Commuting by bike is a great way to stay healthy, save on gas, and help the environment. But it’s also a dangerous habit. Hitting your head just once can change your life forever. That’s why wearing a helmet is so important when you commute on your bike.
Whether you’re commuting or participating in a recreational bike ride, proper cycling gear is crucial. Not only does the right type of gear help protect your body and head, it also helps prevent bike theft.
But not all bike helmets are created equal. To find the best one for you, here’s what you need to know about choosing a bicycle helmet. Here are some of the best helmets for commuting and what to look for when buying one.
Best Bike Helmets for Commuting
IMAGE | PRODUCT | More Info |
---|---|---|
Coros LINX Smart Cycling Helmet | More Info | |
Livall MTI Smart Bike Helmet | More Info | |
Lumos Smart Bike Helmet | More Info | |
Smart Communications Cycling Helmets – Sena R1 / R1 EVO / R1 EVO CS | More Info | |
HJC Smart 20B Unit Bluetooth Communication Street Motorcycle Helmet Accessories – White/One Size | More Info | |
BASE CAMP Bike Helmet | More Info | |
Retrospec Dakota Bicycle/Skateboard Helmet | More Info | |
OutdoorMaster Skateboard Cycling Helmet | More Info | |
Giro Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet | More Info |
Best Bike Helmets for Commuting Reviews
- Coros LINX Smart Cycling Helmet
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This helmet has Bone Conducting Audio, the best cycling helmet for bikers out there. While we often see bikers with headsets, this practice is not advisable because bikers do need to be able to be attentive to their environment, thus Corus invented an alternative to earbuds. with the use of Bone Conduction Technology.
Coros LINX smart cycling helmet uses the technology to let you listen to music or GPS turn by turn cues. This song would also has a built-in speaker that will help you to use your phone or talk to others more safely.
Related: Best Motorcycle Helmet with Bluetooth
The technology that Coros put in this helmet is the best for bikers comparing it to an older fashion headset. It’s easy and it only takes a few minutes to get set up. If you want to take advantage of the G-sensor SOS alert, you can sync the helmet to a free app. Syncing the helmet to the Apple automatically send a signal to a specific contact when the sensor indicates that you may have been in an accident.
The built-in battery and bone conduction technology could be an added weight, but it’s not noticeable or annoying. The helmet is still pretty much lightweight. It is definitely the best helmet today.
Pros:
- Bone conducting audio.
- Built-in speaker.
- G-sensor SOS alert.
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Expensive
- Livall MTI Smart Bike Helmet
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This smart bike is armed with unique accessories that’ll make your biking experience smarter and safer. It’s equipped with a Nano cadence sensor and Bling Jet Bluetooth remote control.
This Nano cadence sensor can easily be connected to the bikes pedals and linked to via a Bluetooth to the connected phone app. This app will record speed, distance travelled, calories burned, RPMs and so much more.
Actions are operated by the Bluetooth remote control which you can directly attach to the handlebar. The remote has to be connected to your helmet and phone to allow you to take photos, short videos, change music channels, turn indicators and even operate the walkie talkie.
Related: Best Smart Bike Helmet
Answering your phone does not have to be as troublesome as the helmet also has a win proof mic with sound wave control and it’s guaranteed that the person on the other line will hear you fine.
Of course, there is a safety feature included and this helmet will not leave you in the dark. The MTM on top light will shine luminously to make you stand out. Tail lights will allow you to signal others of directions. In case of emergency, the light will also shine to warn others nearby.
Pros:
- Nano cadence sensor.
- Bluetooth remote.
- Windproof mic.
- Tail lights
- Lumos Smart Bike Helmet
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Like every helmet, Lumos aims to give you a safe ride through its best feature, the bright lights turn signals. The left and right signals can be activated through a wireless remote which is usually placed on the handlebar. As such, it engages much like a driving experience.
The remote has only two buttons, the left and the right. The smart helmet has 38 red LED signals at the back, 10 white LEDs in the front and 11 orange LED in each turn. Lumos smart helmet is convenient and user friendly.
