Whether you’re navigating city streets, enjoying family bike rides, or hitting mountain trails for an invigorating workout, a dependable bike helmet is paramount for your safety. While “Womens Bike Helmets” are often marketed with smaller sizes or feminine aesthetics, the reality is that any helmet that provides a secure and comfortable fit is suitable for women.
To simplify your search, we’ve personally tested a range of top-selling helmets tailored for women. We understand the importance of comfort and ease of use – no one wants a helmet that’s cumbersome or uncomfortable! Each helmet in our selection has been rigorously tested to ensure it meets high standards of comfort, adjustability, and overall usability.
Our curated list is organized into three main categories: commuter, road, and mountain bike helmets. However, these distinctions are not rigid. Any of these helmets are excellent choices for casual cyclists too, often boiling down to personal style and riding preference. If you’re also looking to upgrade your ride, be sure to explore our guides on the 10 Best Women’s Bikes and the 8 Best Electric Bicycles for Women.
| Womens Helmet | Why We Love It | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Friendly Helmets | ||
| Retrospec Lennon | Stylish Commuter Option Without Breaking the Bank | $34 |
| Retrospec Rowan | Affordable MTB Style for Trail Adventures | $39 |
| Outdoor Master Gem | Exceptional Value with MIPS Safety Technology | $59 |
| Commuter Helmets | ||
| Thousand Heritage | Retro-Chic Design for Urban Cycling | $99 |
| Thousand Chapter | Enhanced Visibility with Integrated Rear Light & MIPS | $145 |
| Mountain and Road Bike Helmets | ||
| Giro Fixture II MIPS | Unmatched Universal Fit and Superior Ventilation (MTB) | $75 |
| Smith Convoy | Highly Customizable Fit for Mountain Biking (MTB) | $85 |
| Smith Signal | Premium Adjustability for Road Cycling (Road) | $85 |
| Kali Chakra Solo | Incredible Value and Performance for MTB Enthusiasts | $50 |
| Helmets We DON’T Recommend | ||
| Schwinn Thrasher | Better Alternatives Available at Similar Price Points | $29 |
| Helmet fit can vary significantly. Refer to the detailed fit notes for each helmet below to ensure the best choice for you. |
Discovering the Best Bike Helmets for Women: Our Top Picks
While countless “womens bike helmet” options are available, our selections focus on helmets ideally suited for the everyday woman cyclist. While higher-end helmets might offer marginal performance gains, spending excessively isn’t necessary for most riders. Our recommendations balance safety, comfort, and value.
Bike helmets, regardless of gender marketing, generally fall into three categories based on riding style: commuter, road, and mountain. Each category incorporates features optimized for its specific cycling environment. However, for casual riding, a helmet from any category will work effectively, often coming down to individual style preferences.
- Commuter helmets: Prioritize style and visibility. They often feature integrated lights to enhance safety in urban traffic and during nighttime riding.
- Road helmets: Embody the classic bike helmet aesthetic. Performance road helmets are engineered for aerodynamic efficiency, minimizing wind resistance.
- Mountain bike helmets: Offer extended coverage, particularly at the sides and back of the head. They typically include longer visors to protect against branches and offer additional protection during off-road falls.
It’s crucial to remember that “womens bike helmets” are not fundamentally different in safety or construction from unisex or men’s helmets. The primary distinctions lie in size ranges and color palettes. Women with larger head sizes might even find that “women’s” helmets are too small. Focus on fit above all else, regardless of the helmet’s marketing label.
Quick Guide to Finding the Right Bike Helmet (90 Seconds)
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In-Depth Reviews: Womens Bike Helmet Selections
BUDGET-FRIENDLY WOMENS BIKE HELMETS
For cyclists seeking reliable protection without a hefty price tag, these budget-friendly helmets deliver essential features and respectable performance.
Retrospec Lennon: Commuter Style on a Dime
Alt text: Retrospec Lennon women’s bike helmet in light blue, a budget-friendly commuter style helmet with a built-in rear LED light.
Price: $34
Key Specs:
- Size: One Size (54 – 61 cm)
- Fit: Slightly Narrow
- Construction: Hardshell
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: No
- Features: Dial-adjust fit system, integrated rear LED light (3 modes), moisture-wicking pads.
Pros:
- Exceptional value for the price.
