You shouldn’t undervalue the importance of wearing a helmet. Studies have shown that wearing a bike helmet reduces the chances of head injuries by 85%. This number is even lower if you’re wearing one of the best road bike helmets, with excellent impact-absorption.
Biking on the road is even more dangerous than mountain biking. While the terrain is smoother, road athletes risk high-speed collisions with cars. Protecting your brain is crucial, as it doesn’t heal like the rest of your body.
In this guide, we review the best road bike helmets on the market. Our team has analyzed price, comfort, safety, ventilation, looks, and more. This comprehensive buyer’s guide discusses products that suit every rider’s needs.
1. Giro Register MIPS Road Bike Helmet
4.8 Stars | 3,663 Biker Reviews
If you want to stay completely safe on the road, wearing a helmet with MIPS technology is your best bet. Unfortunately, most of these helmets are very expensive, making them less practical for your average rider. The Giro Register MIPS Road Bike Helmet changes this. It allows bikers to protect themselves from all types of impacts for an affordable price.
There is a cheaper version of the Giro Register without MIPS technology, but we do not recommend this option. For only $20 more, the Multi-Impact Protection System protects riders from rotational forces by moving with their head. It consists of a lightly padded plastic web that separates your head from the helmet’s central portion. This design makes the Register MIPS safe, comfortable, and easy to forget that you’re even wearing it.
Helmet Details
The design is lightweight, streamlined, adjustable, and offers a fair amount of airflow. It comes with five pads that are easy to replace once worn out. One of our favorite features is the Universal Fit system, where the adjustment dial clicks in tiny increments. We tried the same helmet on multiple riders and were able to fine-tune the size for a near-perfect fit every time.
Our one complaint is that while the visor is easy to attach and remove, it’s not customizable. There aren’t a lot of adjustment options to change the angle or position. Most riders won’t find this to be an issue, but it’s still worth mentioning.
2. POC Omne Air Road Cycling Helmet
4.6 Stars | 1,839 Biker Reviews
A popular product with a mid-range price tag is the POC Omne Air Road Cycling Helmet. We frequently recommend this helmet but especially to those looking for a multi-purpose helmet. If you only had one helmet for all biking types, the Omne Air would be a great choice. From daily commutes to weekend rides, this helmet does it all.
Nine color options are available in both single and dual-color designs. The streamlined shell avoids the “bobblehead” look and creates a sleek profile. It’s lightweight, breathable, comfortable, and adjustable, all things expected for the price.
Helmet Details
While we strongly recommend MIPS products, the POC Omne Air surprised us by how safe it is. It features POC’s proprietary SPIN protection technology, which some argue is even better than MIPS. Its foam liner is density-optimized, features a silicone pad technology system, and uses innovative materials. While this company does things differently, there’s plenty of proof that their helmets save lives. Check out the Amazon description and reviews for more information.
3. Shinmax Adult Road Bike Helmet
4.6 Stars | 4,744 Biker Reviews
At Best Helmets Guide, we believe everyone should stay protected regardless of their budget. There are road bike helmets that are affordable and could be the difference between life and death. A great option that won’t break the bank is the Shinmax Adult Road Bike Helmet. It doesn’t have nearly the protection of MIPS or SPIN, but it’s certainly better than nothing at all.
Helmet Details
Instead of rotational protection Shinmax uses a high-density pc case with an impact-absorbing liner. This liner doesn’t provide any more protection than a skateboarding helmet, but you get what you pay for. It’s relatively lightweight at 300g, has a detachable magnetic visor, and impressively features 28 ventilation vents.
If you’re hesitant about purchasing a road bike helmet, this may be a good option for you. It allows new riders to try out the sport without making any large investments. Shinmax accepts returns and exchanges for thirty days after purchase, a generous warranty window given the cost.
4. Giro Syntax MIPS Road Cycling Helmet
4.8 Stars | 1,526 Biker Reviews
Giro’s upgraded model from the Register is the Syntax MIPS Road Cycling Helmet. It’s double the price but has a whole, not more going for it. There are plenty of cheaper options, but this one is much more low-profile and better fitting. Experienced road bikers know how goofy riders can look with a bulky helmet. For a mid-range price, the Syntax has the appearance of a $300+ unit.
This helmet’s MIPS technology can redirect energy in the event of a crash. It will leave you far less likely to suffer a concussion or brain damage after a collision. If you currently have an old helmet and are debating getting a new one, MIPS alone makes it worth the investment.
Helmet Details
A few noticeable differences over a budget helmet are the interior padding, foam density, and better straps. The Syntax has a dual adjustment retention system that keeps it sitting around your head, not just “on top” of it. This complete coverage protects your occipital protuberance better. It’s essential to keep this area safe as it’s a dangerous place to get injured.
