The best road bike helmets are crucial for any cyclist, blending essential safety features with performance enhancements and, of course, a cool look. Whether you’re looking at budget cycling helmets or the high-end models favored by professional riders, a quality helmet is non-negotiable safety equipment.
Performance in road bike helmets varies significantly. While basic ventilation is a common need to keep riders cool, the best aero cycling helmets are engineered to cut through the wind, helping you achieve greater speeds. In 2024, we conducted wind tunnel tests on 24 aero helmets to determine the fastest aero road bike helmets, the results of which have informed this guide.
Many cyclists prioritize low weight, but advanced safety technologies such as MIPS and other impact protection systems, along with features like crash detection and integrated lighting, are increasingly desirable. These features are also common in the best commuter helmets, highlighting a growing trend toward enhanced safety in all cycling disciplines.
Our top recommendation is the Specialized S-Works Evade III, but this guide showcases a selection of the best cycling helmets we’ve rigorously tested. If a specific helmet isn’t listed, it’s likely we have a detailed review available on our site.
For those seeking more guidance, our comprehensive helmet buyer’s guide and FAQs section, located further down this page, offer in-depth advice on making the best choice.
Quick List
Looking for the best Cool Road Bike Helmets quickly? Here’s a snapshot of our top selections. Click “Read more below” to jump to a detailed review of each helmet. A spec comparison table is also available at the end.
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Specialized Evade III aero helmet on a white background](##Best road bike helmet overall)
Best Overall
Specialized Evade III
Best overall aero helmet
The Specialized Evade III isn’t just the fastest ‘road-style’ helmet from our wind tunnel testing; it also offers excellent ventilation, strong safety ratings, a comfortable fit, and a universally appealing aesthetic.
Giro Ares Spherical
Runner Up
Giro Aries Spherical
Runner up
The Giro Aries Spherical excels as an all-around helmet, emphasizing superior ventilation. It boasts top-tier performance in independent safety assessments, exceptional airflow, and a comfortable design.
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A black and green Lazer Tonic Kineticore helmet facing to the left, on a plain background](##Best budget road bike helmet)
Best Budget
Lazer Tonic Kineticore
Best budget
Offering impressive all-around performance at a competitive price, the Lazer Tonic Kineticore provides excellent value. Despite its budget-friendly materials, it maintains high safety standards and a competitively low weight.
[
A green Specialized Prevail III helmet facing to the left, on a plain background](##Hot weather)
Best for Hot Weather
Specialized Prevail III
Best for hot weather
The Specialized Prevail III is celebrated for its exceptional ventilation, integrated carbon fiber reinforcement, and outstanding safety scores. It’s a comfortable and stylish choice for warm conditions.
[
A close up detail of one of the best road bike helmets](##Fastest on test)
Fastest on Test
POC Procen Air
Fastest on test
The POC Procen Air dominated our wind tunnel tests as the fastest helmet. Its distinctive look is geared towards pure speed, making it the top choice for racers focused solely on aerodynamic advantage.
A close up detail of one of the best road bike helmets
Most Versatile
Scott Cadence Plus
Most versatile
The Scott Cadence Plus is remarkably versatile, offering a blend of aero efficiency and ventilation. It includes optional vent plugs for enhanced aerodynamics and a clip-on rear light for improved visibility, making it ideal for diverse riding conditions.
Best Road Bike Helmets Available Today
Best road bike helmet overall
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1. Specialized S-Works Evade III
One of the fastest, perfectly breezy, safe, comfortable and stylish
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 274g
Rotational safety system: MIPS Air Node
Aero optimised: Yes
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: 10.93
Ponytail Space: Yes
Wind tunnel: 290.0w at 40km/h
Reasons to buy
- The fastest ‘road-style’ helmet in our tests
- Great ventilation for an aero helmet
- Great road racing style in all colour options
Reasons to avoid
- White straps get dirty easily, so choose a different colour
- Straps can’t be height-adjusted, but they sit low enough that it shouldn’t cause issues
Buy it if
✅ You race and want aero performance alongside all-day comfort: The Evade III’s aero performance is proven, securing second place in our wind tunnel testing.
✅ You want an excellent all-rounder and don’t mind the aero style: While primarily an aero helmet, it remains lightweight, well-ventilated, and comfortable enough for extended rides.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You want to keep your spend to a minimum: Specialized’s S-Works line is premium, reflecting its price point, comparable to other high-end road bike helmets.
