Helmets

23 Most Stylish Bike Helmets (Cool Bike Helmets DO Exist!)

People wearing stylish bike helmets

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Bike helmets are first-and-foremost a safety feature, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look stylish too. Are there really cool bicycle helmets out there? Of course! Let’s show you.

If you’re in the market for a helmet that not only protects your head but is also stylish and modern, then fret not. We’ve scoured the internet to find sophisticated helmets with the best reviews, best prices, and best aesthetics.

Whether you cycle to work, use your bicycle for daily travel, or just a leisurely escape – there’s a good-looking helmet out there for you. Let’s find yours:

Best-Looking Bike Helmets: Top 23

  1. Unit 1 FARO Smart Helmet

    Stylish Bike Helmets

    Unit 1 FARO Smart Helmet

    A helmet that provides the best riding experience possible by fusing technology, style, and safety.

  2. Folding helmet with lights

    FEND Super Helmet

    Front and back lights on a stylish helmet that folds neatly. Stunning.

  3. Thousand Heritage Bike Helmet

    Minimalist Bike Helmet

    Thousand Heritage Bike Helmet

    A minimalist style and safe headgear designed for urban commuters and leisure riders.

  4. Lumos Ultra Smart Helmet

    Award-Winning Bike Helmet

    Lumos Ultra Smart Helmet

    A smart cycling helmet with built-in lights, turn signals, and brake detection.

  5. ABUS Hyban 2.0 LED Helmet

    Breathable Commuter Helmet

    ABUS Hyban 2.0 LED Helmet

    A stylish and breathable helmet with integrated LED lighting for increased visibility and safety.

  6. Nutcase Helmets โ€“ Colourful Cool Urban Bike Helmets

    Colourful Cool Bike Helmets

    Nutcase Helmets

    A colorful, stylish, and safe bicycle helmets that protect your noggin while showing off your personality.

  7. Closca Loop Folding Helmet

    Stylish Foldable Bike Helmet

    Closca Loop Folding Helmet

    A stylish, compact, and safe helmet that can be easily folded for convenient storage.

  8. Giro Caden Urban Helmet

    Simply Cool Cycling Helmet

    Giro Caden Urban Helmet

    A simple, yet stylish headgear that provides protection for city cyclists.

  9. LIVALL BH60SEPLUS Smart Bike Helmet

    Feature-Packed Smart Helmet

    LIVALL BH60SEPLUS Smart Bike Helmet

    A smart feature-packed cycling helmet with built-in Bluetooth, speakers, LED lights, and an SOS mode.

  10. Sena R1

    Group Intercom Smart Helmet

    Sena R1 Smart Bicycle Helmet

    Smart cycling helmet with Bluetooth, intercom, and noise reduction for communication with other riders.

  11. Customizable 1000-Lumen Helmet

    Lumos Matrix Helmet

    A high-end smart helmet with customizable lighting patterns, 1000-lumen lights, and safety features.

  12. Built-in Music

    LIVALL BH51M Smart Cycling Helmet

    A feature-packed smart helmet with automatic lighting, music/voice control, and Bluetooth connectivity.

  13. Great for Group Rides

    Sena X1 Smart Helmet

    A social smart helmet with Bluetooth connectivity, ideal for audiophiles and group cycling, with safety features.

  14. Budget-Friendly Smart Helmet

    LIVALL C20 Smart Helmet

    An affordable and feature-packed smart helmet with rear light, brake warning light, and SOS function.

  15. Well Lit Helmet with Lights

    Nutcase Vio Sky Matte w/MIPS Light

    A fashionable helmet with integrated MIPS technology and a built-in light.

  16. Great for Urban Cycling

    Bern Watts 2.0 MIPS

    A sleek and versatile helmet with advanced MIPS technology for enhanced impact protection.

  17. A Contemporary Bike Helmet

    Cyclechic Deco Ladies Helmet

    A stylish and elegant helmet designed for women, perfect for urban cycling.