We love the design that incorporates twenty-five “wind tunnel vents.” You can feel it channeling in cool air and venting out warm air. A Roc Loc 5 fit system also makes it easy to change the Syntax’s vertical position and squeeze pressure.
5. Schwinn Thrasher Bike Helmet
4.7 Stars | 26,300 Biker Reviews
The Schwinn Thrasher Bike Helmet is the best-selling adult bike helmet on Amazon. Inexpensive products usually sell faster, but this unit is doing exceptionally well. It’s an excellent value for the money and much better than other helmets in this price range. You aren’t getting the build quality or protection of a $100+ helmet, but it’s a good beginner option.
Helmet Details
We recommend this helmet for female road bikers because of the adjustment options. A dial on the rear changes where the Thrasher sits on your head, making it comfortable to wear with a braid, ponytail, or with your hair down.
Twenty-three color options are available, and the shell features twenty air vents. The angular design is a traditional and classic cycling look. Most importantly, it’s decently protective and lightweight. Unless you’re spending a bunch of money on a high-end product, it’s uncommon to find a micro-shell design that doesn’t feel heavy or bulky.
6. Bell Formula MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet
4.7 Stars | 278 Biker Reviews
The inspiration for the Bell Formula MIPS Adult Road Bike Helmet came from the brand’s ideology that “there’s no reason to skimp on comfort and protection while trying to maintain a budget.” This is an excellent MIPS helmet, especially at this price point. The only other brand that competes is Giro, but there are a few reasons why the Bell Formula is a great buy.
There are eleven color options for this model. If you’re looking to match a helmet with your bike and riding clothes, this is ideal. The MIPS system uses leading slip-plane technology to reduce rotational forces and protect you from many types of collision situations.
Helmet Details
All helmets with this technology offer adequate protection, but they’re not always as durable as the Bell Formula. A proprietary technique binds the inner EPS foam liner to the helmet’s outer shell. It’s capable of withstanding the impact from multiple collisions; just make sure to get a professional to inspect it after a hard crash.
Many premium components are used in production. A sweat pad pulls moisture away from the brow pad and your glasses. Adjustments are made with a knob in the back that ratchets the helmet for a tight fit. It’s easy to turn, but the crisp clicks make it feel high-quality. Overall, the Bell Formula MIPS increases your confidence out on the road, allowing you to focus on your ride.
7. Smith Optics Signal MIPS Helmet
4.7 Stars | 851 Biker Reviews
The Smith Optics Signal MIPS Helmet is highly-rated and famous in the biking community. It’s well-priced for a MIPS helmet and has improved coverage over other brands. You’ll get full coverage of your forehead and the back of your neck. If you’re not a fan of “floating” style helmets, this is a good option that leaves you covered.
Twenty-one vents make up the Signal AirEvac ventilation system. It doesn’t offer the same airflow as high-end helmets, but it’s enough for most riders. Satisfied customers have raved about the VaporFit adjustment system and enjoy the feel of the ultra-light single-layer webbing construction.
Helmet Details
Compared to other helmets, this one does a better job protecting the back of the head. While it’s certainly not lacking many qualities, this is the main reason why most people wear the Smith Options Signal MIPS.
If you look at other impact sports like Football, the number one cause of concussions is when the back of a player’s head hits the ground. One reason for this is that when people fall forwards, they instinctively brace themselves with their hands. If you fall backward, nothing is protecting you from the unforgiving concrete.
We like the Signal MIPS for those with concussion concerns. It’s better suited for Men because other designs accommodate the female head shape better. If you’re an experienced rider who can confidently direct their fall forwards, you might not require this full-coverage design.
8. PHZ Road Bicycle Helmet
4.6 Stars | 5,611 Biker Reviews
A well-rounded budget helmet for beginners is the PHZ Road Bicycle Helmet. It comes with a detachable visor and offers the right balance of qualities for its price. A differentiating feature is the included USB Safety Light.
This component is rechargeable and makes the PHZ a safe option for night riding. It’s customizable with three light settings, steady glow, slow flashing, and rapid strobe. Most riders won’t have to charge it all that often, as one charge lasts for over forty hours of use.
Helmet Details
For the price, it’s very lightweight, comfortable, and well-ventilated. Twenty-three large vents keep your head cool, and the pads are easy to remove for washing. It doesn’t have the advanced protection technology of other helmets. Still, the high-density EPS foam keeps beginners safe from most impacts.
9. Giro Vanquish MIPS Aero Cycling Helmet
4.6 Stars | 483 Biker Reviews
Giro’s most advanced unit is their Vanquish MIPS Aero Cycling Helmet. This high-end product is leading the pack on both performance and protection. If you’re a serious road biking enthusiast, there’s no better investment than in a helmet that could save your life. This helmet went through a scrutinizing process in Giro’s helmet test lab to make sure it was perfect in every way.
