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Cycling is an amazing way to get around on crowded city streets and through small towns. Bikes are also an amazing sport vehicle for trails, and they’re plenty of fun for family adventures, too. Bikes can also be dangerous, though, so you’ve got to have the right safety gear for you and your kids. And what’s the most important piece?
A bike helmet, of course. They do an exceptional job of protecting your skull and brain if you fall off, and they can make a statement about your personal style, too. Most of them are designed to keep you very cool while you ride in nice weather, and they’re adjustable to make sure they fit your head well. Whether you’re commuting, out for a fun family ride, or hitting the trails, a helmet is essential.
If you’re ready to buy your first or next bike helmet, we’d love to help you make the perfect choice. Bike helmets will vary in things like price, colour, head size range, number of vents, liner thickness, and more. Every feature will affect your comfort and safety, so it’s a good idea to take a good look at all of them.
This comprehensive guide will investigate the best bike helmets in Canada right now and outline the criteria you should consider while making your purchase decision. Let’s dive right into our top five products.
Top Pick: OutdoorMaster Gem Recreational MIPS Cycling Helmet
Upgrade Pick: Smith Optics Persist MIPS Helmet
Budget Pick: Exclusky Mountain Bike Helmet
Kids Top Pick: OutdoorMaster Kids Bike Helmet
Budget Kids Pick: Btwin KH 500 Kids Bike Helmet
We really like the OutdoorMaster Gem Recreational MIPS Cycling Helmet. With the advanced MIPS liner, this helmet is one of the safest ones out there — you’ll be protected against impacts and rotational injuries no matter what. It also comes with two sizes of comfort liners to make sure you can be comfortable in the helmet (and so can a family member), no matter what you prefer.
This helmet is also great for riding in all kinds of weather. It has 25 strategically placed vents to make sure your head can stay cool in the heat. The removable visor can also help protect you from fierce sun and rain — cycling can be comfortable in any weather.
The only potential problem you might have with this bike helmet is the price. It isn’t the most affordable helmet out there, so if you’re shopping on a tight budget, it might be more than you’re willing or able to spend. If not, you sure won’t regret choosing this one. It’s great.
All in all, the OutdoorMaster Gem Recreational MIPS Cycling Helmet is one of the best options you’ll find right now. This bike helmet will be a great partner no matter what type of riding you’ll be doing or what weather accompanies you.
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
Reviewers are very happy with the OutdoorMaster Gem Recreational MIPS Cycling Helmet. They’re able to wear it for hours without any type of discomfort, and all of the vents help them keep cool in the warmer months. They appreciate how lightweight it is, too. They all agree that it feels durable and worth the price. They highly recommend it for other people.
Buy If…
You like to cycle in all kinds of weather
You ride in hazardous places or are new to biking
Two people will be using the helmet
Don’t Buy If…
You need something really affordable
Weight: 0.9 lbs
Colour: 10 options
Liner Thickness: 0.23” or 0.31”
Number of Vents: 25
Head Size Range: 21.6” to 22.8”
The Smith Optics Persist MIPS Helmet is one of the most well-rounded and desirable options out there right now. We think you’ll love it. If you wear eyewear while cycling, it’s perfect for you, and that’s because of its pass-through channels that let you store them on the helmet when you don’t need them and the AirEvac system that keeps them fog-free. Doesn’t that sound luxurious?
We also really like how many vents are cut into the helmet; 21, in fact! You can be confident that your head will stay as cool as possible, even when you’re riding in hot weather. This helmet has a great liner for comfort over long rides, and we’re also big fans of the 270-degree adjustable band. You’ll be able to get the fit perfect every time.
The only real downside of choosing this helmet is the price. It’s one of the more expensive options, and if you don’t spend a ton of time cycling or won’t take advantage of its extra features, it might not be a worthwhile investment for you.
All in all, the Smith Optics Persist MIPS Helmet is one of our favourite bike helmets of all time. Whether you’re prioritizing a secure fit, head comfort or ventilation, or accident protection, this one is a great choice.