  18. Safety-Optimized

    Bontrager Charge WaveCel Commuter Helmet

    Safe and stylish commuter helmet with WaveCel tech, Blendr mount for lights, and BOA fit system.

  19. Fend Folding Helmet

    Stylish Folding Bike Helmet

    Fend Folding Helmet

    A stylish and convenient bike helmet that folds down to one third of its size.

  20. ABUS Youn-i MIPS Helmet

    180ยฐ Visibility

    ABUS Youn-i MIPS Helmet

    This helmet features MIPS, a large rear LED light for visibility, is lightweight, and available in three colours.

  21. Perfect for Everyday Commuting

    POC Myelin

    Engineered to be deconstructed to make recycling the materials at the end of its life easier.

  22. Specialized Mode Helmet in black

    Uses MIPS Technology

    Specialized Mode

    The safety system protects your head in rotational impacts.

  23. 3D Printed

    HEXR Helmet

    Creates the perfect 3D printed helmet for you.

Cool Bike Helmets: What to Look For

When considering a stylish bike helmet, several factors come into play, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and safety on the road. First and foremost, the helmet’s shape and size should be carefully evaluated. Helmets come in various shapes to accommodate different head profiles. Finding a shape that suits your head comfortably is crucial for long rides. Additionally, sizes can vary, so be sure to choose one that provides a snug yet comfortable fit. Ill-fitting helmets can compromise both safety and style.

The style of the bike helmet is another essential aspect to consider. With the growing popularity of cycling, helmets have evolved from purely functional to fashionable accessories. Modern helmets often incorporate sleek lines, minimalistic designs, and vibrant colors, appealing to those who prioritize both safety and contemporary aesthetics. On the other hand, retro-inspired helmets bring a touch of nostalgia to the biking experience, offering a blend of classic charm and protection.

The FARO Smart Helmet
The FARO Smart Helmet.

Trendiness is a significant factor in the world of bike helmets. Keeping up with the latest trends ensures you’re not only safe but also making a statement on the road. Many brands collaborate with designers to create helmets that reflect current fashion influences. Whether it’s bold patterns, unique textures, or innovative materials, a trendy helmet can turn heads while providing essential protection.

For those with a penchant for the futuristic, there are helmets that push the boundaries of design. These helmets often integrate cutting-edge materials and technologies, resulting in a sleek and aerodynamic appearance. The fusion of functionality and futuristic aesthetics appeals to riders seeking a harmonious blend of innovation and style.

Ultimately, cool-looking helmets should never compromise safety. No matter how stylish a helmet appears, its primary purpose is to safeguard your head in the event of an accident. Look for helmets that adhere to relevant safety standards, such as those set by organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States. A helmet’s internal structure, impact-absorbing materials, and secure strap systems all contribute to its ability to protect you.

Most Stylish Bike Helmets in the World

These helmets blend contemporary designs, bold colors, and sleek lines to create headgear that not only ensures protection on the road but also makes a statement.

1. Unit 1 FARO Smart Helmet

FARO Smart Helmet
Unit 1 FARO Smart Helmet 2
  • UK Flag ยฃ180
  • US Flag $210
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ220

Prices are approximate

Weight (Medium Size): 580g
Safety Certificate: CE / CPSC

Front, rear, brake and indicator lights

SOS Function

This helmet is nothing short of stunning aesthetically. But itโ€™s also packed with safety features for cyclists.

It has a bright front and rear lights which come on by pressing a button on the back of the helmet, while there are also indicator lights which can used with the handlebar indicator. There are also brake lights if you wish.

โšกGet 15% off at Unit 1 when you use discount code DISCERNINGCYCLISTโšก

Pros

  • Helmet recognises a significant impact, followed by no movement and sends an SOS message to an emergency contact.
  • There is also a MIPS add-on for this helmet.

 

Cons

  • High price range.
  • No option to listen to music and make calls.

2. FEND Super Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ120
  • US Flag $140
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ125

Prices are approximate

Weight (Medium Size): 445g
Safety Certificate: CE / CPSC

Folds down to 50% size

Lightweight and breathable

Removable front and rear lights

A elegant, minimalist-style helmet that folds to 50% of it’s size in order to make it easier to carry in a bag.