The unit comes with an accelerometer which senses when you’re breaking or slowing down. By then, the warning lights automatically turn on. The automatic light capability will turn solid red giving plenty of warning to other cars in the area.
Related: How to Fit a Bike Helmet for a Child
The heavy duty designed bike helmet can be adjusted to fit the user. It comfortably serves head sizes from 55 to 61 centimetres. Moreover, this high quality bike helmet has a rechargeable battery which obtains a full charge in just two hours. The flashing mode can be used for six hours straight and three hours for the solid color mode.
Lumos proves its durability through its weatherproof capability in which you can stand up to rain or shine. Convenience wise, the user can monitor the battery level through a smart app.
Pros:
- Best for safety.
- Great durability.
- User friendly.
- Modern design.
Cons:
- Doesn’t fit very well.
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Smart Communications Cycling Helmets
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It’s the best performing helmet for cyclists. This multifunction helmet works in surprising ways. It has bone conduction Bluetooth technology ensuring your safety while bike riding.
With its bluetooth headphones and built-in noise cancelling Mike, you can listen to music or entertain phone calls without getting distracted. The Bluetooth can cover a range from 10 meters or 33 feet and is capable of sustaining six to eight hours of talking and music time.
The road cycling mountain helmet has 24 ventilation holes and weighs 400 grams. Unlike the others, this one comes with built-in goggles that can be used especially if you’re riding in windy or sandy conditions or simply don’t want to get anything into your eyes. But if you’re not in the mood for using the goggles, you have the option to put them away by using the goggles switch on the top of the helmet.
Related: How Do I Choose a Bike Helmet?
To sum up, this is a good smart helmet to buy since it comes with basic smart functions you will need as a cyclist especially the hands-free calling. And the built-in goggles also help its case since the goggles are very useful when riding bikes. This way, you won’t have to remember to bring lots of things with you when you decide to go cycling. You have all you need with one helmet.
Pros:
- Efficient.
- Bluetooth feature.
- In-built goggles.
- Quality built.
Cons:
- A bit heavy.
- HJC Smart 20B Unit Bluetooth Communication Street Motorcycle Helmet Accessories – White/One Size
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This helmet looks like a cross between a skateboarding helmet and a cycling helmet. The unique and stylish design is just the tip of the iceberg because this helmet offers a lot of useful features.
The integrated HD2K resolution GoPro front camera has 150 degree wide angle lens which captures all the photos and videos of your adventures. Just press the buttons on the helmet side to operate the camera.
It’s 2000 MAH battery allows you to report up to three hours while the 128 gigabyte internal memory stores all of your memories. The Wi-Fi will enable you to connect to a smartphone to access and transmit the files.
Related: Bike Helmet vs. Ski Helmet: Choosing the Right Helmet
The smart helmet makes listening to music or answering phone calls comfortable on the go using Bluetooth. The microphone filters outside noises and guarantees a safe riding experience.
The Airwheel C5 intelligent helmet is made of premium EPW material which protects the head from any kind of impact. Aside from its toughness, this adjustable helmet provides a maximum ventilating system which significantly improves the flow of air through its deep ventilation slots, front air intake design streamlined vents on the top and vertical exhaust holes on the tail.
With all these amazing features, you’d probably be wondering what this helmet weighs. The answer is not much. It weighs only 440 grams or about 0.97 pounds which is more or less the weight of your favorite leisure cap.
Pros:
- Stylish design.
- Wi-Fi connection.
- 2k camera.
- Quality built.
- BASE CAMP Bike Helmet
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Whether you’re riding a bike to the office or pedaling your way through rush-hour traffic, our BASE CAMP Bike Helmet will keep your head safe. This durable and lightweight bicycle helmet is dual safety certified and boasts 9 strategically placed cooling vents to keep you cool on longer rides.
The bike helmet with integrated visor reduces glare, increases field of vision, and the secure fit system provides safety, individualized fit, and comfort for both men and women.
