Best helmet for protection

[toohuge]

All,

Just to give a little context.....

I am looking to get back on the bike, a mountain bike specifically, and I'll be riding around east anglia mainly - so some dirt paths etc. I may go up to Scotland to see a friend and go riding in the highlands, but for the time being, most of the trips will be on local roads / paths.

I used to ride a lot when I was younger, but had an accident when I was 18 resulting in a traumatic brain injury that causes me issues to this day (I'm now 32) - I was wearing a helmet at the time and it saved my life....

Now I am confident enough to get back on the bike - I'd like to get the best protection for my head possible - I don't think a full face is necessary, however I am looking at downhill/mountain bike helmets as they 'look' like they offer more protection.

I have had a quick look around but I have no idea where to start!

Essentially I am looking for the maximum protection and It'd be nice if I could remove the pads to wash them etc. to keep the helmet nice.

Any and all suggestions welcome - not too concerned on budget as I believe the top end are around 150 - but happy to be educated.

Thanks Chris

[Piginapoke]

Well done for getting back on the bike. Thetford Forest is a great place for MTB in East Anglia if you’ve not been.

Any MIPS helmet will look after you:

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=mountain+bike+mi...

[dalenorth]

Yeah MIPS will be fine. I also have a full face for those proper dangerous descents.......or Baltic early winter mornings. Maybe get both if you have the budget.

[Randy Winkman]

Chris - I cant give any helpful advice on helmets (apologies) but just another message to say well done and good luck. I had a serious head injury 7 years ago but luckily only very minor brain damage which has little residual effect. I still cycle a bit now.

[lufbramatt]

Have a look at this list, lowest score is best:

https://www.helmet.beam.vt.edu/bicycle-helmet-rati...

[toohuge]

Thank you for the kind words - it means a lot.

I’ll have a look at MIPS helmets.

[Benrad]

As no-one has said it yet, one that fits well and is worn properly is probably very important I'd imagine. I don't know how to ensure both of those are right though.

I can't imagine having to deal with what you have OP, probably feels like you just got on with it but it must have been incredibly difficult, well done

[Randy Winkman]

Benrad said:

As no-one has said it yet, one that fits well and is worn properly is probably very important I'd imagine. I don't know how to ensure both of those are right though.

I can't imagine having to deal with what you have OP, probably feels like you just got on with it but it must have been incredibly difficult, well done

I agree 100%.

[Johnny]

Check HEXR.

Different approach, and custom fitted.

Gruffy has one and I'm waiting for mine to arrive.

[toohuge]

Thank you gents - the hexr look nice and a little spicy - but very cool.

I’m planning on visiting a bike store as I’d like to try and get one fitted properly etc. I know Covid restrictions are about at the moment but I’ll give some a call.

[rastapasta]

Randy Winkman said:

Benrad said:

As no-one has said it yet, one that fits well and is worn properly is probably very important I'd imagine. I don't know how to ensure both of those are right though.

I can't imagine having to deal with what you have OP, probably feels like you just got on with it but it must have been incredibly difficult, well done

I agree 100%.

+2
And nicely put Benrad.

Helmet wise Mips, I like Giro and the new Specialized ones have a distress signal in them controlled via an app. the system is called Angi. Maybe something to look into.

[indigostr]

I recently purchased this from the giro website. It’s very comfy and light. Hardly notice it’s on even on 2-3 hour rides. Removable cushion for washing.

[Ares]

HEXR are great, but can be bulky and not always a perfect fit first time.

Any MIPS helmet is going to be good. Giros have saved my life twice. I've also just bought a Sweet Protection Outrider MIPS for winter duties - half the price of the Giro.

[toohuge]

Thanks guys! That one pictured above looks ideal!!!

[Justin S]

Well done for heading back to bikes. Hope the mojo returns. My advice is go and try some out in a shop. You will be amazed how some seem to fit your head shape better than others. I find Giro are my shape of head although manufacturers can change their designs etc. MIPS style headwear would be definitely on the type to look at.
Good luck !

[toohuge]

I got carried away and ordered a giro tyrant in bright yellow

We’ll see how it fits - but I’m looking forward to riding again

[indigostr]

Congrats on getting back out cycling again.
Good choice. I used my head as a brake many years ago so since have looked for good protection. Tyrant looks bulky but it’s light with good ventilation. . You can never be too bright.

[thiscocks]

Arai GP5

[daddy cool]

lufbramatt said:

Have a look at this list, lowest score is best:

https://www.helmet.beam.vt.edu/bicycle-helmet-rati...

I needed a new lid, and after having a succession of fairly cheap ones (Giro Hex, and currently a decathlon jobbie) i went crazy and got the #1 in that list, the Fox Dropframe. It arrived about an hour ago.

I ordered an XL as i have a massive noggin (60cm diameter). In fact the L & XL versions are identical, and come with spare pads to make them XL or L respectively, so although the XL seems to fit correctly i'll play around and add some of the larger L pads in to fine tune.