Cycling Guides

Best Cycling Helmets for Your Budget [Updated]

Best Cycling Helmets

While no law in the UK says a cyclist must wear a helmet while out on the road, by merely placing a cycle helmet on your head, you can reduce the risk of injury by 70%.

From cycling clubs to online forums, nearly everyone in the cycling community will recommend wearing a helmet, and the good news is that buying one can be just as fun and as exciting as buying a bike.

In this article, we’ll discuss a range of different cycling helmets from some of the world’s leading brands while looking into the budget, fit, weight, aerodynamics, and the pros and cons of each helmet.

With that in mind, take a look at what we consider to be the best-curated offers for cycling helmets across the internet.

Best Cycling Helmets for Your Budget

Kask Protone Road Helmet

Kask Protone Road Helmet

A helmet that is deemed to be a gap filler between being fully aerodynamic and adequately ventilated, this is undoubtedly one of the more interesting offerings on the list.

Fit & comfort

Celebrated in the cycling community for being one of the most comfortable helmets on the market, the shape and size of the Protone have been applauded for its snug fit.

Featuring a responsive adjustment dial in the rear of the piece, discomfort from the rear side plastic, which has been noted by some riders, can be avoided.

The helmet also features a leather strap which is both a welcome and thoughtful addition for chin comfort.

Design

Featuring 3D Dry tri-dimensional padding, the construction and design of the helmet are based on a multi-layer, open cell construction, with the ventilation holes reducing head contact by 70% in comparison to standard designs.

With Team Sky found at the drawing board, Kask has produced a very sleek helmet that also has sweat funneling designed into its body, so there’s no need to worry about sweat dripping onto your glasses and face.

At 220g for the medium-sized helmet, the Protone is also incredibly light and comes in at around 20g lighter than some of its main competitors.

Pros and cons

Thanks to its unique ventilation design, that also lends a hand to aerodynamics, the Protone is very adept at keeping the rider’s head cool, even on the hottest days.

It’s also very light, well-fitting and nimble, but the down-side here is the price.

At around £200 max, there are cheaper helmets in the world, but if you can grab it for around £120-£150, you’re definitely onto a winner.

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Kask Mojito Road Helmet

Kask Mojito Road Helmet

A mid-range offering from Kask, this helmet is nonetheless widely respected in the community and was the helmet of choice for Team Sky between 2012 and 2014.

Fit & comfort

Another helmet with a well-designed adjustment system, the Mojito offers well-positioned and slim padding that can fit with ease.

The Mojito has been designed to fit a variety of head shapes, and there’s hardly a bad word said about it being uncomfortable.

The only downside to the helmet can be found within the padding, as it has been noted to absorb more sweat than it allows to evaporate, especially on riders that tend to sweat a lot.

Design

Despite the aforementioned padding sufferings, the ventilation is a key benefit in the design, with no less than 26 air vents surrounding the outer shell.

MIT technology, which is found in all Kask helmets, has also been applied to the Mojito and has a polycarbonate layer covering the shell on the top, along with its base ring, and on the back.

For those who care about style, the Mojito is available in a wide range of colours, with over 24 different shades being offered throughout the range; nice if you’re looking to match your helmet with the rest of your kit.

Pros and cons

This is the perfect all-rounder and is considered to be a steal for its price. If you happen to be working on a budget and want high quality (and professional) helmet, then this could be the one for you.

Slight disadvantages can be found around the lack of MIPS technology, and although there is often precise attention to detail, the decals on the Mojito are but stickers, so you might find them gone within a year or two.

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Giro Synthe MIPS Helmet

Giro Synthe MIPS Helmet

Debuting at the Tour de France in 2015, the Giro Synthe MIPS Helmet has been enjoyed by a variety of racing teams and can now be picked up at a reasonably decent price just three years later.

Fit & comfort

Notable for fitting even the largest of heads, the Giro Synthe is a sophisticated piece of equipment that offers a vast amount of comfort with minimal cost.