❌ You need the fastest performance, regardless of cost: The POC Procen Air, with its visor, marginally outperformed the Evade III by just 1.8 watts.
The Specialized S-Works Evade III excels as both an aero helmet and a versatile all-rounder. It ranked as the second-fastest in our wind tunnel tests, trailing the POC Procen Air by less than two watts. We consider it the fastest ‘road style’ helmet due to the more time-trial focused design of the POC.
Traditionally, aero helmets have been criticized for poor ventilation and overheating, but the Evade III defies this stereotype. It features excellent front ventilation and a large rear ‘exhaust’ vent, effectively dissipating heat and maintaining rider comfort and coolness, even in high temperatures.
The Evade III is also widely praised for its stylish design, a subjective but commonly held opinion among road cyclists. However, the white straps on certain color options are prone to staining from sweat and dust, suggesting darker colors might be more practical. Comfort is a key feature, with no pressure points even on rides exceeding 13 hours.
Safety is well-addressed, with Virginia Tech University awarding the Evade III a safety score of 10.93, placing it in the top five-star bracket. While some helmets on this list score higher, the Evade III remains among the safest available. More details on helmet safety scores are available in our how-to-choose section below.
Unless you frequently ride in extremely hot climates or tackle long, slow climbs where airflow is minimal, the Evade III is an excellent aero helmet for all road cycling scenarios, and stands out as the best aero helmet we’ve tested.
For a deeper dive, read our comprehensive Specialized S-Works Evade III review.
Best road bike helmet – Runner up
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2. Giro Aries Spherical
Another excellent all-rounder, but with a more traditional aesthetic and impressive safety score
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 280g
Rotational safety system: MIPS Spherical
Aero optimised: No
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: 8.4
Ponytail Space: Yes
Wind tunnel: Not tested
Reasons to buy
- High Virginia Tech score
- MIPS Spherical technology
- Ventilation is excellent
Reasons to avoid
- Spherical design makes it hard to push the front up
Buy it if
✅ You want best-in-class results in safety tests: The Aries leads Virginia Tech’s independent helmet testing, achieving the best score ever recorded.
✅ You want an excellent all-rounder and prefer the vented design to aero style: For those who prefer ventilation over aerodynamics, the Aries offers a more traditional helmet shape with wide vents.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You need to maximise aero performance: The Aries is engineered for ventilation, not for aerodynamic efficiency.
❌ You can find the Prevail III on offer: While the Aries is more budget-friendly than the Specialized Prevail III, a discounted Prevail III would be a superior choice.
Despite the merits of the Evade, many cyclists may prefer a helmet better suited for climbing, with enhanced ventilation and a classic design. For these riders, the Giro Aries Spherical is our top recommendation.
The Giro Aries Spherical excels in independent safety evaluations by Virginia Tech University, achieving a top score of 8.40, making it the safest bike helmet ever tested by them.
This safety performance is attributed to MIPS Spherical technology, which employs a ball and socket design, integrating one helmet layer within another. This design allows the outer layer to rotate independently from the inner layer, connected by rubber tendons.
A minor drawback of this spherical design is a slight resistance when adjusting the helmet higher on the forehead. It’s a small issue but noticeable.
The Giro Aries Spherical features transparent arches across the front vents and a rounded rear profile, differing from the elongated tails of aero helmets like the Evade, Procen Air, or Trek Ballista. Ventilation is exceptional, second only to the Specialized Prevail III, yet the Aries surpasses it slightly in safety scores and provides enhanced comfort.
For more details, see our full Giro Aries Spherical review.
Best budget road bike helmet
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3. Lazer Tonic Kineticore
A lightweight all-rounder with a safety-first approach at a quarter of the cost
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 240g
Rotational safety system: Kineticore
Aero optimised: No
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Virginia tech score: 14.3
Ponytail Space: Yes
Wind tunnel: Not tested
Reasons to buy
- Budget pricing
- Stylish all-rounder aesthetic
- Lightweight
Reasons to avoid
- Stiff and heavy strap material
Buy it if
✅ You want to keep the cost to a minimum: In a market of increasingly expensive helmets, the Tonic Kineticore offers exceptional value.
✅ You like a lightweight helmet with safety considerations: The Tonic Kineticore is remarkably light, only 14g heavier than the lightest helmet in this guide.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You value aerodynamic performance: The Tonic Kineticore’s design does not prioritize aerodynamic benefits.
