Choosing the best mountain bike helmet is crucial for safety and comfort on the trails. Whether you’re tackling aggressive enduro descents or enjoying cross-country rides, a quality helmet is your most important piece of protective gear. We’ve rigorously tested and reviewed a wide range of mountain bike helmets to bring you our top recommendations for 2024.
Giro Manifest Spherical: Best Overall Mountain Bike Helmet
Giro Manifest Spherical best overall mountain bike helmet
The Giro Manifest Spherical stands out as the best overall mountain bike helmet due to its exceptional blend of protection, ventilation, and comfort. It edged out strong competition to earn our top recommendation, offering a suite of high-end features in a sleek and well-designed package.
Pros:
- Superior Impact Protection: Features dual-shell Spherical technology by Mips, enhancing protection against rotational impacts with two EPS foam shells.
- Exceptional Ventilation: Large vents and internal channels provide class-leading airflow, keeping you cool on hot rides.
- Comfortable and Secure Fit: Interior foam shell provides extensive coverage and comfortably fits various head shapes.
- Convenient Features: Includes sunglasses storage and an adjustable visor.
Cons:
- Average Weight: Slightly heavier than some competitors due to the dual-shell design.
- Premium Price: A higher-end helmet, but its performance justifies the cost.
The Manifest Spherical’s standout feature is its Mips Spherical rotational impact system. Unlike traditional Mips liners, this system uses two separate EPS foam shells connected by elastomers. These shells rotate independently during an angular impact, reducing rotational forces transmitted to the brain. The helmet’s extended coverage at the back and sides further enhances protection. Ventilation is truly remarkable, thanks to strategically placed vents and internal channeling that promotes airflow across the head. The padding is comfortable and effectively manages sweat.
While it carries a slightly higher price tag and average weight, the Giro Manifest Spherical’s performance and comprehensive feature set make it the best mountain bike helmet for riders seeking top-tier protection and comfort across all types of mountain biking. For those seeking value, the Giro Radix Mips offers a more budget-friendly alternative from the same brand.
Giro Manifest Spherical versatile mountain bike helmet with high safety rating
Testers consistently praised the Giro Manifest Spherical for its balanced performance and comfortable fit, making it a top pick for diverse mountain biking disciplines.
Giro Radix Mips: Best Value Mountain Bike Helmet
Giro Radix Mips best value mountain bike helmet
For riders seeking excellent performance without breaking the bank, the Giro Radix Mips is the best value mountain bike helmet. This helmet provides essential features and solid protection at a more accessible price point.
Pros:
- Affordable Price: Significantly less expensive than premium helmets, offering great value.
- Comfortable Fit: Giro’s Roc Loc fit system ensures a secure and customizable fit.
- Lightweight Design: One of the lightest helmets in our test, enhancing comfort on long rides.
- Mips Protection: Includes Mips technology for rotational impact protection.
Cons:
- Basic Features: Fewer premium features compared to higher-end models.
- Average Ventilation: Ventilation is adequate but not exceptional in very hot conditions.
- Smaller Visor: Visor provides less coverage than some competitors.
The Giro Radix Mips prioritizes essential performance features, including Mips rotational impact protection and a comfortable Roc Loc fit system. The helmet’s lightweight design contributes to its comfort, making it suitable for various riding styles. Its versatile design is well-suited for trail riding and cross-country, offering a comfortable and secure feel. The Roc Loc harness is particularly noteworthy for its ease of adjustment and ability to fine-tune the fit.
While it may lack some of the advanced features and extensive coverage of more expensive helmets, the Giro Radix Mips excels in providing reliable protection and comfort at an unbeatable price. It’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious riders who don’t want to compromise on essential safety features. For aggressive all-mountain riders needing more robust protection, a full-face helmet like the Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips might be more appropriate.
