Built from durable materials, the best snowboard helmets offer crucial protection. Since wearing a helmet is mandatory during snowboarding, it’s key for every snowboarder to know how to choose the right one. The selection starts with safety attributes, then focuses on the helmet’s comfort. Even the aesthetics of a snowboard helmet are important to some users. This following guide outlines various highly-rated snowboard helmets and includes vital details about materials, sizing, and other aspects to think about when making your buying decision.
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Best for Venting Control
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Best Audio-Compatible Helmet
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Best for Safety
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3.5
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3.5
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$26.99
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Made with certified safety, the helmet complies with USA ASTM F-2040 standards. This certification might not be mandatory at an amateur level, but the helmet meets the criteria for safe use as tested and recommended. Even at a low price, it meets safety standards so that users aren’t required to go for unsafe helmets just for affordability,
Designed with lightweight construction, the helmet is comfortable. Made with an EPS liner and foam protection on the inside, it offers the right combination of comfort and protection. The lightweight foam ensures the wearer feels comfortable even when performing the most daring snowboard tricks.
Made to allow proper ventilation, the helmet has a simple system that allows cold air in and lets hot air out. Anyone into snowboarding knows that heat management is crucial for proper comfort. But not all helmets are the same; some might even prove too hot to wear for more than a couple of hours.
A dial adjusts its fit for all head sizes. The dial is adjusted from the inside and the user needs to find its proper comfort before placing it on the head. The helmet offers plenty of versatility and adjustability options with its goggles' strap.
The removable lining is another considerable advantage. Those taking snowboarding seriously know that odor can be an issue. But it can simply be dealt with by washing it with soap and water since it's removable.
Made in 3 sizes and four colors, the helmet is practical. It can be used by both men and women when matched with their favorite snowboarding outfit. It even comes in various sizes to fit heads with a circumference between 20” to 24.7”.
- In-mold lightweight construction
- Made with audio-compatible earpads
- Designed with removable lining and earpads
- Hairs can get trapped in the adjustments dial
Useful for freestyle snowboarding, the helmet is made by a trusted brand. The US snowboarding team is among the names tied to Wildhorn Drift, which can act as reassurance regarding its quality.
Made with lightweight materials, it’s estimated that it sheds 25% of the weight of the average alternative. Even with a thickly-padded chin strap and the ski goggles’ strap, it’s still one of the lightest options to consider even while on a budget.
Its plus interior is one of the softest materials to rely on in its class. It features proper protection and thermal insulation during the year's cold months. But during the summer, this insulation can be removed so that the snowboarding helmet can turn into a cycling helmet.
Compatible with Bluetooth earbuds, it’s also a solution for those who want to enjoy the latest music while out on the summit. The best part is that wearers can listen to music for hours, as the helmet comes with the popular VNT design to support enhanced breathability.
The ventilation system of the helmet is truly unique. It allows users to create adjustable breathability with adaptable vents. This means users can define how much cold air gets into the helmet and how much warm air is trapped or released.
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- Worn by Ashley Cladwell
- Available in 11 colors
- It meets national and international safety standards
- It doesn’t use premium materials
Top Quality for Affordable Price
The Akaso helmet is one of the leading options for efficiency. Too many premium brands tend to complicate helmets, and the final product is too expensive for the average user. As a result, many skiers end up purchasing low-quality helmets. But Akaso offers this high-quality helmet with proper shock absorption at an affordable price.
Outstanding Shock Absorption
Shock-absorbing EPS made in the USA makes the helmet one of the most interesting in its class. It stands out with its lightweight materials. Shocks tend to be perceived differently when the impact is spread out instead of focusing on a small area, which this helmet is trying to achieve.
Efficient Airflow
Adjustable vents make it similar to products that are even five times more expensive. It’s not often that skier finds helmets with adjustable vents at a low price. But at the same time, it can be essential to see the vents even as a safety feature.
A person with a sweaty head is more prone to accidents due to reduced concentration on the slopes.
Removable liners allow the helmet to dry out altogether at the end of the day. Since many skiers are often up a mountain for up to a week, properly dry is crucial for the following skiing day. One way to ensure it dries out entirely at the accommodation is to remove the liner for better air circulation.
Securely Fastened
An anti-slip magnetic buckle chain strap is added to the helmet. It ensures the belt doesn’t move up or down the chin. This simple feature is among its most practical additions, together with the goggles securing strap.
Offers Color Options
Made with an aggressive design, the helmet is available in black, white, and blue. Some users have expressed the desire to see it made in other more vivid colors, but at the moment, the manufacturer only offers three colors for men and women.
