Cycling Helmets

A good cycling helmet protects your head in a fall and does not have to be a compromise on comfort or weight. Modern cycling helmets are light, well ventilated and provided with adjustable retention systems that precisely adapt the helmet to your head. The most recent models also offer MIPS technology: an additional safety system that protects you against oblique impacts, the type of impact that occurs most frequently in cycling accidents.

The range consists of road cycling helmets for the road, MTB helmets for off-road use, aerodynamic time trial and triathlon helmets and BMX helmets. The most important selection criteria are the type of cycling you do, the desired balance between ventilation and aerodynamics, whether you want a MIPS model and the correct head circumference for a safe fit.

Which cycling helmet suits you?

The right choice depends on your discipline and riding style. The following scenarios help you quickly find the right direction.

You road cycle and want a light helmet with good ventilation for long rides: A road cycling helmet or race helmet is the right choice. These helmets are optimised for maximum airflow via large ventilation openings and are made of lightweight material, typically between 200 and 280 grams. They fit snugly for an aerodynamic riding position and are provided with an adjustable retention system at the back. Choose a model with MIPS for extra rotation protection in a fall.

You ride triathlon and want a helmet that is also aerodynamic on the bike: Some road cycling helmets are specifically optimised for aerodynamics — fewer ventilation openings, more closed surface and an extended teardrop tail. This type of helmet is intended for time trials and triathlons where you want to minimise air resistance on the cycling section. When purchasing, pay attention to compatibility with your trisuit and whether the helmet fits with any cycling computer on your handlebars.

You ride a time trial and want maximum aerodynamics: A time trial helmet has a completely closed outer shell and an extended tail for optimal airflow. They offer minimal ventilation and are not suitable for prolonged cycling in warm weather or at low speeds. Ideal for time trials and triathlon cycling sections where you ride at a constant high speed and the helmet stays as long as possible in the airflow shape.

You mountain bike on trails and want more protection with technical riding: An MTB helmet has more material at the back and sides of the head, a lower neckline and an optional sun visor. They offer more protection with off-road falls where you more often fall sideways or backwards than with a road fall. Choose a model with MIPS for extra protection against the oblique angle impacts that occur frequently in MTB falls.

What to look for when purchasing?

Safety: certifications

All cycling helmets sold in the EU must meet the EN 1078 standard, the European safety standard for cycling helmets. This certification is mandatory and indicates that the helmet has been tested for impact absorption, retention system strength and other safety requirements. In addition to EN 1078, some helmets have additional certifications such as CPSC (American) or NTA 8776 (for fast e-bikes up to 45 km/h). Never buy a helmet without certification.

MIPS: what is it and why is it important

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. It is a thin, smooth layer on the inside of the helmet that allows a rotating movement of 10 to 15 millimetres in a fall. With an oblique impact — the most common type of cycling fall — the head rotates faster than the brain can follow. That rotational force causes the most damage with a standard helmet. The MIPS layer absorbs some of those rotational forces before they reach the brain, which demonstrably reduces the chance of concussion. MIPS is available in race helmets, MTB helmets and increasingly in entry-level models. For every discipline a MIPS version can be found without much surcharge on the base model.

Ventilation

More ventilation openings means a cooler helmet during exertion but also slightly more air resistance. For road cycling and triathlon, a well-ventilated helmet on long summer rides is a noticeable advantage in comfort. For time trials and aerodynamic cycling, less ventilation and a smoother surface is faster. MTB helmets generally have slightly less ventilation than race helmets due to the wider protective outer shell.

Fit and retention system

A well-fitting helmet is the most critical factor. A helmet that moves when shaken or sits too loosely does not protect optimally in a fall. Almost all modern helmets have a dial at the back (the retention system) with which you adjust the helmet to your head with millimetre precision. Some systems are also height-adjustable for a better fit over the back of the head. Measure your head circumference — around the head, slightly above the eyebrows — and compare it with the brand's size chart for the right size.

Weight

Road cycling helmets generally weigh 200 to 280 grams. Lighter models place less load on the neck on long rides but are sometimes less durable. MTB helmets are slightly heavier due to the extra protective construction. Time trial helmets vary widely depending on the design. For most cyclists, weight is a relevant consideration but not the only criterion — fit and safety come first.