Built with a durable ABS shell, ultralight PC, high impact absorbing EPS core, and durable matte-finish.

With front and back lights that can easily be removed (and up to 5 hours of battery life), this is quite an incredible bike helmet from American brand, FEND.

Pros

  • A dial-fit system with adjustable straps and extra padding
  • Can add 3M Scotchlite Hi-Vis reflective strips
  • Folding mechanism works effortlessly
  • Available in four essential colours
  • Comes with a cool carry sack in a minimalist design

Cons

  • Bit pricey

3. Thousand Heritage Bike Helmet

Thousand Heritage Bike Helmet 2
  • US Flag $69

Prices are approximate

  • Lightweight helmet at 410g (S), 460g (M) or 490g (L)
  • Complies with U.S. CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets for Persons Age 5 and Older
  • Certified for CPSC, and ASTM standards for cycling and roller skating, and skateboarding.

Secret Poplock for securing your helmet to your bike lock

One-handed magnetic fastener

A built-in low-profile visor

If you love classic, no fuss urban style, then this minimalist bike helmet is a commuterโ€™s dream.

Thousand Helmets donโ€™t quite have thousands of designs (yet, at least) but they do have more that a dozen designs available, all of which look, simply great.

Most of their helmets offer complete overhead coverage, with breathable slots at the top (there are seven ventilation slots in total0, and each helmet comes in its own bold colour design. They even have a gold helmet, if youโ€™re that way inclined.

Pros

  • Stylish bike helmet with vegan leather straps and an easy one-handed magnetic fastener
  • A built-in low-profile visor, which can be useful for keeping the sun out of your eyes
  • The โ€œsecret Poplockโ€ feature enables you to easily (and very securely) attach your helmet to your bike lock
  • Based in the US, but offers international shipping (which takes between four and nine days) for just $5
  • Comes in a range of sizes that are suitable for both men and women

Cons

  • Some reviewers have highlighted that the fit of the helmet isn’t satisfactory.

4. Lumos Ultra Smart Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ100
  • US Flag $120
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ110

Prices are approximate

Light Settings:

  • Still Mode
  • Flashing Mode
  • Turn Signals

Front and rear lights

Smartphone connection

Wireless turning via remote

USB rechargeable

This helmet has won design awards given by companies for whom ergonomics and ease of use always feature highly in their list of requirements.

The helmet comes at two main price points as it is offered with or without the MIPS system.

The first thing that hits you is the simplicity of the structure and the set up.

Pros

  • Both front and rear LED lights
  • A wireless controller which you attach to the handlebars provides a simple left or right button
  • Smartphone connectivity offers a wealth of customisation
  • Synchronised Team Sync feature

Cons

  • No option to listen to music or make calls
  • Some users have indicated that the helmet is heavier than expected.

5. ABUS Hyban 2.0 LED Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ65
  • US Flag $70
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ70

Prices are approximate

  • ABS hard shell
  • Built-in rear LED light with 180ยฐ visibility
  • Excellent ventilation with 5 air inlets and 8 air outlets

The perfect helmet for everyday use

Always fully visible on the bike

Finely balanced ventilation system

Another stylish cycling helmet boasting minimal design (as well as some cool helmet features) is the ABUS Hyban 2.0 LED Bike Helmet. ABUS is a massive name in the cycling world and this particular helmet is available in three sizes and 12 different colours if you want to add a bit more life to your helmet.

Pros

  • It is a versatile helmet
  • Large, in-built LED rear light with 180-degree visibility
  • Adjustable rim fitted with ABS technology
  • It’s โ€œponytail compatibleโ€
  • More than 10 colour options available

Cons

  • Requires batteries (Included)

Unique Design Bike Helmets

6. Nutcase Helmets

  • UK Flag ยฃ70
  • US Flag $70
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ70

Prices are approximate

  • MIP safety protection
  • EPS foam pads
  • Highly reflective design

360ยฐ reflective detailing around the helmet

10 internal vents keep the helmet breathable

Comfortable and stylish

This America-based company offer plenty of variety with their helmets, catering for adults, children and even babies with their designs.