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 3/5
Quality: 5/5
Reviewers have a very high opinion of the Smith Optics Persist MIPS Helmet. It’s comfortable to wear for hours at a time, even in warm weather, and they never have to worry about foggy eyewear. They also really appreciate the pass-through channels — it’s never been easier to store their eyewear while riding. They have a lot of confidence in the helmet’s fit, too. They’d all choose this one again.
Buy If…
You spend a lot of time cycling
You like to bring eye protection when you’re on a bike
Comfort is important to you
A secure fit is your priority
Don’t Buy If…
You don’t want to spend a lot on a bike helmet
Weight: 0.7 lbs
Colour: Black cement or matte midnight navy
Number of Vents: 21
Head Size Range: 21.7” to 23.2”
There are lots of things to like about the Exclusky Mountain Bike Helmet. One of the first things that will catch your eye is how great it will look on your head. It has some dramatic lines and fantastic colours to choose from, so it won’t hurt your image. It’s also one of the most affordable adult helmets out there, and we sure enjoy that. Don’t you?
Another feature we love is the visor. It’s large and extremely easy to push up out of the way or just remove entirely, so it’ll always be there (or not) as needed. This helmet is also really easy to fit to your unique skull shape. It fits a wide range of head sizes and is easy to adjust single-handedly with the rear knob. The chin strap is also adjustable and won’t irritate your skin. Brilliant.
The main shortcoming with this one is the longevity. While the protective part of the helmet is great for safety purposes, the straps do not offer the level of durability that we expect. They tend to fray, and sometimes the buckles will break fairly early on. If you’re looking for a helmet that can hold up to heavy use, this isn’t the one for you.
All in all, the Exclusky Mountain Bike Helmet is one to admire. With a stunning design, great price tag, and comfortable fit, it’ll be a great piece of equipment for mountain biking, commuting, or casual rides with the family.
Performance: 4.5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 4/5
Reviewers have mostly positive things to say about the Exclusky Mountain Bike Helmet. The large vents and light weight help keep them cool, and it’s really easy to get the fit right thanks to the adjustable tension knob and chin strap. The liner and chin strap are all comfortable, too. The straps aren’t super durable, but they still feel good about the overall safety of the helmet.
Buy If…
Helmet aesthetics matter to you
You cycle in bright sun a lot
Quick fit adjustments would be nice
An affordable price tag is your priority
Don’t Buy If…
You want a helmet that will last a long time
Weight: 0.6 lbs
Colour: 5 options
Number of Vents: 18
Head Size Range: 22.05” to 24.01”
In our humble opinion, the OutdoorMaster Kids Bike Helmet is the most perfect option for toddlers and young kids. It comes in five unique patterns to keep kids entertained and happy wearing their helmet, and since it comes with tons of interior padding, it’s incredibly safe and comfortable for little heads. The price on this one is also really approachable, so budget shouldn’t be an issue.
We also appreciate that this helmet is equipped with a permanent sun visor. You won’t have to worry so much about the sun on your kid’s face or a bright day affecting their vision. This helmet comes in two sizes (small for 3-5 year olds and medium for 5-15 year olds) to make sure you can get one that fits well. No kid has to be left without an awesome helmet!
This helmet is really well-rounded, so the only negative thing we have to mention is its suitability for older kids. The pattern options are suited for younger kids with cartoons like dinosaurs, unicorns, and cars, so they might feel a bit juvenile for older, more mature kids. If that won’t be an issue, you’ll have nothing to dislike about this helmet, and neither will your child.
All in all, the OutdoorMaster Kids Bike Helmet is a great choice for keeping your kids safe while they enjoy their bikes, scooters, or anything else, really. It’s comfortable for small heads, easy to put on and take off, and offers great protection. Everything you’re looking for, right?
