Look Good, Ride Safe: The 10 Best Bike Helmets for Men

If you’re hitting the road on two wheels, safety should always be a top priority.

And there’s no gear more essential for keeping you safe than a good helmet.

Not only are helmets designed to protect your head in an accident, but they also play a critical role in keeping you visible to other riders and drivers. But with so many options available, it can take time to figure out where to start.

We’ve put together this guide to the best bike helmets for men. Whether you’re a casual rider or a seasoned pro, these helmets offer the perfect blend of safety, style, and comfort.

So strap on, and let’s hit the road in style and safety.

Ride in Style: Our Favorite Bike Helmets for Men

Bike helmets are an essential piece of gear for any cyclist, providing protection and peace of mind while riding.

However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our favorite bike helmets for men.

Without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best bike helmets for men.

Bontrager Velocis MIPS – Best Overall Bike Helmet 

Reason to Buy: 

• Excellent ventilation
• Comfortable to wear
• Easy adjustments 

Reason to Avoid: 

• Expensive

The Bontrager Velocis is the ultimate helmet for comfort and style. This MIPS bike helmet is incredibly comfortable to wear all day long, even on those long, hot rides. The ventilation system is top-notch, keeping your head cool and refreshed. The chin straps are a breeze to adjust, and the BOA dial allows you to create a snug fit.

Moreover, the full-coverage polycarbonate shell and MIPS technology provide superior protection for your noggin. The Velocis also comes with a handy visor and sunglasses port, perfect for those evening rides. And let’s not forget the sleek and fast-looking duotone color design.

Sure, the internal recessed vent design might add a bit of bulk, but its cooling effect is worth everything. Not only does it keep you cool, but it also reduces wind noise. The Velocis might be pricey, but the innovative ventilation design and overall quality make it well worth the investment. 

Giro Register MIPS – Best Bike Helmet With Visor

Reason to Buy: 

• Lightweight
• Comfortable to wear
• Excellent value for money

Reason to Avoid: 

• No chin protector

If you love miles on two wheels but hate helmets like they’re poison, the Giro Register MIPS might be the perfect helmet for you. This helmet is one of the lightest we have tested, and its comfort is unmatched by any other helmet. It’s so light that we often forgot we were wearing it during our test rides. 

The Register boasts an extra strip of padding on the brow, and its interior padding extends back further than most, providing a superior and comfortable fit. Moreover, this helmet features a snap-on visor, and it’s equipped with the RocLoc Sports Fit system, which is just as efficient as the BOA Fit used by Bontrager.

In short, The Giro Register MIPS is not just a helmet; it’s an experience. It’s a combination of lightness, comfort, and adjustability, making it perfect for the guy who wants to wear a helmet without even noticing it.

If you’re looking for a helmet that won’t weigh you down, physically or mentally, the Register MIPS is for you.

Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 MIPS – Best Helmet For Optimal Airflow

Reason to Buy:

• Excellent design for ventilation
• Angi safety integration
• Great retention
• Stylish & Trendy

Reason to Avoid: 

• Non-removable Y-buckles

When it comes to road biking, the Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 helmet is a game changer. The ventilation system is second to none, thanks to its woven aramid fiber bridges replacing the traditional foam. We never experienced any hotspots, and the moisture-wicking liner pads kept us cool and dry. 

Furthermore, the dial adjustment system is smooth and easy to use, allowing precise fit adjustments in no time. However, the sizing can be tricky and may be less comfortable for those with rounder head shapes. Try on this helmet before buying it to ensure it’s the right fit. 

In any case, If you can find the right fit and are looking for optimal airflow around your head, the Prevail 3 is perfect. It’s a helmet that combines the latest technology, comfort, and style for the rider who wants to perform at his best and leave his mark on the road. 

Bell Trace MIPS – Best Helmet For The Price

Reason to Buy:

• Versatile – Adapts to a variety of head shapes
• Detachable rear light
• Attractive retro design

Reason to Avoid: 

• A little warm on sunny days

It’s hard to beat the Bell Trace MIPS helmet when it comes to versatility. It’s a helmet that adapts to various uses and requires minimal fuss. It’s comfortable in hot and cool conditions, has a clip-on visor, and won’t break the bank. What not to like about this one of the best bike helmets for men? 

We found the sizing accurate and the dial-and-cable fitting system easy to use, even compared to models that cost twice as much. It may not be the most stylish helmet on the market, but that’s one of its strengths. The Bell Trace’s design is less radical and more reserved, making it a great compromise for those who need to satisfy different tastes. 

In general, it’s the ideal helmet for outfitting an entire family or for the rider who wants a versatile and reliable helmet. It won’t draw too much attention but will get the job done. This helmet represents the perfect blend of functionality and affordability, and that’s why it’s a top choice for the practical, no-nonsense rider.