When do you replace your helmet?

Replace your helmet after every significant impact, even if the outside does not appear damaged. The EPS foam on the inside absorbs the impact energy once and is no longer effective afterwards. Without visible damage that cannot be seen from the outside. Many manufacturers also advise replacement after 3 to 5 years due to material ageing, even without a fall. Note the purchase date on the inside of the helmet as a reminder.

Our advice: Always choose a helmet with MIPS, even if it is your first cycling helmet. The price difference with a non-MIPS version of the same model is generally small; the safety difference in a fall is proven. You buy a helmet for safety, not for design — but fortunately MIPS models are nowadays available in all styles and colours.

Road cycling helmet or MTB helmet: what is the difference?

A road cycling helmet is optimised for lightweight, aerodynamics and ventilation when riding upright or bent on paved road surfaces. They have large ventilation openings, a compact construction and a tight fit for the riding position of a road cyclist. The protection is concentrated at the top and front of the head.

An MTB helmet has more material at the back and sides for better protection with off-road falls. They have a lower neckline, are generally slightly heavier and sometimes have a removable or fixed visor for protection against branches, sun and gravel. Full-face MTB helmets add a chin guard for downhill and enduro riding where fall speeds and obstacles are more severe.

Use the correct helmet type for your discipline. A road cycling helmet on an MTB trail gives less protection on the points that are hit most in off-road falls. An MTB helmet on a road bike is too heavy and too poorly ventilated for prolonged road cycling.

Who are the helmets in this range suitable for?

• Road cyclists and triathletes looking for a light, well-ventilated helmet for the road and long rides.
• Triathletes and time trialists who want an aerodynamic helmet for the cycling section.
• Mountain bikers who want extra protection with technical off-road riding on trails and singletrack.
• Cyclists who consciously choose MIPS protection as an addition to the standard EN 1078 safety.

Need help with your choice?

Would you like to buy a cycling helmet but are not sure which type and size suits you best? Then we are happy to help. You can reach our specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our triathlon store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about cycling helmets

What is MIPS and why is it important for a cycling helmet?

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. It is a thin layer on the inside of the helmet that allows a small rotating movement in a fall. In most cycling accidents one does not fall straight down but obliquely — the so-called oblique impact. Without MIPS that rotational force goes directly to the head and brain, which gives a higher risk of concussion. The MIPS layer absorbs some of those rotational forces. Independent research shows that MIPS helmets score on average significantly better than comparable helmets without MIPS at oblique impacts.

How do I measure my head circumference for the right helmet size?

Wrap a measuring tape around your head at the widest point, slightly above your eyebrows and ears. Note the circumference in centimetres and compare it with the brand's size chart. Helmets come in multiple sizes (S/M/L or specific centimetre ranges). Also check whether the retention system of the helmet offers sufficient room for your head shape — a round or elongated head shape can influence the fit in addition to just the circumference.

Should I replace my cycling helmet after a fall?

Yes, after every significant impact you must replace the helmet, even if the outside appears undamaged. The EPS foam on the inside absorbs the impact energy in a fall but is no longer fully functional afterwards. The damage to the foam is not visible from the outside. Never use a helmet again after a fall when your safety depends on it. Some manufacturers offer a replacement programme for a reported accident.

What is the difference between a road cycling helmet and a time trial helmet?

A road cycling helmet has large ventilation openings for maximum cooling during prolonged exertion. A time trial helmet has a closed or almost closed outer shell and an extended teardrop tail for minimal air resistance. Time trial helmets ventilate poorly and are uncomfortable at low speeds or in warm weather. They are specifically intended for time trials and the cycling section of a triathlon where you ride at a constant high speed over a longer period.

Is a more expensive cycling helmet safer than a cheap model?

All helmets in the EU must meet the EN 1078 standard, regardless of price. Cheaper helmets meet the same basic safety requirements as expensive models. The price difference lies in weight, ventilation, construction quality, the retention system and whether MIPS technology is present. A more expensive model is not by definition safer on the basic standard, but generally offers better comfort, more durability and in the higher range also MIPS. Always choose a helmet with certification; the price within that determines the trade-off in comfort and additional protection.