- Stylish commuter design with matte colors.
- Integrated LED rear light enhances visibility.
- Dial-adjust system for a secure fit.
Cons:
- Hardshell construction less durable than in-mold designs.
- Narrower fit may not suit all head shapes.
- Pads may compress over time, potentially affecting long-term fit.
Verdict: The Retrospec Lennon provides commuter-style aesthetics and essential safety features at an unbeatable price. While its hardshell construction isn’t as robust as higher-end options, it’s a fantastic choice for budget-conscious riders who prioritize style and visibility for urban cycling.
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Retrospec Rowan: Budget-Friendly MTB Style for Trail Riders
Alt text: Retrospec Rowan women’s mountain bike helmet in teal, an affordable MTB style helmet with in-mold construction and large vents.
Price: $39
Key Specs:
- Size: One Size (54-61cm)
- Fit: Average width, Deeper fit
- Construction: In-mold
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: No
- Features: Durable in-mold construction, dial-adjust fit system, 14 large vents.
Pros:
- Affordable mountain bike helmet styling.
- Durable in-mold construction for enhanced longevity.
- Good ventilation with 14 large vents.
- Deeper fit provides added coverage for trail riding.
Cons:
- Deeper fit may interfere with some sunglasses.
- Average width fit may not be ideal for very narrow or wide heads.
- No MIPS rotational impact protection.
Verdict: The Retrospec Rowan offers excellent value for riders seeking a mountain bike helmet aesthetic and durable construction at a budget price. Its in-mold build and ample ventilation make it a solid choice for trail riding, though the deeper fit should be considered for sunglass compatibility.
View on Amazon View on Retrospec
Outdoor Master Gem: Best Budget Helmet with MIPS
Alt text: Outdoor Master Gem women’s bike helmet in ocean blue, a budget-friendly helmet offering MIPS safety technology and adjustable fit.
Price: $59
Key Specs:
- Sizes: Medium (55 – 58 cm), Large (59 – 61 cm)
- Fit: Average width
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: Yes
- Features: MIPS technology, height-adjustable rear fit system, two sets of moisture-wicking pads, chin pad.
Pros:
- Incredible value with MIPS rotational impact protection included.
- Height-adjustable rear fit system for customized comfort.
- Two sets of pads for fine-tuning fit.
- Lightweight and available in multiple colors.
Cons:
- Ventilation, while good, is not as advanced as higher-end models.
- Average width fit may not suit all head shapes perfectly.
Verdict: The Outdoor Master Gem stands out as the best budget-friendly helmet with MIPS technology. Its combination of safety features, adjustable fit, and comfortable padding makes it an exceptional value for cyclists seeking enhanced protection without overspending.
View on Amazon View on Outdoor Master
COMMUTER WOMENS BIKE HELMETS
These helmets are designed for urban cyclists, blending style with safety features essential for navigating city streets.
Thousand Heritage: Retro Style for the Modern Rider
Alt text: Mother and daughter wearing matching Thousand Heritage bike helmets, showcasing retro styling and safety for family rides.
Price: $99
Key Specs:
- Size: Small (54 – 57 cm), Medium (57 – 59 cm), Large (59 – 62 cm)
- Fit: Average width
- Buckle: Fid-lock magnetic
- MIPS: No
- Features: Retro-inspired design, vegan leather straps, Fid-lock magnetic buckle, PopLock anti-theft system, optional magnetic light compatibility.
Pros:
- Stylish retro aesthetic with a range of colors.
- Convenient Fid-lock magnetic buckle.
- Unique PopLock system for securing helmet to bike.
- Comfortable redesigned interior (Heritage 2.0).
Cons:
- Does not include MIPS rotational impact protection as standard.
- Premium price for style-focused features.
- Ventilation is adequate but not optimized for high-intensity riding.
Verdict: The Thousand Heritage is the quintessential helmet for style-conscious commuters. It perfectly merges retro charm with modern functionality, offering a fashionable yet practical solution for urban cycling. The PopLock and optional light add unique commuter-friendly features.
View on Thousand View on Amazon
Thousand Chapter: Enhanced Safety & Visibility for Commuters
Alt text: Woman wearing a white Thousand Chapter bike helmet with rose gold visor, highlighting the integrated magnetic rear light and stylish design with MIPS.
