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MTB Helmets

Mountain bike helmets provide enhanced protection with features like extended rear coverage, sturdy or adjustable visors, and increased ventilation. MTB Helmets come in open faced and full faced options, and also in-mould and hard-shell constructions.

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Choosing the Right MTB Helmet

The best MTB helmet depends on the type of riding you do:

Trail riders usually prioritise lightweight helmets with excellent ventilation for climbing and all-day comfort. While Downhill and Enduro riders often prefer increased coverage and full face protection for technical descents.

Modern MTB helmets provide deeper rear coverage and improved impact protection compared to standard recreational bike helmets.

Many also include advanced safety technologies like MIPS, lightweight shell construction and highly adjustable fit systems for improved comfort.

Whether you're riding local singletrack, technical descents or bike parks, the right MTB helmet improves comfort and safety.

Helmet Type Best For Protection Ventilation
Open Face MTB Helmet Trail Riding & General Mountain Biking High Excellent
Enduro Full Face Helmet Aggressive Trail & Enduro Riding Very High High
Downhill Full Face Helmet Bike Parks & Downhill Riding Maximum Moderate

Open Face vs Full Face MTB Helmets

Open Face MTB Helmets

Open face MTB helmets are the most popular option for trail riding, flow trails and general mountain biking.

These helmets focus on:

  • Lightweight comfort
  • Ventilation
  • Extended rear coverage
  • Wide field of vision
  • All-day riding comfort

Many riders choose open face MTB helmets for long climbs and warmer Australian riding conditions where airflow becomes especially important.

Popular options like the Fox Speedframe combine lightweight comfort with deeper coverage and MIPS protection, making them ideal for trail and recreational mountain biking.

Riders wanting additional protection in an open face design often choose helmets like the Fox Dropframe, which extends lower around the ears and rear of the head.

Explore our range of Fox MTB Helmets, Bell MTB Helmets and Leatt MTB Helmets for trail and enduro riding.

Full Face MTB Helmets

Riders tackling shuttle days, bike parks, BMX tracks or steep technical descents often choose full face MTB helmets for additional jaw and facial protection.

Full face MTB helmets are popular for:

  • Downhill riding
  • Enduro racing
  • Jump trails
  • Bike park riding
  • Technical terrain
  • High-speed descents

The biggest differences between entry-level and premium full face MTB helmets are usually weight, ventilation and overall comfort while pedalling.

Entry-level models provide excellent protection and value but they are heavier. While premium helmets focus on lighter shell construction, improved airflow and more precise fit systems.

Helmets like the Fox Proframe are designed specifically for riders who want DH-certified protection while still being breathable enough for climbing and enduro riding.

Explore our collection of Full Face MTB Helmets for downhill, enduro and aggressive trail riding.

Best MTB Helmets by Riding Style

Best MTB Helmets for Trail Riding

Trail riders usually benefit most from lightweight open face helmets with strong ventilation and extended rear coverage.

Popular trail MTB helmets include:

  • Fox Speedframe
  • Giro trail helmets
  • Bell trail helmets
  • Leatt trail helmets

These helmets are ideal for:

  • Singletrack
  • Flow trails
  • Long climbs
  • Recreational mountain biking
  • All-day rides

Best Full Face MTB Helmets for Enduro Riding

Enduro riders often need a balance between airflow and increased protection.

The best enduro full face MTB helmets typically feature:

  • Lightweight shell construction
  • Excellent ventilation
  • Lower overall weight
  • DH-certified protection
  • Comfortable fit systems

Popular enduro MTB helmets include:

  • Fox Proframe RS
  • Bell Super DH
  • Leatt Gravity series

These helmets are designed for riders who pedal uphill but still want additional protection on aggressive descents.

Best MTB Helmets for Downhill Riding

Downhill riders usually prioritise maximum protection over weight savings.

Downhill MTB helmets commonly feature:

  • Full face construction
  • Reinforced shell designs
  • Increased chin protection
  • DH certification
  • Increased impact coverage

These helmets are ideal for:

  • Bike parks
  • Shuttle riding
  • Steep descents
  • Jump lines
  • Racing
Riding Style Recommended Helmet Type
Trail Riding Open Face MTB Helmet
Cross Country Riding Lightweight MTB Helmet
Enduro Riding Lightweight Full Face MTB Helmet
Downhill Riding DH-Certified Full Face MTB Helmet
Bike Park Riding Full Face MTB Helmet

MIPS MTB Helmets Explained

Many riders now choose MIPS MTB helmets because they are designed to help reduce rotational forces during certain angled impacts.

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System.