Pledging to โ€˜make helmets fun againโ€™ and to โ€˜make helmets for everyoneโ€™, Nutcase have worked with three international artists each year since 2014 to ensure they keep offering the freshest designs.

In terms of helmet designs, Nutcase cover a lot of ground. As well as some extremely colourful, quirky and funny helmet patterns, the Nutcase Tracer is also a sleek minimalist urban helmet for the more understated commuter.

Pros

  • Fun and creative designs
  • A durable ABS shell for ultimate protection
  • Snap and go with the magnetic buckle
  • 11 contoured vents

Cons

  • Some users have highlighted issues with the quality of materials

7. Closca Loop Folding Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ53
  • US Flag $65
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ55

Prices are approximate

  • Weight: 340 grams
  • The unique folding system allows for store and transport in any backpack or bag
  • Unisex

It can be reduced down in size by 45% in just one second

Has double safety certification and the helmets stays locked in the even of a collision

Lightweight and breathable

Another company offering multiple designs, Closcaโ€™s main USP is that all of his helmets come with a special folding system.

This makes them safer (limits the impact of a collision through micro-movements over the entire surface), while they also take up 55 per cent less space within a second and are far more portable โ€“ they can easily be stored in most bags or backpacks.

Most of their helmets will cost around the ยฃ60 mark and are often available in an ever growing number of colours.

Pros

  • Patented folding system that reduces its volume by a 45%
  • Air Flow air intake system offers constant ventilation
  • Specially designed for daily use as a city bike and scooter helmet

Cons

  • Users have highlighted issues with the clasp

8. Giro Caden Urban Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ65
  • US Flag $85
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ80

Prices are approximate

  • Engineered in Giroโ€™s category-leading helmet test lab
  • Utilizes the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System to redirect energy in a crash
  • 12 vents Wind Tunnel vents

12 Wind Tunnel vents with internal channeling

Universal front light attachment point

Available in black, grey, highlight yellow and navy blue

Whether in matte black, grey, โ€˜highlight yellowโ€™ or โ€˜midnight blueโ€™, youโ€™ll no doubt look great in this Giro model, one of the best-looking urban cycling helmets around.

Aside from its more striking colours, itโ€™s also an exceptional helmet which, again, is perfect for a commuter.

Pros

  • Comes with advanced head protection technology
  • A light yet sturdy In-Mold shell which protects it from dents
  • Roc Loc City fit system allows for a seamless fit
  • A lock port for securing the helmet with your bike when youโ€™re on the go.

Cons

  • Only available in four colours

Stylish Futuristic Bike Helmets

9. LIVALL BH60SEPLUS Smart Bike Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ100
  • US Flag $140
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ150

Prices are approximate

Weight (Med.): 630g

Av. Battery Life: 10 hours

Safety Cert. CE / CPSC

Rear Light

Brake Lights

Indicators

The LIVALL BH60SE is a “smart” bike helmet with built-in Bluetooth, speakers, and microphone for calls and music.

It also has LED lights on the back for visibility and turning signals, which can be controlled via an attachment on the handlebars. Additionally, the helmet has an SOS mode that sends a notification to an emergency contact if there is a sudden jolt followed by no movement.

While the sound quality for music may not be the best, the helmet is still feature-packed and stylish.

Pros

  • Equipped with Bluetooth speakers and microphone
  • LED lights and turning signals available
  • Includes SOS mode for emergencies

Cons

  • Mediocre music sound quality
  • Low battery life
  • There is no front light

10. Sena R1 Smart Bicycle Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ127
  • US Flag $159
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ130

Prices are approximate

Weight (Med.): 380g

Av. Battery Life: 20 hours

Safety Cert.: CE / CPSC

Built-In Microphone

Built-In Speakers

SOS Function

The Sena R1 smart helmet is a Bluetooth bike helmet with built-in speakers and a mic. It allows for communication with up to 3 other riders within 900 meters (0.56 mi) via an intercom system.