Price: $145
Key Specs:
- Size: Small (54 – 57 cm), Medium (57 – 59 cm), Large (59 – 62 cm)
- Fit: Average width
- Buckle: Fid-lock magnetic
- MIPS: Yes
- Features: Integrated magnetic rear light, MIPS, Fid-lock magnetic buckle, PopLock anti-theft system, locking side straps.
Pros:
- Enhanced safety with MIPS and integrated magnetic rear light.
- Premium styling and color options.
- Convenient Fid-lock magnetic buckle.
- PopLock anti-theft system and crash replacement policy.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other commuter helmets.
- Style may be too modern for riders preferring a more classic look.
Verdict: The Thousand Chapter is the ultimate commuter helmet for women who prioritize both safety and style. The integrated MIPS and rear light provide significant safety enhancements for urban environments, while the premium design and features justify the higher price for serious commuters.
View on Thousand View on Amazon
MOUNTAIN & ROAD WOMENS BIKE HELMETS
These helmets are engineered for performance and protection, whether you’re tackling challenging trails or logging miles on the road.
Giro Fixture II MIPS: Best Universal Fit & Ventilation for MTB
Alt text: Young woman wearing a Giro Fixture II women’s bike helmet, showcasing the helmet’s universal fit and excellent ventilation for mountain biking.
Price: $75
Key Specs:
- Size: Unisex (54 – 61 cm)
- Fit: Slightly wide, Universal fit
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: Yes
- Features: MIPS, exceptional ventilation with 18 vents and internal channeling, fixed side straps.
Pros:
- Exceptional universal fit, accommodating a wide range of head shapes.
- Superior ventilation for hot weather riding.
- MIPS rotational impact protection.
- Comfortable and soft chin straps.
Cons:
- “Unisex” sizing might be too large for smaller women.
- Slightly wider fit may not be ideal for very narrow heads.
Verdict: The Giro Fixture II MIPS excels in providing a comfortable and secure fit for a vast majority of riders. Its outstanding ventilation system makes it ideal for mountain biking and hot weather conditions, while the inclusion of MIPS adds a crucial layer of safety.
Smith Convoy: Highly Adjustable MTB Helmet for a Precise Fit
Alt text: Woman mountain biking while wearing a Smith Convoy bike helmet, emphasizing the highly adjustable fit and lightweight design for trail riding.
Price: $85
Key Specs:
- Sizes: Small (51 – 55 cm), Medium (55 – 59 cm), Large (59 – 62 cm)
- Fit: Average width
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: Yes
- Features: MIPS, highly adjustable fit system with vertical adjustability, locking side straps, thicker padding.
Pros:
- Extremely adjustable fit system for a personalized and secure feel.
- Lightweight and comfortable for long rides.
- MIPS for enhanced safety.
- Softer, thicker padding for added comfort.
Cons:
- Similar features to Giro Fixture II at a slightly higher price.
- Average width fit may not suit all head shapes perfectly.
Verdict: The Smith Convoy shines in its customizability. The highly adjustable fit system, particularly the vertical adjustment, allows riders to fine-tune the helmet for exceptional comfort and security. It’s a premium choice for mountain bikers who demand a precise and personalized fit.
Smith Signal: Highly Adjustable Road Helmet for Performance Cyclists
Alt text: Woman wearing a Smith Signal road bike helmet, demonstrating the lightweight and adjustable design for road cycling performance.
Price: $85
Key Specs:
- Sizes: Small (51 – 55 cm), Medium (55 – 59 cm), Large (59 – 62 cm)
- Fit: Average width
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: Yes
- Features: MIPS, highly adjustable fit system, locking side straps, thicker padding, road-specific design (no visor).
Pros:
- Road-specific design optimized for performance.
- Highly adjustable fit system, similar to the Convoy.
- Lightweight and comfortable for long road rides.
- MIPS for rotational impact protection.
Cons:
- No visor for sun protection.
- Average width fit may not be ideal for all head shapes.
Verdict: The Smith Signal mirrors the Convoy in adjustability and comfort but is tailored for road cycling with its visor-less design. It’s an excellent choice for women road cyclists seeking a lightweight, highly adjustable, and performance-oriented helmet.
Kali Chakra Solo: Best Value MTB Helmet with Excellent Ventilation
Alt text: Woman wearing a bright blue Kali Chakra Solo bike helmet, highlighting the excellent ventilation and value of this mountain bike helmet.