Giro Radix Mips versatile and comfortable mountain bike helmet at a great price
The Giro Radix Mips strikes a perfect balance between affordability and performance, making it an excellent choice for value-conscious mountain bikers.
Specialized Camber: Another Great Value Mountain Bike Helmet
Specialized Camber value mountain bike helmet
The Specialized Camber is another exceptional value mountain bike helmet, offering essential features and reputable Specialized quality at a very competitive price. It’s a no-frills option that focuses on core performance and safety.
Pros:
- Incredible Affordability: One of the most budget-friendly helmets with Mips.
- Mips Equipped: Includes Mips for rotational impact protection.
- Comfortable and Adjustable: Offers a comfortable fit with an adjustable harness.
- Stylish Design: Modern Specialized styling.
Cons:
- Fixed Visor: Visor is not adjustable, limiting versatility.
- Basic Feature Set: Lacks advanced features found on higher-end helmets.
- Average Ventilation: Ventilation is not as effective as top-tier ventilated helmets.
The Specialized Camber focuses on delivering core safety and comfort features without unnecessary extras. It includes Mips protection, a comfortable fit system, and the quality construction expected from Specialized. It also boasts a 5-star safety rating from Virginia Tech, similar to Specialized’s premium Ambush 2 helmet, at a fraction of the cost. The adjustable harness and strap splitters allow for a personalized fit.
While the Camber forgoes luxury features and has a fixed visor, its combination of affordability, Mips protection, and comfortable design makes it a standout value option. It’s perfect for riders who prioritize essential performance and are less concerned with bells and whistles. For riders wanting more features and ventilation, the Giro Manifest Spherical is a worthwhile upgrade.
Specialized Camber modern styling and quality construction at a reasonable price
The Specialized Camber proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a safe and stylish mountain bike helmet.
Fox Racing Speedframe Pro: Best Trail Riding Mountain Bike Helmet
Fox Racing Speedframe Pro best trail riding mountain bike helmet
The Fox Racing Speedframe Pro is our pick for the best trail riding mountain bike helmet. It strikes an excellent balance of features, protection, and comfort, making it ideal for a wide range of trail conditions.
Pros:
- High Performance at Mid-Range Price: Offers top-tier features at a more approachable price.
- Comfortable and Adjustable Harness: Provides a highly customizable and secure fit.
- Excellent Ventilation: Keeps you cool during demanding trail rides.
- Dual-Density EPS and Mips: Enhances impact protection with dual-density foam and Mips.
- Virginia Tech 5-Star Rating: Independently verified for top-level safety.
Cons:
- Average Weight: Slightly heavier than some lighter options.
- Fixed Strap Splitters: Strap splitters are not adjustable.
- Moderate Coverage: Offers good coverage but not as extensive as some competitors.
Despite its mid-range price, the Speedframe Pro delivers performance comparable to much more expensive helmets. It’s packed with features like Mips, dual-density EPS foam, and a goggle-compatible adjustable visor. On the trail, its comfort and ventilation are exceptional, providing a secure and confidence-inspiring fit. The harness system is easy to adjust, and the helmet feels well-balanced on the head.
The Speedframe Pro is an outstanding choice for trail riders who want premium features and top-notch protection without the highest price tag. It’s a versatile helmet that excels in various trail riding scenarios. For riders prioritizing lighter weight, the POC Tectal Race Mips is a worthy alternative.
Fox Racing Speedframe Pro excellent on-trail performance at a moderate price
The Fox Racing Speedframe Pro is a top performer for trail riding, offering a great mix of comfort, protection, and value.
POC Kortal Race Mips: Best Mountain Bike Helmet for Protection
POC Kortal Race Mips best protection mountain bike helmet
When maximum protection is your top priority, the POC Kortal Race Mips is the best mountain bike helmet for protection. POC is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the Kortal Race Mips exemplifies this with class-leading coverage and advanced safety features.
Pros:
- Class-Leading Head Coverage: Provides extensive protection, especially at the temples and rear of the head.
