Foldable Bikes Party: Best road bike helmets: 15 of our top picks

Wednesday, 1 November 2017

Best road bike helmets: 15 of our top picks

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This article originally appeared on BikeRadar

Head protection is obviously the priority when it comes to helmets, and it continues to be realised by using expanded polystyrene structures shrouded in polycarbonate shells. But new aspects are coming into play as our understanding of the dynamics of crashing deepens. Here's our selection of the best road cycling helmets currently available.

Most of the newest helmets on the market now incorporate MIPS (multi-directional impact protection system), a liner that allows the head to move slightly inside the helmet in the event of a crash. Proponents say the MIPS liner can lessen a crash's impact on the brain.

Many helmets are now designed with aerodynamic in mind, too, which has an effect on shape, size and overall looks.

Finally, comfort should of course be considered, both in terms of sizing, padding, fit and — crucially — ventilation.

MET Trenta 3K Carbon

BikeRadar score - 4.5/5

Price: £265 / international pricing TBC
Comfortable and light
Great fit and adjustability
Compatible with clever clip-on light

Giro Synthe

Price: £200 / $250 / AU$299
Buy now from Wiggle
Fast and well ventilated
Seriously light — just 209g for a size small
Sunglasses port

Bontrager Velocis

Price: £159 / $155 / AU$199
Buy now from Sigma Sport
Excellent one-year crash replacement policy
Competitive weight of 228g in Medium
Solid Headmaster II retention system

Giro Foray MIPS helmet

Price: £75 / $85 / AU$99
Buy now from Wiggle
Great looks, a drag-friendly shape and MIPS
Good fit and adjustability thanks to the Roc Loc 5 cradle and four internal pads
The exposed EPS base isn't to all tastes

Kask Protone

Price: £195 / $199 / AU$269
Buy now from Wiggle
Subtly sculpted curves based on CFD design and wind tunnel testing for aero performance
Otto Fit retention system offers a huge adjustment range
Superb ventilation

Lazer Tonic road helmet

Price: £50 / $75 / AU$110
Buy now from Tredz
Good fit, good looks, great weight and a great price
The chin strap material is a little heavy and stiff
An excellent budget road helmet

MET Rivale HES

Price: £110 / $99 / AU$139
Buy now from Wiggle
Impressive cooling for an aero helmet
Minimal padding is well positioned
Vertical adjustment in retention cradle

Rapha Helmet

Versatile, stylish looks in a low-volume shape
Reflective webbing straps
Additional MIPS protection
Price: £250 / $295 / AU$450
Buy now from Rapha

Scott Cadence Plus

Fast and airy aero lid
MIPS protection
Vent bungs included for winter riding
Price: £170 / $249 / AU$340
Buy now from Evans Cycles

Specialized Airnet

Price: £100 / $150 / AU$199
Buy now from Evans Cycles
Aerodynamic shaping combined with a hint of retro looks
Dedicated sunglasses port
Comfortable Merino-wool padding

Specialized S-Works Prevail

Price: £160 / $199 / AU$249
Buy now from Evans Cycles
Muscular looks and aggressive venting
The Mindset adjusting cradle comfortably accommodates nearly all heads
Horizontal brow vents are good for glasses storage

Zero RH+ Z Alpha MIPS

Price: £160 / $TBC / AU$TBC
Buy now from Zero RH+
Removable cover to prioritise aero or cooling options
MIPS version available
Comfortable and cool with distinctive looks

Catlike Vacuum

Price: £80 / $99 / AU$TBC
Buy now from Chain Reaction Cycles
Clever cradle design helps it find the right spot on your head
Fantastic cooling at slow speeds thanks to sculpted vents
Detachable peak keeps it 'on-message' for MTBers

POC Octal Aero Raceday

Price: £220 / $215 / AU$399
Buy now from Sigma Sport
Bulky construction is due to extra protection for your most vulnerable areas
Single vent is enough to provide ample cooling on all but the hottest days
Plenty of fit adjustability

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