The 10 Best Bike Helmets for Safer and More Comfortable Commutes

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Searching for the perfect bike helmet is a bit like dating. (Stick with me here.) What works for a speed date on the road might not be the best companion for a rugged mountain biking adventure. Then, just when you think you've found The One, you're off flirting with aerodynamic designs, because now you run and swim, and you want to do a triathlon. Luckily, I've got a wingman in this helmet dating quest—my husband. With a past life as a pro triathlete, his current gig has him dodging NYC taxis on his daily commute. He's a sommelier of bike helmets, and we get into the details of MIPS, ventilation, and aerodynamics. Of course, if you’re looking for the best cycling clothes or accessories, we’ve got guides for those too.

Let's get down to brass tacks. No matter what type of cyclist (or e-cyclist) you are, there's a helmet that's purpose-built for you. But, this isn't a solo expedition. With expert insight and a sprinkle of real-world experience, we're here to play matchmaker, guiding you to a helmet that's not only safe and sound but also a true reflection of your riding style.

So buckle up (literally) as we embark on this journey together. From the latest helmet safety tech to the sleekest designs, consider this your cheat sheet to finding a helmet that's a head above the rest—because when it comes to cycling, the right partner makes all the difference.

Propero 4

When you're zooming down the road, and this helmet cuts through the air like, thanks to its aerodynamic edge borrowed from the higher end S-Works Evade 3. But, it's not turning your head into a sauna because it's got the cool-headed genius of the S-Works Prevail 3's ventilation system.

It's light as a feather, so you barely notice it's there, but it's there saving you precious energy on tough climbs. And crashes? It's got your noggin covered with MIPS tech, reducing those nasty rotational forces. Plus, fitting this beauty is a breeze, with adjustments that make it feel like it was custom-made for you, glasses and all. In the world of road cycling, where speed, comfort, and safety are king, the Propero 4 is royalty.

Foldable Bike Helmet

If you're a city rider, a folding helmet is a must-have. You can cruise through the city, and when you're ready to park or pop into a café, this helmet folds down by 50 percent to easily slide into your bag.

It's not just about saving space, though. Built with a tough ABS/PC shell and an EPS core, it's designed to take a hit. Meeting U.S. CPSC and European EN1078 standards, it's your trusty guardian for biking, skateboarding, and e-scooting adventures.

And here's the kicker: it lights up your ride with removable front and rear lights. It ensures you're visible from 230° up to 800 meters away, rain or shine, with its waterproof design. With steady, pulse, and flash modes lasting up to 15 hours, you're always safe. And with its dialed-in fit and adjustable straps, it promises comfort and security in one sleek package.

Mio 2

Kickstart your tiny tot's two-wheeled journey with the innovative Mio 2 helmet, a marvel born from a unique collaboration with the brainiacs at KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Mips. This brain protector is not just any helmet. It's the result of serious studies specially tailored for the squishier, still-developing skulls kids have. By packing in 16.5 percent more low-density foam, they've managed to amp up the protection without ballooning the size, keeping things lightweight and comfy.

But what's brain safety without a proper fit? The Mio 2 nails it with toddler-specific sizing and the SX fit system. It ensures a snug, hassle-free fit that stays put all day long. Plus, the tri-fix web splitter means you'll skip those tearful fitting sessions. And since style matters even to the youngest riders, the Mio 2 comes in kid-focused vibrant colors and comes with a sticker pack for that personal touch.

Designed to meet the strict U.S. CPSC safety standards and equipped with Mips for added peace of mind, the Mio 2 is more than just a helmet. It's a ticket to adventures, ensuring your little ones are safe and stoked to ride day in and day out.

Bambino Pro

The Bambino Pro is the secret to breaking the barriers of speed. Designed with the spirit of time trials, triathlons, and track races in mind, this helmet slices through the air with a sleek profile. The standout feature is the magnetic visor that snaps on and off, allowing for quick adjustments mid-ride and offering the versatility of a silver, mirror, or clear visor.

But it's not just about looking fast. The Bambino Pro is built for performance, with a shell engineered for optimum aerodynamics in any head position. Yet, even at breakneck speeds, it's comfortable and cool with ventilation from six micro air intakes at the front and four exhaust vents at the back. It creates airflow that keeps you cool as you ride.

This helmet isn't just an accessory; it's a crucial piece of your racing arsenal. It enables you to push limits, break records, and embrace speed with open arms.

CityCap

This isn't just any helmet. It's the world's only soft, foldable, and portable option that meets and surpasses the stringent safety standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and EU Safety Standards. This helmet is at the forefront of protective gear thanks to Airnoggin's 5-Star Rated safety technology, celebrated by The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab.

These helmets are handmade in Paris, and each one has a unique number, reflecting its bespoke quality. Beyond its lowkey appearance, it's designed with a cutting-edge Head Trauma Protection System, offering unmatched security against rotational impacts.

This helmet redefines the intersection of safety and style, proving that you can protect your noggin without sacrificing your look. Whether navigating the urban jungle or taking a leisurely ride through the park, this helmet is the perfect blend of form, function, and fashion, ensuring you ride in style without compromising safety.

Chapter MIPS Helmet

Thousand makes a helmet that marries vintage aesthetics with modern safety tech. You get the Mips Safety System, designed to offer superior protection against rotational forces, without compromising on a cool, classic look.

The 30-lumen magnetic taillight keeps you visible and safe from dusk until dawn, and it can be used on your helmet or bike with a handy multi-use adapter. The premium visors shield your eyes and enhance your field of vision. And, the helmet is available in finishes ranging from hand-painted tortoiseshell to sleek matte black and shimmering metallic rose gold.

