Wearing a helmet is vital for many athletes, but this is especially true for BMX bikers. The action-packed sport involves many maneuvers that sometimes cause riders to fall square on their heads. Without a helmet, there’s nothing that separates your helmet from the unforgiving hard surface of the asphalt.
There are a few common reasons why people are hesitant to wear a helmet. Some riders think they look bulky, their head gets too hot, and they’re heavy, among other complaints. We’re here to show you that none of these factors have to be true. There are many great helmets on today’s market that are so well-designed you’ll forget you even have them on.
Helmets Reviewed (collapsible)
The days are behind us when there were excuses not to wear a helmet, especially since all grievances are minor compared to concussions, brain damage, paralysis, and even death.
We’ll dive right in and start our helmet review guide. Our team discusses the best BMX helmets available in 2021 and the benefits and drawbacks of each. Whether you’re an experienced rider, beginner, adult, child, or parent, we’re here to help you stay as safe as possible and spend your money wisely.
1. OutdoorMaster BMX Helmet
4.6 Stars | 14,572 Biker Reviews
OutdoorMaster is a brand that offers some of the best value for its low prices. They’ve received stories and testimonies of their helmets saving lives to back up their design quality.
The OutdoorMaster BMX Helmet is a must-have, well-balanced product that offers the best protection while having a sleek, low-profile design. It’s always good when a helmet looks more expensive than it is.
The BMX Helmet is offered in 11 different color options and is packed full of features. It comes with two removable liners for a customized fit and makes the interior super easy to wash or clean.
Comfort should be one of your priorities when looking for a BMX helmet, and this helmet exceeds the criteria. The venting is excellent, especially when you pick up speed and the wind blows through the vent holes.
Safety is always the top priority, and OutdoorMaster has done a great job with reinforcements. This helmet is built for both comfort and impact resistance, utilizing top-notch technology to protect your head. A thickened shock-absorbing EPS core is combined with a reinforced ABS shell to double the amount of protection.
The fit is excellent. We appreciate the “skin-friendly” adjustable chin strap; no more scratches or rashes caused by cheap materials that other brands use. These straps are secure enough that you won’t have to worry about it shifting or sliding while on your head.
The final remark we want to give is about OutdoorMaster’s warranty. OutdoorMaster is one of the only brands that offer a lifetime warranty with their helmet. It’s always a great sign when a company can show confidence in their quality claims with an outstanding offer such as this.
2. Triple Eight Sweatsaver BMX Helmet
4.8 Stars | 7,037 Biker Reviews
A famous piece of equipment in the biking world is the Triple Eight Sweatsaver BMX Helmet. As the name suggests, this helmet is designed to be comfortable and wick the moisture away from your head. One of the most uncomfortable feelings is to have sweat and heat build-up under your helmet while riding.
This helmet comes in 13 different color options and has a great design. The “soft texture” of the matte texture is a great touch and looks way cooler in person than in pictures online. When it comes to weight, we like how this feels on your head. It’s got a nice balance preventing it from rocking around or shifting even while going hard in the park.
Safety is vital, and this helmet has the certifications to be ranked high on this list. It’s not only certified for biking but also passed with flying colors for skateboard riding. If you’re looking for a dual-sport helmet, the high-impact-absorbing EPS foam will protect you in many situations.
The stand-out feature of this helmet is its Sweatsaver Liner. Two sets of this removable and washable terry cloth are included and do a fantastic job drawing moisture away from your head.
The fit is fully customizable, but we highly recommend visiting this product’s listing for more information. You’ll find measurement instructions and a sizing chart for the safest, most comfortable fit in the description.
3. Mongoose BMX Bike Helmet
4.8 Stars | 762 Biker Reviews
For the authentic BMX helmet look and an affordable price, look no further than the Mongoose BMX Bike Helmet. This product’s sleek, low-profile design makes it look like it costs two to three times what it does. With a built-in camera mount, you can record all your stunts while staying protected.
There are a few different colors Mongoose offers, such as green and black, but the grey design looks the most traditional and hard-core. All colors feature the camera mount, which is built-in well and doesn’t compromise the cool look.
Most BMX helmets don’t have the best ventilation, which is something Mongoose changed for the better. This helmet has ten vents, which really cools your head down and even adds to the dynamic and aggressive styling.
You’ll feel safe being protected by a thick ABS outer shell. While the protection isn’t as technologically advanced, it’s without a doubt a safe design. It’s extra durable and is sure to last a long time.