Featuring the famous Roc Loc Air fit system, the retention dial in the helmet is considered to be one of the most intuitive, and it can be easily adjusted with just one hand.

The helmet has also been tested in some of the hottest conditions on the planet, and its highly ventilated design means that sweat isn’t an issue here.

Design

Although ventilation can often be seen to compromise a helmet’s aerodynamic credibility, this isn’t the case, as the Giro Synthe features an internal channelling system that’s designed to boost efficiency around the 26 wind tunnel vents.

Considering that the helmet features an internal Roll Cage reinforcement system, the helmet is one of the lightest around, weighing just 234g in its medium size.

It’s also considered to be nearly as efficient as the fastest time trial helmets, which is noteworthy if you’re searching for a helmet so that you can enjoy a little road racing.

Where safety is concerned, the helmet also features MIPS, which means the helmet is designed to redirect and absorb high energy impacts away from the brain.

Pros and cons

Deliciously sleek, after three to four years on the road, the Giro Synthe is still one of the coolest and aesthetically pleasing helmets on the market today.

Although a higher end helmet, it does come with a hefty price tag. However, if you’re looking for a helmet without financial bounds, this should be one worth considering.

One of the very few cons surrounding the Giro Synthe however, is the fact that it is susceptible to artificial scuffs and scratches, which have noted to occur after just a few rides.

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Giro Savant Road Helmet

Giro Savant Road Helmet

A helmet for those that are budget inclined, the Giro Savant Road Helmet offers decent all-around performance that gets the job done with little fuss.

Fit & comfort

The Savant is easy to both fit and adjust thanks to the fact that it makes use of Giro’s Roc Loc 5 retention system, which is a bonus for such an entry level helmet.

Featuring three positions of height adjustment and a decent micro-dial, the system works well with internal padding, designed to fit 98% of the world’s population.

Design

Impressively, the Savant follows a similar ventilation design to various other higher-end models, which is somewhere that Giro could have easily cut back on.

Featuring 25 vents with internal channels and generous exhaust vents, the ventilation is reasonably competent, but lacks the efficiency of pricier helmets.

Hitting the scales at 256g, the helmet is reasonably light for the price bracket, although it might not be suitable for those where speed and efficiency is a priority.

Pros and cons

Perfectly fine for its price bracket, the Savant is a highly recommended entry-level road helmet that would fit perfectly for a regular commuter.

That said, you can also pick up a Giro Savant helmet that features MIPS technology for just a little more.

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Giro Aeon Road Helmet

Giro Aeon Road Helmet

At just 190g, the Aeon is one of the lightest helmets on our list, and has been a tried and tested piece of equipment for some years now.

Fit & comfort

The Roc Loc 5 retention system allows for a comfortable fit, which can be adjusted with just a single hand; vital if you need to feel a little snugger during a ride.

The interior X-Static padding is also noted for its considered design, which is particularly comfortable, even among those with shaved heads.

For those that intend to take to the road in the summer or abroad, the ventilation system is one of the best on the market, despite being a little dated by modern standards.

Design

Although one of the classic helmet designs, the Aeon hasn’t entirely kept up with the latest trends and fails to take the newest understanding of dynamics into account.

That said, it still looks nice and is a smart helmet, although it could do with a little more refining in the features department.

A neat feature that it does happen to include, however, is the DuPont ® Nylon® Roll Cage reinforcement system, that offers an extra layer of strength for when you need it the most.

Pros and cons

Found between £119 and £150, the Aeon is a decently priced helmet that offers the reliability that all riders hope for.

Although a tad outdated here and there, this is a pro helmet that many people continue to recommend and purchase, so if you’re a commuter or a rider of leisure, there’s no reason to overlook this particular helmet.

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MET Manta Road Helmet

MET Manta Black Red Rod Helmet

One of the most distinctive helmets on the road today, the MET Manta Road Helmet features a cutting-edge design that will guarantee to turn heads.