There’s no single definitive method for creating a safe helmet. Lazer’s approach focuses on integrating small, controlled-collapse blocks within the EPS foam, positioned closest to the rider’s head. These Kineticore blocks are engineered to compress or break upon impact, effectively absorbing energy and allowing movement. As an added benefit, the channels between these blocks enhance airflow.
Kineticore technology is featured across Lazer’s product range, including the flagship Lazer Vento Kineticore, which offers more Kineticore blocks, aero enhancements, and an advanced rear cradle adjustment system. While the Vento Kineticore is a top-tier helmet, the Tonic Kineticore stands out for its incredible affordability.
For a fraction of the price of flagship models, the Tonic Kineticore delivers a lightweight, stylish helmet suitable for both road and gravel riding, while still incorporating Kineticore safety technology. Feature reductions are minimal unless advanced aero features are a priority. If aerodynamic innovation isn’t critical, the Tonic Kineticore provides excellent value. One notable change is the strap material, which is now stiffer and slightly heavier.
More details are available in our full Lazer Tonic Kineticore review.
Best road bike helmet for hot weather
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4. Specialized Prevail III
An incredibly well ventilated helmet with a carbon fibre internal cage
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 279g
Rotational safety system: MIPS Air Node
Aero optimised: No
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: 8.64
Ponytail Space: Yes
Wind tunnel: 295.3w at 40km/h
Reasons to buy
- Narrower straps
- Highly adjustable rear cradle
- Incredible ventilation
Reasons to avoid
- White straps are hard to keep clean
Buy it if
✅ You want the absolute maximum ventilation: The Prevail III is my preferred helmet for hot weather cycling.
✅ You want high performance in third-party safety tests: Specialized’s ‘Aircage’ enhances internal structure and contributes to the Prevail III’s strong Virginia Tech safety score.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You want the best in aero or lightweight performance: The Evade is Specialized’s aero-specific helmet, and the added structure slightly increases weight.
❌ You can find the Giro Aries at a discounted price: The Giro Aries is favored by the Cyclingnews test team, offering significant savings if found at a discount compared to the Prevail III at full price.
Manufacturers aiming for maximum ventilation in helmets face the challenge of minimizing obstructive material without compromising safety. Giro uses thin, transparent ‘bridges’ in the Aries, while Specialized employs a different approach with an internal frame of woven aramid struts.
These struts anchor into carbon fiber side panels, designed to distribute forces during impact. A beneficial side effect is the struts’ strength and minimal thickness, maximizing space for ventilation.
Inside, MIPS Air Node technology enhances rotational impact protection by allowing approximately 10-15mm of movement. Consequently, the Prevail III ranks as the third-best road helmet ever tested by Virginia Tech in independent safety assessments.
The Prevail III stands out as the best-ventilated helmet I’ve tested, surpassing even the well-ventilated Giro Aries. Initially, it felt slightly less comfortable than the Aries, but after extensive use over a year, it has become my preferred choice for warm weather.
At 279g, it’s not the lightest helmet but feels light on rides and is only 50g heavier than the Lazer Z1, the lightest in this guide.
Similar to the Evade III, white straps on certain Prevail III models are prone to discoloration from sweat and dust.
More details are available in our full Specialized Prevail 3 helmet review.
Best aero road bike helmet
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5. POC Procen Air
The fastest helmet in our wind tunnel test, but boy does it look silly
Specifications
Weight: 360g
Rotational safety system: None
Aero optimised: Yes (very)
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: N/A
Ponytail Space: Limited
Wind tunnel: 288.2w at 40km/h
Reasons to buy
- The fastest on the market
- Better ventilated than you’d think
Reasons to avoid
- It looks… silly
- Noisier than expected, given the ear covers
Buy it if
✅ You want the absolute maximum in aero performance, no matter the financial or style cost: In our wind tunnel tests, the POC Procen Air was the most aerodynamic helmet, outperforming over 20 leading models.
✅ You race a mix of road and time trials and want one helmet for both uses: Its superior aerodynamics and removable visor make it versatile for road and time trial events.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You want a ‘normal’ looking road helmet: The Procen Air’s aero design is distinctly performance-oriented and unconventional for typical road helmets.
❌ You want to keep the costs down: The Procen Air is the priciest helmet in this guide by a significant margin.
The POC Procen Air represents a new wave of aero road bike helmets that blur the lines with time trial helmets, extending coverage over the ears to streamline airflow and incorporating an integrated visor.