It is also suitable for couples or friends going on long rides together. The helmet has ambient noise reduction and comes in various colors. It is lightweight and slim.

Pros

  • Bluetooth connectivity for calls and music
  • Intercom system for communication with other riders
  • Ambient noise reduction
  • Lightweight and slim design
  • Eye-catching color options

Cons

  • Does not have smart lighting technology and indicator
  • Missing SOS function

11. Lumos Matrix Helmet

Lumos Matrix Smart Helmet
  • UK Flag ยฃ180
  • US Flag $280
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ250

Prices are approximate

Weight (Med.): 580g

Av. Battery Life: 10 hours

Safety Cert.: CE / CPSC

Front Light

Rear Light

Brake Lights

The Lumos Matrix is a high-end smart helmet with cutting-edge technology and a futuristic design. It features a customizable Matrix lighting system with unique patterns and messages, 1000-lumen front and rear lights with 360-degree visibility, turn signals, and auto brake signals.

The helmet is lightweight and comfortable with 4 air vents, has a 10-hour battery life, a 5-hour charge time, and is compatible with the Lumos Companion App.

Lumos claims that the Matrix is the future of cycling, combining fun features with safety.

Pros

  • Customizable lighting
  • Bright lights with signals
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Long battery life
  • Compatible with Lumos Companion App

Cons

  • Expensive
  • SOS function is not available
  • No built-in microphone and speakers

12. LIVALL BH51M Smart Cycling Helmet

LIVALL BH51M
  • UK Flag ยฃ150
  • US Flag $130
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ140

Prices are approximate

Weight (Med.): 470g

Av. Battery Life: 10 hours

Safety Cert.: CE / CPSC

Rear Light

Brake Lights

Indicators

The LIVALL BH51M helmet is a feature-packed, smart helmet that offers automatic lighting, music/voice control, and Bluetooth connectivity. It has built-in stereo speakers, an inbuilt microphone for hands-free calls, and compatibility with the LIVALL app, Strava, iHealth, and Siri.

The helmet’s automatic inductive lighting activates when it senses darkness, and the lighting wraps around the entire helmet.

The helmet has a 10-hour battery life and charging is via Micro USB. The SOS alert feature with GPS location will alert contacts in the event of an accident. The helmet is fully waterproof and suitable for music lovers who enjoy cycling.

Pros

  • Feature-packed with automatic lighting and music/voice control
  • Built-in stereo speakers and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Inbuilt microphone for hands-free calls
  • SOS alert with GPS location
  • Fully waterproof

Cons

  • No front light

13. Sena X1 Smart Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ85
  • US Flag $100
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ100

Prices are approximate

Weight (Med.): 350g

Av. Battery Life: 16 hours

Safety Cert.: CE / CPSC

Built-In Microphone

Built-In Speakers

SOS Function

The Sena X1 is a unique smart helmet that emphasizes music, sound, and communication rather than smart lighting. It features Bluetooth technology to connect two devices and a duplex intercom for up to four people at a 900m distance, making it ideal for group cycling.

The helmet also allows for hands-free connectivity to music and radio without cutting off the surrounding sounds. While it doesn’t have lighting technology, it’s compatible with health apps for cycling profiles.

The Sena X1 is perfect for those who cycle in groups or want a safe and unparalleled musical experience while cycling.

Pros

  • Unique design that emphasizes music and communication
  • Bluetooth technology to connect two devices
  • Duplex intercom for up to four people at 900m (0.56 mi)
  • Hands-free connectivity for music and radio
  • Does not cut off surrounding sounds
  • Compatible with health apps

Cons

  • Does not have smart lighting technology
  • May not appeal to those who prioritize safety over music and communication

14. LIVALL C20 Smart Helmet

LIVALL C20
  • UK Flag ยฃ50
  • US Flag $60
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ70

Prices are approximate

Weight (Med.): 370g

Av. Battery Life: 48 hours

Safety Cert.: CE / CPSC

Rear Light

Brake Lights

SOS Function

The LIVALL C20 helmet is a budget-friendly smart helmet that comes with a built-in rear light consisting of seven LED lights, which can be adjusted between steady, flashing, and fast flashing light modes. It also has a brake warning light that activates when the acceleration sensor detects quick slowing down.

