Cycling helmets are increasingly packed with more technology. Safety, comfort, fit, and price are all top considerations these days. At Interbike this year, we found some top-quality skull buckets for road and mountain biking.
Technology and safety companies are entering the helmet market alongside cycling industry stalwarts. And with it come some impressive innovations.
Top Helmets From Interbike 2018
LEM MotiveAir
If you’re looking for a very lightweight road bike helmet with great aerodynamics and ventilation, the LEM MotiveAir is for you. The helmet weighs 215 grams. The carbon shell and FS3 micro-adjust fit system keep this go-fast safety device svelte.
MSRP TBD, available early 2019
Oakley DRT5 Helmet
Oakley made the DRT5 mountain bike helmet with eyewear in mind. It features removable rear mechanical clips for eyewear storage. The second eyewear-specific feature is an interior washable silicone gel sweat guard. This guard keeps your forehead and glasses sweat free.
The Oakley DRT5 has the latest in BOA technology, which provides a secure fit. Oakley integrated a MIPS liner into the helmet for added safety. While these features make for a truly impressive helmet, they also make the DRT5 one of the heavier helmets out there.
MSRP $200, available March 2019
SENA R1 Pro
The forthcoming SENA R1 Pro integrates a camera system into a technology-packed cycling helmet. The standard SENA R1 helmet is a Bluetooth-enabled road bike helmet that has integrated speakers, microphone, and controls.
The R1 Pro integrates a QHD helmet action camera that syncs through onboard Wi-Fi to SENA’s smartphone app. It can record up to two hours of high-definition video and audio.
MSRP TBD, available 2019
Alpinestars Vector Helmet
Alpinestars introduced its first mountain bike helmet, the Vector, at Interbike 2018. This innovative, lightweight, stylish helmet offers impressive ventilation and an aggressive look. Nineteen vents ensure good airflow while a rigid frame and vacuum-formed polycarbonate construction ensure durability and safety.
The adjustable visor works with both goggles and sunglasses. The Vector comes with or without MIPS, in three shell sizes. A size medium with MIPS weighs 390 grams.
MSRP: $150 Pro and $180 Tech w/ MIPS, available 2019
SixSixOne Reset MIPS Helmet
The SixSixOne Reset mountain bike helmet is one of the best-selling full-face helmets on the market. It has an ABS-shelled helmet that fits a wide range of people. It comes in seven sizes, including small sizes for kids. For 2018, the SixSixOne Reset full-face is available with MIPS technology and retains its affordable price.
MSRP $150, available October 2018
Leatt DBX 3.0 Full-Face Helmet
Leatt aimed to create an affordable, safe, and feature-rich full-face downhill mountain bike helmet. The DBX 3.0 is the result. It has a full fiberglass shell with brain-rotation and concussion-reduction technology. The helmet offers ventilation and a precise, custom-fitting closure system, adding to its comfort and safety.
MSRP $190, available November 2018