Best Bike Helmet Reviews UK 2023 – Top 10 Comparison

Last Updated On December 28th, 2021

It is estimated that bike helmets can reduce the risk of getting a head injury in the event of a crash by as much as 85%. Whether you ride on trails, paths, or roads, wearing a helmet is a smart decision that could save your life. With this in mind, we think finding the best bike helmet is an important task for anyone that rides a bike. That’s why we put a lot of time and consideration into curating our list of the top 10 best cycling helmets available on the market today. We also include a buyer’s guide at the end to help you navigate any technical terms and so you can choose the perfect cycling helmet without having to go to a physical bike shop.

Best Bike Helmet Reviews – Top 10 Picks

1. Shinmax Mountain (Editor’s Choice)

Our top choice for the best bicycle helmet is the Shinmax Mountain. It offers superior head protection, comes with a couple of additional safety features, is comfortable to wear, and is good for entry-level riders as well as more serious riders.

Features

The Shinmax mountain or road cycling helmet features an aerodynamic shape with ample ventilation. To establish its fit system, this helmet has an adjustable belt and three-way adjustable straps. The straps are also highly breathable and feature a chin pad to absorb sweat and increase comfort. It also features an easy to release one-touch buckle and reflective stitching stripes.

To further increase road safety, the Shinmax road helmet comes with an LED safety light capable of three flashing modes. This helmet also comes with an adjustable pair of tinted goggles that magnetically attaches to the front top of the helmet to protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and bugs. The magnetic design allows to easily switch between having them down, up or completely removed.

This helmet weighs 340 grams and is available in four colour options. It comes with a six-month warranty and a bonus backup battery for the light.

Relative to many of the other options on our list, Shinmax has a heavier weight and lower quality buckles. There are also reports that indicate the sizing may be slightly smaller than advertised so we don’t recommend it for anyone with a head measuring more than 60cm.

Head circumference size: 57-62 cm

2. Uvex Unisex City Light (Luxury Choice)

The Uvex Unisex City Light road helmet is our top luxury choice. It has a highly customisable fit and enhanced safety features that include an extensive lighting system which also makes this the best cycle helmet for urban night riding.

Features

The City Light road helmet by Uvex features two PC shells on the lower half for added protection that exceeds normal safety standards. In order to reduce the risk of riding at night, the advanced lighting system includes a blue dotted stripe down either side as well as a large red light and two mini dotted red lines on the back of the helmet.

For added comfort, the City Light cycling helmet is well ventilated and has removable and washable padding with FAS webbing to create an adjustable height. An easy to use twist dial on the back allows you to alter the circumference with one hand so you can easily make adjustments whenever you need, even while riding. The chin straps on this helmet complete the comfortable fit and feature a one-touch release as well as reflective stitching.

Weighing in at 360 grams this helmet is a bit heavier compared to other options on our list. Additionally, it may not fit larger heads and the light activation button is harder to access once the helmet is already on your head.

Head circumference size: 52-57 cm

3. Exclusky Mountain (Best Value)

Next up on our list is the Exclusky Mountain. It is available in a range of fun colours and provides you with a bit of added protection in the back, something that is highly beneficial in the event of a crash when cycling on rougher terrain.

Features

The Exclusky Mountain cycling helmet features two layered PC cases for added protection. It has three-way strap adjustments on the retention system and an easy twist knob in the back for one-handed adaptation to your specific head size.

Exclusky cycle helmets also feature a removable visor with a three screw design to keep it firmly in place. Their visor also gives you the ability to adjust the length by three centimetres so it accurately shields where you need it most.

Exclusky cycling helmets have 18 air vents making them well ventilated. In addition, they have an EPS liner that absorbs sweat in an effort to keep you as cool as possible. These helmets are also exceptionally lightweight weighing just 280g and they are available in seven colour block options.

Be aware, the straps on Exclusky cycle helmets are not permanently attached and there are reports of them occasionally detaching unwantedly. You may also want to consider that the visor on this helmet doesn’t detach as easily and the larger size of the design may not fit smaller sized heads.

