The road bike helmet is an essential accessory for every bike ride, especially on the road. It is a comfort accessory, but above all a safety accessory, in that it protects the cyclist in the event of an accident. When choosing a road bike helmet, it is important to determine certain criteria before purchasing. Discover through this guide how to choose a road bike helmet.
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Our selection
"Elegant helmet with clean lines combining elegance and protection. The Koroyd anti-shock technology offers a reinforced protection on the areas most exposed to impacts while…"
"Lightweight and breathable, this adult bike helmet provides comfort and coolness without compromising your safety. Suitable for adult men and women. It adapts to each…"
"Road helmet for men cyclists equipped with the latest technological advances in head and brain protection, including the MIPS brain protection system and progressive layering.…"
"The sobriety of the design of this helmet hides high performance in terms of protection and comfort. Everything is designed to reduce the effects of…"
Elegant helmet with clean lines combining elegance and protection. The Koroyd anti-shock technology offers a reinforced protection on the areas most exposed to impacts while ensuring a perfect ventilation. Combined with a weight of 0.3 kilos, these properties offer you an unequalled wearing comfort.
116 £ on AmazonThe performance of Koroyd consists in the absorption of shocks. This material replaces in part the EPS foam on the strategic parts. It has been found that it is able to reduce the risk of skull fracture by up to 8 times. Finally, the MIPS technology completes this performance. The adult unisex bike helmet is equipped with an X-Static liner that ensures cooling. The liner also has antimicrobial properties to protect the skin from bacteria and odor.
The adult unisex bike helmet is equipped with an adjustable and removable visor. It can be adjusted by means of the VapoFit system with a rotating wheel to perfectly fit the shape of the face. At the same time, VapoFit offers excellent ventilation while moving. The AirEvac system protects your visor or glasses from fogging.
Lightweight and breathable, this adult bike helmet provides comfort and coolness without compromising your safety. Suitable for adult men and women. It adapts to each head size thanks to the adjustable side straps.
15,19 £ on AmazonRoad helmet for men cyclists equipped with the latest technological advances in head and brain protection, including the MIPS brain protection system and progressive layering. The aesthetics are not diminished in any way.
240 £ on AmazonAether MIPS combines a sleek, airy design with enhanced protection through energy transfer. The smooth 6-piece polycarbonate Hardbody shell has a sleek silhouette. Thanks to the MIPS brain protection system, it reduces the rotational movement of the head during a fall. The MIPS is integrated into the helmet between the anti-bacterial padding and the EPS foam. The progressive layering reduces the energy transfer.
The comfort in wearing the helmet is ensured by 21 Wind Tunnel holes ensuring the permanent entry and exit of air. This system consists of circulating fresh air on the head, and at the same time evacuating hot air. The adjustment of the helmet is facilitated by the Loc Roc 5+ Air system. A rotary knob allows you to adjust it to three different positions in a few seconds without having to remove the helmet.
The sobriety of the design of this helmet hides high performance in terms of protection and comfort. Everything is designed to reduce the effects of a possible impact thanks to innovative construction materials. The whole system weighs an average of 300 grams depending on the size.
122 £ on AmazonThe Smith Network MIPS helmet is a versatile helmet that's perfect for the road. The aerodynamic polycarbonate shell is vented for airflow and head ventilation. It is built with in-mold technology using a strong yet lightweight material called Koroyd. The Koroyd, with its hyper-absorbent properties, is distributed on the parts of the helmet most exposed during a fall. The MIPS technology effectively protects the brain against the risk of brain damage.
The so-called AirEvac system, which ventilates the head, also reduces fogging of the glasses. The SMITH Network helmet also has an integrated visor. The helmet can be adjusted using the VaporFit system, which allows for a precise fit to the shape of the face while ensuring good ventilation.
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The best cheap road bike helmet
The best high-end road bike helmet
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OUR SELECTION |
SAFILO E00732
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CHILEAF Noir-Carbone
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Giro GIH7129098
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SMITH E007322Y25962
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Elegant helmet with clean lines combining elegance and protection. The Koroyd anti-shock technology offers a reinforced protection on the areas most exposed to impacts while ensuring a perfect ventilation. Combined with a weight of 0.3 kilos, these properties offer you an unequalled wearing comfort.
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Lightweight and breathable, this adult bike helmet provides comfort and coolness without compromising your safety. Suitable for adult men and women. It adapts to each head size thanks to the adjustable side straps.
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Road helmet for men cyclists equipped with the latest technological advances in head and brain protection, including the MIPS brain protection system and progressive layering. The aesthetics are not diminished in any way.
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The sobriety of the design of this helmet hides high performance in terms of protection and comfort. Everything is designed to reduce the effects of a possible impact thanks to innovative construction materials. The whole system weighs an average of 300 grams depending on the size.