- Advanced Safety Features: Includes Mips Integra, Recco reflector, and NFC medical ID chip.
- Excellent Ventilation: Surprisingly well-ventilated for a high-coverage helmet.
- Dutch E-bike Safety Certification: Meets stringent e-bike safety standards.
- Breakaway Visor: Designed to break away in a crash to reduce neck injuries.
Cons:
- Expensive: One of the pricier helmets on the market.
- Potential Sunglass Interference: May not be compatible with all sunglass arm designs.
- Narrow Fit: Shell shape may be less comfortable for riders with very round heads.
The Kortal Race Mips builds upon the popular POC Tectal, offering even greater head coverage and a host of innovative safety features. The new Mips Integra system is seamlessly integrated into the helmet’s liner, enhancing rotational impact protection without compromising ventilation. The helmet also includes aramid bridges for structural reinforcement, a Recco reflector for searchability in emergencies, and an NFC medical ID chip for storing critical medical information. Its ventilation is exceptional, defying expectations for a helmet with such extensive coverage.
For riders who prioritize safety above all else, and are willing to invest in top-tier protection, the POC Kortal Race Mips is unmatched. It is designed for aggressive trail and enduro riding where impacts are a significant concern. For a more budget-friendly option with excellent coverage, consider the Giro Tyrant Spherical.
POC Kortal Race Mips top protection mountain bike helmet with advanced safety features
POC’s dedication to head protection is evident in the Kortal Race Mips, making it the ultimate choice for safety-conscious mountain bikers.
Giro Tyrant Spherical: Best Mountain Bike Helmet for Extra Coverage
Giro Tyrant Spherical extra coverage mountain bike helmet
If you desire extra coverage and a unique moto-inspired style, the Giro Tyrant Spherical is the best mountain bike helmet for extra coverage. This “full-cut” open-face helmet provides significantly more protection than traditional trail helmets.
Pros:
- Maximum Coverage: Offers extended coverage for temporal and occipital lobes.
- Dual-Shell Spherical Protection: Features the same advanced Mips Spherical system as the Manifest.
- Comfortable for All-Day Riding: Giro’s Roc Loc fit system ensures lasting comfort.
- Versatile Style: Bridges the gap between trail, gravity, and dirt jump helmets.
Cons:
- Heavy Weight: Noticeably heavier than standard trail helmets.
- Subpar Ventilation: Ventilation is less effective compared to more ventilated trail helmets.
The Giro Tyrant Spherical stands out with its moto-inspired design and enhanced coverage. It uses a dual-shell construction with both EPP and EPS foam to manage different impact energies. The inner EPP shell is designed for lower-speed impacts, while the outer EPS shell handles higher-speed collisions. Despite its robust build, the Tyrant maintains a relatively low profile and offers surprising ventilation for its type. The Roc Loc fit system ensures a comfortable and secure fit for all-day rides.
The Tyrant is ideal for riders who prioritize maximum coverage and a distinctive style, and who are willing to accept a weight penalty for the added protection. It’s well-suited for more aggressive trail riding, bike parks, and dirt jumping. For riders seeking lighter weight and better ventilation with still excellent protection, the POC Kortal Race Mips is a great alternative.
Giro Tyrant Spherical great option for riders who prioritize extra coverage
The Giro Tyrant Spherical combines maximum coverage with a stylish design, making it a unique and protective option for mountain bikers.
Specialized Ambush 2: Best Ventilated Mountain Bike Helmet
Specialized Ambush 2 best ventilated mountain bike helmet
For riders who overheat easily or ride in hot climates, the Specialized Ambush 2 is the best ventilated mountain bike helmet. This helmet is engineered for maximum airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable even on the hottest and most demanding rides.
Pros:
- Exceptional Ventilation: Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) optimized ventilation system for maximum airflow.