Giro Manifest Spherical – Best Mountain Bike Helmet For Men

Reason to Buy:

• Dual-shell Spherical impact protection
• Excellent ventilation and storage 
• Easily adjustable visor

Reason to Avoid: 

• A bit heavy

The Giro Manifest Spherical is our top pick for a mountain bike helmet. It has a sleek, well-executed design and uses the MIPS Spherical rotational impact system, which comprises two separate EPS foam shells that rotate against each other in case of angular impact, providing superior protection. 

Additionally, the interior foam shell extends rather low on the back and sides, allowing it to fit comfortably on various head shapes. Large air vents and interior channels provide the best ventilation in a mountain bike helmet, and the internal padding absorbs sweat. 

We had a hard time finding any caveats with the Manifest. It performs well, has a secure fit, and it’s a bit heavier than some helmets, but that’s worth the extra protection on the trail. The price tag might be high, but this helmet outperforms all the other high-end mountain bike helmets, justifying its price. 

Bell Super Air R Mips – Best Bike Helmet For Mountain Biking

Reason to Buy:

• Excellent protection on rough trails
• Superior comfort and ease of use
• Stylish and durable

Reason to Avoid: 

• No cheek pads

The Bell Super Air R is another highly-comfortable and protective helmet we’ve tested, especially for mountain biking. It’s the only helmet with a chin guard to protect you during an off-road face plant. With its open-vented design, you can also leave the chin guard without worrying about fogging up your glasses. 

The Bell Super Air R utilizes a dial-in Float fit system. It’s very similar to others, but it also has thicker padding inside, extending farther back for a snug fit. If you think the chin guard is unnecessary on city streets, you can easily remove it with a pair of snap-down clips. 

The visor on Bell Super Air R also has three positions, so you can adjust it for visibility uphill. Overall, The Bell Super Air R is the best investment for your head’s protection if you’re a serious mountain biker. It’s a helmet that will give you the confidence to tackle any trail and challenge without compromising comfort and safety.

Retrospec CM-1 – Best Skatestyle Bike Helmet For Men

Reason to Buy:

• Simple and versatile design
• Budget-friendly
• Classic styling

Reason to Avoid:

• Heavy

This straightforward, skate-style helmet is versatile and can be used for multiple activities, from commuting to skating to biking. It provides great value for those looking for a basic yet effective way to protect their head. It’s got plenty of interior padding, a thick EPS foam shell, and a scuff-resistant ABS outer liner.

The CPSC-certified EPS shell is thick, providing superior protection during impact. The chin buckle is easy to adjust, and the straps come with sliding adjustable ear-splitter clips. You can dial them in the fit around your ears and sit flat on the side of your face. 

While the CM-1 is a great value, it does have some drawbacks. The massive EPS shell, thick padding, and few air vents make it hot to wear on long rides or warmer days. It also makes you sweat a lot on longer rides, so we suggest using it for shorter morning and evening errands. 

Note: It comes only in small, medium, and large sizes and has interchangeable pads to customize the fit to your head size and shape.

Lumos Ultra Smart Bike Helmet – Best Smart Bike Helmet For Men

Reason to Buy:

• Lightweight
• Well-fitting 
• Stylish lighting

Reason to Avoid: 

• Pricey

This bike helmet with lights is available in two options, one without MIPS and one with MIPS, at a slightly higher price. I opted for the added protection of MIPS, which reduces helmet movement and injury in the event of an accident. The protective material is easy to insert and secure in place with small patches of velcro.

Additionally, the helmet is breathable, lightweight, not bulky, and easy to adjust. The front light does a good job of increasing visibility and can be set to remain on or flash. It’s not bright enough to replace a handlebar-mounted light, but you can control the light pattern with the app available for iOS and Android.

The rear lights are neat and bright and increase visibility on the road. They also operate as indicator lights controlled via a supplied add-on for handlebars and emit a small beep to let you know when they are in use. The button controller is small and easy to attach to the handlebar.

Overall, the feature set alone justifies the price. 

Smith Mainline MIPS – Best Full-Face Helmet

Reason to Buy: 

• Good ventilation
• Substantial feel over the head
• Lightweight and comfortable

Reason to Avoid: 

• Makes noise

The Smith Mainline MIPS is a top-performing, lightweight full-face helmet designed for professional racers. The use of Koroyd in its construction helps to strike a balance between weight and protection. It offers substantial coverage, impact protection, and ventilation to keep you safe on the toughest uphill climbs and enduro stages. 

This helmet has a DH certification, making it more robust than other enduro helmets, and an excellent weight-to-protection ratio. It will provide the confidence-inspiring feel you need when pushing the limits on the trails. Although it has above-average airflow, some other models may breathe better.

All in all, the Smith Mainline MIPS may not be cheap, but it’s a high-quality, lightweight, full-face helmet that offers excellent performance and protection that you’d expect from a top-of-the-line piece of equipment, making it worth the investment for any serious enduro rider.

Smith Optics Express Mips – Best Road Cycling Helmet For Men 

Reason to Buy:

• Solid enclosed design
• Sleek and smart
• Lightweight

Reason to Avoid: 

• Not as comfortable as others

The Smith Express is a helmet designed specifically for urban riders and commuters who prefer city streets over country roads. Its more enclosed design is ideal for fall days and cooler weather rather than sultry summer rides. The design is similar to those used for skateboarders, which gives it a sleek, less bulky appearance. 