The BASE CAMP bike helmet is a high-performance, dual safety certified bike helmet that provides a secure fit, ventilation, and maximum visibility. Available in men’s and women’s sizes, the BASE CAMP bike helmet comes with an adjustable and universal fit system.
Bicycle helmets are always a hot commodity. You’re no exception. With so many dual safety certified bike helmets to choose from, it’s hard to know which one is the best for you. Base Camp Bike Helmet, with its durable and absorptive PC shell and EPS foam, will keep your head safe. The women’s model features a moisture-wicking liner for those hot commutes.
A simple dial adjustable fit system provides an individualized fit for both men and women, as well as comfort for any type of ride–from urban commutes to long-distance cycling
Pros:
- Features dual safety.
- Detachable lights.
- Presents of cooling vents.
- Universal and comfortable.
- Retrospec Dakota Bicycle/Skateboard Helmet
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It has a fully formed ABS surrounds high quality EPS foam to ensure safety on impact. This helmet is recommended for riders who are age 14+. Pick from a variety of matte Colors to perfectly accent your bike and augment your personality.
Protect your head in style when you ride your bikes, skateboards, roller skates and scooters with the Retrospec Dakota Helmet. Tested and approved for bike, skate, ski. Fully formed ABS surround high quality EPS foam to ensure safety on impact.
For those looking for a more affordable skateboarding helmet, the Retrospec Dakota is an excellent choice. With 8 vents to keep you cool and comfortable, it features CPSC 16 CFR Part 1203, STM F2040-11 / ASTM F1446, EN 1077, EN 1078 seal of approval. This helmet has a classic skate design and is fitted with 2 sets of interchangeable pads for a custom fit.
The Retrospec Dakota Helmet is a classic skate design helmet that features a sleek 8-vent design for comfort and airflow. The ABS shell is designed to protect your head from impact in case of an accident.
Retrospec also offers two sets of interchangeable pads, so you can have the perfect fit. Available in a variety of colors, this helmet is great for those who participate in biking, skating, or roller skating.
Pros:
- Approved and certified.
- Can be used for anything.
- Comes in different colors.
- Maximum protection.
- OutdoorMaster Skateboard Cycling Helmet
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OutdoorMaster Skateboard Cycling Helmet, a helmet for multi-sport, is designed to keep you safe in case of danger while skateboarding, cycling or working on your bike. It has a durable ABS shell and thickened shock-absorbing EPS core which provides protection and comfort during your outdoor activities.
For the right size measure head circumference with a flexible tape measure or wrap it around your head then measure the length with a yardstick. Size L is recommended if you are between 21.3-22.8inch (54cm-58cm
OutdoorMaster is the perfect companion for all your outdoor activities. They also come with removable linings, a smooth ventilation system, and a double adjustment system that comes equipped with skin-friendly adjustable chin strap.
You don’t want to find out the hard way that your helmet doesn’t protect you when you go for a long ride, or that it doesn’t fit comfortably. Make sure you get the OutdoorMaster Skateboard Cycling Helmet, which is durable enough to take on what your day throws at you, while also meeting your needs for comfort. Available in two different colors and sizes, this helmet will fit well and keep you protected.
The OutdoorMaster Skateboard Cycling Helmet is perfect for any outdoor activities such as skateboarding, cycling, biking, and motocross. This helmet features a double adjustment for the best fit with a skin-friendly chin strap and a well-attached adjustment dial that will not easily get loose.
The helmet also has a smooth ventilation system to protect your head from sweating. For the best protection, make sure you measure your head circumference and match it to the size of the helmet. Our size Large is recommended if your head measures between 21.3-22.8inch (54cm-58cm).
Pros:
- It has double adjustment.
- It is multi-purpose.
- Durable and high quality.
- Has extra lining.
- Giro Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet
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You’re a cyclist. You know you need a helmet. But do you need the most innovative helmet on the market? The answer: always yes. Giro’s Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet is designed to protect your head.