Head circumference size: 56-61cm

4. PHZ Unisex (Best Lightweight)

Our top choice for a lightweight cycling helmet is the PHZ Unisex. Not only does it have a super lightweight design, weighing in at 281 grams, but it also has excellent ventilation and comes in two different sized models.

Features

The PHZ made our list thanks to its 23 large vents that keep your head cool while cycling. A detachable mesh lining on the inside catches any insects that make their way through the larger vents and a snap-on visor helps to shield your eyes from the sun and wind.

To adjust the size, a twist dial is attached to the retention system on the back of the head. It has decent width straps that are adjustable up and down as well as across sit comfortably around your face, they even feature reflective stitching. A padded chin strap also absorbs sweat while cycling.

Included in this helmet’s design is a USB charging safety tail light with three flash modes to alert drivers of your presence while cycling at night. The PHZ Unisex helmet is available in various colours to suit your style.

Unfortunately, the visor on this cycling helmet only has one position and consumer reports indicate that longer hair may catch in the strap connection due to a rougher design.

Head circumference size: Medium 54.61-56.9 cm, Large 57.9-60 cm

5. Kinglead White Titanium 69 (Best With Visor)

The Kinglead White Titanium 69 road bike helmet is a great option if you are looking for a superior goggle-like visor design. This helmet is also ultra-lightweight without sacrificing head protection and comes with an extra bright safety light.

Features

The White Titanium 69 cycling helmet by Kinglead weighs 270 grams and features an aerodynamic shape with plenty of vents to help keep your head cool while riding. It comes with a removable sponge padding liner as well as a removable sponge chin pad, both of which can be washed.

The Kinglead cycling helmet has an adjustable interior strap retention system that alters circumference and chin strap length simultaneously. The straps are highly breathable and have a sliver of reflective stitching.

White Titanium 69 road cycling helmets come with a tinted goggle visor that shields and protects the eyes from the elements. It attaches magnetically allowing you to rapidly switch how it is worn without the need for additional tools. A safety superlight with three flashing modes also comes with this helmet to help keep you safe while cycling at night.

The strap retention system on this cycling helmet may be trickier to adjust at first, it may be too big for some smaller head sizes, and it only comes in one colour.

Head circumference size: 57-61 cm

6. Lixada Cycle (Best Removable Liner)

The Lixada Cycle helmet is another great choice on our best road bike helmet list. This helmet is great for mountain biking, extremely lightweight, and offers superior ventilation.

Features

If you are looking for a helmet that is lightweight, we think you should seriously consider the 238gram Lixada Cycle helmet. It impressively has 25 air vents to increase aerodynamics and promote breathability, even on the sweatiest cycling excursions.

Conveniently, the Lixada Cycle helmet has a twist knob in the back that manipulates the circumference size and serves as the anchor for the three-way adjustment straps featured. The straps have reflective stitching, a chin pad that is reflective and also absorbs sweat, and a durable buckle.

The Lixada Cycle helmet features a removable mesh liner that can be washed and easily adjusted to provide you with a comfortable fit. It also has a removable black visor that quickly clips off if you don’t need it for your ride. Lixada makes this helmet in either orange or white.

Thinner internal padding near the forehead on this helmet could make it less comfortable on long bike rides. It also has a shorter visor length and only comes in limited, fairly unpopular colour options.

Head circumference size: 56-62 cm

7. Shinmax JYP10 (Best with Goggles)

Shinmax’s JYP10 made its way onto our best road helmets list thanks to its stylish rounded shape and the decision to include magnetic goggles on the design, which, in case you can’t already tell, is something we really like on road helmets.

Features

The Shinmax JYP10 helmet has a more rounded shape compared to the other road bike helmets on our list but is still considered aerodynamic in shape. It has seven larger round vents to aid in aerodynamics and breathability. This helmet features the coveted twist dial circumference adjustment system found in many of the best bike helmets and has thicker straps with a sweat-wicking chin pad.

The tinted magnetic goggles that come with the Shinmax JYP10 helmet can be worn down or up and a clear goggle is also sold by Shinmax if you prefer a visor that isn’t tinted. The interior padding on this helmet is very comfortable and can be removed and washed after a sweaty ride to ensure your helmet remains hygienic and odour-free.

