helmet can have the best safety features in the world, but if it’s uncomfortable or lacks ventilation, you’re not going to want to wear it. This is where lightweight and ventilated options like the POC Octal MIPS and Giro Agilis MIPS come in. These helmets combine safety features with comfort and cooling, offering the best of both worlds. They are designed with large vents for maximum airflow, ensuring your head stays cool even during intense rides. Moreover, they are lightweight, which reduces strain on the neck and shoulders.
The POC Octal MIPS is a standout in this category. This helmet is incredibly light, which allows for improved comfort on long rides. It also features large vents for excellent airflow, keeping your head cool even in high temperatures.
Similarly, the Giro Agilis MIPS offers a unique combination of light weight and ventilation. This helmet is suitable for off-road riders who require additional coverage but prefer a low-profile design. It is equipped with a comprehensive in-moulded outer shell and offers the airiness of a road helmet with extra coverage for off-road riders.
POC Octal MIPS
The POC Octal MIPS is a helmet that offers superior comfort and ventilation without compromising on safety. This helmet is lightweight and well-ventilated, designed with safety features such as a MIPS liner and thickened sections of EPS foam. However, its high price tag may not appeal to all riders.
The POC Octal MIPS features an innovative design that focuses on ventilation and weight. The helmet is equipped with a number of large ventilation channels, ensuring optimal cooling and comfort during rides. Additionally, the MIPS liner and thickened sections of EPS foam provide enhanced head protection, keeping you safe in the event of a crash.
Despite its lightweight design, the POC Octal MIPS does not compromise on safety. It is equipped with a MIPS liner, a unibody shell for increased rigidity, and thickened sections of EPS foam in areas more prone to impacts. These safety features ensure that the POC Octal MIPS offers not just comfort, but also peace of mind.
In summary, the POC Octal MIPS is a premium helmet that offers a unique combination of comfort, ventilation, and safety. While its price tag may be on the higher end, its features and performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious riders.
Giro Agilis MIPS
The Giro Agilis MIPS is another lightweight and well-ventilated helmet that stands out for its value. This helmet is economical, lightweight, and offers superior ventilation and MIPS technology, making it an ideal choice for cross-country and trail riding. The Giro Agilis MIPS is equipped with MIPS technology, which provides ample protection for the head. Additionally, the helmet features a retention system that wraps around the entire head, providing a secure and comfortable fit.
In addition to offering essential safety features, the Giro Agilis MIPS does not compromise on comfort. Its design ensures that riders can enjoy their ride without any discomfort. The helmet’s low-profile design and comprehensive in-molded outer shell also contribute to its lightweight feel.
Overall, the Giro Agilis MIPS proves that you don’t need to break the bank to get a budget mountain bike helmet that offers both safety and comfort. Its features and price make it an excellent choice for recreational riders looking for a budget-friendly option.
Full-Face Mountain Bike Helmets
For riders who prefer aggressive riding styles or engage in downhill racing, full-face helmets offer an extra level of protection. Unlike half-shell helmets, full-face helmets cover more of your head, including your face and jaw, offering increased protection in high-risk situations. Full-face helmets are designed with a full wraparound shell covering the ears. They also include large chin bars that serve as protection to the front of the face. They offer increased protection and more robust foam, providing 360-degree coverage. This makes them ideal for downhill racing, where the risk of high-speed crashes is greater.
Two standout options in this category are the Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS and the Fox Rampage. Both these helmets provide increased protection for aggressive riding styles, offering peace of mind when hitting the trails at high speeds.
While full-face helmets are a bit heavier than half-shell helmets, they offer unparalleled protection. Whether you’re a downhill racer or simply prefer a more aggressive riding style, investing in a full-face helmet could be one of the best decisions you make for your safety.
Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS
The Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS is a full-face helmet designed for enduro racers and riders transitioning from a half shell. This helmet is lightweight and comfortable, offering a balance between protection and comfort. The helmet features a dual density EPS co-molded with EPP, a MIPS brain protection system, and an EPP lined chin bar. It is also certified to meet CPSC requirements, ensuring that it offers adequate protection for aggressive riding styles.