The last feature that caught our attention is the improved adjustability. Mongoose uses Schwinn’s 360° comfort system that operates using a dial in the back. This component, combined with a full range of padding, makes this helmet surprisingly customizable.
4. TSG Evolution BMX Helmet
4.6 Stars | 12 Biker Reviews
Suppose you’re a believer that the original design is the best. In that case, the TSG Evolution BMX Helmet is the option for you. This is the first helmet that featured the world-famous half-shell design. If it could protect Tony Hawk during his BMX bike crash when he landed on his head, it will stand up to us regular riders.
TSG went the extra mile and built this helmet with the biker in mind. The padding layer is of outstanding quality and has an excellent shape that molds nicely to your head. Other mass-made helmets use foam blocks that aren’t comfortable and certainly not as safe.
So how did TSG maximize safety? They used a proprietary hardshell construction technique that tightly fuses their shock-absorbing EPS inner shell with a high-strength injected molded outer shell. It’s innovation like this that makes it so important to educate our community about the new generation of enhanced head protection that’s available.
This BMX Helmet fits well, and the adjustment mechanism is classified as a “Tuned Fit System.” It gives the rider the ability to fine-tune the interior lining using pads of different thicknesses.
TSG includes a set of cushions with your purchase that are differentiated by unique colors. Riders should prioritize allotting time to customize the fit. TSG gives an example where, “if necessary, the slightly thicker pads can be mounted on the back of the head.”
5. Yellow Jacket Multi-Sport Helmet
4.1 Stars | 12 Biker Reviews
The Yellow Jacket Multi-Sport Helmet is a steal for the price. It costs less than half what other BMX helmets cost and still looks wicked cool. There are only two color options, smoke, and black mamba, but they’re great designs.
An excellent place for this review to start is with Yellow Jacket’s warranty. If for any reason you’re dissatisfied with the product or have any issues, there’s a 100% money-back guarantee. When a brand knows that its protective equipment is of the highest standard, this offer gives us bikers more confidence.
We like the impact resistance this affordable helmet offers. It combines both a soft liner with a durable, tough shell that’s capable of absorbing a ton of pressure. Wearing a protective helmet like this makes BMX biking way more fun since you don’t have to worry about getting as injured when crashing.
Ride with confidence knowing you’ll have protection from brain damage in the event of a crash.
This helmet is well-ventilated with multiple air vents that suck in cool air and let out hot air. An aerodynamic design and breathable foam reduce the amount you’ll sweat. Overall, it’s lightweight, durable, easily adjustable for a perfect fit, and an exceptional value for the Yellow Jacket Multi-Sport Helmet cost.
6. S-One Lifer Multi-Impact Helmet
4.6 Stars | 60 Biker Reviews
The popular expression “you get what you pay for” is valid for the S-One Lifer Multi-Impact Helmet. To sum up the helmet’s quality, it’s 5x more protective than most regular skate or BMX biking helmets. If you’re willing to spend a little more, this helmet lasts longer and protects your dome the absolute best. We like the 15 different color options available. With it being jam-packed with features, these unique options make it fun as well.
The first thing you’re likely to notice is the quality of the fabric and the attention to detail. It’s lightweight, sturdy, and overall a night and day comparison to a soft foam helmet.
This helmet is classified as “multi-impact” because the materials can withstand the force from multiple collisions without breaking. Most other helmets crumple on impact, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing because it’s better the helmet breaks than your skull. With the S-One Lifer, the fusion foam doesn’t get permanently pushed in as it bounces back after impact to save you time after time again.
While it might make you feel invincible, as a word of caution, we’d like to remind you that you’re not. Just because your helmet can prevent you from even getting a headache doesn’t mean you should push your limits too far.
It’s more expensive but worth the money for passionate BMX riders. This helmet could last you 10x longer than other helmets and will surely pay for itself in the end.
More about safety, the Lifer Helmet has specially formulated EPS Fusion Foam, which protects riders against multiple low-medium force impacts, as well as high impacts. If you take a tremendous fall and hit your head hard, this is your best bet for walking away unscathed. However, if the force is large enough, there is a backup crumple feature that could mean you’d need a new helmet.
Certified by the CPSC and ASTM commissions, this is the real deal. The S-One Lifer Multi-Impact Helmet is by far the best fitting multiple impact helmet on the market today.
