Once you have designed and set up your mountain bike, getting started can be a frustrating process. Although you may want to simply hop on and begin cycling, it’s important to keep an eye on your gear. One common question we receive is: “Do I need a mountain bike-specific helmet?”
In the world of cycling, each discipline requires specific gear items. To become a great cyclist in your chosen discipline, you should adhere to the specific code of conduct and use the best gear for that discipline. Having a mountain bike-specific helmet is ideal to ensure you are covered for mountain bike-related incidents.
However, a casual cyclist may get by with any helmet or less useful gear items, depending on the purpose of their cycling journey. If you are cycling just for fun, you don’t need any specific gear items and can purchase what is affordable. As you progress, you may want to upgrade your gear.
This article aims to provide a closer look at why those with professional ambitions may benefit from using mountain bike-specific helmets, and how they can significantly improve overall rider performance.
Table of Contents
What Is A Mountain Bike Helmet?
Mountain bike helmets may have a slightly different appearance compared to their road cycling counterparts. Despite owning a mountain bike, many people opt for a road helmet rather than a mountain bike helmet. When selecting a mountain bike helmet, you will need to choose between an open-face helmet and a full-face helmet.
- Open-Face Helmet: An open-face helmet is designed to keep the helmet lightweight and does not offer protection for your eyes. However, it is equipped with several exterior protective features that should ensure overall durability and protection.
- Full-Face Helmet: The full-face helmet is also a popular option, particularly in the competitive world. It provides full coverage and is often preferred when traversing muddy terrains for its added eye protection.
Regardless of which option you choose, a mountain bike helmet is packed with exciting features and is designed to provide peace of mind while riding on the mountain. While open-face and full-face helmets may look similar and share some traits, the full-face helmet uses more material and is often the preferred choice for professional riders.
Key Features Of The Mountain Bike Helmet
To determine whether a mountain bike helmet is necessary, it’s best to examine some of the essential features these helmets offer. Unfortunately, these features can be complex and often go unnoticed until you closely analyze the helmet. We have analyzed some of the key features that distinguish the mountain bike helmet.
Size
The first noticeable difference in mountain bike helmets is their size. They are often larger than road cycling helmets due to the addition of an extra visor. In the world of cycling, eye protection is crucial, and having a visor provides an added layer of protection to make riding easier.
Construction
Most helmets, including both road and mountain bike helmets, feature a polycarbonate shell. The shell is made of plastic and comprises most of the material in the helmet. Ventilation holes should be evenly distributed, and the shell is made of durable materials that undergo rigorous testing. The construction of most helmets is quite similar.
Ventilation
Mountain bike-specific helmets feature ventilation holes that are evenly spread throughout the polycarbonate shell. These holes vary in size, but the engineering is designed to provide the best possible ventilation for the rider. This ensures that everyone can enjoy optimal ventilation in their helmet.
Inner Lining
Once again, you will note that almost all helmets, be it road or mountain bike helmets, have an interior lining. The interior lining is designed to absorb sweat and displace some of the moisture you often build up when biking. EPS foam is the material of choice because it will easily displace and evaporate some of the moisture.
Visor Or Full-Face
The visor on a mountain bike helmet extends in front of the rider’s face, providing extra shade and protection from the sun. It also makes it easier to ride through muddy terrain while keeping the eyes protected.
For professional cyclists who ride in the toughest conditions, a full-face helmet is the best option. This helmet provides full protection, similar to a motocross helmet, while still offering ventilation. However, full-face helmets are generally more expensive than other options.
The overall design of these helmets makes them slightly heavier than those you would see road cyclists use. Since the weight factor is not that important for mountain biking when compared to road cycling, you must buy the right one. These helmets might be a bit heavier, but they offer more durable features and protection for the rider.
3 Best Mountain Bike Helmets You Should Consider
If you are undecided on which mountain bike helmet you should buy, we have listed three of the top options. These helmets can be used by riders of all skill levels and will certainly make you look more professional. Here are some of the best mountain bike helmets on the market you can buy right now:
1. Best Mountain Bike Helmet: Giro Fixture MIPS Adult Mountain Cycling Helmet
The Giro Fixture MIPS Adult Mountain Biking Helment
The Giro Cycling Helmet is one of the leading mountain bike helmet options on the market today. It is designed to provide optimal functionality and features a durable polycarbonate shell for protection. Giro is also one of the top and most trusted brands in the world of cycling, adding to the helmet’s reliability and reputation.
The Giro Cycling Helmet’s universal size design ensures that all riders can find a comfortable fit while providing the best possible protection for their needs. The helmet features 18 ventilation holes to provide optimal airflow and keep the rider cool. Overall, it is one of the best mountain bike helmet options available on the market today.
2. Best Full-Face Mountain Bike Helmet: BELL Super 3R MIPS Adult Mountain Bike Helmet
Bell is one of the most popular brands when it comes to designing cycling gear and is renowned for designing superbike helmets. The BELL Super 3R MIPS Adult Mountain Bike Helmet is one of the top polycarbonate helmets available today, offering wrap-around protection and a full-face design for maximum safety.
The BELL Super 3R MIPS Adult Mountain Bike Helmet features large ventilation ports that efficiently allow air to pass through and provide comfort while riding. The helmet also includes a separate visor to protect the face and eyes when necessary. The only downside to this high-end helmet is its price, which is over $200.
3. Best Budget Mountain Bike Helmet: Zacro Adult Bike Helmet
For those who cannot afford expensive helmets, there are many affordable options available on the market. The Zacro Adult Bike Helmet is one of the more affordable options and provides practically everything needed for comfort. The helmet is made from polycarbonate and features a universal and unisex fit.
The Zacro Adult Bike Helmet features large ventilation ports that allow optimal airflow for a comfortable ride. It also includes a small visor for additional protection from the elements. Despite being one of the cheapest helmets, it is still one of the most exhilarating to use and is perfect for beginners starting out in mountain biking.
Do I Need A Mountain Bike Specific Helmet?
To answer the main question, it is important to consider the purpose of your cycling journey and other relevant factors. If you are a dedicated mountain biker and plan to undertake trips solely on mountainous terrains, a mountain bike-specific helmet will offer you the best protection and is the ideal option.
However, if you are a casual rider and do not wish to spend too much on high-end helmets, the type of helmet you choose may not matter as much. The key is to ensure that the helmet you choose provides adequate protection for the type of journey you plan to undertake.
Do I Need A Mountain Bike Specific Helmet Conclusion
Having the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and safe cycling experience. For those who enjoy challenging mountain bike trips, a mountain bike-specific helmet is the best option for their needs.
We encourage readers to share their preferred helmet type in the comment section, taking into account their specific cycling needs and budget.