This lightweight helmet is not just about safety; it also champions comfort. Weighing just 690 grams in size M/L, it offers a lightweight alternative to traditional full-face helmets. The integrated dial tension alteration system, known as the Mindset 360 fit system, allows for a customizable fit, ensuring that the helmet is snug yet comfortable, regardless of your head shape.
In summary, the Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS is a fantastic option for riders looking for a full-face helmet that doesn’t compromise on comfort or safety. Whether you’re an enduro racer or simply prefer the added protection of a full-face helmet, this is a helmet worth considering.
Fox Rampage
The Fox Rampage is another full-face helmet that offers a comfortable fit and adequate ventilation at a budget-friendly price. This helmet is a popular choice for downhill riders, thanks to its combination of comfort, protection, and affordability. The Fox Rampage is equipped with MIPS technology, a Varizorb liner, and a lightweight injection-molded ABS shell. Despite being an economical option, this helmet is certified for downhill riding and offers a high level of protection.
In addition to its safety features, the Fox Rampage is also designed for comfort. It offers a comfortable fit and adequate ventilation, ensuring that riders can enjoy their downhill rides without any discomfort.
In conclusion, the Fox Rampage is a fantastic option for riders who want the protection of a full-face helmet without a hefty price tag. It offers a balance of safety, comfort, and affordability, making it a popular choice among downhill riders.
Convertible Helmet Options
For riders who want the option of both half-shell and full-face protection, convertible helmet options offer the best of both worlds. These helmets feature a detachable chin bar, allowing you to easily switch between full-face and open-face depending on your needs. Convertible helmets are perfect for riders who enjoy a variety of riding styles. They offer the convenience of a half-shell helmet for less aggressive rides, while also providing the option of full-face protection for downhill races or more challenging trails.
Some of the best convertible helmets on the market today include the Bell Super DH Spherical and the MET Parachute MCR. Both these helmets offer a high level of protection, comfort, and versatility, making them excellent choices for riders who want a versatile helmet for different riding conditions.
While convertible helmets may be a bit heavier than half-shell helmets due to the added protection, they offer unparalleled versatility. Whether you’re hitting the trails for a leisurely ride or gearing up for a downhill race, a convertible helmet gives you the flexibility to choose the level of protection you need.
Bell Super DH Spherical
The Bell Super DH Spherical is a convertible helmet that offers both convenience and safety. This helmet features a detachable chin bar, MIPS technology, and an adjustable visor, making it a versatile choice for all types of riders. The removable chin bar allows you to easily switch between full-face and open-face, depending on your needs. This versatility makes the Bell Super DH Spherical a great option for riders who enjoy a variety of riding styles.
In addition to its versatility, the Bell Super DH Spherical also offers a high level of safety. It is equipped with a MIPS liner, a unibody shell for increased rigidity, and thickened sections of EPS foam in areas more prone to impacts. These safety features ensure that the Bell Super DH Spherical offers not just convenience, but also peace of mind.
In summary, the Bell Super DH Spherical is a high-quality convertible helmet that offers a unique combination of convenience, safety, and versatility. Whether you’re an enduro racer, a trail rider, or a leisurely cruiser, this helmet offers the flexibility to adapt to your riding style.
MET Parachute MCR
The MET Parachute MCR is another convertible helmet that offers the convenience of a removable chin bar and the safety of MIPS technology. This helmet is designed for enduro, all-mountain and e-MTB riding, making it a versatile option for all types of riders. The MET Parachute MCR is equipped with a magnetic chin bar release system, which makes it easy to switch between full-face and open-face, while the chin strap ensures a secure fit. Additionally, the MIPS anti-rotational system provides an extra layer of safety, reducing the risk of brain injuries in the event of a crash.