This design proved effective, as the Procen Air topped our wind tunnel tests against over 20 helmets, surpassing even the Evade III by a few watts. The Kask Nirvana, another helmet with a similar aero-first approach, was unfortunately unavailable for our tests.
Despite its aero focus, the Procen Air includes three front vents and an air inlet behind the brow pad, providing reasonable ventilation. While not as breezy as the Evade III, it offers good airflow for its category, especially considering the visor and closed upper design.
It lacks additional rotational impact protection like MIPS or POC’s SPIN technology and hasn’t been rated by Virginia Tech yet. Although it meets industry safety standards, independent safety data is unavailable.
Despite this, the Procen Air is comfortable and secure. The magnetic visor is convenient, clipping securely at the back, and it accommodates standard glasses, which is beneficial for those preferring glasses over contact lenses.
Surprisingly, it’s not as quiet as expected. The ear-covering design should reduce wind noise, but it didn’t, and turning my head actually increased noise levels. This might deter those seeking a quieter, safer ride, as quieter doesn’t necessarily equate to safer.
The most significant drawback is its unconventional appearance. Resembling a time trial helmet, it may look out of place on casual rides, which could be a concern for style-conscious riders.
Best budget aero road bike helmet
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6. Van Rysel FCR
Fast meets budget-friendly
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 293g
Rotational safety system: None
Aero optimised: Yes
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: N/A
Ponytail Space: Limited
Wind tunnel: 290.6w at 40km/h
Reasons to buy
- Good performance in our Wind Tunnel test
- Comfortable
Reasons to avoid
- Strap ‘Y junction’ is unadjustable and sits high beneath the ears
- Materials are noticably lower quality
Buy it if
✅ You want good aero performance on a budget: The Van Rysel FCR Pro achieved an impressive fifth place in our aero test, while remaining one of the most affordable options.
✅ You want a good all-rounder: With decent ventilation, a comfortable fit, and reasonable weight, it’s a versatile helmet for various riding conditions.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You want third-party testing data on safety: The Van Rysel FCR has not been individually tested by Virginia Tech.
❌ You struggle with helmet straps digging in under your ears: The non-adjustable Y junctions may not fit comfortably for everyone.
Like many products from Decathlon’s Van Rysel line, the FCR Pro road bike helmet blends performance and affordability effectively.
In our wind tunnel tests, it secured a strong 5th place, just 2.5 watts behind the Procen Air at 40km/h, and outperformed pricier helmets like the Trek Ballista and Kask Elemento. However, helmet aerodynamics can vary based on individual rider fit.
Beyond speed, the FCR Pro is stylish, endorsed by the Decathlon-AG2R team, and comfortable. Material quality is visibly lower compared to higher-end helmets, with a simpler retention dial and basic padding, slightly increasing weight but not impacting comfort or ventilation, both of which are commendable.
It lacks integrated rotational impact protection in the standard model, though a MIPS-equipped version is available at a slightly higher price, availability depending on location. Van Rysel’s primary challenge has been consistent product availability in stores.
Read our in-depth review of the Van Rysel FCR.
Best lightweight road bike helmet
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7. Lazer Z1 Kineticore
Best lightweight road bike helmet
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 226g
Rotational safety system: Kineticore
Aero optimised: No
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: 10.06
Ponytail Space: Limited
Wind tunnel: Not tested
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight
- Floating forehead padding is comfortable
- Excellent system for extra strap length
- Kineticore does a good job with airflow
- Available aeroshell is good for rain
Reasons to avoid
- Not much room for long hair in the back
- The Rollsys retention dial is unnecessarily complicated
Buy it if
✅ You want the best in lightweight performance: Weighing only 226g, the Z1 is among the lightest helmets available.
✅ You want a well-rounded helmet with a clip-on rear light: Lazer’s Kineticore system enhances rotational impact protection, while the straps, padding, and RollSys system ensure all-day comfort.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You want to maximise aero performance: The Z1 is not designed for optimal aerodynamic efficiency.
❌ You can find the Prevail or the Aries at a discounted price: If discounted, the Prevail and Aries may offer better all-around performance for a similar price.
The Z1 is a well-ventilated road bike helmet that claims to offer 3% better cooling than riding without a helmet, thanks to strategically directed airflow. While this is hard to verify in practice, it offers very good ventilation, though slightly less than the Prevail III.
