Now that summer is finally in full bloom, it’s time to take out your favorite two-wheeler and embark on some new adventures. However, whether you’ll choose to ride your bike through a big city or on a rugged trail in the countryside, you’re going to need to wear some high-quality equipment, especially when it comes to helmets. Below you will find a top 10 regarding the best bicycle helmets for 2016, each featuring its own unique highlights. Choosing a favorite will not be easy, as they were all created by well-known manufacturers such as Bontrager and Bell.
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Giro Silo
If you’re looking for an environmentally conscious helmet, then you’re going to love the Silo, mainly because some of its components can be disassembled for recycling and composting when they are damaged. This product boasts a special foam liner technology based on Expanded Polylactic Acid, which is actually derived from corn. When compared to conventional expanded polystyrene, this material has a smaller environmental impact while still being able to manage impact energy nicely.
Lazer Z1 MIPS
Next up we have the Lazer Z1 MIPS, which boasts a lightweight and comfortable design that encourages ventilation. This helmet is available in three colorways, namely White Silver, Flash Black, Mat Black and Flash Orange. Its ARS Advanced Rollsys retention system provides a perfect fit, while a total of 31 vents make sure that the wearer is able to remain as cool as possible during intense cycling sessions.
Bell Annex
The Annex helmet by Bell was designed with protection and comfort in mind, which is why it features a Multi-Directional Impact Protection System as well as Active Aero Slider vents that help with body temperature regulation. Then there’s the Twin Axis Gear Fit system, which guarantees a perfect fit without the need of adjustments. Other highlights include a reflective trim, a soft-brim visor and an integrated light mount.
Closca Fuga
What makes the Closca Fuga helmet stand out is its incredible foldable design, which allows it to be transported easily in simple bags or backpacks. Conventional helmets can be quite bulky and hard to carry around sometimes, which is why the Closca Fuga will definitely appeal to commuters who use bicycles to go to school or work every day. Each one of these helmets is accompanied by a Grey Visor, which is definitely a big plus.
Bollé The One
The One helmet features a modern design that allows it to hold sunglasses in a special “Sunglasses Garage,” but that’s not the only thing that makes it stand out. Created with safety in mind, this product flaunts a Safety QR Code as well as a Bolle LED. It comes with a Click-to-Fit System and with a series of interchangeable winter and summer linings. Other noteworthy details include a detachable visor for mountain biking, as well as 31 inlets for ventilation.
Bontrager Ballista
The Bontrager Ballista was created to cater to the needs of performance cyclists, and as its name suggests, it propels the wearer forward just like the ballistae of old thanks to a wind-tunnel proven design that is incredibly aerodynamic. We should also mention its exceptional venting system, which is based on Bontrager’s own unique internal channeling, as well as the NoSweat system, AgION antimicrobial pads and lockdown dividers.
Kask Rex
The Kask Rex helmet was developed for aggressive trail riding, XC racing and enduro racing, and so it flaunts a rather aggressive look as well as performance-orientated features. Kask’s multi in-molding process was used for this piece, and it is based on a polycarbonate outer shell that binds to an inner polystyrene cap. The front and back areas offer great coverage, and the rear part reaches all the way down to the lower occipital bone. Airflow is ensured by a set of 20 vents that increase air intake at slower speeds. Then there’s the Octo-fit retention system, which guarantees a precise, secure fit via a leather chinstrap.
Poc Tectal Race
Another helmet designed with performance in mind is the Tectal Race by Poc, which also boasts superb ventilation as well as an aramid bridges system borrowed from the company’s Trabec helmet. Developed for enduro racing and aggressive trail riding, this piece of equipment comes with a reinforced EPS liner, a unibody shell construction, a goggle clip and a lightweight size adjustment system.
Troy Lee Designs A1
The A1 helmet represents a stunning blend of eye-pleasing aesthetics, durability and reliability. It is a lightweight all-mountain helmet that ensures maximum coverage as well as a premium fit, all thanks to its reinforced polycarbonate shell that’s in-molded with an EPS liner. It also flaunts 8 pressurized intake passages that draw in cool air, and 8 rear vacuum vortex outlets that provide exhaust while drawing heat away from the head. The liner is a single piece that can be removed and washed. It is made out of an anti-microbial moisture wicking material that ensures a dry and comfortable feel.
Scott Vivo Plus MIPS
Last but not least, we can now tell you about the Scott Vivo Plus – a reliable and comfortable product that includes a special MIPS Brain Protection system. It also offers extended coverage, optimized venting, an adjustable visor and a lightweight in-mold construction. The MRAS2 Fit System represents the company’s top of the line lift system, which ensures superb comfort as well as perfect stability.