Fit & comfort

Unique in many ways to any of the helmets featured so far on this list, the Manta lacks an abundance of internal padding, but uses it well and makes use of its Safe-T Advanced micrometrical fit system to enhance comfort.

The helmet also uses a Dualgel front pad to increase comfort across the forehead while also stopping sweat from dripping into the eyes.

Although a relatively enclosed helmet, the six rear vents are surprisingly adept at letting hot air escape, so riders don’t need to worry about overheating.

Design

Daring, to say the least, MET claims that the helmet can save 10 watts of effort when traveling at 50kph (31.06mph), which is perfect for racers, both at professional and enthusiast levels.

Weighing just 200g, the Manta is also the lightest enclosed helmet on the market, and its aero profiling comes together at high speeds as the airflow improves.

MET also offers a USB rear safety light which can be fitted on the dial of the adjuster, which is a nice little feature for those who commute or regularly take to the road at night.

Pros and cons

There’s no doubt that this is an excellent helmet for when speed is a priority, and it offers comfort in a variety of creative and sophisticated ways.

Due to its design, it might get a little warm if you’re travelling at lower speeds, which means that the Manta should only be reserved for racing clubs or very fast riders.

At less than £200, it’s also a decently priced helmet for such a professional level.

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MET Strale Helmet

Met Strale Helmet

Designed to incorporate the Venturi effect (a fluid dynamic principle that says when a fluid hits a choke point its velocity will increase), the Strale is a surprisingly thoughtful entry-level helmet.

Fit & comfort

Although the Strale is noted for its ability to produce good airflow around the head, those that have taken it out on hot days have complained about sweat and the helmet’s inability to keep it away from the eyes and nose.

That said, the Strale’s shape and the fitting system has been applauded to fit a wide range of head shapes, and most people can easily fit it without experiencing pressure points.

This is especially noteworthy as the helmet is only adjustable at the rear, rather than across the whole helmet.

Design

The Strale features only 14 vents, which could explain the earlier mentioned sweat issue, although it’s important to note that this criticism isn’t universal.

Adding to the woes, however, some cyclists have also complained that the channelling under the brow of the helmet gets blocked by padding and the retention system, which isn’t good for airflow.

Found at 255g for the medium sized helmet, the Strale doesn’t suffer from weight issues, however, and it has been found to meet the extra-stringent Australian safety standard, so for as little as £39.99, you can be sure to be picking up a good deal.

Pros and cons

Although some in the community have shunned the helmet for its lack of airflow prioritisation, it has also been widely embraced by others, so that’s something to think about, especially if you’re looking for a decent budget helmet.

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Catlike Mixino Road Helmet

Catlike Mixino Road Helmet

Probably one of the most distinct helmets on the market, this professional helmet is worn by the Movistar Team, and if your budget stretches this far, should be one to at least investigate.

Fit & comfort

Featuring Catlike’s MPS eVo fitting system, which consists of a regular dial with two adjustable pads, and two more on either side of the head, users can easily adjust the helmet to their needs.

There’s barely been a bad word said of the fit and comfort of the helmet, with many taking to its snug feel and secure positioning, even on the most awkward heads.

Able to keep the head cool even on the hottest of days, the forehead padding has also been welcomed by many for keeping both sweat and rain out of the way.

Design

Comprised of an aramid skeleton sitting underneath the foam of the helmet, the structure is reinforced with graphene to accommodate the stunning 39 vents found throughout.

Weighing in at only 227g, the helmet comes in just a little lighter than the Protone, while being just a tad heavier than the Synthe, so if weight is a factor you’re seriously considering, this is something to bear in mind.

Catlike reports that the helmet makes use of the Crash Energy Splitter system, which spreads impacts across a wider area, so in the unfortunate instance of a crash, you know that you can rely on it.

Pros and cons

Although I haven’t mentioned it yet, the Mixino is lauded for its ability to provide maximum ventilation, so if you’re looking to cycle in hot conditions, this is a helmet that you should seriously put in your shortlist.