Price: $50
Key Specs:
- Size: S/M (52 – 57 cm), L/XL (58 – 61 cm)
- Fit: Average to wider fit
- Construction: In-mold
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: No
- Features: In-mold construction, dial-adjust fit system, exceptional ventilation with 21 vents and internal channeling, lifetime crash replacement.
Pros:
- Unbeatable value for its quality and features.
- Exceptional ventilation system for hot climates.
- Durable in-mold construction.
- Lifetime crash replacement program.
Cons:
- Does not include MIPS rotational impact protection.
- Wider fit might not be ideal for very narrow heads.
Verdict: The Kali Chakra Solo delivers outstanding performance and features typically found in higher-priced helmets, making it the best value option in our mountain bike helmet selection. Its exceptional ventilation and durable build quality, combined with a lifetime crash replacement, make it a smart choice for budget-conscious riders who don’t want to compromise on essential features.
WOMENS BIKE HELMET TO AVOID
Schwinn Thrasher: Compromises on Comfort and Long-Term Wear
Alt text: Schwinn Thrasher women’s bike helmet in multiple colors, an example of a budget helmet that compromises on comfort for extended use.
Price: $29
Key Specs:
- Size: Youth (54 – 58 cm), Adult (58 – 62 cm)
- Fit: Slightly narrow
- Construction: Hardshell
- Buckle: Standard
- MIPS: No
Pros:
- Very affordable price point.
- Provides basic head protection.
Cons:
- Uncomfortable for extended periods according to testers.
- Hardshell construction less durable.
- Better options available at slightly higher prices (e.g., Retrospec Lennon).
Verdict: While the Schwinn Thrasher is a very budget-friendly option for basic head protection, its lack of comfort for longer rides and less durable construction make it a less desirable choice compared to slightly more expensive alternatives like the Retrospec Lennon, which offers better features and comfort for a marginal price increase. Investing a bit more will yield a significantly better riding experience and helmet longevity.
Choosing the Right Womens Bike Helmet: Key Considerations
Finding the perfect “womens bike helmet” involves more than just aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown of essential factors to consider:
Size and Fit: Head Circumference is King
A properly fitted bike helmet is crucial for safety. It should fit snugly and securely to remain in place during a crash. Helmet sizing is based on head circumference, and there is no universal standard, so sizes vary by brand.
Helmet sizes are usually indicated as a range (e.g., 54-58 cm), representing the head circumferences the helmet is designed to accommodate. The helmet’s internal adjustment system allows for fine-tuning within this range. “Womens bike helmets” often feature smaller size ranges, but always measure your head circumference before purchasing any helmet.
Tip for Measuring Head Circumference: Wrap a flexible tape measure around your head, approximately two finger-widths above your eyebrows. If you have thick hair, ensure it is pulled back in a low ponytail (or your typical riding hairstyle) to get an accurate measurement.
Alt text: Woman measuring her head circumference with a tape measure to determine the correct bike helmet size, emphasizing the importance of accurate measurement for helmet fit.
Head Shape Matters Too: Beyond circumference, head shape significantly impacts helmet fit. Helmets are generally designed to fit “average” head shapes, but some brands and models are better suited for rounder or more oval head shapes. If a helmet feels uncomfortable, even if your circumference is within the size range, try different brands or models to find a shape that matches your head. Our reviews note helmets that tend to run wider or narrower than average to assist in your selection.
Womens vs. Mens or Unisex Bike Helmets: Debunking the Myths
The terms “womens bike helmet,” “mens bike helmet,” and “unisex bike helmet” are primarily marketing distinctions. Functionally, there are no fundamental differences in safety or construction. The main variations are typically in sizing ranges and color options. Choose based on fit and features, not gender labels. If a “mens” or “unisex” helmet fits well and you like its style, it’s a perfectly valid choice.
Adjustability: Dial-Adjust Fit Systems are Essential
Alt text: Close-up of a dial-adjust fit system on the back of a women’s bike helmet, highlighting the easy adjustability for a secure and comfortable fit.
All helmets in our recommended list feature a dial-adjust fit system. This system uses a knob at the back of the helmet to tighten an internal cage, ensuring a snug and secure fit against the back of your head. Dial-adjust systems offer superior adjustability compared to basic fit systems, allowing for precise customization. Avoid helmets with rudimentary fit systems relying solely on interchangeable pads, especially when dial-adjust options are readily available at similar price points.