- Made with a removable liner
- Designed with an anti-slip chin strap
- Backed by high-density foam cushioning
- Not too many colors to choose from
Made according to N1077 and ASTM safety certification standards, the compact helmet is versatile for all types of winter sports. Using reliable materials, it meets local and international safety standards and stands out among the affordable Amazon helmets made with reliable head protection.
Designed with adjustable venting, the helmet controls overheating, a real issue for active snowboarders. Air vents give it a solid profile for effortless ventilation. The front air vents are where cold air enters the helmet. 2 top rear vents and two bottom rear holes ensure hot air can exist in the helmet, at least to an extent.
Made with adjustability based on a rotating dial, the helmet is among the durable designs made for all head shapes. Users can freely adjust the fit of the inner cushioning, bringing the helmet closer or allowing it to sit further away.
The helmet is made with a removable liner and removable earpads. They can be washed as often as needed to keep the helmet odor-free with a pleasant smell. It may even be among the options to consider when it comes to sharing the helmet with friends or partners.
With holes in the earpads, it also offers improved hearing. Completely sealing off from the surrounding world isn’t safe, especially when snowboarding at high speeds. While the earpads offer thermal insulation, they still allow sounds to pass through.
- Available in 5 colors
- Made with a cushioned chin strap
- Designed with a breathable liner
- Not the thickest insulation
Made with premium EPS foam, the high-quality helmet is lightweight and comfortable. The foam is known for its resilience, and many helmet manufacturers use it as a result. Those not new to snowboarding know that this material is now the norm when it comes to affordable and protective helmet construction.
An adjustable dial helps fit a bit further. Together with an adjustable chin strap, it’s one of the most important aspects to consider when it comes to overall stability and comfort. A helmet that is too wide is troublesome. It doesn’t offer the right protection in case of an impact, and it also doesn’t offer the right thermal protection either.
Audio-compatible earpads are added to complete the helmet. This can be used by those who use earbuds not necessarily to listen to music but even when taking calls while spending the day snowboarding.
ASTM F2040 and CE EN 1077 certifications make the affordable helmet a must-have when it comes to daily snowboarding sessions. Of course, the helmet must be worn correctly for these certifications to be effective. It is one of the helmets available in all sizes, even extra-small.
- Made with audio-compatible earpads
- Compatible with goggles
- Made with climate control vents
- The ears are attached to the liner
Made with lightweight in-mold construction, the minimalistic snowboarding helmet is not difficult to carry. Even when it’s on the head for hours, it offers plenty of comforts.
Designed with a removable goggle lock, the helmet is practical for those who might already own a goggle case, such as the Sklon Ski and Snowboard Goggle Case described above. These users might not want to store their goggles on the helmet.
Made with airflow climate control, the snowboarding helmet offers proper comfort for those who might have issues with sweaty heads. At some point, all snowboarders overheat from the intense physical activity.
Available in white, pink, red, green, and black, the great helmet looks colorful and practical. It even allows those who like to match their snowboarding outfits to find the right option for men. Women’s snowboarding helmets are also found by choosing the right color and going a size down.
- Made with soft tricot lining
- Designed with an adjustable dial fit system
- Includes a removable goggle lock
- The vents don’t close
The helmet is made with ABS hardshell materials, which allow it to be considered for all types of sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The helmet comes with a sleek design which makes it an interesting choice for younger users.
A goggle strap clip at the back of the helmet allows snowboarders to secure the strap of the goggles to the helmet. While most straps come with an inner rubberized section, they might still need such an anchoring solution.
Mesh vent covers help users stay focused and determined regarding overall breathability. They allow hot air to exit the helmet and they offer the right design to keep the head cool longer.
- Made from durable ABS plastic
- Semi-flexible for adjustability
- Designed with soft EPS foam
- Runs one size small
Made with rigorous testing, the elegant TurboSke helmet abides by current safety standards. It represents a viable option for those seeking a cool snowboard helmet that certainly looks apart.
Adjustable vents make it easier to live with for those who need to be active for hours at a time. The vents can also be left fully open on one sunny day for maximum breathability. The 3-layered construction includes an ABS hard shell. Shock-absorbing EPS foam is added to make the helmet even more comfortable.
A push liner with thick earpads completes the package. The thick earpads are mainly recommended to those who want to stay warm even on the coldest days on the slopes.
- Made cushioned earpads
- Includes 16 vents
- Keeps goggles in place
- The earpads are not removable
How to Choose the Best Snowboard Helmets
Choosing the right snowboard helmet might not be too complicated. But when it comes to safety, there can never be enough information or care considered. For most users, there are plenty of solutions to consider, and safety should remain the main concern.
When choosing the right helmet, national and international safety standards and certifications are essential. The helmet’s comfort is also at least as important as it can trigger incorrect wear, which diminishes or eliminates its efficiency. The weight and size also determine the user’s comfort, especially with a few days of wearing.
