Who disregards their safety, particularly when performing stunts and riding downhill mountain bikes? Naturally, we all prioritize our safety and well-being before engaging in any activity and taking any action! I often reassure individuals who express concerns about their safety while mountain biking that it can be as safe as they make it! The crucial factors are the equipment they use and the trails they choose.
Since downhill riders are aggressively emotional and enthusiastic about mountain biking, they need to focus on their mountain biking security and safety before taking any downhill ride. This will keep their confidence level at a peak and enhance their abilities and skills during downhill riding.
Selecting the right downhill MTB helmet is impossible unless and until you have an excellent knowledge of helmets. I am working on this purpose for a long time and after testing a total of 18 downhill MTB helmets, as well as interviewing a range of expert downhill riders, I have concluded that Troy Lee Designs Stage Helmet is best overall for downhill mountain bike rides.
Contents
- How much safer is a full face downhill MTB helmet?
- Best Downhill Mountain Bike Helmets Overview
- Meet The Testing Team
- Top 8 Best Downhill MTB Helmets Review
- 1. Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS Downhill Mountain Bike Helmet
- 2. BELL Super DH MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet
- 3. Smith Mainline MIPS Downhill MTB Helmet
- 4. FoxRacing Proframe Helmet – Budget Friendly Downhill Bike Helmet
- 5. Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet – Most Comfortable Downhill MTB Helmet
- 6. Bell Super Air R MIPS Downhill MTB Helmet
- 7. POC Coron Air Spin Downhill MTB Helmet
- 8. ILM DOT Certified Downhill MTB Helmet
- FAQs of DH Certified Helmets
- Concluding Downhill MTB Helmets Review
How much safer is a full face downhill MTB helmet?
Compared to half-face and quarter-face helmets, a full face MTB helmet is particularly outstanding in protecting your overall head and face. It helps you by giving you a wrap around your chin with an even distribution of weight and pressure. All of these pictures, in combination, give you outstanding results as a secure and safe riding gadget.
Best Downhill Mountain Bike Helmets Overview
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Best Overall
 |
Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS Downhill Mountain Bike Helmet |
|
Check On Amazon |
| Downhill Certified Helmet | Downhill Certified Helmet
 |
BELL Super DH MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet |
|
Check On Amazon |
| Most Attractive | Most Attractive
 |
Smith Mainline MIPS Downhill MTB Helmet |
|
Check On Amazon |
| Editors Choice | Editors Choice
 |
FoxRacing Proframe Helmet |
|
Check On Amazon |
| Best Seller | Best Seller
 |
Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet |
|
Check On Amazon |
| Most Durable | Most Durable
 |
Bell Super Air R MIPS Downhill MTB Helmet |
|
Check On Amazon |
Meet The Testing Team
Andrew Mayhew
Andrew Mayhew is a downhill mountain biker and has been mountain biking for the last 10 years. He is an avid mountain biker and loves testing new products. Currently, he is working at OutdoorGearsHub testing lab and testing the MTB gear to find the best one for OGH readers.
Top 8 Best Downhill MTB Helmets Review
After testing at least 10 downhill recommended helmets, I have selected those that either myself or fellow riders tested for our downhill MTB rides and found the best. Furthermore, the characteristics under each heading will tell you every detail and help you decide which downhill mountain bike helmet is best suitable for you.
1. Troy Lee Designs Stage MIPS Downhill Mountain Bike Helmet
Best Overall
Specifications
- Best For: Downhill Rides
- Ventilation: 11 Vents
- Weight: 3.1 lbs.
- Other Specs: POLYLITE Shell construction, DRAWSTRING BAG with breathable mesh paneling
TLD Stage Helmet is a combination of safety and protection with style and personality. Troy Lee Designs Stage helmet is the best lightweight downhill mountain bike helmet with extra protection and care.
You will be highly comfortable as soon as you wear it because it will give you the perfect combination of relaxation and snuggly fit.
It is said to be among the lightest helmets among many others to make you feel that you’re wearing nothing on your head.
Highly ventilated with a proper ventilation system, this TLD Stage MIPS helmet contains 11 intake vent holes and 14 outflow holes, ensuring proper ventilation and air crossing. A proper ventilation system will keep you cool and calm and ensure that the goggles you are wearing or not fogging.
It will also help in keeping your helmet from getting warm and stuffy that will cause you discomfort. A high comfortability level comes from the dual-density foam layer which is present inside the helmet. It will help you save from any falls and crushes coming your way.
Moreover, the look of the helmet is also stylish, which adds to the wearer’s personality. If this helmet provides you with such facilities, you can always spend some extra pennies to get it.
What I Like?