The helmet’s key feature is its SOS function, which automatically sends a message to an emergency contact if the user doesn’t move for 90 seconds after a collision.

The helmet is well-ventilated with four holes on top and additional vents around the rear light. Its battery life is 48 hours.

Pros

  • Affordable smart helmet
  • Built-in rear light with adjustable modes
  • Brake warning light for quick slowing down
  • SOS function for emergency contact
  • Well-ventilated helmet
  • Impressive 48-hour battery life

Cons

  • No built-in microphone and speakers
  • Limited smart features compared to high-end helmets

Stylish Bike Helmets for Women

15. Nutcase Vio Sky Matte w/MIPS Light

  • UK Flag ยฃ123
  • US Flag $150
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ143

Prices are approximate

Weight: 500g (medium size)

Safety Certificate(s): CPSC

It has 360 degree LED lighting

Available in 2 sizes

Features a removable visor

If youโ€™re looking to be well lit, this is the helmet for you. On top of the extensive and long lasting LED lighting (200 lumen front/65 lumen side & rear), it also has useful features such as a magnetic buckle and anti-microbial pads.

It also incorporates their exclusive and patented Exo-skeleton technology to provide the best protection. A denser outer layer of foam shields against initial impacts, and a softer inner layer cushions the brain after initial impact.

Pros

  • Ground-breaking panoramic visibility
  • Lightest LED helmet worldwide
  • Two layers for ultimate protection

Cons

  • High price tag
  • Very focused on lights
  • Large vents

16. Bern Watts 2.0 MIPS

  • UK Flag ยฃ100
  • US Flag $122
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ116

Prices are approximate

Weight: 510g (medium size)

Safety Certificate(s): CPSC

Incorporates MIPS into classic design

11 air vents for cooling

Compass fit dial at back

This is a new version of the classic Bern Watts helmet that is great for urban cycling.

It doesnโ€™t just look good as it will also keep you safe and stylish en route to work thanks to MIPS and it passing multiple safety standards.

It will also keep you cool via the 11 thoughtfully placed air vents and streamlined EPS foam inside for a light feel.

Comfort is also key and it can be easily adjusted to make sure you get the right fit for you.

Pros

  • Stylish and flattering design
  • Features MIPS technology
  • Designed to keep you cool

Cons

  • Fairly expensive given limited features
  • No integrated lights
  • No removable visor

17. Cyclechic Deco Ladies Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ40
  • US Flag $49
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ46

Prices are approximate

Safety Certificate(s): EN1078

Affordable but still stylish

Designed by women led brand

Nice colour options

Cyclechic started back in 2008 through selling stylish helmets and now they have their own โ€˜Cyclechicโ€™ branded womenโ€™s bike helmet.

Named โ€˜The Decoโ€™, they describe it as โ€œa contemporary bike helmet with a hint of vintage glamour, a nod to the past and a look to the future.โ€

This is reflected in the three different available colours which are classic but stylish, as well as the matching gold straps.

It is very much a 21st century helmet though with a high impact ABS shell, 11 vents expanded polystyrene lining and plastic free packaging.

Pros

  • Very affordable price tag
  • Looks stylish and sleek
  • Designed for comfort

Cons

  • Limited features
  • No MIPS
  • No visor

18. Fend Folding Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ110
  • US Flag $130
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ125

Prices are approximate

Weight (Medium Size): 445g
Safety Certificate: CE / CPSC

Folds down to 50% size

Lightweight and breathable

Hi-vis strips available

Another commuter led design, this time from the streets of the Big Apple.

This helmet comes in two sizes, to fit between 54cm and 61cm which should cater for most.

It is the recipient of two homegrown design awards and does a good job of closely resembling the helmets you might be used to.