In addition to its safety features, the MET Parachute MCR also offers a high level of comfort. The helmet features a BOA retention system and adjustable cheek pads, allowing you to customize the fit for optimal comfort. Furthermore, the flexible and adjustable visor ensures that your vision is always clear, no matter the riding conditions.
In conclusion, the MET Parachute MCR is a versatile and safe helmet option for riders who want the flexibility of both half-shell and full-face protection. Whether you’re an enduro racer, an all-mountain rider, or an e-MTB enthusiast, this helmet has got you covered.
Helmet Fit and Comfort Tips
When it comes to mountain biking, having a helmet that’s comfortable and fits well can significantly enhance your riding experience. However, finding the perfect fit isn’t always easy, especially for mountain bikers. That’s why we’ve put together some tips to help you find a helmet that fits like a glove and provides the comfort you need for those long rides.
First and foremost, proper sizing is crucial. Most adult helmets are available in several sizes to accommodate head circumferences ranging from 51-63cm. To find your size, use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to try on a few different sizes to see which one feels the most comfortable and secure.
In addition to proper sizing, adjusting your helmet for a secure fit is also important. Many helmets come with adjustable straps or a ratcheting dial that allows you to customize the fit. Make sure the helmet is snug but not too tight, and that it sits level on your head, not tilted back or forward.
Finally, don’t forget about comfort. Look for helmets with adequate ventilation to keep your head cool on hot days, and consider the weight of the helmet as well. A helmet that’s too heavy can cause discomfort or neck strain on long rides.
Proper Sizing
When it comes to helmet safety, proper sizing is non-negotiable. A helmet that’s too big or too small won’t provide the protection you need, and it can also be uncomfortable to wear. That’s why it’s crucial to find a helmet that fits your head perfectly.
To find your size, you’ll need to measure the circumference of your head. You can do this using a cloth tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. Once you have your measurement, you can compare it to the sizing chart provided by the helmet manufacturer to find your size.
Keep in mind that everyone’s head is shaped differently, so a helmet that fits one person perfectly may not fit another person of the same size. That’s why it’s important to try on a helmet before you buy it. The helmet should feel snug but not too tight, and it should sit level on your head with the front edge no more than one inch above your eyebrows.
Remember, a properly fitted quality helmet is not only more comfortable to wear, but it also provides better protection in case of a crash. So take the time to find a helmet that fits you well – your safety is worth it.
Adjustability and Retention Systems
While proper sizing is crucial, adjustability is equally important when it comes to helmet fit. Many helmets feature adjustable straps or a ratcheting dial that allows you to fine-tune the fit for a secure and comfortable fit. Adjustability and retention systems provide the user with the ability to customize the helmet to their exact head shape, ensuring stability, security, and comfort when in use. These systems may include dials, straps, and incremental adjustments to ensure a snug fit.
The primary advantage of these systems is that they offer a secure and comfortable fit for a variety of head shapes and sizes. This ensures that the helmet is firmly secured and will remain in place while riding, providing optimal protection. Examples of adjustability and retention systems include ratcheting dials and straps. These systems enable the user to personalize the helmet’s fit to their head shape and size, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
Helmet Maintenance and Replacement
Just like your bike, your helmet also needs regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and performance. Furthermore, knowing when to replace your helmet is crucial to ensure your safety on the trails. It is recommended to replace helmets every 3-5 years or after a crash, depending on the frequency of use, storage conditions, and overall care. Over time, the protective materials in the helmet can degrade, reducing its effectiveness in protecting you during a crash.
In addition to regular replacement, it’s also important to take good care of your helmet. This includes cleaning it regularly and storing it properly. When cleaning your helmet, use mild soap or specialist helmet cleaners. As for storage, keep your helmet in a clean, dry area that does not exceed 120°F.
Inspect your helmet regularly for signs of wear or damage. If you see any cracks in the shell, or if the helmet strap or buckle is damaged, replace your helmet immediately. Remember, a helmet can only protect you if it’s in good condition.
