If your mountain biking gear budget is stretched thin and you’re tempted to skimp on the helmet, don’t. Invest in that extra bit of carbon instead. Mountain bike helmet prices are rising, but we find little reason to complain. When you’re hurtling over rocks and dodging trees, a good lid is worth the extra money. Safety advances such as the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) aim to reduce the chances of serious injury.

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1. 1. Giro. Giro’s Manifest was released last year without much press coverage, but we think it’s a real winner. For the past few months, it has been our primary lid, and we have yet to find a true weakness. It fits well, provides excellent all-around coverage, and has just the right amount of padding. Giro’s innovative Spherical Technology (developed alongside MIPS) makes it possible for the top portion of the shell to move independently of the lower in a crash (minimizing rotational forces on the brain). By designing this into the shell, rather than using a separate liner as with most MIPS lids, you also get fantastic ventilation. The Manifest is, in our opinion, the best trail helmet on the market.
   2. Troy Lee Designs. All three versions of Troy Lee’s A series of trail helmets have been favorites among our test group. With this latest model, TLD has really honed in on comfort and safety, and the A2 below is a great ventilator. When you put it on, you can feel the quality: There’s incredibly plush padding covering the entire interior, and the wide, accommodating shape and highly adjustable fit system make it comfortable all day. Also well-suited for rough trails, it has extended coverage around the temples and back of the head, but it still leaves enough space so you can wear most goggles or glasses. Finally, the shell is co-molded with EPP and EPS foam to protect against both low- and high-speed impacts.
   3. Oakley. Their DRT5 features an innovative silicone sweat gutter that keeps the sweat from your eyes. It’s comfortable, strong, and fits well.
   4. Endura. Their functional and robust MT500 is packed with a slew of features that will make riding easier, more convenient, and a lot safer.
   5. Bell. Their Super and Sixer helmets are designed for adaptability to any terrain and location. The ventilation, adjustable fit, and weight are top-notch features.
   6. POC. Their Octal X spin boasts of feathery lightweight, maximum ventilation, and ultimate protection using their innovative SPIN technology similar to MIPS.

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1. Specialized. Their ambush helmets include a Bluetooth crash sensor that sends a notification to your emergency contacts in the event of an accident.
2. Fox. Stylish and functional, Fox helmets provide extra protection for the back of the head and around the ears in a lightweight package.
3. Smith. Made of durable yet lightweight materials, the Smith helmets provide all-around comfort and security.
4. Bontrager. With increased safety standards, the Bontrager helmets boast significantly higher chances of preventing concussions than other brands in the market.

When choosing the specific helmet to buy, consider the protection standards, ventilation, shell, padding, and fit. The other additional features are secondary, especially if you’re on a budget. 

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