7. Flybar BMX Helmet
4.5 Stars | 1,677 Biker Reviews
The Flybar BMX Helmet is a good value for the money. It’s a solid, well-made helmet with plenty of padding for a comfortable fit. Nine color options are available as well as stylish printed designs. Safety is of a high standard, and it’s shown through trustworthy safety certifications.
If styling and affordability are essential to you, then this is up your alley. There are 12 wide vents on each Flybar Helmet that look super cool and allow air to flow past your head. This helmet is suitable for many different sports applications, so if you’re looking for a versatile do-it-all product, this is a great option.
One minor complaint we have is about the weight. While it may not be apparent to some, we noticed it’s a bit on the heavy side. This added weight slightly increases the protection, but we think it could benefit from a lighter design.
Flybar has introduced a dual foam design like many other brands. They didn’t keep the weight and bulk down quite as well, but it’s undoubtedly ultra-protective. Many people are looking for sheer protection from a helmet when it comes down to it, not looking to win any beauty pageants.
8. BTN Adult BMX Bicycle Helmet
5 stars | 30 Biker Reviews
For those who want a more elegant design that doesn’t look funky, the BTN Adult BMX Bicycle Helmet is a fantastic option. As many satisfied owners put it, this helmet is “cool enough to wear.” The sleek, clean design built around a Swiss Army profile makes it stand out as an attractive product.
Two colors are offered, black and white. A fleece mesh lining wraps the interior. The chin pad is extra soft, and well-placed exterior ventilation ports keep you comfortable. Whether you’re riding for a short time or an extended period, it’s essential to be comfortable and enjoy your BMX riding.
Complementing the comfy design is an excellent fit. Pads on the interior are super thick and wrap all the way around to keep the helmet properly sitting on top of your head. BTN also made sure the chin strap is simple to operate by featuring a standard buckle clasp system. There’s no hassle with putting it on or taking it off whatsoever.
The BTN Adult BMX Bicycle Helmet’s most noticeable feature is the baseball hat brim that sticks out from the front. It seems strange at first, but after experiencing it, you’ll be surprised by how great it feels to keep the sunbeams off your face.
Overall, this is a helmet that you’ll forget you’re even wearing. It looks fantastic, has a super comfortable feel, and is a product we recommend to anyone on the fence about getting a helmet. The best of both worlds is when you keep yourself protected from brain injury and stay fashionable at the same time.
9. TurboSke BMX Helmet
4.7 Stars | 2,998 Biker Reviews
The TurboSke BMX Helmet has gained popularity since being listed on Amazon. It’s known to be a helmet that lasts for an absurdly long time and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Satisfied customers have given testimonies of surviving countless crashes and seeing hardly any wear and tear in the product.
A tightening knob positioned at the rear provides a great fit. Adjustments allow the interior to mold around your head and keep the helmet in one place as your ride. Make sure to refer to the sizing chart the company offers before purchase. However, even if you do get the size wrong, TurboSke’s customer service is excellent. They make it super easy to get a refund or a replacement.
In total, 9 different colors and design variations of this model are available. There are 11 air vents positioned around the exterior, which add to the cool effect and heightened comfort. This helmet does a great job of providing full ventilation to the biker without sacrificing any head coverage or safety.
Ride your BMX bike with more confidence, knowing you’re well protected. TurboSke glues an EPS foam liner to the interior and attaches a protective ABS shell to the exterior. This hard-shell design is comfortable to wear and dramatically reduces head injury and brain damage.
10. Bell Sanction Full Face Bike Helmet
4.5 Stars | 1,718 Biker Reviews
For some BMX riders, a standard skate-style helmet just isn’t enough. Whether you’re a professional who puts yourself in dangerous situations or a beginner, a full-face bike helmet is excellent. According to many BMX bikers and even Amazon.com, the Bell Sanction Full Face Bike Helmet is the best there is. It’s a terrific value for this high-tech style, and the helmet has a wicked cool design.
Many motorcyclists, dirt bike riders, and mountain bikers wear helmets with a similar style. However, these traditional full-face helmets are way too heavy and impractical for BMX riders. The Bell Sanction is a smaller profile full-face helmet designed for BMX and dirt jump riders.
This helmet is undoubtedly the best “bang for your buck” for anyone looking to upgrade from an open-faced helmet. It’s lightweight and has 15 breathable vents for ventilation. Of course, it’s heavier than a traditional skate helmet, but it’s light for this trendy style.