Pros

  • A dial-fit system with adjustable straps and extra padding
  • Can add 3M Scotchlite Hi-Vis reflective strips
  • Folding mechanism works effortlessly
  • Available in three essential colours
  • Comes with a cool carry sack in a minimalist design

Cons

  • High price range

Stylish Bike Helmets for Commuting

19. Bontrager Charge WaveCel Commuter Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ150
  • US Flag $160
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ160

Prices are approximate

Safety Rating: โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… (Virginia Tech rating)

Certified: CPSC, NTA 8776 (and approved for S-EPAC)

WaveCel advanced helmet technology

BOAยฎ Fit System lets you easily secure and adjust helmet fit with just one hand

The rear Blendr mount system easily integrates Bontrager light accessories

The Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership

The Bontrager commuter helmet features WaveCel technology that absorbs shocks to the head in the event of a crash. It also has a rear Blendr mount for Bontrager light accessories to improve visibility. The BOA fit system allows for easy adjustments to ensure a comfortable and proper fit.

The helmet is available in three stylish colors: Black, Battleship Blue, and Radioactive Yellow/Black. It comes in sizes Small (51-57cm), Medium (54-60cm), and Large (58-63cm).

20. ABUS Youn-i MIPS Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ77
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ106

Prices are approximate

Safety Rating: (Virginia Tech rating not available)

Certified: CPSC, EN1078

Large integrated rear LED light in a high position with 180ยฐ visibility

MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is a revolutionary technology that offers advanced protection in the event of an oblique impact

The Abus Youn-i helmet is a great choice for children’s bike rides with added crash protection from MIPS. It has a large integrated rear LED light for 180ยฐ visibility and is lightweight at 0.25 kg, making it comfortable for kids to wear. The helmet comes in two sizes (Small and Medium) and three colors: Sparkling Green (blue straps), Velvet Black, and Polar White.

Pros

  • Visor-like front edge ensuring enhanced protection for the face
  • In-Mold for a durable connection of the outer shell with shock-absorbing helmet material (EPS)
  • MIPS

Cons

  • Not available in large

 

Minimalist Bike Helmets

21. POC Myelin

  • UK Flag ยฃ100
  • US Flag $100
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ100

Prices are approximate

  • Weight (Medium Size): 340g
  • Safety Certificate: CPSC

Uses distinct materials to create a helmet where it’s possible to minimise all kinds of impact.

Ventilated zones in the helmet give comfort and prevent overheating

Another strong contender from the ever trendy company POC, is the Myelin helmet. This is both an understated and simplistic style of low profile helmet, perfect for the everyday commuter.

Coming in at a very reasonable ยฃ100 itโ€™s a great low profile option for anyone looking for style and sophistication, but not wanting to break the bank. Whats not to love about that?!

Pros

  • Made from recycled materials
  • Great option for the eco-conscious
  • Model comes in six different colors
  • Available in three different sizes

Cons

  • Bulkier than some

  • Covering can snag

22. Specialized Mode

  • UK Flag ยฃ100
  • US Flag $90
  • EU Flag โ‚ฌ120

Prices are approximate

  • Weight (Medium Size): 390g
  • Safety Certificate:  CPSC

Designed specifically with commuting in mind includes MIPS

The Specialized Mode has been designed specifically with commuting in mind. And, like a couple of other options, this one also includes MIPS.

As weโ€™ve mentioned, MIPS technology is a really great added feature to look out for when purchasing a new helmet, as the safety system protects your head in rotational impacts. Which in turn, helps to prevent brain injuries from occurring. Therefore itโ€™s pretty self explanatory as to why this feature helps to make this helmet such a great option.

Pros

  • Unique look and design
  • Doesnโ€™t look at all like the bulkier, traditional helmets
  • Available in four neutral tone colours
  • Comes in three different sizes

Cons

  • Can’t attach backlight
  • Not ponytail-friendly

23. HEXR Helmet

  • UK Flag ยฃ300

Prices are approximate

  • Weight (Medium Size): 310g
  • Safety Certificate: CE

Each HEXR helmet has a unique weight because it is custom-made.