If you’re looking to bike in the rain, you can also buy a thin aeroshell which fits over the top of the helmet, neatly clicking into the front and rear to cover up the majority of the vents.

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Catlike Whisper Helmet

Catlike Whisper Helmet

Considered by many to be an icon of the cycling world, the Whisper is a top of the line helmet that you can now find at a very reasonable price.

Fit & comfort

Championed for a variety of reasons, it could be argued that the Whisper’s ability fit is probably its most endearing feature. Indeed, there are very few in the world who haven’t found the helmet to be a bastion of comfort.

Although there is indeed a lack of padding, the helmet is designed well enough for it not to be an issue, and very few, if any, have reported awkward pressure points or rubbing.

Design

Also found with no less than 39 vents, this helmet is perfect for those wishing to head out in warmer conditions, although it might get a little chilly during the winter months.

Its unique presentation, however, means that it’s not a helmet for everyone.

The honeycomb structure does seem to split the biking community straight down the middle, so if style is something that you’re considering, it’s worth remembering that this is a polarising helmet.

Pros and cons

One of the worthiest helmets on this list for those looking to spend £100, despite confliction surrounding its appearance, the Whisper delivers on just about every other level.

Perhaps an irony, given that it is indeed named “Whisper”, some have reported that the helmet creates an unwelcome amount of wind noise at high speed, but for commuters or those looking for a more relaxed pace, this won’t be a significant issue.

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Bell Zephyr MIPS Helmet

Bell Zephyr MIPS - Neon Green

One of the very first helmets where the MIPS liner has been integrated directly into its design, the Zephyr offers incredible levels of performance.

Fit & comfort

The helmet offers users an incredible level of adjustment so that users can find the perfect fit.

Utilising what was then a new dial-adjustment system, named Float Fit Race, there are four height positions alongside the highly responsive grippy dial.

The helmet also features rear retaining pads that move from side to side for extra comfort and fit.

Design

Featuring two different densities of polystyrene in both its inner and outer shells, the helmet has been designed to absorb large amounts of energy on impact while remaining aerodynamically efficient at some angles.

Throughout the design process, Bell reportedly went into an in-depth study of cooling efficiencies and incorporated its findings into the helmet, meaning that it is very dependable during hot weather.

With 18 large vents throughout the helmet, optimising a wind tunnel shape, the Zephyr is highly efficient and is favoured by endurance riders.

Pros and cons

Found for just £150, this helmet is no doubt a perfect option if it fits within your budget range.

With MIPS protection fully incorporated into the design, there’s no doubt that this is one of the safest helmets on the road at this price range.

That said, it does weigh a hefty 315g, although this is something that very few riders have complained about to my knowledge.

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Bell Stratus MIPS Helmet

Bell Stratus MIPS Helmet

A budget-friendly helmet that includes MIPS technology, the Stratus shouldn’t be a helmet that’s easily overlooked.

Fit & comfort

None too bulky, the Stratus offers a great fit and is noted for being flexible enough to provide a snug fit across a range of head shapes.

Featuring a ‘No-Twist Tri-Glides’ strapping system, the straps can be found flat against a user’s head underneath both the ears and the chin. Even in the face of wind and rain and general mire, they are noted for staying in place while you ride.

Small disfavour is the fact that the retention dial on the back of the helmet isn’t as finessed as others, but it is workable nonetheless.

Design

Featuring 18 vents, the helmet can provide a good deal of airflow and riders generally agree that the helmet can be worn during warmer weather.

The brightly coloured MIPS liner throughout the inside of the helmet doesn’t seem to restrict any airflow, and foam padding at the brow and the crown of the head is enough to provide ample coverage.

It’s a little heavy at 279g for the medium-sized offering, but bearing in mind that this is a well-priced mid-level helmet, that’s something the more casual rider should not worry about.

