Overview
The wearing of a helmet by snowboarders has increased significantly over time. These days, riders wear them in the street, in parks, backcountry, and on the slopes. We're not here to engage in that argument, which will continue. We're here to walk you through the top snowboard helmets money can buy and assist you in making your decision.
When selecting the best snowboard helmet, there are many things to take into account. You should read our guide on "How to choose your snowboard helmet" for a more detailed explanation. The important features to watch out for are given below if you don't have time to do that. And no, you shouldn't just give the "nicest looking" one your money.
1. Best overall: Smith Vantage MIPS
2. Runner-up overall: Anon Merak WaveCel
3. Best design: Smith Mission MIPS
4. Runner-up design: Smith Quantum MIPS
5. Best value: Salomon MTN Lab
In-Depth Reviews for Top 5 Snowboard Helmet
1. Smith Vantage MIPS
Reason to buy
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Has a midweight shell that feels comfortable all day long while balancing a healthy helping of features.
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There is plenty of airflow that can be easily directed where and when you want it thanks to the dual adjustment system and the goggle vents.
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MIPS paired with Aerocore technology gives an extra layer of protection that is simply missing from less expensive helmets.
There isn't a helmet on the market that is more comfortable than the Vantage, and there aren't many that can fit all of the current market-level safety features inside of a small, lightweight package. A precise fit-adjustment system, a molded impact-resistant hardshell, and MIPS rotational impact protection are all features that the Vantage has in common with its rivals.
Although it costs more, this all-purpose snowsports helmet can protect you from hits at high speeds. A closer look at the specifications can persuade you that the cost is justified.
2. Anon Merak WaveCel
Reason to buy
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Helmet with many features and excellent construction that balances design and function
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It is incredibly light for a freeride helmet, balancing high standards of safety with a lightweight design.
The latest in impact protection for snowsports can be found in Anon's new WaveCel collection of helmets. The Merak is the most prominent, feature-rich model in the lineup that has generated a lot of debate over the claims made for its "Wavecel" protection system.
What exactly is WaveCel Technology, then? Between the shell of the helmet and your head, there is, in essence, a network of hundreds of small dampening chambers that resembles space-age corrugated cardboard. Similar technology—a liner that's meant to break—has been used in cycling helmets by Bontrager and Trek.
3. Smith Mission MIPS
Reason to buy
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A meaningful balance between safety features and low weight for those who spend time in both the resort and backcountry.
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Excellent value given the attention to detail and adaptability in its construction.
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Serviceable climate control with detachable earpads and an adjustable vent system.
The Quantum and Vantage premium helmets from Smith are without a doubt of the highest caliber. But the Mission is our go-to helmet when it comes to traditional, diligent protection. The Mission is a simple pick for a daily resort helmet or one that can be kept in your ski pack in the backcountry due to its well-rounded feature set and light weight of little over a pound.
Practicality comes in second, followed by affordability. The Mission weighs almost half as much as other high-end helmets on this list while offering equivalent features for protecting your head, which is what matters most.
4. Smith Quantum MIPS
Reason to buy
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Loaded with safety and ergonomic features that folks who spend the entire winter on the mountain may find crucial
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Amazing airflow, yet warm enough to wear bare underneath on the resort's coldest days.
One of the most painstakingly designed helmets on the market, the Quantum was created with the demands of the 50+ year veteran skier in mind. The Quantum from Smith, another well-known brand in the sector, incorporates almost all safety features offered across their snow line.
For the appropriate skier, it's a superb helmet. It and its long list of safety features are undoubtedly in good condition. It does, however, weigh a lot. It is undoubtedly one of the most costly helmets in its kind, costing approximately over $300.
5. Salomon MTN Lab
Reason to buy
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Excellent option for backcountry exploration in the winter
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Extremely compact while still providing adequate safety
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Suitable for use as a climbing helmet
The Salomon MTN Lab should be a serious contender for any committed backcountry skier, despite being somewhat of a specialized option. One of the lightest helmets available that provides trustworthy protection is the MTN Lab.
The MTN Lab meets requirements for both rock climbing and skiing, however the rock requirements are more relevant to ski mountaineering. It’s a helmet you surely won’t ever get too warm in and has the extra benefit of keeping sweat off of your head so your goggles don’t immediately fog up after a tough climb.
FAQs
1. Which snowboard helmets are the best?
Your needs and financial situation will determine the best helmet for you, but fortunately, there are many options available in every design and price range. Rotational protection, ventilation, and an adjustable fit system are fundamental qualities to seek for. Here is a short selection of some of the top options until our buyer's guide is updated with our seasonal favorites.
2. How should your head be measured for a helmet?
Specific measurements can be found in each model's specifications, and high-quality ski helmets should be available in a variety of sizes. Using a piece of string, you can determine the size of your head's circumference, which can then be converted to centimeters and compared to the helmets' size ranges. Check out our buyer's guide to see which helmets we think are the best this season.
3. Do I need a snowboard helmet?
Any skier, regardless of ability level, should always wear a helmet that fits properly. Every skier should take precautions to prevent concussions, and the safety advantages of donning a helmet far outweigh any drawbacks like bulk or discomfort. Check out our buyer's guide to learn more about helmets and how to choose the right one for your individual requirements.
In the good old days, only serious competitors used the best snowboard helmets. Fortunately, times have changed, and most people now recognize the importance of shielding their brains while accelerating down icy slopes. Ski helmet technology has advanced significantly since then.
They provide more protection than ever before while being lighter and more comfortable. When choosing between several models, it might be a little perplexing because every company is attempting to stand out with their features and technologies. This list of the top ski and snowboard helmets available today, along with comparisons of their essential features, is the result of our collective effort.