Mountain bike helmet

Mountain biking is a demanding discipline that combines physical effort with the adrenalin of descents over varied and often rugged terrain. For advanced mountain bikers, the choice of helmet is crucial to guarantee optimum protection and maximum comfort. This buying guide will help you choose the right mountain bike helmet for your specific needs, taking into account essential technical criteria. Find out more about our mountain bike equipment.

Safety and standards for mountain bike protection

Safety is the top priority when mountain biking. A good helmet must offer effective protection against impacts, whether from falls or collisions with natural obstacles such as rocks and trees. It's essential to choose a helmet that meets current safety standards.

Mountain bike helmets must comply with European (EN 1078) or American (CPSC) safety standards. These standards guarantee that the helmet has passed rigorous impact resistance and retention tests. Some helmets can also be certified for other activities, such as BMX or mountaineering, offering additional versatility.

Types of mountain bike helmets

There are several types of helmet suitable for mountain biking, each with its own characteristics:

In-Mold helmets

In-Mold helmets combine a polycarbonate outer shell with EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam on the inside. They are lightweight and offer good shock absorption, making them ideal for long rides and competitions.

• Benefits: Lightweight, good ventilation, effective shock absorption.
• Disadvantages: Less robust than Hardshell helmets.

Hardshell helmets

Hardshell helmets feature an ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or fiberglass outer shell, with EPS foam inside. They are more robust and offer better protection against multiple impacts, but are generally heavier.

• Advantages: Sturdiness, durability, increased protection.
• Disadvantages: Higher weight, sometimes less effective ventilation.

Full-face MTB helmets

Full-face helmets offer complete protection, including face and jaw. Ideal for extreme disciplines such as DH and freeride.

• Advantages: Maximum protection for extreme disciplines.
• Cons: Higher weight; limited ventilation; less comfortable for long climbs.

MTB helmet fit and comfort

The fit of a helmet is crucial to its effectiveness in protecting you and keeping you comfortable during your outings. Check that the model you have chosen features an easy-to-adjust system such as a thumbwheel or ratchet to ensure that the helmet fits your head perfectly and stays in place even in difficult conditions.
Ventilation also plays a key role in your comfort, so opt for a model with strategically placed openings that allow air to circulate throughout the ride.
Finally, don't forget that the inner lining must be both comfortable and moisture-wicking, to avoid the unpleasant sensation of excessive perspiration during your physical exertions!

Additional Technical Details

Think of the extra features that can make all the difference! An adjustable visor can protect your eyes from the sun or other external elements such as rain/mud, while a MIPS system could considerably improve your level of safety against oblique impacts thanks to its innovative technology.
Also, make sure your future purchase is compatible with glasses/mask, as this will greatly facilitate their use without discomfort or unwanted pressure on certain sensitive areas around the face!

Don't forget that there are a number of well-known brands offering models ranging from the simple to the high-end, such as Poc Bike, Kask and Dainese. If you take all these aspects into account, you'll be ready to explore every mountain trail to the full, while staying protected! And don't forget to check out our adjacent categories, such as MTB Mask and MTB Protection.