Its primary appeal is its light weight of 226g, making it ideal for climbers. While lighter helmets exist, like the POC Ventral Lite, the Z1 offers better overall performance in comfort and other areas.
To achieve this, Lazer uses Kineticore rotational impact technology, shaping the EPS foam into blocks that deform and break upon impact. The design also incorporates significant airspace between blocks for cooling and reduces foam for lighter weight.
I particularly appreciate the strap system, which eliminates excess material and uses lightweight, partially recycled, antibacterial straps that remain fresh and stain-free. Additional features include a rear light mount and an Aeroshell for cooler or rainy conditions.
Despite its many positives, the ‘RollSys’ retention dial is less user-friendly. Located at the top of the helmet, it tightens a ring around the inner edge, intended to prevent forward head movement and accommodate long hair. However, it is harder to use and doesn’t offer significant advantages over standard rear dials.
More details are in our full Lazer Z1 Kineticore review.
Best road bike helmet for all-round versatility
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8. Scott Cadence
A well-vented aero helmet with optional plugs and an add-on rear light
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 284g
Rotational safety system: MIPS Air Node
Aero optimised: Yes
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: 13.87
Ponytail Space: Good
Wind tunnel: 290.6w at 40km/h
Reasons to buy
- Good result in our wind tunnel tests
- Stylish aesthetic
- Clip-on rear light for visibility
- Optional plugs to close vents
Reasons to avoid
- Hard to find it for sale in some countries
Buy it if
✅ You want an aero all-rounder but can trade outright speed for some added features: Vent plugs and a clip-on rear light enhance the Cadence Plus’s versatility.
✅ You race, ride, and commute year-round with the same helmet: It’s casual enough for daily riding yet performs well enough for racing scenarios.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You can’t find it for sale in your country: The Scott Cadence Plus has limited availability compared to other brands.
Scott helmets are underrated, but the latest Cadence Plus iteration is exceptional.
Ranking fourth in our wind tunnel tests, it’s ideal for racers and speed enthusiasts. The included clip-on rear light also makes it practical for commuting and evening rides, enhancing visibility.
In testing, it proved to be one of the best-ventilated aero helmets. Optional vent plugs can be added to block the three large front vents, potentially increasing aerodynamic efficiency and providing better insulation in cold or wet conditions.
This versatility makes it an excellent ‘one-helmet-for-all’ option, suitable for commutes, races, club rides, and gravel adventures. It performs well across various cycling disciplines.
Read our Scott Cadence Plus helmet review for more details.
Best road bike helmet for bad weather
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9. POC Ventral Tempus MIPS
Best road bike helmet for winter road riding
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 296g
Rotational safety system: MIPS Integra
Aero optimised: No
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: N/A
Ponytail Space: Limited
Wind tunnel: 298.3w at 40km/h
Reasons to buy
- Solid outer rain protection
- High visibility colours and extra reflectors
- Shell is lightweight
Reasons to avoid
- Lacks Virginia Tech testing
- Expensive
Buy it if
✅ You ride in winter often: Sealed front vents create a barrier against cold air and rain.
✅ You value improved visibility on the road: Bright colors enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You race and/or want good aero performance: The Ventral Tempus performed poorly in aero tests, significantly slower than the Procen Air.
❌ You want the reassurance of third-party safety testing data: It lacks Virginia Tech testing, although it includes MIPS rotational protection.
While specialized helmets for gravel or commuting are arguably unnecessary, a dedicated rain helmet like the POC Ventral Tempus MIPS can be a game-changer for regular wet-weather riders. Alternatives like caps or helmet covers are functional, but the Ventral Tempus MIPS offers integrated rain protection.
POC often adapts base models for specific uses. The Ventral Tempus MIPS, derived from the Ventral Air MIPS (a lightweight climber’s helmet), features a non-removable cover, initially designed to bypass professional cycling rules against clip-on helmet covers. Its popularity led to its market release.
The lightweight, almost imperceptible cover enhances warmth and dryness in rainy conditions. POC also offers high-visibility color options and reflective strips on the front and rear, improving safety in poor visibility.
Although Virginia Tech testing is unavailable, it includes MIPS for rotational protection. Wind tunnel performance was poor, nearly 13 watts slower than the Procen Air, so it’s not designed for speed.
The Ventral Tempus MIPS is a specialized, expensive helmet. It’s invaluable for frequent rain riders but may be too niche for general use.
For more, see our POC Ventral Tempus SPIN review. Both helmets are nearly identical, with minor MIPS variations.