While this MIPS bike helmet is aesthetically pleasing, it’s less comfortable than other helmets we’ve tested. The padding is insufficient to keep the head’s backside from hitting the liner’s hard form. This issue could be easily corrected with extra padding around the top back, but, unfortunately, there’s none. 

After wearing it for hours, we did get used to the fit, but there might be better options for those who are not used to wearing helmets and are resistant to them. However, for urban riders and commuters who prioritize form over function, the Smith Express is a solid option that gives a stylish yet protective ride.

Different Types Of Bike Helmets

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of bike helmets for adults:

Road Helmets

These are lightweight, aerodynamic helmets designed for speed and efficiency on the road. They usually have a sleek, streamlined design and minimal ventilation to reduce drag while riding at high speeds.

Mountain Bike Helmets

These helmets are designed for off-road riding and have more coverage than road helmets. They often feature a visor to shield the rider’s eyes from the sun and branches and increase ventilation to keep the rider cool.

Commuter Helmets

These are designed for urban riders who prioritize protection and visibility. They often have reflective detailing, built-in lights, and a more casual, urban-inspired design.

Full-Face Helmets

Full-face helmets are heavy-duty helmets designed for downhill mountain biking and other high-speed, high-impact sports. They have a chin guard and full coverage for the rider’s head and face for added protection.

Skate Helmets

Skate helmets are typically more rounded, with a low-profile design and a hardshell exterior. The helmet’s interior often has a foam liner to provide cushioning and protection in the event of an impact.

BMX Helmets

These helmets are designed for BMX riding and have a sleek, low-profile design. They often have a more aggressive look and may have a visor for sun protection.

Hybrid Helmets

This type of helmet usually has both aerodynamic and ventilation features. Hybrid helmets are good for both road and trail riders.

What To Look For In A Men’s Bike Helmet

Protection

Get a helmet that meets the minimum safety standards. While we’re not crash test dummies, we can assess a helmet’s protection based on its overall construction quality, coverage, and additional protection features such as rotational impact protection. 

The head coverage of a helmet plays a vital role in how protective it will be in the event of a crash. The coverage varies from model to model, with full-face helmets providing the most coverage, followed by mountain bike and skate helmets. In contrast, road bike helmets offer the least overall protection.

The construction of a helmet also plays a role in its overall protection. Most helmets feature an in-mold construction with a polycarbonate shell that wraps around an EPS foam liner.

Additionally, many newer helmets are made with dual-density foam designs, which help to absorb both high and low-speed impacts better. 

Comfort

A helmet that fits well and doesn’t distract you during your ride is key, especially for those who spend hours in the saddle. Padding, full headband adjustability, and chinstrap design are all critical components in a comfortable helmet. 

However, the location and coverage of the padding, along with the shape of the foam liner, are more important than the thickness of the padding. A good internal headband system that makes a complete loop around the head is more comfortable. 

Adjustability

Adjustability is key for a helmet to do its job properly. A properly fitting helmet won’t slip off in case of an impact, and it’s essential for comfort during your ride. The way a helmet attaches to your head, the headband’s tightness, and the chinstrap’s position all play a role in keeping your helmet secure.

 The best helmets have a chinstrap system that connects under the chin, splits into two straps in front and behind the ear, and attaches to the helmet. These straps usually have a plastic Y-buckle below the ear, allowing easy adjustability. 

Some helmets have an adjustable dial at the back that you can use to tighten or loosen the headband, but the best ones are accessible from any angle and can be adjusted even while wearing gloves or with numb fingers. However, the helmet mustn’t cause discomfort while riding, particularly when flexing your neck.

Weight

We all know the significance of a lightweight helmet that won’t weigh you down on climbs or affect your overall performance. But don’t let the weight fool you. The lighter the helmet, the less material there is to protect your head in case of an accident. 

It’s a balancing act, but comfort is key, and a lightweight helmet is a way to go. Remember that road bike helmets tend to be the lightest but offer the least protection.

On the other hand, full-face helmets provide the most protection and can be on the heavier side. It’s all about finding the right balance that works for you.

Ventilation

A well-ventilated helmet keeps your head cool, bringing your body temperature down and allowing you to perform at your best. The key to proper ventilation is sometimes in the number of vents but mostly in the design and placement. Some helmets feature strategic vents and channels in their design to maximize airflow. 

Remember that some helmets have internal MIPS liners that can block some of the vents, but the best MIPS helmets have MIPS liners with holes that align with the helmet’s vents. 

Final Thoughts

These are some of the best bike helmets for men today. They offer excellent protection, comfortable usage, adjustability features, ventilation, and durability. We hope now you know which helmet is good for the bike you ride. Invest in a helmet that meets your needs and preferences.

Remember, a little extra cash can mean the difference between a helmet that barely meets the standards and one that exceeds them.

With these stylish bike helmets, you can ride confidently, knowing that you have the best protection on your head.