Lifespan and Replacement Guidelines
Knowing when to replace your helmet is crucial for your safety. Even the most durable helmets degrade over time, and a helmet that’s past its prime won’t provide the protection you need in the event of a crash. Manufacturers frequently recommend upgrading your helmet after three to five years of use. This is to ensure proper safety and protection for its user. However, if your helmet has been involved in a crash, it’s important to replace it immediately, even if there is no visible damage. The impact can compromise the helmet’s protective materials, making it less effective.
Aside from time and crashes, other factors can also affect your helmet’s lifespan. These include how often you use your helmet and how well you take care of it. If you ride frequently, your helmet may wear out faster than if you only ride occasionally.
In conclusion, while it might be tempting to keep using a helmet past its recommended lifespan, it’s not worth the risk. A helmet is a small investment compared to the cost of a head injury. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and replace your helmet.
Caring for Your Helmet
Proper maintenance can greatly extend the life of your helmet and ensure it provides the best possible protection. This includes cleaning your helmet regularly, inspecting it for damage, and storing it properly. To clean your helmet, use mild soap or specialist helmet cleaners. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the helmet’s materials. Rinse the helmet thoroughly and let it air dry. Never use a hairdryer or other heat source to dry your helmet, as extreme heat can cause damage. When inspecting your helmet, look for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the shell or frayed straps. If you notice any damage, replace your helmet immediately. Even minor damage can compromise the helmet’s ability to protect you in a crash. In terms of storage, keep your helmet in a clean, dry place out of direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and exposure to the sun can degrade the helmet’s materials, reducing its effectiveness. By taking good care of your helmet, you can ensure it provides the best possible protection for as long as possible.
Summary
Choosing the right mountain bike helmet is a critical decision that can significantly impact your safety and enjoyment on the trails. From half-shells to full-face helmets, and lightweight options to convertible designs, there are plenty of choices to suit different riders and riding styles.
When it comes to safety, technologies like MIPS and other impact protection systems have transformed helmet design, offering greater protection against rotational forces and impacts. Moreover, features like adjustable visors, retention systems, and removable chin bars have made helmets more comfortable and versatile than ever.
However, it’s not just about choosing the right helmet – it’s also crucial to ensure a proper fit and take good care of your helmet. From sizing and adjustability to regular cleaning and timely replacement, these factors all play a role in ensuring your helmet can provide the protection you need.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, investing in a quality helmet is a small price to pay for the safety and peace of mind it provides. So, take the time to choose the right helmet, ensure it fits properly, and take good care of it. Your helmet is not just a piece of gear – it’s your lifeline on the trails.
What to Wear Mountain Biking?
Mountain biking is an exhilarating sport that allows riders to connect with nature while pushing their limits. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, choosing the right gear is essential for comfort, protection, and performance. Explore the key elements of a mountain biking outfit and provide tips to help you stay comfortable and safe on the trails in this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are expensive MTB helmets worth it?
Expensive MTB helmets are likely to offer lighter weight and better ventilation than cheaper helmets, as well as potentially improved fit and appearance.
However, the level of impact protection should be equal regardless of the price. Therefore, it is advisable to focus on finding a helmet that fits well rather than spending more for the pricier option.
Why do mountain bike helmets have visors?
A visor on a mountain bike helmet provides protection against sun glare, rain, branches, and trail debris. It helps prevent impacts to the face and eyes, and increases in effectiveness when the head is tilted downwards.
What are the top mountain bike helmets for 2023?
For the best in mountain bike helmet protection and style in 2023, look no further than the Fox Speedframe Pro, Troy Lee Designs A3 and Smith Convoy.
What is MIPS technology and how does it enhance helmet safety?
MIPS is a technology designed to reduce the rotational forces on the brain during an impact, providing an additional layer of protection and enhancing helmet safety.
What are some lightweight and ventilated helmet options for mountain biking?
For mountain biking, the lightweight and ventilated helmet options include the POC Octal MIPS and the Giro Agilis MIPS.