- Lightweight
- Adds style
- Properly ventilated
What I Don’t Like?
- Expensive but worth every penny
Why I Recommended Troy Lee Designs Stage Helmet
TLD Stage MIPS helmet is good quality, comfortable and stylish helmet used for downhill mountain biking. It consists of proper ventilation and a dual foam layer which gives you a relaxed feeling and comfortability. Furthermore, the lightweight feature makes you feel more relaxed and comfortable throughout the ride.
2. BELL Super DH MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet
Downhill Certified Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Downhill MTB Rides
- Ventilation: 25 vents
- Weight: 0.25 lbs.
The Bell Super DH helmet offers a robust construction to ensure your protection in the event of unexpected accidents. It features an EPS foam liner that acts as a shield, absorbing and dissipating energy from impacts commonly experienced during mountain bike rides.
The flex spherical design effectively manages impacts at various speeds, including low, high, and rotational forces. This design not only plays a crucial role in safeguarding your head but also enhances ventilation for a more comfortable ride.
The helmet’s captivating construction is made even more exceptional by the inclusion of a removable chin bar, adding convenience to your experience.
The material used in making of Bell Super DH helmet is the finest because it quickly dries up and has some real silver fibers. The sweat guide pad essentially works to inhibit the growth of moisture in the brow pad and eyewear. And how can I forget its Fidlock buckle which provides downhill rider the perfect fit. Also, you can adjust it according to your needs.
Bell Super DH helmet has over-brow ventilation which keeps the helmet cool and ushers the stale air out of the helmet. Whereas the adaptable visor system allows both goggles and glasses to easily fit in. Lastly, there is a camera mount which breaks away if it crashes on a hard surface to save the rider from possible injuries.
What I Like?
- Sturdier built.
- Flex spherical fights with all sort of impacts.
- Overbrow ventilation keeps the insides cool.
What I Don’t Like?
- Not suitable for big faces
3. Smith Mainline MIPS Downhill MTB Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Downhill & Enduro Rides
- Ventilation: AirEvac ventilation system
- Weight: 0.83 lbs
It is said to be the first and foremost full face downhill and enduro ride helmet designed after learning and carefully observing half-shells that were used earlier. Those helmets, which were half-shells were best in their all aspects.
This Smith Mainline MIPS helmet has taken all the good points from them turning out to be a full face protective helmet for downhill mountain biking.
Aerocore construction technology has been used in the manufacturing of this helmet. This Aerocore construction makes sure that the helmet remains lightweight, contains a proper ventilation system while providing proper protection and safety to your head. This helps you deal with downhill mountain biking with the proper necessary features you need for your protection.
A MIPS layer is present in the helmet to help you during rotational impacts. There are 21 vents present in the helmet to ensure you are getting proper air from your surroundings. This will keep you cool and calm during riding, which helps in boosting confidence, ultimately resulting in boosting performance. Moreover, the helmet’s fit is said to be perfect in consistency with other products from Smith.
What I Like?
- 21 vents available
- Full face protection
- Comfortable fit
What I Don’t Like?
- Little heavy
Why I Recommended Smith Mainline MIPS Helmet
This Smith Mainline MIPS helmet consists of a proper ventilation mechanism to help you keep cool and calm. It provides you with full-face protection with a comfortable feel which allows you to ride comfortably and reliably without the fear of falling and getting hurt.
4. FoxRacing Proframe Helmet – Budget Friendly Downhill Bike Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Mountain Biking
- Ventilation: 24 Vents
- Weight: 2.5 lbs.
Fox Proframe is a DH certified helmet that is used for the comfort and ultimate protection during downhill MTB ride. FoxRacing proframe helmet is quite affordable and provides essential comfortability and ventilation, which is necessary for the rider.
The lightweight feature adds to the specifications of this helmet, giving you more reasons to buy it. This helmet gives complete face protection to ensure you can climb down the downhill more conveniently and reliably.
With only 25.9 ounces of weight, this Fox Racing Proframe helmet provides you with all the features you need in your safety helmet. Moreover, the lightweight nature will make you feel that you are not wearing anything on your head. Additionally, it also helps you in keeping your neck movable.
The 15 intake and nine outgoing vents make this helmet highly breathable for the user. It is said to be the lightest and highly aerated downhill certified helmet which you can get for your complete safety and protection. Fidlock SNAP is a technology present in the helmet, allowing you to smoothly wear it or take it off while also wearing gloves. It provides you with maximum and efficient security when it is finally locked.
What I Like?
- Ensures easy movement of neck
- Proper ventilation
- Lightest in weight among all
What I Don’t Like?