Best road bike helmet for sunglass storage
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10. Sweet Protection Falconer 2Vi Mips
Best road bike helmet for storing sunglasses
Our expert review:
Specifications
Weight: 286g
Rotational safety system: MIPS Air
Aero optimised: Yes
Sizes: S, M, L
Virginia tech score: N/A
Wind tunnel: 298.3w at 40km/h
Reasons to buy
- Excellent ventilation
- Holds sunglasses securely
- Magnetic vent covers available
- #2 rating with Virginia Tech
Reasons to avoid
- Lacks a specific aero claim
- Rear cradle can come apart
Buy it if
✅ You want to store your sunglasses in your helmet: The Falconer 2Vi MIPS offers the most secure sunglasses storage among helmets tested.
✅ You want a high safety rating: It ranks second in Virginia Tech’s safety testing.
Don’t buy it if
❌ You want verified aero performance: Sweet Protection provides no specific aero performance data or wind tunnel testing results.
❌ You want to easily adjust the head retention cradle: The cradle can detach from the clip if adjusted carelessly.
When considering the best road bike helmet, safety, comfort, and cost are paramount. Aerodynamics and aesthetics are also important, but surprisingly, sunglass storage is a significant feature for many cyclists.
Despite compromising helmet aerodynamics (as our tests show), storing sunglasses in helmet vents is convenient. Secure storage is crucial to prevent mid-ride disasters. The Sweet Protection Falconer 2Vi MIPS excels in sunglass storage, securely holding various sunglass models.
Beyond sunglass storage, the STACC ventilation system effectively cools, and magnetic vent covers are available for aero gains or winter warmth.
Inside, the unobtrusive MIPS Air liner enhances airflow and safety. The Falconer 2Vi is highly rated by Virginia Tech, ranking second in their STAR evaluation system, just behind the Giro Aries.
Read our Sweet Protection Falconer 2Vi Mips review for more details.
Best road bike helmets specs compared
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Road bike helmet specs and testing compared
| Helmet | Weight | Virginia Tech | CdA | Power at 40km/h |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Specialized S-Works Evade III | 274g | 10.93 | 0.3523 | 290.0w |
| Giro Aries Spherical | 280g | 8.4 | N/A | N/A |
| Lazer Tonic Kineticore | 240g | 14.3 | N/A | N/A |
| Specialized Prevail III | 279g | 8.64 | 0.3588 | 295.3w |
| POC Procen Air | 360g | N/A | 0.3501 | 288.2w |
| Van Rysel FCR | 293g | N/A | 0.3531 | 290.6w |
| Lazer Z1 Kineticore | 226g | 10.06 | N/A | N/A |
| Scott Cadence | 284g | 13.87 | 0.3531 | 290.6w |
| Sweet Protection Falconer 2Vi | 286g | 8.45 | N/A | N/A |
Other road bike helmets to consider
While we’ve highlighted 10 top helmets, nearly 40 were tested to compile this guide. Here are some notable helmets that were strong contenders but didn’t quite make our top recommendations.
You might notice the absence of the premium Kask Elemento or the new Nirvana. While the Elemento performs well, it doesn’t significantly outperform our top picks. Its aesthetics are appealing, possibly the best in design, but it’s expensive, less ventilated than the Evade or Cadence, and ranked lower in wind tunnel tests.
Wind tunnel data for the Nirvana is pending, as it launched shortly after our tests. Initial impressions suggest an uncomfortable fit, warmth, and a ‘mushroom-head’ appearance. If future tests reveal it’s faster than the Procen Air, these drawbacks might be acceptable, but current data doesn’t support this. If style is less of a concern, the Procen Air is preferable.
Another Kask option, the Protone Icon, is a good all-rounder, but its material quality is slightly inferior to the S-Works Prevail III or Giro Aries, and it lacks Virginia Tech safety ratings. However, a discounted Protone Icon might be a worthwhile purchase.
The Trek Ballista and Velocis were also close to making the list. The Ballista underperformed in wind tunnel tests despite its aero design, possibly due to the test head angle not fully representing aggressive racing positions. For everyday riding, its aero benefits are limited.
The Velocis performed well, lightweight and efficient in the wind tunnel, slightly behind the Ballista but ahead of helmets like the Sweet Protection Tucker, Abus Gamechanger, and Kask Utopia Y. It’s comfortable with a foldable rear cradle, but the Lazer Z1 is lighter, and the Prevail III offers better ventilation. Still, a discounted Velocis is a good buy.