Whether you’re embarking on a century ride or gearing up for your first bike commute, Giro’s Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet will keep you safe. Engineered in Giro’s category-leading helmet test lab, the Isode features an updated Multi-Directional Impact Protection System that redirects energy in a crash to make sure your head stays as safe as possible.
Giro’s Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet is designed to meet the needs of a variety of riders, from those who ride recreationally to competitive racers. The helmet also has 24 vents for superior ventilation, making it popular among cyclists who prefer an aerodynamic design. Take your ride to the next level with this helmet!
Get the right fit, straight out of the box. The Giro Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet features a universal size and a durable, lightweight polycarbonate shell that’s engineered in Giro’s category-leading helmet test lab.
Pros:
- Best protection.
- Features MIPS.
- Universal fitting.
- Superb ventilation.
Cons:
- Costly.
Things You Should Consider
Riding a bike to work or school is a great way to get some exercise, save on gas, and cut down on congestion. The key to safe commuting is wearing the proper safety gear. A helmet should be worn at all times to protect you from head injuries in the event of an accident.
If you’re not sure which bicycle helmet is best for you, this guide will help you make an informed decision. We break down bike helmets by their features and include reviews that cover things like weight, ventilation, and visibility. Read on!
How to Choose the Right Helmet for Your Commute
See what makes up the Bicycle Helmet Authority’s Bicycle Helmet Buying Guide. You’ll learn everything you need to know about bike helmets, including helmet fit, weight, ventilation, reviews, installation, and safety regulations.
There are more than 4,000 different bicycle helmets on the market, with the vast majority not meeting basic safety standards for helmets sold in the U.S. The ratings in our guide range from three stars to five stars.
Helmets with Exterior Finish and Decals
A bike helmet made with a foam core shell will protect your head and features plastic or UV-curable polymer straps. Other helmets use a flexible hard plastic shell with a breathable mesh interior. There’s a wide range of styles, colors, and other features available, but you’ll want to make sure you get a helmet that fits properly.
Some helmets are adjustable and do not fit tight enough for comfort, so take care when shopping to ensure you’re getting the correct fit. The way a bike helmet protects your head is just as important as the shape and design of the helmet.
Full-Face Helmets
These full-face helmets are often seen on the streets of large American cities. They protect your entire face including the eyes. And although this type of helmet doesn’t come with a visor, you can buy one if you need it.
Helmets with an integrated eye shield feature two sets of flexible flaps that cover each of your eyes. These flaps don’t cover your entire face, but the idea is to prevent shards of glass from hitting your eyes. If you’re thinking of getting a full-face helmet, make sure to read our guide to choosing a helmet.
Peak and Stealth helmets share many of the same benefits as a full-face helmet. However, the visor (or no visor) of this type of helmet can be adjusted to customize the fit for different face sizes.
Half-Shell Helmets
Half-shell helmets have a shell that lies behind the head, similar to the shell on a surfboard. You can still see through the shell to your face.
Pros:
- Best for traveling.
- Can be worn under other helmets Resist smashing or bouncing when hitting objects.
- Can be seen easily without tinted lenses.
Cons:
- More expensive than full-face helmets.
- Need to take off the helmet to use a phone or talk to others while riding.
- Limited ventilation.
There are two main types of bicycle helmets: helmet and half-shell. Some bike helmets have built-in chin straps that clasp your chin, so you can forget about them and don’t have to put them on every time you want to go cycling. These are popular with serious cyclists who wear a full-face helmet.
Open Face Helmets
If you want to keep your face free while you’re cycling, then a traditional bicycle helmet is probably the best choice. These helmets fit over your head and are made to protect the sides and back of your head. An open-face helmet has a chinstrap to make sure it stays on your head. Some models are fitted with ear protectors.
These kinds of helmets are also better suited for riding through wind or rain because there’s less pressure on your head. If you find an open-face helmet you like, then you can usually buy a matching chin strap that goes around your chin.