- The visor is not adjustable
Why I recommended Fox Proframe DH MTB Helmet
This is the third best product for the protection and safety of your head while climbing downhill. It helps you keep your neck moving and has a proper ventilation system to make you feel fresh.
5. Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet – Most Comfortable Downhill MTB Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: All Type of Cycling
- Ventilation: Roc Loc Air DH fit system
- Weight: 1.10 lbs.
The Giro Switchblade MIPS helmet comes with DH certification and features a removable chin bar, making it an excellent choice for daring climbers. It offers the option to use it in half mode or as a full-face helmet, ensuring equal adjustability and comfort in both configurations.
One notable feature of the Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet is its impressive ear coverage without causing any discomfort or tightness.
The Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) provides an additional layer of protection between the pads and foam inside the helmet. This system helps safeguard your brain from potential dangers during falls. The helmet also offers a well-designed ventilation system, ensuring proper airflow whether the chin bar is attached or removed. In both situations, the helmet remains moderately weighted and comfortable to wear.
The Giro Switchblade MIPS features a convenient D-ring system for fastening and releasing. It securely locks in place when you want it to and unlocks effortlessly when needed. You can rest assured about the closure’s security, eliminating any concerns of the helmet coming off in the event of a fall.
What I Like?
- Highly secure
- Outstanding ventilation
- Removable chin bar
What I Don’t Like?
- Less Durable
Why I recommended Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet
The Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet is a dependable and sturdy helmet that offers excellent head protection. It excels in providing a combination of compatibility, ventilation, and safety. Additionally, the removable chin feature allows for versatile use, allowing the helmet to be used both as a full-face helmet or without the chin.
You can also read a deailed review about Best Giro Helmets
6. Bell Super Air R MIPS Downhill MTB Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Downhill Mountain Biking
- Ventilation: 30 Vents
- Weight: 2.2 lbs.
The Bell Super Air R MIPS Bike Helmet is widely acclaimed as the most comfortable, highly ventilated, and versatile helmet available. It delivers exceptional performance, combining top-notch quality and reliability, while incorporating all the essential features demanded by users.
The removable chin makes it convertible helmet and offers you the option to go with full face coverage or half-shell mode.
Whether you opt for the half-shell mode or full-face protection, the Bell Super Air R MIPS Helmet provides a secure and pressure-free experience, allowing you to ride without any distress.
If you prioritize breathability and comfort, the Bell Super Air R MIPS Bike Helmet is an excellent choice. Its design incorporates an airflow system that keeps you cool and cozy throughout your ride. The helmet features a retention band that ensures the weight is evenly distributed around your head, enhancing stability.
For the utmost comfort, I highly recommend selecting the full-face version of this helmet. In this configuration, you’ll experience the highest level of comfort. The lightweight design eliminates pressure on your jaws and cheeks, improving the overall efficiency of the helmet and providing a comfortable and effortless riding experience. Additionally, the helmet’s adjustable features and balance contribute to a heightened sense of security.
What I Like?
- Lightweight
- Highly comfortable
- Dual working mode
What I Don’t Like?
- Not very strong
Why I Recommended Bell Super Air R MIPS Helmet
The Bell Super Air R MIPS helmet excels in functionality and comfort, whether used as a full-face or half-shell helmet. It encompasses all the essential features that ensure optimal comfort and reliability while riding. The helmet’s adjustability and lightweight construction contribute to a relaxed and pressure-free sensation on your head, allowing for a comfortable riding experience.
7. POC Coron Air Spin Downhill MTB Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: DH Mountain Bike
- Protection: Integrated with POC SPIN
- Weight: 2.8 lbs.
The POC Coron Air Spin helmet has gained a distinct reputation among DH MTB helmets due to its striking and adventurous design, wide range of sizes, exceptionally robust construction materials, and unparalleled durability. It is rightfully considered one of the finest downhill helmets available. When I bought this helmet in the eye-catching hydrogen white color, I was particularly impressed by its remarkable impact resistance, which provides reliable protection even during the most challenging accidents.
We owe gratitude to the manufacturers of this helmet for utilizing premium-quality expanded polypropylene in crafting the internal components, which provide both strength and comfort simultaneously.
True to its name, the POC Coron stands as a prime example of protection, featuring an integrated shearing pad inside called SPIN (Shearing Pad INside). In the event of an angled impact during a ride, SPIN reduces the transmission of destructive forces to your head and brain.
One of the standout features of the POC Coron helmet is its exceptional breathability, surpassing that of conventional helmets available in the market. This enhanced breathability is a result of the numerous ventilation pores strategically placed to ensure optimal airflow.
The venting design of this helmet is truly commendable, enabling comfortable riding even on warmer days. The streamlined design allows for easy removal of the internal padding, which can be washed if it becomes odorous due to regular use and perspiration.
