MTB helmet: What are the options and how to choose?
Helmets save lives! But how do you actually choose a helmet, what types of MTB helmets are there, and what should your main focus be?
Two years ago, I had a really bad fall and hit my head directly on a stone. The quality helmet I was wearing was completely destroyed. And I'm glad. Otherwise I wouldn't even be here to write this.So, if you don't wear a helmet, you better start.
Ideal budget?
If you're buying a bike and related gear, you simply need to invest in a helmet. How much should you set aside?MTB helmets range in price from a few tens of euros, up to the price tag of a whole new bike. Expensive helmets are of higher quality, but you can usually buy a quality helmet in the range of 50 - 100 €.
The higher the price, the more features and technologies the helmet has. And those can provide even better safety and save your life.
📌 If it's just some lights integrated directly into the helmet, you don't need to splurge - those won't save you when you fall.
However, it's important to remember that even the cheapest helmet is better than none. Even those must undergo various certifications, and it's important to remember – helmets save lives.
I recommend investing in a quality helmet rather than new components. Those won't save your life.
The Perfect Fit
In order to save your life, the helmet must be a perfect fit. So you simply need to try it on! And don't forget to do so with the goggles and the winter cap you plan on wearing it with.You need to make sure, that the shape of the goggles doesn't interfere with the helmet, and that the winter cap won't make the fit too tight (it could cause headaches). On the other hand, if it's too loose, it will move around.
Help, I'm between sizes!
If your size is, for example, 56, and you're between the sizes 54 - 56 cm and 56 - 58 cm, it might mean that one size will be too big and the other too small. In that case, you need to choose a different manufacturer with different sizing.💡 If you don't know your head circumference, you can find out very easily with a tailor's tape measure.
Types of helmets
MTB disciplines are quite diverse. An XC helmet is completely different from a downhill helmet. We can divide the types of MTB helmets and their descriptions into 4 categories:Classic helmet
A classic helmet provides protection for the top of the head as well as its sides. It is suitable for almost all disciplines from XC to Enduro. Manufacturers themselves predetermine their characteristics for the mentioned disciplines, so they can differ quite a bit.Product selection
Enduro helmet
An enduro/all-mountain helmet is more substantial than a classic helmet. It often has greater protection for the back of the head and the sides, and some helmets even protect the ears. It weighs more, but also offers better protection. Sadly, the more substantial the helmet, the lower its ventilation capability.Product selection
Full-face helmet
A full-face helmet has an integrated chin guard that cannot be removed. This means higher weight, lower ventilation capability, but higher protection. This type of helmet is used exclusively in gravity disciplines, i.e., enduro, downhill, and similar.Product selection
Full-face helmet with a removable chin guard
As helmets gradually evolved, manufacturers came up with various clever features. One of these is the full-face helmet with a removable chin guard. Thanks to the removable guard, this helmet has the benefit of being usable for both climbs and descents.
Now which to choose?
Consider what your priority is, what terrain and discipline you ride.If you enjoy:
- 👉 trips, all-day rides, or uphill performance
- you should look for a helmet with the lowest possible weight and best ventilation capability.
- a full-face helmet is the one for you!
- choose an enduro helmet, which offers better protection for the back of the head or ears, or a full-face helmet with a removable chin guard.
👉 downhill riding, ride in bike parks, and don't seek out climbs
👉 trails and seek greater safety
Technologies
Helmets utilise various technologies that improve both protection and ventilation. Whether it's various technologies for concussion prevention (MIPS), or technologies used in the padding and the helmet's structure itself, there's really a lot, and one article certainly wouldn't be enough for all of it.For recreational cyclists and tourists, manufacturers incorporate an insect net into the helmet.
Reflective elements, which are a passive safety feature for cyclists, are also very important. And similarly, helmets also have various fastening systems, whether it's a magnetic Fidlock system, a double D-ring, or a plastic buckle.
Never ride without a helmet
Just as a helmet saved my life, it can save yours, too. Therefore, in conclusion, I can only say one thing to you – always wear a quality helmet when cycling.It doesn't matter if you're just going to the corner shop or for an all-day ride; you never know what might happen.
P.S.: Never buy a helmet from a second-hand market unless you are 100 % sure of its history.
Photo source: editorial archive
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