A MIPS liner creates a low-friction layer inside the helmet that allows slight movement (10-15mm) during some impacts, helping reduce rotational motion transferred to the brain.

Today, many premium trail, enduro and full face MTB helmets include MIPS technology because riders increasingly prioritise advanced head protection and safety.

MTB Helmet Sizing Guide

A properly fitted MTB helmet should feel secure without creating pressure points.

The helmet should delivery gently pressure around the head.

Also note:

That the internal mould needs to do most of the work of holding your head in positon. The straps do the minimum amount of work.

So if you find that the helmet feels unstable when tightened, then most likely the mould doesn't fit your head.

In this case, you'll need to consider a different size or brand.

Your helmet should:

  • Sit level on the head.
  • Cover the forehead properly.
  • Feel snug around the entire head.
  • Remain stable on rough terrain.
  • Stay comfortable for long rides.

For full face MTB helmets:

The chin bar should sit comfortably in front of the face without restricting vision or breathing.

Most riders should measure their head circumference just above the eyebrows before selecting a helmet size.

Always refer to the individual size chart because fit can vary between brands and helmet models.

MTB Helmet Safety & Protection

Mountain bike helmets are designed specifically for off-road riding where higher speeds, rough terrain and technical descents increase the need for additional protection.

Compared to standard recreational bike helmets, MTB helmets commonly feature:

  • Deeper rear coverage.
  • Increased foam protection.
  • Adjustable visors.
  • Stronger shell construction.
  • Advanced fit systems.

Many premium MTB helmets also include additional certifications for aggressive riding disciplines such as downhill and enduro riding.

Riders should replace any MTB helmet after a significant crash or impact, even if visible damage is not obvious.

MTB helmets are designed specifically for off-road riding, but if you're comparing different helmet styles, browse our complete range of bike helmets including road, recreational and kids helmets.

Common Questions About MTB Helmets

What is the difference between an MTB helmet and a standard bike helmet?

MTB helmets are designed specifically for off-road riding and typically provide deeper rear coverage, larger visors and increased protection around the sides and back of the head.

They are built to handle the demands of trail, enduro and downhill riding where crashes often occur on rough terrain.

Are MTB helmets safer than regular bike helmets?

MTB helmets generally provide more coverage than recreational bike helmets, particularly around the rear of the head.

Many mountain bike helmets also include advanced safety features such as MIPS and additional impact protection technologies.

What is MIPS and is it worth it?

MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System.

It is designed to help reduce rotational forces during certain angled impacts.

Many riders choose MIPS MTB helmets because they offer an additional layer of protection without significantly increasing weight or reducing comfort.

How should an MTB helmet fit?

An MTB helmet should sit level on the head and feel snug without creating pressure points.

It should not move excessively when you shake your head, and the front of the helmet should sit just above the eyebrows to provide proper forehead coverage.

What size MTB helmet do I need?

Most riders can determine their helmet size by measuring the circumference of their head just above the eyebrows.

Always refer to the size chart provided on each product page, as sizing can vary between brands and models.

When should I replace my MTB helmet?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing an MTB helmet after a significant crash or impact.

Even if there is no visible damage, the internal foam structure may have been compromised.

Riders should also consider replacing older helmets that show signs of wear or deterioration.

Otherwise you should replace your MTB helmet every 3-5 years.

Do I need a full face MTB helmet?

Full face MTB helmets are recommended for downhill riding, bike park riding, enduro racing and aggressive technical terrain.

Riders who regularly tackle steep descents, jumps or high-speed trails often choose full face helmets for additional jaw and facial protection.

Can you ride trails with a full face MTB helmet?

Yes. Modern enduro full face helmets are designed with improved ventilation and lighter construction, making them suitable for climbing and trail riding.

Helmets such as the Fox Proframe are popular with riders who want increased protection without sacrificing comfort.

What is the best MTB helmet for beginners?

Most beginner riders benefit from an open face MTB helmet with good ventilation, extended rear coverage and an adjustable fit system.

These helmets provide an excellent balance of comfort, protection and value for general trail riding.

Are full face MTB helmets hot to wear?

Traditional downhill helmets can feel warmer because of their increased coverage.

However, many modern full face MTB helmets feature large ventilation channels and lightweight shell construction to improve airflow during riding.

Can I use an MTB helmet for commuting?

Yes. Many riders choose MTB helmets for commuting because of their increased coverage, comfort and visor protection.

Open face MTB helmets are particularly popular among riders who want additional protection for everyday cycling.

What are the best MTB helmet brands?

Popular MTB helmet brands include Fox, Bell and Leatt.

Each brand offers helmets designed for different riding styles, from lightweight trail helmets through to full face downhill and enduro helmets.

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