Other tested helmets include the budget-friendly £20 Carnac Evo, which performed mid-range in wind tunnel tests but had pressure point issues and a difficult-to-unlatch closure system.
The MET Manta features a convenient magnetic closure and comfortable fit. The Julbo Sprint offers good value. The Abus Gamechanger 2.0 is a comfortable aero all-rounder. The Giro Eclipse was fast in the wind tunnel, and the Limar Air Atlas includes an optional aero fairing.
The Lazer Vento Kineticore deserves mention for its integrated rear light. It was a close call with the Scott Cadence, but the Cadence’s wind tunnel performance and vent plugs gave it the edge.
Other helmets tested include the POC Ventral (replaced by the POC Cytal), the Smith Ignite with Koroyd impact protection, the Rudy Project Nytron (runs warm), the bulky Uvex Rise Pro (poor wind tunnel), the Uvex Surge (also poor wind tunnel, but converts between vented and aero), the bulky and slow Oakley ARO7, the mid-table Sweet Protection Tucker 2Vi, and the tight HJC Ibex.
The Specialized Propero is a good budget option, though pricier than the Van Rysel FCR. The Specialized Search is notable for gravel riding with secure sunglass storage.
A novel Canyon helmet with a Highbar strap replaces traditional straps with a pivoting system, claiming aero, comfort, and cooling benefits, but felt like a solution to a non-existent problem in testing.
Written and reviewed by
Written and reviewed by Josh Croxton
I’ve tested around 40 helmets at Cyclingnews, from budget to high-end models. I’ve conducted wind tunnel tests and spent countless hours testing helmets in all conditions on road, gravel, and mountain bikes.
Review contributions from
Review contributions from Tom Wieckowski
I’ve been in cycling my entire career, writing for Cyclingnews for over two years. I’ve reviewed many helmets and tested 24 in the Silverstone wind tunnel for in-depth performance analysis.
Review contributions from
Review contributions from Josh Ross
Based in the Pacific Northwest, I prefer dry weather riding. I’ve written about bike tech for years, reviewing everything from helmets to electronics for Cyclingnews.
Recent updates
December 20th, 2024 More author details added, FAQs updated, and additional helmet review links provided. Recommended products remain unchanged. November 14th, 2024 Updated with a new product, FAQ section added with best helmet brand list, Buy if/Don’t buy if advice for each product, and helmet review links. Text cleaned up and new images added.
How to choose the best road bike helmet
You can trust Cyclingnews. Our experts dedicate countless hours to testing cycling technology, providing honest, unbiased advice to aid your choices. Learn more about our testing process.
Choosing a helmet involves considering both technical aspects and personal needs. Safety is paramount; every helmet on the market must meet basic safety standards. However, differentiating factors include aerodynamics, weight, sunglass storage, and ventilation, often involving trade-offs, especially with price. Helmets excelling in multiple areas tend to be pricier.
To choose a road bike helmet, decide your priorities. For hot weather, ventilation is key. For speed, aerodynamics are crucial. Identify your needs, and you’ll likely find a helmet that fits.
What are the best bike helmets for women?
While some brands offer women-specific helmets, industry experts, including cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Kelly Murphy, suggest women-specific helmets offer no performance or comfort advantages in our interview: ‘do women need a women-specific helmet?’
Unisex helmets are generally preferred by women, with individual differences being more significant than gender-based needs. All helmets in this guide are suitable for all genders.
MIPS, SPIN and Kineticore explained
In crashes, head impacts are rarely perpendicular. Angled impacts cause rotational forces, which helmets now aim to mitigate by allowing slight rotation independent of the head. This absorbs impact and reduces rotational force on the skull, lessening concussion risk.
MIPS licenses various rotational impact protection solutions to helmet brands.
Kineticore, by Lazer, shapes EPS foam into blocks that shear upon impact, absorbing energy.
SPIN (Shearing Pad INside), by POC, uses internal pads that shear during impact for similar protection.
Do you need MIPS for a helmet to be safe?
While all certified helmets meet basic safety standards, MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a brand offering enhanced safety features. Like Hoover or Velcro, MIPS is a brand name synonymous with a type of system. Helmets with MIPS have licensed MIPS’s technology.
Our guide ‘what are MIPS helmets’ provides detailed information. Key takeaway: MIPS branding is only permitted if tests show at least a 10% improvement in impact protection for that specific helmet model compared to a version without MIPS.