Size and Fit
The size and fit of the helmet are where many users start to research the safety gear. Available in multiple sizes, the helmets are among crucial gear that needs to be made to the right size. But most importantly, the snowboard helmets must choose according to head size.
In most situations, the best helmets come in popular sizes, from small to extra-large. But someone wearing a medium-size snapback can’t blindly buy a medium-sized helmet as sizing can vary. This is why some snowboarders say some helmets are too tight, because sizing varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
At the same time, it’s also important to consider the various sizes by the head size. Users can measure the head and compare the measurement to the manufacturer’s sizing chart. This allows them to clearly understand which size to place an order with.
Alternatively, snowboarders can also purchase helmets from brick-and-mortar stores. The advantage of snowboard stores is they offer helmets that can be tried immediately. But on the other hand, these helmets are often impossible to find at a good price. Overheads such as rent and staff often drive prices up, and the helmets can’t be found at low prices as with online shopping alternatives.
Safety Standards
Safety certifications are numerous and refer to all types of activities when applied to helmets. Since many helmets are multi-purpose, they must pass safety recommendations for various sports. As a result, they can often come with one or multiple of the following safety standard certifications.
ASTM 2040/CE
1077B/CE 1078:2012
A1:2012/CPSC
EN 1077:2007
CPSC 16 CFR
These certifications don’t come with the presumption of ultimate safety. The helmets might still not protect the head from certain hits and accidents. They need to offer multi-directional impact protection systems. However, these helmets do offer reliability where others can’t. For those who want to enjoy the best returns on investment, the purchased helmet should come with the right certification, at least at a national level.
Safety certifications can be passed even by cheap helmets. The idea is they need to have certain tolerances from various angles, and this is not limited to the most expensive snowboard helmets such as those from Giro, Mips, Noggin, Bern, Visor, Koroyd, Holt, or Anon. Today, there’s no reason to buy unsafe helmets just to save money.
When it comes to snowboarding protection, the helmet is the most important piece of equipment. But at the same time, it’s also a piece of gear many skips if it doesn’t look great. Apart from looking attractive, the helmet also needs to abide by the regulation in headwear protection.
Liners and Comfort
As seen with the examples above, there are two types of liners. Both have the role of thermal protection. Liners are also important when it comes to proper comfort.
Built-in Liners
Built-in liners are truly important when it comes to users who need to find the right protection with the highest durability. Characteristic of in-mold helmets, the liners are made with various thicknesses and materials, and they can come with or without earpads.
The liners are often the solution for those who want to enjoy proper comfort and breathability. Liners often come with holes just for breathability. Normally made from plush materials covered in breathable mesh, liners are often responsible for the comfort aspect of a snow helmet.
Removable Liners
Removable liners are characteristic of ABS snowboard helmets. They go far in terms of overall helmet freshness. As their name suggests, they can easily be removed and washed frequently. Those who want to enjoy the best results regarding overall thermal protection can rely on these liners, which can even be replaced with third-party liners in case of personal preferences.
Removable liners are also important when it comes to overall safety standards. It’s important to know that adjustable helmets also take the liners closer or further away from the head. This means liners play a role in the overall versatility of the helmets, and it’s crucial to know that even 16 vents can’t do much if the liner is too thick for breathability.
Weight and Bulk
Assessing the size and bulk of the snowboard helmet is also important when it comes to the user’s overall safety. It is a matter of weight which then translates to proper comfort. Many of those trying to find the right way forward regarding the size of the helmet can’t tell the difference between a bulky design and a compact design.
To enjoy compact helmets, many snowboard fans need to choose in-mold designs. But this isn’t always easy as they tend to be quite expensive. The bulkiness of the helmet might also be an issue for those traveling to and from the summit. Many snowboarders travel by train and don’t have much space to carry all the gear.
Others simply want the smallest helmet for the most aerodynamic benefits. The weight can also increase in designs with a built-in camera mount, such as in the Giro range or Skullcandy range of products.
Goggles Compatibility
Snowboarding goggles are normally easy to wear. They are now made to cover the eyes while being held back by an elastic strap. But this strap isn’t always staying in place. This is why it is important to find the right design to be compatible with goggles.
Most helmets today should have sufficient clearance for snowboarding and skiing goggles. But at the same time, many offer too much space. As many users know, the space between the goggles and the helmet can be wider with some combinations. This increases the cold sensation from the air hitting the forehead.
Design
The way a snowboarding helmet looks is also important. Those who want to enjoy the coolest helmets might need to seek out brands that manufacture their helmets in various colors. All of the listed products above come in a few colors. As a result, they offer proper protection and reliability even when not many would expect them to look as good.