If you spend a lot of time on a bicycle or just use your bike to commute, you’re going to want a comfortable helmet. This is especially true if you’re cycling on roads that are surrounded by fast moving traffic.
FAQs
When it comes to riding a bike, one of the most common questions is what should I wear? Helmets are an essential part of that question. The safety and protection that come from wearing a helmet cannot be overstated. It’s important to know how to choose the right helmet for your needs, and what you should look for when shopping around. Keep reading for a detailed FAQ on bike helmets for commuting.
Shopping for the right helmet
There are many kinds of bike helmets available, including bike and gym helmets. If you want to travel light on your ride, you can use a helmet that is made for biking. Sometimes these helmets are marketed for gyms or for running, though most can be used for biking as well.
Gyms and fitness products tend to be heavier than standard bike helmets, with better ventilation. Bike helmets generally have just a visor, and the traditional dome is used as the rear shell. This is the most common style of helmet for adults.
While gym bike helmets are usually more expensive, they are often used for leisurely cycling as well. You can look for bike helmets for commuting if you wear them for your commute. You should have a helmet that is made from 100 percent high impact polycarbonate (HIP).
1. How does a helmet work?
When you walk into a bike shop, you might expect to walk out with a helmet, but that’s not always the case. The best bike helmets have multiple functions, and it’s important to choose the right one that fits your needs. The purpose of a bike helmet is to protect your head and brain from impact.
The helmet will protect you by absorbing and redirecting the energy from the crash. These impacts may have impacts that look like the feeling of a blow to the head. Helmets are also designed to protect you from noise from the road.
While not all crash sounds are the same, there are a few basic noises you should be aware of when you’re biking. If you’re just a casual bike commuter, a simple rubber or foam back helmet will suffice.
2. What should I look for when shopping for a helmet?
It’s important to know what you need from a bike helmet. Many helmets have an upper and a lower, but the different levels of protection provided are worth knowing about. It’s important to know what you need from a bike helmet.
Many helmets have an upper and a lower, but the different levels of protection provided are worth knowing about.
3. What level of protection do I need?
You need to be able to ride on the road, at most speeds, without worrying about damaging your head. If you feel a bump on the road, it’s vital to know the level of impact you will have if you fall and hit your head. You need to be able to ride on the road, at most speeds, without worrying about damaging your head.
4. What should I do if my helmet doesn’t fit?
Before making a purchase, be sure to ask an expert. It’s easy to believe that you’ll figure out the proper fit yourself, and quickly. But many riders will have to return their helmets, or find a manufacturer that makes helmets with a range of fit options, like Bell, Snell, and Suzy. Before making a purchase, be sure to ask an expert.
It’s easy to believe that you’ll figure out the proper fit yourself, and quickly. But many riders will have to return their helmets, or find a manufacturer that makes helmets with a range of fit options, like Bell, Snell, and Suzy.
5. How should I determine my helmet’s safety rating?
The government offers safety ratings for helmets. It’s critical to understand that these ratings are not equivalent to motorcycle safety ratings.
How Do I take care of my helmet?
Once you purchase your helmet, it’s time to put it to good use. Always take care of your helmet after each use. The best way to do this is to wash it according to your helmet’s cleaning instructions, and to clean any loose dirt or grit from the brim by pushing down and shaking out the bottom.
Once it’s thoroughly cleaned, it’s time to buy a cleaning cloth or rubber band to help ensure it’s always clean. It’s also important to always remove the helmet from your helmet case before putting it in the dishwasher, as this helps ensure that you don’t forget it in there.
Also, be sure to store your helmet inside a light jacket or a zippered bag when it’s not in use. Leaving it out in the rain or snow will seriously decrease the lifespan of your helmet.
Conclusion
The most important thing when shopping for bike helmets is to know your requirements. They aren’t the only helmet on the market that will suit you, but they do help give you a rough idea. It may not be a complete list, but a basic understanding of the features of a helmet will help you when deciding which helmet is right for you.