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Style
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Half-size
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'-
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Network Mips
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Size
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M
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standard
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S
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L
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Dimensions
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33.02 x 27.94 x 20.32 cm
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32.79 x 31.7 x 14.9 cm
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30.48 x 25.4 x 25.4 cm
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32 x 25.2 x 19 cm
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color
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MATTE TUSK PEAT MOSS
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Black-Carbon
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Fade to black matte / Highlight Yellow
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Matte Gravy
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weight
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300 grams
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270 grams
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0.45 grams
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270 grams
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Material
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Patented Koroyd, Polyester
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Polycarbonate
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First of all, the size of a road bike helmet must be well adapted. For the measurement, it is necessary to add 2 cm of clearance above the eyebrows and the back of the skull, since the helmet rests mainly on the skull, the temples and the forehead. The standard measurements do not take into account the physiognomic particularities of cyclists. Whenever possible, it is preferable to choose a helmet with detachable foams, which are easier to adhere to the size of the head.
Protection is an important criterion for choosing a road bike helmet. In this case, it must be designed in compliance with the European standard EN 1078, to confer optimal protection. In this sense, it must cover the head, from the front to the back, and even better, the current structures extend to the neck for the protection of the spine. The presence of reflective elements is another option offering even more safety
The choice of road bike helmet must meet an imperative of ventilation, so as to avoid the cyclist heating up. This criterion is determined by the number of ventilation slots integrated into the accessory. In this sense, it is also important that the helmet is well adapted to the head of the cyclist, so that the interior foams are not crushed following a bad adjustment. Indeed, this can be the source of a defective ventilation insofar as the air flow will be restricted.
The weight of a road bike helmet generally varies from 170 to 300 grams, depending on its level of sophistication. This weight is a result of the materials used, as well as the design adopted. Whenever possible, it's best to choose a rigid and lightweight structure, i.e., an outer shell made from durable in-mold technology, and a polystyrene internet layer, which absorbs more energy in case of impact.
Finally, adjustment is also a crucial criterion when choosing a road bike helmet. The occipital adjustment at the level of the neck, and vertical to better adapt the accessory to the morphology so as to optimize the stability are the first to be taken into account. In the same way, it is advisable to ensure the presence of the jugular and side straps to guarantee the maintenance of the helmet in case of big shocks or falls. Micrometric buckle knobs are the proof, for a more precise adjustment.
Otherwise, an effective road cycling helmet will not move with the head, while ensuring total comfort thanks to the micrometric tightening.
To get the benefits of a road bike helmet, you need to wear it right, which means wearing it the right way. To do this, you need to start by increasing the diameter of the adjustment knob on the back of the helmet as much as possible. This involves loosening the knob on the back.
.Once this step is complete, the helmet should be placed on the head before readjusting the system so that the helmet is no longer allowed to move. It is important to be careful not to over-tighten and to ensure a straight position of the accessory, neither too far forward, nor even less too far back. In all cases, whether the cyclist leans his head forward, backward or sideways, the helmet must remain in place. The helmet should be tight without getting in the way.
.Once the road bike helmet is properly positioned, it is also important to adjust the straps so that they form a Y shape on either side of the ears, with the correct length allowing the closure system to buckle. To get the right tightness, you need to be able to slip 2 fingers between the strap and the chin. Again, the helmet should not cause any strain on either the temples, let alone the forehead. Also, the helmet should be worn the right way, which is the front just above the eyebrows.
Finally, the adjustment of the chinstrap, the strap at the throat, as well as the side straps, serves to keep the helmet from jumping off the head. They should be close enough to the face without rubbing it, with a cross under the ears.
The classic road bike helmet is designed for classic riders and is also suitable for stage races and Sunday adventures. It protects you from all the hazards related to road cycling. It has vents to optimize the attachment of the glasses, open arms. It is also practical in dark weather for increased performance. This type of helmet offers an ideal compromise between lightness, ventilation and protection. Indeed, with a round shape, an ultra-thin and semi-rigid shell, its ventilation slots offer an easy way to evacuate perspiration, resulting in greater comfort over long distances.
In addition, with a classic road bike helmet, the cyclist can choose a model with or without a visor. This element represents a means of protection against the sun, or various projections, whether it is dust, gravel, or rain, while also protecting from contact with vegetation for track circuits.
Aerodynamic helmets are road bike helmets used for time trials and triathlons. Heavier, and not very ventilated, it is suitable for sprint and criterium competitors. In fact, its design has been adapted for racing to allow good cyclists to perform better.
This type of helmet is especially suitable for short distance competitions as a complement to its equipment.
The semi-aerodynamic road bike helmet is modular, hence the possibility of adopting it for any type of track, regardless of season. It combines the advantages of both traditional and aerodynamic, with lightweight materials. It is both light and well ventilated, but above all aerodynamic and aesthetic.
The semi-aero helmet adapts to any type of circuit, long or short.
A road bike helmet is a safety accessory when cycling. This accessory reduces the risk of structural brain damage, and other significant head injuries or damage in the event of a fall or severe shocks while riding.
On the other hand, wearing a road bike helmet on bike paths in the countryside can prevent the cyclist from enjoying the fresh air. Indeed, with a helmet on his head, he can not feel the effect of the wind to enjoy it fully, despite the ventilation.