Given helmets need to be safe first, this can be overlooked. But since many snowboarders only seek matching snowboarding equipment, they might need to look for specific colors first. These colors are then useful to those who want to enjoy the most compliments or simply a design which stands out. Alternatively, all-black and stealth colors will work best for those who want to enjoy a low profile out on the summit.
Audio Compatibility
Many snowboarding helmets come with audio-compatible earpads. This means they can still offer thermal protection while the user is using earbuds. It also means the section above the year doesn’t obstruct exterior sounds.
For safety reasons, allowing at least some sound to pass through the earpads is advisable.
Another aspect many earpads are capable of is having a removable or folding design. Removable earpads are best for maximum audibility. Those snowboarding on busy slopes might need to hear everything around to avoid crowds and stay safe. This is why removing the earpads can be a good alternative for busy users.
Helmet Versatility
The versatility of the helmet is seen in the designs above. Most snowboarders are active people. They can’t stay away from sports during the summer. But this doesn’t mean they need to invest in individual helmets for each sport.
As seen with the helmets listed above, they can also be very versatile for other sports. This is why the helmets can be highly efficient for the safety of active persons, even outside snowboarding. Many helmets are also cycling rated, which means they can protect the head while riding bikes.
Skiing helmets are also practical for snowboarders. In theory, there isn’t any difference between the two sports. As a result, helmets can be used both for snowboarding and skiing. The same principles of safety apply to both sports.
Vents
Some snowboarding helmets are made with air vents, while others are made with a simple plain design. Air vents are used to cool off the air inside the helmet and prevent overheating and even sweating. Today, it’s not unusual to see helmets with up to 16 air vents.
These are used to cool off air. The air intake is possible through the front vents, while hot air exits through the rear vents. It’s even important to consider that some companies have multiple vents just to create an airflow system.
Adjustable vents are also popular in the snowboarding community. These types of vents can be adjusted to high or low airflow. It makes the user feel more comfortable when the airflow can be customized. For example, not all snowboarders feel comfy with the high air intake on very cold days.
Others might feel the need to have more air coming into the helmet to stay cool after intense snowboarding sessions. It’s up to the user to decide how much air gets inside the helmet.
Types of Helmets
ABS and in-mold helmets are the most popular designs today. While snowboarders can also find other premium alternatives, their price is considerably higher, and in many cases, they don’t offer anything more in terms of safety and shock absorption.
ABS Helmets
ABS is among the hardest types of plastics, offering an excellent solution to creating safe helmets. The material is resilient and used to create all types of durable devices, such as gaming consoles. With variable thickness across the helmet, it also offers a responsive solution to those who want to enjoy an affordable helmet.
Its biggest drawback of the moment includes its bulkiness and its weight. The material is not the lightest. Given that the liner is glued on the inside, those who want to enjoy the lightest helmets might need to look elsewhere.
In-mold Helmets
Mid-range to high-end helmets are made with in-mold construction. Typically made from polycarbonate, the helmets are also backed by a comfortable EPS liner. These are then molded together. With a single molded piece, the helmet is a bit more lightweight and sometimes feels a bit fitter.
Hybrid Helmets
In-mold helmets might be lightweight, but they’re not the most durable. Many cosmetic aspects visible soon after scratching or dropping such a helmet can’t be fixed. This is where hybrid helmets come in. They add an extra layer called a shell or an outer shell to the helmet to enhance its durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a skateboard helmet for snowboarding?
Skateboarding helmets are not designed for snowboarding. Besides certain safety certifications, snowboarding helmets are also made to offer thermal protection, which is not the case with skateboarding helmets. However, if the helmet is versatile, with plenty of certifications and removable liners, it may be used in both sports.
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What should you not wear on snowboarding?
Snowboarding outfits should be flexible and insulating. Jeans are certainly not an option to wear for the sport. Other types of thin sports pants aren’t an option to protect against the cold either. Jacked with a fleece outer layer are not good options, as they can absorb melting snow. Regular fashion sunglasses aren’t right to protect the eyes. They don’t offer sufficient protection from high winds.
Do you wear a hat under a snowboard helmet?
Helmets are made to be worn without hats. While wearing a hat might sound like it brings extra warmth, it’s not. Those who want to stay warmer must choose a different liner with proper thermal protection. Wearing a hat under the helmet can change its position, potentially limiting its effectiveness in case of an accident.
How do you snowboard for beginners?
Snowboarding is not complicated. Users must learn to stand on the snowboard one leg at a time, with their knees slightly bent. After they feel confident enough, they can put the other leg on the snowboard and start going downhill slowly to master the right technique. Carving needs to be mastered after straight descents.