- Seamless Eyewear Integration: Clever sunglass storage ports for secure and convenient eyewear stowage.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Mips SL system enhances comfort and ventilation.
- Good Value: Offers top-tier ventilation and features at a competitive price.
Cons:
- Fixed Visor: Visor is not adjustable, limiting versatility in varying light conditions.
- Harness Fit: Harness may not sit as low on the back of the head as some riders prefer.
The Specialized Ambush 2’s standout feature is its incredible ventilation. Specialized used CFD modeling to optimize vent placement and internal channels, creating a helmet that truly promotes airflow. Even at low speeds, you can feel the air moving through the helmet, effectively cooling your head. The Mips SL system, exclusive to Specialized, is integrated directly into the padding, further enhancing ventilation and comfort by eliminating a separate plastic liner. The Ambush 2 also features well-designed eyewear integration, allowing you to securely stow sunglasses in dedicated ports under the visor.
If staying cool is your primary concern, the Specialized Ambush 2 is the top choice. Its ventilation is unmatched, making it ideal for hot weather riding and strenuous climbs. For riders who prefer an adjustable visor and more features, the Giro Manifest Spherical remains a top contender overall.
Specialized Ambush 2 top airflow mountain bike helmet for hot weather riding
The Specialized Ambush 2 sets a new standard for helmet ventilation, making it the best option for staying cool on the trails.
Smith Mainline Mips: Best Overall Full Face Mountain Bike Helmet
Smith Mainline Mips best overall full face mountain bike helmet
For riders needing full-face protection, the Smith Mainline Mips is the best overall full face mountain bike helmet. It balances lightweight design, ventilation, and robust DH-certified protection, making it incredibly versatile.
Pros:
- Lightweight and Well-Ventilated for a Full Face: Usable for pedaling and enduro racing.
- DH Certified Protection: Meets downhill safety standards.
- Aerocore and Koroyd Construction: Utilizes advanced materials for impact absorption and ventilation.
- Robust Feel: More substantial than other lightweight full-face options.
Cons:
- Not Ideal for Dedicated DH Riding: Heavier, more robust helmets are better for frequent bike park use.
- Moderately Expensive: Pricier than some other full-face options.
The Smith Mainline Mips excels in its versatility. It’s lightweight and well-ventilated enough for enduro racing and trail riding, yet still provides DH-certified protection for more aggressive descents. Smith’s Aerocore construction with Koroyd material contributes to both impact absorption and airflow. The Mainline offers excellent head coverage and includes Mips for rotational impact protection. It provides a good balance of breathability and a secure, confidence-inspiring feel.
The Mainline is perfect for riders who need a full-face helmet that can handle a variety of riding disciplines, from enduro races to bike park days. While it might not be the absolute best choice for dedicated downhill riding, its versatility and balanced performance make it our top overall pick for full-face mountain bike helmets. For pure downhill performance, consider the Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips.
Smith Mainline Mips versatile and lightweight full face helmet for enduro and trail riding
The Smith Mainline Mips is the go-to full-face helmet for riders who demand versatility and balanced performance across different mountain biking disciplines.
Troy Lee Designs D3 Fiberlite: Best Value Full Face Mountain Bike Helmet
Troy Lee Designs D3 Fiberlite best value full face mountain bike helmet
For riders seeking robust full-face protection on a budget, the Troy Lee Designs D3 Fiberlite is the best value full face mountain bike helmet. It offers substantial DH-level protection at a more accessible price point than premium full-face helmets.
Pros:
- Affordable DH Protection: Significantly less expensive than top-tier DH helmets.
- Substantial and Protective Feel: Rugged Fiberlite shell and generous EPS/EPP foam lining.
- Comfortable and Secure Fit: Plush padding and secure D-ring buckle.
Cons:
- No Rotational Impact Protection: Lacks Mips or similar systems.
- Heavier Weight: One of the heavier full-face helmets.
- Limited Ventilation: Ventilation is not ideal for pedaling in hot weather.