What I Like?
- Customizable internal foam pads
- Cleaner elegant appearance
- Profound breathability
What I Don’t Like?
- Non-adjustable visor
Why I Recommended POC Coron SPIN Helmet
If you have explored a wide range of downhill helmets and have yet to find the perfect product, we have an excellent suggestion for you. We highly recommend choosing the POC Coron helmet. This downhill mountain bike helmet exemplifies the epitome of ultimate protection, outstanding breathability, and robust design. What’s more, you’ll be pleased to know that the POC Coron is available at a highly affordable price. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to consider investing in this fantastic helmet.
8. ILM DOT Certified Downhill MTB Helmet
Specifications
When it comes to features such as comfort, protection, and DOT certification, the ILM BMX MX Downhill Off-Road MTB Mountain Bike Helmet surpasses all other downhill helmets.
In addition to these outstanding features, this helmet excels in breathability, making it ideal for use on the hottest days.
Furthermore, the liners of this helmet are conveniently removable, allowing for easy washing whenever desired.
When I purchased the ILM BMX helmet, I was highly impressed by its premium quality construction material. I want to express my gratitude to the manufacturers for utilizing high-quality ABS material, which ensures a lightweight design and remarkable durability.
Furthermore, this downhill helmet excels in safety and protection. It holds the DOT certification, meeting the FMVSS-218 and other safety standards.
Another notable feature of the ILM BMX is its sleek design with aerodynamic features, enabling you to gain speed on your mountain bike without the burden of excessive weight. The helmet is equipped with efficient ventilation pores that provide maximum breathability.
Notably, these vents are strategically placed on both the front and rear sides, ensuring comprehensive head ventilation even on the warmest days. Additionally, the helmet includes a visor that offers protection from UV rays and sunlight.
What I Like?
- Quick-release and strong buckle
- Maximum collision protection
- Remarkable aerodynamic design
What I Don’t Like?
- The fitting needs careful checking
Why I Recommended ILM DOT Certified Helmet
If you find yourself frustrated with a malfunctioning downhill helmet, we have the perfect recommendation for you after thorough testing of various options. The ILM BMX consistently delivers exceptional results, making it the ideal downhill helmet for all your biking adventures. With its removable sun shield, excellent ventilation, impressive durability, and unparalleled safety features, this helmet is not to be missed. We strongly urge you to consider investing in this fantastic downhill helmet.
Read a comparison of open face and full face helmet to choose the right one according to your needs.
FAQs of DH Certified Helmets
What are MIPS helmets?
This is the Multi-directional Impact Protection System which is nowadays the topmost slip plan technology present internal to the helmet. It makes sure the rotational forces are reduced and cause no effect to the brain. The primary purpose of this MIPS Technology present in mountain riding helmets is to protect your head.
Is it worth paying extra for MIPS helmet?
MIPS is the latest technology known as Multi-directional Impact Protection System. It provides you with a high level of safety and security while riding the bike. So, yes if you are willing to spend some money on an excellent helmet, I will recommend you to go with some extra expenditure and select the one which has MIPS technology.
Concluding Downhill MTB Helmets Review
Mountain bike helmets are of several types and contain many different features and specifications. Not every helmet is suitable for every rider. Similarly, not every helmet is ideal for every trail. Nowadays, many different companies are manufacturing versatile and efficient types of mountain bike helmets. We are focusing mainly on downhill mountain bike helmets here and helping you with our information to make you select this best safety gadget for you.
As a reviewer, I will recommend you:
- TLD Stage MIPS Downhill MTB Helmet because this product is perfect in every way. It gives you comfortability, protection, and proper support during riding.
- Smith Mainline MIPS Downhill Helmet consists of 21 vents to ensure a proper ventilation system. It helps you keep your head cool and make sure the helmet properly fits your head to give you maximum comfortability.
- Bell Super Air R MIPS MTB Helmet is a highly reliable and comfortable helmet that you can use. Moreover, the adjustment settings of the helmet, which it gives to your head, enhanced its functioning and performance.
You may also be interested to read about!
Hi, I’m Alexandra Betty, co-founder of OutdoorGearsHub.com! I am a cycling enthusiast and currently living in Waltham, Massachusetts. I love just about everything about the cycling industry, which is why I created this site! Combining my passion with my work has always been extremely important to me. Feel free to reach out, leave comments, or recommend improvements to the site and its content so we can help you improve your cycling experience!
I am on a mission to enable everyone to spend more time on a bike and outdoors. So whether it’s on the road, gravel, mountain, e-biking, or just cruising around – Outdoor Gears Hub is the place to come for trusted advice.