Pros and cons

As already mentioned, the dial isn’t as responsive as some helmets in the same price range, but this is a minor detail and nothing to get hung up on.

Overall the helmet has enough positives to overcome such a small flaw, and this should certainly be a contender for those looking to save a few pennies.

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POC Octal Cannondale-Garmin Road Helmet

POC Octal Cannondale-Garmin Road Helmet

Another contender for the “unusual style” category, this helmet has divided the community over its looks and design, but there are hidden gems to be discovered.

Fit & comfort

Comfortable and light fitting, the helmet’s excellent use of ventilation means that it is well suited to hot days on the road.

Making use of POC’s specialised ‘size adjustment system’, the helmet offers a range of adjustability, although some have struggled initially in the height department.

That said, others in the community have mentioned that they have been able to wear the helmet without adjusting any of its features out-of-the-box, although this is likely anecdotal.

Design

As already mentioned, the helmet’s design is incredibly unique and has been the source of much discussion.

That said, the 21 controversial vents offer vast amounts of airflow and heat can easily escape, even at slower speeds.

The build is highly regarded and is one of the safest helmets on the road, offering more coverage than a lot of its competitors.

Pros and cons

Aside from the aforementioned visual disputes, there aren’t many disadvantages of the Cannondale-Garmin, other than some feel that it is a tad expensive when not on sale.

It does have a few perks, however, including a sunglasses “garage” in the front of the helmet, and the fact that it comes with an ICE tag barcode as well as being compatible with an ICEdot crash sensor.

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POC Octal AVIP MIPS Road Helmet

POC Octal AVIP MIPS Road Helmet

A helmet that puts safety first, the AVIP MIPS has been well reviewed throughout the community, and it’s not hard to see why.

Fit & comfort

The helmet’s lightweight size adjustment system allows for a great range of flexibility, and it will easily fit a high number of riders.

You will also find that it is complemented with Coolbest pads, so the helmet helps reduce temperature between the helmet and the rider’s head.

That said, the MIPS liner has been noted to feel like the helmet is suspended somewhat, although this can be counteracted by the cranking down of side and chin straps.

Design

The 21 air vents allow for brilliant air flow, with the padding helping to create a decent air channel throughout the helmet.

Like the Cannondale-Garmin, the AVIP MIPS provides excellent head coverage, although it might inhibit those with ponytails.

The helmet also comes with a POC ICEtag and is compatible with ICEdot crash sensors.

Pros and cons

Again, safety is a massive benefit of this helmet, and is kind enough to cater to post-crash needs, should there be any.

A few people have noted that the minimalist padding has inhibited their enjoyment of the helmet, however, so if you’re planning on going on regular and lengthy journeys, you might want to test the helmet out at your local bike shop first.

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Mavic Cosmic Pro Helmet

Mavic Cosmic Pro Helmet

Although traditionally a wheel manufacturer, Mavic has recently branched out into the helmet business, and many in the community are grateful.

Fit & comfort

Praised for its high levels of comfort, the inside of the Cosmic Profile has been noted for being incredibly comfortable, despite low profile cushioning.

It’s also useful for managing to keep moisture at bay, and the vents work well to provide a cool environment for the head.

Featuring Mavic’s Ergo Hold SL Retention System, the dial on the rear of the helmet is incredibly responsive, so adjustment is both easy and quick.

Design

Undoubtedly a high-quality design, the Cosmic Pro is much slimmer than Mavic’s Plasma model and weighs remarkably less at 210g (a 70g difference).

The four size options also mean that there is a great variety in size choice, so there should be even less of an adjustment period once unpackaged.

With large air flows throughout the helmet, the Cosmic Pro is a perfect selection for hotter and more challenging weather.

Pros and cons

A perfect choice for endurance riding and racing, this is a highly flexible helmet that is an excellent selection with its reduced price tag.

There are very few cons to mention in regards to it, though it is worth noting that Mavic is expanding its range, so make sure to take a look across the entirety of its products.