The Troy Lee Designs D3 Fiberlite prioritizes robust protection and affordability. It features a rugged Fiberlite shell with a substantial EPS/EPP foam liner, providing a confidence-inspiring feel for gravity-focused riding. The fit is snug and comfortable, with a secure D-ring buckle. Its classic styling and adjustable visor are hallmarks of the Troy Lee Designs brand.
While it lacks rotational impact protection and is heavier and less ventilated than some competitors, the D3 Fiberlite delivers excellent downhill protection at a great value. It’s an ideal choice for riders who need a reliable full-face helmet for bike parks and gravity riding without spending top dollar. For a lighter, more ventilated full-face option with rotational impact protection, consider the Smith Mainline Mips.
Troy Lee Designs D3 Fiberlite solid value gravity-oriented full face helmet
The Troy Lee Designs D3 Fiberlite proves that you can get solid downhill protection without breaking the bank, making it the best value in full-face mountain bike helmets.
Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips: Best Full Face Mountain Bike Helmet for Pure Downhill Riding
Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips best downhill mountain bike helmet
For uncompromising downhill performance and maximum protection, the Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips is the best full face mountain bike helmet for pure downhill riding. This helmet is built for serious gravity riding and racing, offering a robust and confidence-inspiring design.
Pros:
- Maximum Downhill Protection: Robust carbon fiber shell and dual-density EPS foam.
- Confidence-Inspiring Feel: Substantial and secure for aggressive riding.
- Mips Equipped: Includes Mips for rotational impact protection.
- Breakaway Visor: Designed to detach in a crash to reduce rotational forces.
Cons:
- Heavy Weight: One of the heaviest helmets in our test.
- Expensive: A premium price for top-tier downhill performance.
- Limited Ventilation: Ventilation is adequate but not ideal for pedaling.
- Small Sizing: Sizing tends to run small.
The Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips is designed without compromise for downhill riding and racing. It features a robust carbon fiber shell, dual-density EPS foam liner, and Mips rotational impact protection. The helmet feels exceptionally solid and secure, inspiring confidence for tackling the most challenging downhill terrain. Generous padding and a secure D-ring chinstrap further enhance the fit and feel. The breakaway visor is a key safety feature, designed to reduce rotational forces in a crash.
If your riding is primarily focused on downhill and bike parks, and you demand the highest level of protection, the Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips is the ultimate choice. While it’s heavy and less ventilated than more versatile options, its downhill performance is unmatched. For a more versatile and lighter full-face helmet, consider the Smith Mainline Mips.
Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips top choice for pure downhill mountain biking
The Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips is the definitive full-face helmet for downhill mountain biking, offering unparalleled protection and confidence for gravity riders.
Mountain Bike Helmet Comparison
Mountain Bike Helmet Testing Troy Lee Designs A3 Mips
Choosing the right mountain bike helmet depends on your riding style, priorities, and budget. Here’s a quick comparison of our top picks:
| Helmet | Best For | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giro Manifest Spherical | Overall | Spherical Mips, Ventilation, Comfort | Top-tier protection, ventilation, comfort, features | Price, average weight |
| Giro Radix Mips | Value | Mips, Comfort, Lightweight | Affordable, comfortable, lightweight, Mips protection | Basic features, average ventilation, smaller visor |
| Specialized Camber | Value | Mips, Affordable | Very affordable, Mips, comfortable | Fixed visor, basic features, average ventilation |
| Fox Racing Speedframe Pro | Trail Riding | Mips, Dual-Density EPS, Ventilation, Comfort | Excellent trail performance, comfortable, ventilated, protective | Average weight, fixed strap splitters |
| POC Kortal Race Mips | Protection | Mips Integra, Coverage, Safety Features, Ventilation | Maximum protection, advanced safety features, ventilated | Price, potential sunglass interference, narrow fit |