In total, this helmet weighs 310 grams. It comes in three colour options, and also comes with a six-month warranty.

Relatively speaking, the Shinmax JYP10 helmet has fewer vents. Also, it doesn’t feature reflective stitching on the straps and there are reports of it fitting a head that is 57cm max.

Head circumference size: 56-62 cm

8. Victgoal VG110 (Best Multifunctional)

If you determine what makes the best road bike helmets based on added bells and whistles, the Victgoal VG110 helmet could be just what you are after. This helmet has all of the upgrades a rider could want and is one of the rare helmets that includes both a visor and goggles in its design.

Features

Victgoal VG110 silver and blue road helmets feature 21 vents for a well ventilated and breathable experience. In fact, they are so well ventilated that they include a removable insect net designed to catch anything that might happen to make it through the vents. Victgoal cycling helmets also have thick straps with reflective stitching stripes and an easy to use twist knob adjustment system so you can adjust it on the go.

As we mentioned, this Victgoal helmet comes with both a detachable, clip-on visor and tinted magnetic goggles so you can customise your helmet to suit your specific type of cycling adventure at a moment’s notice. It also features an ultra-bright LED safety light with three light modes and comes with a portable helmet bag.

Weighing in at 310 grams, the Victgoal helmet is a bit heavier relative to other options on our best cycling helmet list but is still considered to be lightweight. You may want to keep in mind that the smoother strap material on this helmet could lead to frequent adjustments and the goggles tend to scratch easily.

Head circumference size: 57-61 cm

9. Closca Collapsible (Best Foldable)

The Closca Collapsible cycling helmet has a unique space-saving design unlike any other helmet available on the market today. It is highly portable, well ventilated, and looks somewhat futuristic in appearance.

Features

The Closca helmet is designed with three cascading levels that form a full helmet shape. However, the levels are unique because they collapse in on each other to create a more compressed and portable helmet. The collapsed helmet easily slides into a bag or backpack when it’s not being worn. This helmet is double certified for safety and guaranteed not to collapse in on itself in the event of a collision.

The collapsible design of this helmet also allows for wide ventilation rings that enhance breathability. It has smooth straps with an elastic band inside for a secure fit and weighs 340 grams. We also like that this helmet is available in two different sizes and comes in a wide range of colours as well, 18 to be exact.

Unfortunately, this helmet has a heavier weight than most of the other options on our list of the best cycling helmets and it does not come with a visor or safety light.

Head circumference size: M 56-59 cm, L 60-63 cm

10. DesignSter Unisex (Best for Durability)

The Designster Unisex is the best budget bike helmet on our list. It is extremely lightweight, well ventilated, and can be used on road bike or mountain bike excursions.

Features

Designster road bike helmets feature 18 vents to enhance breathability, comfort, and the overall aerodynamic design. This aero helmet also features thick straps with a quality buckle, reflective stitching, and a moisture-wicking chin pad that is highly reflective. To make size adjustments as easy as possible, the Designster road helmet includes a retention system with a twist knob in the back.

Removable and washable inner padding pieces further enhance the fit and comfort of this aero helmet. A removable mini visor sits in the front on top of the helmet and can easily be clicked on or off depending on the type of cycling you are doing at the time, no need for a screwdriver. In total, the Designster Unisex aero helmet weighs only 194.3 grams.

Full disclosure, Designster road bike helmets have thinner inner padding that may make them less comfortable when worn for long periods of time and we were unable to find certifications for safety standards on this product. Lastly, shipping may take longer than normal.

Head circumference size: 57-63 cm

Bike Helmets Explained: A Buyer’s Guide

Now that you have read through all of our cycle helmet reviews, it’s time to expand more on some of the concepts, terms, and traits discussed throughout our article. Ideally, this will help explain how and why we chose the cycling helmet models we did so that when the time comes, you wind up with the best cycling helmet possible for your active lifestyle.

What to Look for in a Bike Helmet

If you are wondering, how do you choose a bike helmet? Look no further, the following sections explore the most commonly sought out traits in the best bike helmet so you can prioritize them according to your needs.