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Mavic Aksium Elite Helmet

Mavic Aksium Elite Helmet

Perfect for those searching for a high-quality helmet on a budget, the Aksium Elite is a simple yet premium-quality offering from Mavic.

Fit & comfort

Able to fit even the largest heads in the community, the Aksium Elite is a versatile helmet that offers vast amounts of adjustability, partly thanks to the Elite Fit Pad.

For those that plan on taking the helmet abroad, it even features an anti-mosquito mesh built within the 23 highly efficient vents.

The Ergo Hold SL retention system also means that riders can quickly adjust the fit of the helmet single-handedly while on the road, should the need occur.

Design

With the medium model weighing only 245g, the helmet is relatively lightweight and compact, making it a solid choice for those looking to enjoy longer journeys.

The helmet also utilises Ergo Shape technology, which means that the Aksium Elite is versatile enough to be enjoyed by those who need speed the most.

Pros and cons

Considering the price, if you’re looking to get a decent helmet without spending big, the Aksium Elite is perfectly reasonable and can be enjoyed by a range of riders.

However, if you’re looking for something a little more flash, and can afford it, there’s probably no reason why you shouldn’t think about upgrading to the Cosmic Pro.

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Specialized Chamonix Helmet

Specialized Chamonix Helmet

Considering the price tag, the Chamonix comes loaded with features and has been well reviewed by the cycling community for its surprising level of quality.

Fit & comfort

The Chamonix has surprised many for its ability to fit comfortably for such a low priced helmet, and its floating internal web works well.

The ‘Brain Trust’ headlock adjuster at the back is also impressive.

Although the Form fit cradle is a little crude and more than a little fiddly, the helmet should be able to fit most head sizes.

Design

Complete with an adjustable visor, the Chamonix makes excellent use of Specialized’s 4D venting that comes complete with a front mouth port and rear exhausts; making sure that your head remains as cool as possible.

It has been noted that the internal pads within the helmet are prone to splitting, so it’s important that care is given for when you take them out for washing.

Another note is that the polystyrene back and lower sides can get a little battered too, so it’s important that care is given when transporting the helmet.

Pros and cons

This is a perfectly good entry-level helmet that should be considered for those looking to budget and who might be saving up for a higher quality purchase.

The longevity of the helmet is in some doubt, however, so I wouldn’t expect a long lifespan if someone was to use the helmet on a daily basis.

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Specialized S-Works Prevail Helmet   

 

Specialized S-Works Prevail Helmet - Best Cycling Helmet

A helmet that has passed the test of time, having been around for a good few years now, the S-Works Prevail manages to provide on all fronts.

Fit & comfort

Offering a satisfying fit for long rides, the Mindset adjusting cradle provides five positions, alongside well-placed pads and a neat rotary dial.

Although Specialized helmets were once noted for their narrow design, the rounder S-Works Prevail can provide comfort for rounder heads with very little (if any) squeezing or pinching.

The helmet’s straps are also fixed on each side by clasps and are fairly well positioned and keep them clear of skin until hitting the jawbone, which is great for longer rides.

Design

Although somewhat foreboding in design, which might not suit some cyclists, the prominent vents allow for a good chunk of air to flow over the head.

The sides of the helmet also allow for superior head coverage.

Some have mentioned that the shell does fail to protect the lower EPS core at the front and the rear, however, which means that owners should ensure the helmet’s safety while in transit.

Pros and cons

The helmet has been complimented for its ability to wick sweat, which is especially handy during summer months and hard cycling, and it is a good all-around offering.

However, it’s unfortunate that there is a lack of EPS core protection in areas, although this disservice can be avoided with careful ownership.

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Disclaimer: images shown are for illustrative purposes only. The copyrights belong to the respective brands and online retailers.

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Legwork Team

Legwork is an independent fitness & health and cycling resource, providing all the latest workout tips, advice, training and buying guides. Have any questions or tips? Get in touch: hello@legwork.guide.

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