On the other hand, a full-face helmet offers optimal protection thanks to a single-piece cap, with no risk of detachment. It is also an accessory that allows you to isolate yourself and enjoy the silence during your bike ride. This is mainly due to the fact that there is no chin strap.
Heavier, this helmet is quite bulky, especially in case of short distances to cover.
In any case, on tours with considerable descents, you should opt for a full-face helmet, and choose a road bike helmet for long-distance tours.
The purchase of a road bike helmet is necessary to provide the cyclist with a protective accessory for daily use.
The risk of falling or shaking is always present, so this helmet offers optimal protection for going to work, competing or riding.
Opting for a road bike helmet as a cyclist is a way to protect yourself in all your travels, whether in the city or on the outskirts.
The purchase of a road bike helmet is useful because it is an essential accessory, especially for children under 12 years old in some European countries. In this case, mandatory for children, it is also essential for an adult who must set a good example.
Buying a helmet with reflective elements is also a real option for optimal safety.
Otherwise, it is also recommended to buy a bicycle helmet every 5 years, or after a shock, which will have impacted on the helmet shell, so that it no longer offers optimal protection.
Wearing a road bike helmet gives you more visual confidence. Better yet, it also offers a more pleasant view, especially on nature trails, by optimizing protection against the wind.
Wearing this type of helmet offers more confidence in the city as well as in the mountains or in the forest. Indeed, it protects the head from shock and the risk of trauma.
The helmet is also an accessory of comfort for the practice of the bicycle, whatever the type (VTT, VAE).
The helmet is also an aesthetic accessory for your displacements, while conferring optimal comfort thanks to the soft padding.
In our opinion, the best brands of road bike helmets in 2022 are :
The Giro Foray brand is a popular reference to remember when it comes to entry-level helmets, thanks to the varied sizes and colors, as well as the aesthetics of its helmets. Despite its price tag, it dons a high-end look, but more importantly benefits from 21 vents and in-mold technology for its design.
Benefiting from an experience of over 100 years, the Belgian brand Lazer Sphere is also very popular, with its range revealing a sober and timeless design. Apart from that, this brand's road bike helmet is lightweight, with a very precise fit and above all very ventilated thanks to its 18 vents.
Being part of the bike helmet specialists since 1986, Limar Air Master offers high-end accessories for professionals, with a sober and classy look at the same time. Opting for a triple shell in-mold manufacturing technology, the road bike helmet of this brand is very resistant, easy to adjust, and benefits from a good ventilation system.
This brand is also among the top of the line, with many colors available. Known for its lightness, the brand's helmet combines softness and comfort for competitors, whatever the season. It boasts a classy design, a great ventilation system, and in-mold and Mips Spherical technologies to optimize usability and strength.
The Kask brand road bike helmet benefits from maximum protection, as well as good heat dissipation, but also confirmed aerodynamics. With various color options, this brand also prioritizes comfort and health, with antibacterial treatment of the padding. Otherwise, the light weight of the items are also a real asset.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Choose a lightweight road bike helmet.
For your urban and short distance trips, choose a light road bike helmet. This allows you to take better advantage of the air while avoiding the risks of perspiration, and to have an optimal protection during the trip. It is a way to protect yourself while avoiding too much burden of a heavy accessory.
Choose the right size
Concerning the size of the road bike helmet, it is advisable to choose it so as to confer ease. As such, it is always better to try the accessory before buying it. This allows you to have a well-fitting helmet, in which the cyclist feels comfortable while enjoying the comfort and optimal protection of the accessory.
Ventilated helmet
Always choose a road bike helmet that is well ventilated, with padding that provides optimal comfort. Thus, whatever the season, you can wear it without any problem to preserve a good ventilation of your head during the bike ride, whether it is short or long.
Certified helmet
Always choose the road bike helmet that complies with CE standards, including EN 1078. This is an important criterion to benefit from an optimal protection in case of fall, or possibly serious accidents thanks to the required adjustments and closing systems to be respected to obtain this certification to the standards.
Before you buy, try the helmet on first
When buying and especially during the fitting, make sure that there is no limit in the field of vision, that no part of the accessory touches the skin at the risk of injuring it. Also, make sure that the closed strap is not in the way when you move your head, and that once closed, it is neither too tight nor too loose, but well adjusted.
The size of the bicycle helmet varies in principle from 53 to 60 cm. This size should be determined to be appropriate to the circumference of the head, with a measurement taken from the forehead. It is always recommended to try it on to make sure of the right size.
As far as possible, it is preferable to choose a well visible color for a road bike helmet, even with a reflective touch. Indeed, when riding in dark weather, it will be a way to better protect yourself and 'be more visible by other occupants of the road.
The helmet for VTC almost always has a round appearance, with many vents. For this type of helmet, you should make sure that it is washable, if only the detachable inner parts formed of foam, with the additional CE quality standards for manufacturing.
To be able to take the head circumference for thepurchase of a bicycle helmet, you need to use a seamstress tape measure. With the flexible tape measure, you go around the head, passing through the middle of the forehead. The best option is to have someone else do it for you. If there is no sewing tape, you can use a string or shoelace and measure it with a ruler afterwards.
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