Both the MIPS Brain Protection System and the Roc Loc 5 Air Fit System keep you safe and comfortable out on the road. This added combination of protection keeps the entire helmet floating above your head. All the old helmet designs sit directly on your head, whereas you’ll forget you’re even wearing the Vanquish.
Helmet Details
There aren’t as many vents in this helmet, but they take in more air. Ten large wind tunnel vents work with the internal channeling design to vastly increase the cooling power.
When you feel your hair flying around under a traditional helmet, it’s because it doesn’t have a streamlined ventilation system. The Vanquish MIPS funnels air straight back and has a noticeably different feel.
This helmet is as high-performance as possible. It’s aerodynamically designed and was refined in Giro’s wind tunnel. TransformAir Technology makes it the most efficient MIPS helmet with the most drag reduction the world has ever seen. It makes sense why the Vanquish MIPS Aero Cycling Helmet is so popular among professional athletes.
Check out the product description on Amazon for more information about Giro’s next-level features.
10. Kask Protone Limited Edition Helmet
4.6 Stars | 54 Biker Reviews
Suppose you’re willing to pay a premium price for the cleanest, most elegant helmet on the market. In that case, the Kask Protone Limited Edition Helmet is up your alley. While the astronomical cost deters most, you’re paying for the best-looking helmet ever made.
Kask helmets are handmade in Italy from the world’s finest materials. We’ve seen the hours of painstaking handwork that go into each product. It’s this level of precision and attention to detail that justifies the price.
Helmet Details
Many cyclists who don’t wear a helmet are more afraid of aesthetics than price. We’ve all seen the goofy-looking riders wearing bulky helmets, and it’s not a good look.
This one is low-profile, has an aggressive design, and is extraordinarily aerodynamic. It’s wind tunnel tested, so there’s a purpose to the beautiful, flowing lines.
The Protone has the lowest drag coefficient of any ventilated helmet available. It weighs just 230 grams and uses 3D dry padding for comfort. It doesn’t have MIPS protection, but it passed CPSC certification with flying colors.
The Kask Helmet is indisputably the world’s highest performance, best-looking road bike helmet.
11. Bell Stratus MIPS Road Bike Helmet
4.5 Stars | 369 Biker Reviews
When comparing products, a lot of the time, it comes down to personal preference. The Bell Stratus MIPS Road Bike Helmet is raved about by riders. It’s kind of a hit or miss because it has a unique net on the interior. Some bikers love it so much they refuse to wear anything else, and others aren’t fans of this.
A MIPS net runs along the entire circumference of the Bell Stratus. It cradles your head and increases comfort by causing the helmet to float. As a bonus, it makes the ventilation incredible and provides better protection for your skull in a crash.
Helmet Details
The main body of the helmet features a lightweight polycarbonate roll cage, which also heightens security.
Other ventilation and comfort features are the sweat pad and overbrow vents. One pulls moisture away from your glasses while the other pushes cool air through the air-channel matrix
If you decide you’re a fan of the netting, there’s nothing you won’t like about the Bell Stratus Road Bike Helmet.
12. Giro Agilis MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet
4.8 Stars | 1,534 Biker Reviews
Last but not least is the Giro Agilis MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet. It’s most similar to Giro’s Register with MIPS protection for a super affordable price. One of this helmet’s stand-out qualities is how light it is. If you wanted to get a more lightweight helmet, you would have to shell out double or triple the amount of money.
The Agilis also has an impressive count of thirty-two wind tunnel vents. Combined with the internal channeling design, it offers a ton of ventilation for the price. Fifteen color options are available, and the dual-color patterning gives it an aggressive stance.
Helmet Details
To keep the weight down and add to the sleek profile, Giro used a smaller dial. It looks great and is fully functional, but it takes time to get used to. This dial controls the vertical position and tension settings of the Roc Loc 5.5 fit system. Many cyclists love the fit as it eliminates any side-to-side, forward, or backward shifting.
Giro is known for its advanced protection. Even though other brands use MIPS technology, most don’t do repeated and thorough crash tests. This helmet is good at redirecting the forces of an impact away from your head. It protects the most vital parts of your skull that are most susceptible to injury and concussions.
We commonly get asked which Giro helmet is the best. The Register, Syntax, Vanquish, and Agilis all offer different qualities and are certainly priced differently. We’ve found that ordering multiple helmets that interest you is a great idea.
If you do this through Amazon, you can try them out for yourself and figure out which one you like best. It’s easy to return the others for a full refund. Going about it this way means you’re sure to get a helmet that you love and will enjoy wearing out on the road.