This doesn’t mean MIPS helmets are universally 10% safer than non-MIPS helmets, only when comparing two versions of the same helmet model. A MIPS-equipped Specialized helmet isn’t necessarily safer than a non-MIPS POC helmet.
The industry acknowledges rotational impacts as a safety concern, and MIPS is one solution among others like Kineticore and SPIN. No definitive evidence indicates one technology is superior.
How do I find the most comfortable road bike helmet?
Beyond safety, comfort is crucial and multifaceted. Proper fit starts with correct sizing. Measure your head circumference above your ears and across your brow using a soft tape measure or string. Use size guides to choose the right size.
If between sizes, consider whether you prefer to size up (for cap use) or down (for aero helmets). Brands vary in sizing, so try helmets on if possible, even if it means returning online purchases.
Vertical adjustability of the rear cradle is important for comfort, though some budget helmets lack this.
Heat management also impacts comfort. Ventilated helmets are crucial in warm weather to prevent overheating and sweat. Conversely, less ventilation is preferable in cold conditions.
What type of bike helmet is best for me?
Road bike helmets generally fall into aero, climbing, and mixed styles. Aero helmets enhance aerodynamics, often with slight trade-offs in ventilation and weight, though top aero models like the Specialized S-Works Evade III excel in all aspects.
Climbing helmets prioritize ventilation for cooling at slower speeds, increasingly incorporating some aero features, making them versatile for varied riding.
Mixed helmets balance aero and ventilation, often adding features like lights or eyewear storage, and sometimes include vent covers for adaptable performance. They are good all-rounders, not necessarily excelling in one area.
FAQ
What does the Virginia Tech score mean?
All helmets must meet minimum safety standards, but these standards are considered low by manufacturers. Virginia Tech University provides independent helmet testing against angled impacts since 2011, assigning scores and star rankings.
This independent verification offers insights into helmet performance in non-linear impacts. While not definitive, it’s valuable information. Lower scores are better; the top-ranked helmet has an 8.4 score. Five-star ratings are given to helmets scoring below 14.00.
Should you consider a bike helmet without a Virginia Tech rating?
Virginia Tech is the sole independent organization offering detailed helmet testing beyond pass/fail. While valuable, not all helmets are tested. Consider why a rating might be missing.
Some manufacturers, like Kask, disagree with Virginia Tech’s testing protocol, particularly regarding head forms used. Kask and others use different protocols.
The volume of helmet releases also means Virginia Tech hasn’t tested every model. Even brands like POC have newer, unrated helmets.
Missing ratings raise questions. Weigh the importance of Virginia Tech ratings in your decision. We provide ratings when available and highlight when they are missing, allowing you to decide its significance.
What is a wind tunnel?
A wind tunnel is an aerodynamic testing facility. Large fans force air through a tunnel, and helmets are mounted to measure aerodynamic forces. Sensors calculate drag. Higher drag means more effort to move through the air, reducing speed at the same effort level.
In our tests, the difference between the best and worst helmets was about 12 watts, significant for both amateur and professional cyclists.
What is CdA?
CdA (Coefficient of Drag x Area) measures aerodynamic performance. Area refers to frontal surface size; larger areas disrupt more air. The Coefficient of Drag is the drag created by the surface shape. Streamlined shapes like bullets have lower drag than blunt shapes like coins of the same size.
CdA helps calculate power needed to maintain speed and compare helmet aerodynamics.
What is the best bike helmet brand
Choosing from top bike helmet brands ensures quality, as these brands invest in safety, ventilation, fit, and aerodynamics. Cyclingnews recommends these trusted brands:
- Abus
- Bell
- Bontrager
- Giant
- Giro
- HJC
- Kask
- Lazer
- Limar
- Liv
- MET
- Oakley
- POC
- Rudy Project
- Scott
- Smith
- Specialized
- Sweet Protection
- Uvex
- Van Rysel
How we test
The Cyclingnews team, including full-time testers Tom, Will, and myself, with contributions from Josh Ross, has tested over 60 helmet models.
Our testing combines hands-on and passive methods. Hands-on tests involve quantifiable metrics like weight, strap and retention adjustments, and wind tunnel testing.
Passive testing includes subjective evaluations during regular rides, back-to-back testing in varied conditions, from rain to heat, on road and off-road terrains.
We consider Virginia Tech impact test results and assess comfort and fit security.