The HEXR helmet is a lot more expensive in comparison to other low profile helmets, given its technology, the fact its 3D printed, and its sophisticated look.

The great thing about this helmet is that itโ€™s genuinely unique: each helmet is made to measure. They scan your head and from this create the perfect 3D printed helmet for you, that fits correctly without the need for added fastening systems.

Itโ€™s also a very low profile helmet, an important factor to consider when choosing a helmet for commuting.

Pros

  • The honeycomb design boasts a 26% lower risk of sustaining a brain injury in comparison to foam helmets
  • Great choice for the eco-conscious
  • The material used to create it is Polyamide-11 bioplastic, which essentially is made from 100% castor bean oil
  • Theres also the option to select different colour outer shells, and add personalized engraving

Cons

  • High price range

Selecting the Correct Bike Helmet Size

Choosing the correct helmet size is paramount for both comfort and safety during your cycling adventures. Ill-fitting helmets can compromise protection and detract from your overall experience. To ensure a proper fit, measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows using a flexible tape measure. Compare this measurement to the sizing chart provided by the helmet manufacturer to determine your ideal size. Keep in mind that helmet sizing can vary between brands, so it’s essential to refer to the specific manufacturer’s guidelines.

Bike Helmet Materials and Construction

The materials used in a helmet’s construction play a significant role in its comfort, durability, and safety. Most modern helmets feature an outer shell made from polycarbonate, which provides impact resistance, and an inner liner composed of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, designed to absorb and distribute impact energy. Some premium helmets employ advanced materials like carbon fiber, which offer a balance between lightweight construction and superior protection. Considering the helmet’s materials will help you gauge its overall quality and performance.

Woman wearing a Stylish Bike Helmet from Thousand
The Thousand Heritage 2.0 Bike & Skate Helmet.

ALSO READ: Best Low Profile Bike Helmets: Top 7 for Cycling

Bike Helmet Weight and Comfort

The weight of a helmet directly affects your comfort, especially during long rides. Lighter helmets reduce strain on your neck and head, making your cycling experience more enjoyable. However, a helmet’s weight shouldn’t compromise its safety features. Strike a balance between a lightweight design and adequate protective capabilities. Trying on different helmets and assessing their weight will give you a better understanding of what feels comfortable for your specific needs.

Bike Helmet Certification and Safety Standards

When shopping for a helmet, always prioritize safety certifications. In the United States, look for helmets that are CPSC-certified (Consumer Product Safety Commission). These certifications indicate that the helmet has met specific safety standards and has undergone rigorous testing. In addition to CPSC, some helmets might also meet standards set by other organizations such as the Snell Foundation or ASTM International. A certified helmet gives you the assurance that it has been designed and tested to provide the highest level of protection in case of an accident.

A man putting on a stylish bike helmet
Select the perfect helmet to fit your style. (Photo: Canva)

ALSO READ: Best Bluetooth Bike Helmets: Top 12 Smart Helmets


Bike Helmet Size Guide

Adult Bike Helmet Sizes

SizeXSSMLXL
Inches19-2020-21.7521.75-23.2523.25-24.7524+
Centimetres49-5151-5555-5959-6362+

Children Bike Helmet Sizes         

SizeToddlerS/MM/LOne Size Fits All
Inches18.5-20.520.5-22.522.5-23.7519.5-22.5
Centimetres47-5252-5757-6050-57

When Buying A New Helmet Remember to:

  • Take the time to measure your head accurately and consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
  • Consider the materials used in the helmet’s construction, as they impact its durability and protection capabilities.
  • Balancing weight and comfort is crucial, and a lightweight helmet with proper safety features is ideal.
  • Always opt for helmets that are certified by recognized safety organizations to guarantee the highest level of protection during your cycling endeavors.

Best Urban Commuter. Bike Helmets

Do you need even more cool commuter helmet inspiration? We’ve got you covered. Sink your teeth into these must-read helmet guides:

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