Proper Fit

Above all else, you want to make sure you choose a helmet that fits your head properly. If a helmet is too loose it may not protect your head as well in the event of a crash and if it is too tight it will be uncomfortable to wear.

To make sure a helmet will fit, start by looking at the circumference size. If you don’t already know the size of your head you can use a string to measure and easily find out.

After the size, you may want to consider how the helmet achieves its fitting system. Some helmets feature elastic bands inside and some are an extension of the chin straps.

Additionally, how the system adjusts could also affect your decision. We prefer a twist dial on the back that can be adjusted at a moment’s notice using only one hand, as many of the best cycling helmets on our list feature. However, some people find the dial can be bothersome and unnecessary. Instead, they prefer to adjust the circumference in relation to the chin straps. Which style would you prefer?

Padding

Of course, the best cycling helmets should also be comfortable. In addition to the comfort provided by an accurate fit, interior padding on helmets can significantly increase or decrease the overall level of comfort you get from a helmet. Thicker padding is often more comfortable but can also restrict airflow and retain a lot of moisture. Whereas thinner padding often sacrifices some level of comfort.

Some of the best cycling helmets also designed their padding to be easily removed and washed in an effort to keep it clean, odour-free, and also to preserve the padding material and prevent deterioration.

Ventilation

Ventilation in cycling helmets serves two purposes. Firstly, properly placed air vents can increase aerodynamics and decrease wind resistance for a smoother ride with less interference. Secondly, air vents in helmets establish breathability and go a long way when it comes to keeping your head cool, or at the very least not overheating.

Vents on helmets come in all shapes and sizes and many designs are even tested in a wind tunnel to see how well they perform at high cycling speeds. We think the best cycling helmet will have plenty of vents but still have a solid enough structure to protect you in case an accident occurs.

Visors and Goggles

Not all helmets come with a visor, and even fewer come with goggles or sunglasses. However, we think the best cycling helmet will. We like helmets with visors and goggles because they help to block sun, wind, and even bugs from a direct path to your face, even at high speeds.

If you decide you want a helmet with a visor we recommend paying attention to how they attach and whether or not they are adjustable in length or positioning. Some helmets use screws to keep their visors firmly in place but this makes them less adjustable overall. We prefer helmets with visors and goggles that can either be clipped on or attach using magnets.

LED Lights

Some helmets also include safety lights in their design. This can be particularly beneficial for people who ride in urban areas that are more populated, or for anyone who likes to ride after dark. Some cities and towns even require that you have one or two lights on your person or bicycle if you are riding at night.

Weight

Generally speaking, people seek out helmets that are lightweight and not overly bulky. Heavier helmets can put undue strain on your neck and also decrease comfort the longer they are worn. We think the best road helmet weighs less than 325 grams, as is evident by the helmets we chose for our list.

Why Should You Wear a Bike Helmet?

It doesn’t matter if you live in the UK, Europe, or anywhere else in the world, wearing a helmet while you ride a bicycle could easily save your life or prevent serious injury if you are ever unfortunate enough to crash. UK accident rates vary slightly but more than 17,000 people were reported as being injured on a bicycle in 2018 and it is likely that double, or even triple, the amount is more accurate, just unrecorded.

Road bike helmets primarily absorb shock but they can also help reduce rotational forces upon impact resulting in an added level of protection.

Rider Safety Above All Else

After everything we have learned, it is fair to say that the most important thing to prioritize when searching for a new cycling helmet is safety. So, what is the safest bike helmet and how can you tell if it will survive an impact crash? We recommend checking its certifications, which we did for all of the helmets on our list.

Every helmet on our list meets safety criteria standards, or at least the information was readily available, except for the Designster helmet listed as our value option.

The Right Bike Helmet for You

By now, you may already know which of the options on our best bike helmet list is grabbing your attention but let’s review our Editor’s Choice one last time just in case you’re still undecided.

The Shinmax Mountain cycling helmet comes equipped with magnetic tinted goggles, a safety light with a backup battery, excellent ventilation, a six-month warranty, and is both lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Is the Shinmax Mountain helmet the right match for you or would another option on our list better suit your cycling style? Whether you are an entry-level rider or a pro, we think you can find what you’re looking for on our list.

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