Ventilation: Staying Cool and Comfortable
Ventilation is a key factor for comfort, particularly in warm weather. Bike helmets are designed with vents to promote airflow and help dissipate heat.
Commuter vs. Mountain Bike Helmet Ventilation:
Alt text: Side-by-side comparison of a women’s commuter helmet and a women’s mountain bike helmet, illustrating the difference in ventilation with the mountain bike helmet having more prominent vents.
Commuter helmets generally have fewer vents, prioritizing a sleeker aesthetic and potentially offering more warmth in cooler months. Mountain and road bike helmets prioritize ventilation, featuring more numerous and larger vents to maximize airflow and cooling, crucial for strenuous rides and hot climates. Consider your riding style and climate when prioritizing ventilation.
Ponytail Compatibility: Hair-Friendly Design
For women with longer hair, ponytail compatibility can be a significant comfort factor. While most helmets are designed to be worn with a low ponytail, some “womens bike helmets” offer features to accommodate ponytails more comfortably.
Some helmets include a dedicated “ponytail port” at the rear, allowing for a higher ponytail to pass through. The Nutcase Street is an example of a helmet with this feature. However, ponytail ports can sometimes be challenging to align correctly and threading hair through them can be cumbersome.
Alternatively, you can often thread a ponytail through the space between the helmet shell and the dial-adjust system in helmets without a dedicated port, as demonstrated in the image below. However, this method is not universally applicable and may not work with all helmet designs. For most helmets, a low ponytail or wearing hair down remains the most compatible hairstyles.
Alt text: Woman wearing a high ponytail threaded through the back of her bike helmet, demonstrating a workaround for ponytail compatibility in helmets without dedicated ports.
Buckle Type: Standard vs. Magnetic Fid-lock
Helmet buckles are essential for securing the helmet. Standard buckles are widely used and cost-effective, found on both budget and premium helmets.
Standard vs. Magnetic Buckles:
Alt text: Collage comparing a standard bike helmet buckle and a magnetic Fid-lock buckle, highlighting the ease of use and potential benefits of magnetic buckles.
Higher-end helmets may feature Fid-lock magnetic buckles. These buckles offer a convenient magnetic closure system that can be easier to operate one-handed and are less likely to pinch the skin. While magnetic buckles are a “nice-to-have” feature, they are not essential for helmet functionality or safety for adult “womens bike helmet” users. They are particularly beneficial for children’s helmets due to their ease of use and reduced pinching risk.
MIPS: Enhanced Rotational Impact Protection
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a safety technology designed to mitigate rotational forces during angled impacts, offering an additional layer of brain protection.
MIPS consists of a low-friction liner inside the helmet, anchored by flexible attachments (often yellow). In an angled impact, the MIPS liner allows the helmet to rotate slightly independently of the head, reducing the rotational forces transmitted to the brain.
Alt text: Close-up view of the MIPS system inside a bike helmet, showing the yellow low-friction liner and its flexible attachment points for rotational impact protection.
Traditional helmets are designed to protect against linear impacts. MIPS helmets address rotational impacts, which some research suggests are more likely to cause brain injuries. While MIPS is a leading rotational impact protection technology, some brands have developed their own alternative systems. Skepticism and debate exist regarding the extent of MIPS’s benefits, as detailed on resources like helmets.org.
Helmets with MIPS generally come at a higher price point than non-MIPS helmets. Consider your budget and risk tolerance when deciding if MIPS is a necessary feature for your “womens bike helmet.”
Related Articles for Kids Bike Helmets:
- 10 Best Helmets for Kids: Top picks for children’s helmets based on extensive testing.
- 10 Best Helmets for Babies and Toddlers: Recommendations for smaller helmet sizes for infants and toddlers.
- Kids’ Helmet Sizes Guide: A guide to accurately sizing children’s bike helmets.
FTC Disclosure: Affiliate links are included in this review. No monetary compensation was provided for this review; however, some reviewed products were supplied by manufacturers or distributors to facilitate testing. All opinions and images are the property of Two Wheeling Tots LLC. All content and images are copyrighted and should not be used or replicated without permission. View our Terms of Use.