It protects the wearer with an ABS shell construction and doesn’t crack to absorb the blow. Usually, after you crash, it’s best to get a new helmet. While it’s best to get professional advice and have your helmet inspected after a crash, the Bell Sanction is known to withstand multiple hard impacts. This helmet could last you for years with a price tag that’s 3x less than other comparable models.
11. Bell Drop Youth BMX Bike Helmet
4.3 Stars | 643 Biker Reviews
A great product designed for kids and produced by a bike safety equipment leader is the Bell Drop Youth BMX Bike Helmet. It’s recommended for children 8-14 years old but will fit most heads that measure 54-58 centimeters.
The hardshell build is perfect for dirt shredders and BMX riders alike. Bell is famous for its balance between high-quality protection and superb comfort. You won’t find another full-face helmet that’s as affordable and well-padded as the Bell Drop. Soft cheek pads, a large neck roll, and an integrated visor make this a next-level safety equipment piece.
So how’s the performance? Whether your child is an avid biker or a beginner, they’ll enjoy the lightweight design the Bell Drop offers. There are 14 vents positioned around the exterior that also provide a ton of airflow and ventilation. One of the common critiques we have of full-face helmets is that they become stuffy, but not this one. Bell succeeded in making this helmet breathable and enjoyable to wear.
You can find additional safety information in this item’s product description. However, to sum it up, Bell received flying colors from both the CPSC Safety Standards and U.S. ASTM Safety Standards for multi-impact helmets.
12. SPIX Outdoors BMX Bike Helmet
4.7 Stars | 743 Biker Reviews
The SPIX Outdoors BMX Bike Helmet is a great open-faced option for what it costs. This helmet is on par with competing helmets that cost over $60 and is even better in some ways. Where this helmet sets itself apart is how it’s able to fit anyone's head shape nearly effortlessly.
Some helmets have removable pads that allow you to customize the fit. However, this helmet has a well-designed clicking wheel in the back that quickly adjusts to the biker’s head size. If you’re looking for a helmet you can share with others, this is a must-have feature.
Many people get annoyed by the cheap straps some helmets have. To make this helmet as approachable as possible, SPIX Outdoors padded the chinstrap. Some owners say this one feature makes it the most comfortable helmet they’ve ever owned.
Two layers of protective foam are built into the central portion of this BMX Bike Helmet. It has this while leaving enough room for 12 vents that maximize the airflow and ventilation. Depending on your area’s climate, this can be a big relief and keep you cool through hot summer days.
13. Triple Eight LIL 8 Kids Helmet
4.7 Stars | 996 Biker Reviews
Triple Eight is a well-known producer of professional-grade BMX helmets. What many people don’t know is that they also produce phenomenal youth helmets. The Triple Eight LIL 8 Kids Helmet is an excellent example of its tailored designs for children.
The most important factors for a child’s helmet are that it’s incredibly safe and super comfortable. Protection is obvious, but it can be challenging to get young kids to wear a helmet that’s scratchy, annoying, or uncomfortable to wear. Triple Eight knows these things and took this advice to heart.
Five color options are available, the chin buckle is padded with extra-soft foam, and two sets of washable Sweatsaver Fit Pads are included with the purchase. There’s a highly-precise adjustable fit dial system installed in the rear, so it’s never “too loose” or “too tight.”
Triple Eight includes a chart and sizing instructions in their product description. This helmet works excellent for biking, skateboarding, and scooter riding.
It’s undoubtedly a bang for your buck. You’ll feel safe knowing your child is protected with a thick ABS outer shell and cushiony EPS interior liner.
14. ProRider BMX Bike Helmet
4.6 Stars | 119 Biker Reviews
The ProRider BMX Bike Helmet is the cheapest helmet on the market of decent quality. We’re big believers that everyone should be protected. We always do our best to recommend products that meet everyone’s budget.
While this isn’t the ideal helmet to use, it’s far better than not wearing a helmet at all! For what coffee costs at Starbucks, you could prevent yourself from serious harm.
The ProRider BMX Bike Helmet comes in four different colors: Black, Blue, Matte Black, and Red. It has a durable polyester strap with a quick-release buckle for ease of use. Several ventilation channels run down the interior lining, making it slightly cooler inside.
This helmet has a classic design and a hard outer shell for improved protection. It fully complies with the CPSC Standards for helmet safety. There’s no question that it’s the best helmet you can buy for under $20.