| Giro Tyrant Spherical | Extra Coverage | Spherical Mips, Full-Cut Coverage, Comfort | Maximum coverage, comfortable, versatile style | Heavy weight, subpar ventilation |
| Specialized Ambush 2 | Ventilation | Exceptional Ventilation, Eyewear Integration | Best ventilation, eyewear integration, good value | Fixed visor, harness fit |
| Smith Mainline Mips | Overall Full Face | Lightweight Full Face, DH Certified, Ventilation | Versatile full face, lightweight, ventilated, DH certified | Not ideal for dedicated DH, moderately expensive |
| Troy Lee Designs D3 Fiberlite | Value Full Face | Affordable Full Face, DH Protection | Affordable full face, robust protection, comfortable | No rotational impact protection, heavier weight, limited ventilation |
| Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips | Downhill Full Face | Max DH Protection, Carbon Shell, Mips | Maximum DH protection, confidence-inspiring | Heavy weight, expensive, limited ventilation, small sizing |
How We Test Mountain Bike Helmets
Our experienced testers rigorously evaluate each mountain bike helmet through extensive real-world riding. We assess performance across six key metrics:
- Protection (25%): We evaluate helmet construction, coverage, and safety features like rotational impact systems, considering certifications and independent safety ratings like Virginia Tech.
- Comfort (20%): We assess fit, padding, harness systems, and strap comfort during long rides.
- Ventilation (20%): We test ventilation effectiveness in various conditions, comparing airflow and heat management during climbs and descents.
- Features (15%): We evaluate visor adjustability, eyewear integration, and other convenience and safety features.
- Weight (10%): We weigh each helmet and consider its impact on comfort and perceived weight while riding.
- Durability (10%): We assess the helmet’s resistance to wear and tear from daily use and typical mountain biking conditions.
Our testing team includes seasoned mountain bike experts Jeremy Benson and Zach Wick, who bring decades of riding and product testing experience to our reviews.
Smith Session Vaporfit Dial Easy Glove Use
We test helmet features like adjustment dials to ensure ease of use, even with gloves.
Analysis and Test Results: Finding the Best Mountain Bike Helmet for You
Recent advancements in mountain bike helmet technology have significantly improved safety, comfort, and ventilation. Modern helmets are more comfortable and protective than ever, making them an essential part of every rider’s gear. Our testing process helps you understand the nuances of each helmet and choose the best one for your needs.
What to Consider When Choosing a Mountain Bike Helmet:
- Riding Style: Consider the type of mountain biking you do most frequently. Trail riding helmets offer a balance of features, while enduro and downhill require more robust full-face options.
- Protection Needs: Prioritize helmets with rotational impact protection (Mips, Spherical, etc.) and consider the level of coverage you need for your riding style and terrain.
- Comfort and Fit: A comfortable helmet is crucial for enjoying your rides. Look for adjustable fit systems and try on different models to find the best shape for your head.
- Ventilation Requirements: If you ride in hot weather or tend to overheat, prioritize helmets with excellent ventilation.
- Budget: Mountain bike helmets range in price. Determine your budget and consider value-oriented options that still offer essential safety and comfort features.
Mountain Bike Helmet Testing Ventilation Comfort
Our testing process includes riding in diverse conditions to thoroughly evaluate ventilation, comfort, and overall performance.
Conclusion: Ride Safe and Choose the Best Mountain Bike Helmet
Investing in a high-quality mountain bike helmet is essential for your safety and enjoyment on the trails. Our top picks represent the Best Mountain Bike Helmets of 2024, offering a range of options to suit every riding style and budget. Whether you prioritize maximum protection, ventilation, value, or overall performance, you’ll find a helmet on our list that meets your needs. Choose wisely, ride safe, and enjoy the trails!
Explore our comprehensive reviews of mountain bikes and accessories to complete your riding setup, including our guides to the best mountain bikes, mountain bike knee pads, and mountain bike shoes.