But the true secret lies in the PopLock, a discreet yet secure method of locking your helmet with your bike. The dial fit system, one-handed magnetic fastener, and nylon straps are great for adjustments on the fly. Active ventilation keeps you cool, channeling air through eight vents while maintaining a lightweight profile.

Certified to meet U.S. CPSC and CE standards, this helmet doesn't just look the part—it plays it. Whether cruising city streets or exploring country roads, this vintage-inspired helmet is a testament to timeless design fused with contemporary protection.

SpeedFrame Pro

The Fox Speedframe Pro sits at the pinnacle of mountain bike helmets. It hits the perfect harmony of style, comfort, and unmatched protection, including a prestigious five-star rating from Virginia Tech.

For under $200, it offers everything a single track rider could wish for. You get impact-ready dual-density foam, a washable liner, and a broad color selection that hits the mark on aesthetics. Its standout feature? A top-notch ventilation system designed to keep you cool, with strategic vent placement to keep your ride nice and breezy.

The slightly narrower fit might not suit every head shape, but on the whole, most riders will enjoy it. The Speedframe Pro's lightweight design and glove-friendly adjustment dial make it a dream for any trail, from leisurely cross-country outings to more intense enduro rides.

Falconer 2Vi Mips Helmet

The Sweet Protection Falconer 2Vi Mips helmet is your perfect companion for adventures in both sweltering heat and chillier days. What sets it apart are the removable vent covers, giving you the power to control airflow based on the weather.

On hot days, the helmet's lighter design and two extra vents ensure maximum coolness and comfort. It also boasts the 360 Occigrip Fit System, allowing for quick adjustments even while you're on the move. Plus, if you're wearing Sweet Protection eyewear, this helmet integrates with it seamlessly, making it not just functional but also stylish. Whether you're cycling up a storm or cruising down a mountain, the Falconer 2Vi Mips helmet has got you covered.

Oakley ARO5 Race Helmet

The Oakley ARO5 Race Helmet is a game-changer for those long rides, where endurance and comfort are key. Engineered with aerodynamics in mind, this helmet is perfect for both racing and training, thanks to its low on the head design. This gives it a natural fit and enhances balance, which might not seem necessary, but it absolutely makes a difference over long rides.

You've also got MIPS technology to protect against the rotational forces that can occur during an impact. Oakley didn't stop there; they've integrated a sweat-activated Ionic+ liner to combat odor, ensuring your helmet stays fresh ride after ride.

For those who can't go without their shades, the ARO5 secures your sunglasses with proprietary (and poorly named) Unobtainium grippers for the sunglass stems. Plus, the interior foam is specifically designed to cushion your head from your eyewear during a crash. With the Oakley ARO5, you're not just getting a helmet but investing in advanced safety, comfort, and convenience for those marathon sessions on the saddle.

Ethos MIPS Shield

The Giro Ethos Mips Shield helmet keeps urban cyclists seen and protected with smart, integrated technology designed for the modern rider. Thanks to full hardbody coverage, its lightweight in-mold construction doesn't compromise on durability, yet it remains stylish and compact.

What sets the Ethos Mips Shield apart are its built-in LED lights and handlebar-activated turn signals. Signal your turns with just a click, enhancing your visibility and communication with drivers on the road. As with any helmet worth this much money, there's Mips protection to reduce the rotational forces that can result from certain impacts. The clear, molded eye shield adds a layer of protection against wind and debris while allowing you to wear your own eyewear underneath. For those who prefer a more traditional look, there's also a version without the eye shield.

A USB-C rechargeable system powers these features, boasting an impressive run time and quick charging capability. Comfort hasn't been overlooked either, with the Roc Loc Mips City fit system and quick-dry padding ensuring a snug and pleasant experience on your daily commute or leisurely rides.

Tips on What to Look for in a Bike Helment

• Safety Standards: Look for helmets that meet established safety standards such as CPSC, ASTM, or EN 1078. A sticker inside the helmet usually indicates compliance.

• Fit and Comfort: A good helmet should fit snugly but not too tightly. Look for adjustable systems that can fine-tune the fit around your head and under your chin.

• Ventilation: More vents usually mean a cooler ride, but also consider the size and placement of these vents for effective airflow, especially if you're commuting in hot weather or exerting yourself on the road.

• Visibility: Bright colors and reflective materials can make you more visible to drivers, a crucial consideration for city commuting. Some helmets also offer integrated lights.

• Weight: Lighter helmets can be more comfortable over long distances but don't sacrifice safety and durability for a few grams.

• Durability and Materials: Look for high-quality materials that can withstand impacts. Also, consider the helmet's lifespan and the manufacturer's recommendations for replacement after a crash or after a set number of years.

• Style: You're more likely to wear it consistently if you don't think it looks bad.

Why Trust Esquire?

Look, we're not experts in everything, but we always know who the real experts are. Our insights come from a blend of personal experience, meticulous research, and input from industry experts. Luckily, I have an insider—my husband—who brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge about what works (and what doesn't) in the world of bike helmets. Coupled with Esquire's own dedication to sifting through products, expert opinions, and the latest safety standards, we provide a comprehensive and trustworthy perspective.

Our goal? To ensure you're equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your safety gear without falling victim to marketing hype or misinformation. So, when we recommend a helmet, it's because we genuinely believe it stands out from the crowd for its safety, comfort, and style.

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