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Reviewers have a great opinion of the OutdoorMaster Kids Bike Helmet. Their kids have no problem putting the helmet on or taking it off by themselves, and the younger kids really enjoy the fun patterns. It’s very easy to size properly for different head sizes, and the visor helps keep the sun out of their eyes.
Buy If…
You would love a kid-friendly design to encourage your child to wear the helmet
Sun protection is important
You have kids of multiple ages
You’d love something affordable
Don’t Buy If…
You’re shopping for older kids
Weight: 0.5 lbs
Colour: 5 options
Number of Vents: 14
Head Size Range: 18.8” to 20.5” (small), 20.5” to 22” (medium)
The Btwin KH 500 Kids Bike Helmet has a great selection of features for kids and parents alike. Parents will appreciate two main things. The first is the price tag. As one of the most affordable bike helmets currently available, it’ll fit into every budget. This option also meets all of the safety standards you’d look for, so fall protection is definitely covered with this one. What a relief.
Your kid will love even more things about this helmet than you will. It weighs almost nothing, so it will sit very comfortably on their head, and the adjustability means they won’t have to give it up for years. It’s also really easy to put on and take off with a pinch-free strap, so they’ll be able to buckle it on all by themselves. How’s that for building confidence?
One of the only downsides to choosing this helmet is its lack of airflow. With only six vents, it doesn’t release as much heat as other comparable helmets. If your kid enjoys being outside for hours or you live in a hot location, this one might not be a great match. It’s also only compatible with kids between 3 and 10 years old, so you’ll have to look elsewhere to suit other ages.
All in all, the Btwin KH 500 Kids Bike Helmet is an amazing choice for parents shopping on a budget. With three vibrant colours to choose from, great padding, and an even better price tag, it’s an easy one to love. Your kid won’t want to take it off!
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Reviewers are very happy with the Btwin KH 500 Kids Bike Helmet. They were surprised at how high-quality it is considering the price, and they’re even happier with their choice since finding that out. It feels very durable, their kids enjoy wearing it, and it’s easily adjustable to grow as they grow. They all recommend this one for others and would choose it again for themselves.
Buy If…
You want a super-light helmet for your kid
You’d love a helmet that can grow with your kid
Your kid would like to manage the helmet themselves
An affordable price tag is your biggest priority
Don’t Buy If…
Your kid is under 3 or over 10
Your kid will be riding in hot weather a lot
Weight: 0.4 lbs
Colour: Red, pink, or blue
Number of Vents: 6
Head Size Range: 18.9” to 20.5”
Warranty: 2 years
Some bike helmets are as affordable as $25, but others can cost $150 or more. Generally, more expensive bike helmets will offer better impact protection (an MIPS liner), better durability overall, a wider head size range, and more air vents.
Some bike helmets will only offer five or six air vents (typically in kid models), and at the high end, you can see more than 20 vents. A higher number of vents means better airflow, so it’s something to prioritize if you cycle in a hot environment, ride for long periods of time, or if you’re sensitive to heat.
Every bike helmet will offer a slightly different head size range than the next, so it’s important to measure your head circumference precisely to make sure that your intended purchase will actually fit properly. Many bike helmets come in multiple sizes to make this process a bit easier. As a rule of thumb, always size down if you’re between sizes to make sure it will be snug enough to be secure.
Of course, no bike helmet is complete without a vibrant colour or pattern, and most people want their helmet to reflect them in some way. That’s why it’s a good idea to look at the colours the bike helmet comes in, so you can enjoy it 100%. This is especially important for kids who might not want to wear the helmet if they don’t like the colour or pattern that’s printed on the helmet.
The weight of a bike helmet is another thing to look at before you commit to a single option. Kids' helmets typically fall between 0.4 and 0.6 lbs., and adult sizes can hit up to one pound in weight. While it might not sound like you’ll even notice the difference at such light weights, your neck will tell you otherwise if you ride for hours at a time. It’s a good idea to shop for the lightest helmet you can get without sacrificing or compromising any of your other must-have features.
Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.