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Your helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment you own. Modern cycling helmets balance protection, weight, ventilation and aerodynamics in ways that were unimaginable a decade ago – and the addition of MIPS technology has significantly improved rotational force protection in angled impacts.
Top Picks
Giro Syntax MIPS Helmet
The Giro Syntax MIPS sits in the sweet spot between premium aerodynamics and everyday versatility. The MIPS Brain Protection System redirects rotational forces in an angled impact – the most common type in cycling accidents. 25 vents provide excellent airflow for UK summer riding. A genuine best-buy at its price point.
- HARDSHELL WITH IN-MOLD HARDBODY LOWER WRAP — The two-piece shell combines a tough outer hard shell with a polycarbonate …
- INTEGRATED MIPS BRAIN PROTECTION SYSTEM — All Giro helmets are designed to reduce as much energy as possible while meeti…
- ROC LOC 5 FIT SYSTEM — The industry benchmark in comfort, stability, adjustability and weight savings. Roc Loc 5 allows …
Smith Network MIPS Helmet
Smith’s Network uses Koroyd honeycomb technology alongside MIPS. The Koroyd panels crush uniformly in an impact, absorbing energy more efficiently than traditional EPS foam. 21 vents are among the most effective on any road helmet in this price range.
- MADE FOR GREAT DAYS ON THE BIKE: Designed for whatever you get on two wheels, the Smith Network Helmet is our versatile,…
- Protection at its core: Features Koroyd zonal coverage for lightweight, energy-absorbing, ventilated protection, and our…
- FINAL INTEGRATION DESIGN: Designed to work well with Smith performance glasses and goggles for maximum comfort, ventilat…
Lazer Genesis MIPS Helmet
Belgian brand Lazer’s Genesis translates professional cycling team performance to an accessible price. 24 vents and deep internal channelling create exceptional airflow on long climbs. The Advanced Rollsys retention system at the crown provides a more precise, even fit than traditional nape adjusters.
Bontrager Specter WaveCel Helmet
Bontrager’s WaveCel is an alternative to MIPS – a flexible cellular structure within the helmet liner that flexes, crumples and slides to absorb impact energy. Independent tests show WaveCel performs exceptionally well in oblique impact scenarios common in cycling accidents.
- CERTIFIED E-BIKE HELMET: Meets EN-1078 safety standards for reliable protection on every cycling ride.
- SUSTAINABLE DESIGN: Made from recycled EPS, ABS, PET bottles, and bamboo fibers for a lower environmental impact.
- MAGNETIC FIDLOCK BUCKLE: Quick, secure, and effortless fastening for convenience and safety.
POC Ventral Air SPIN Helmet
POC’s SPIN technology uses silicone pads that allow the helmet to rotate relative to the head during an angled impact. The Ventral Air is POC’s race helmet with bold styling, outstanding ventilation and minimal weight. A premium choice for serious road cyclists.
- MADE FOR THE ROAD_ Lightweight bike helmet for women and men designed to deliver coolness and protection like never befo…
- MIPS_ Mips Integra seamlessly and almost invisibly integrates rotational impact protection into the helmet. The fully wr…
- LIGHTWEIGHT & VENTILATED_ For all day comfort, the helmet features a 360° size adjustment system for a precise and secur…
Proviz Reflect360 Cycling Helmet
Proviz brings reflective technology to the helmet with a retroreflective outer cover that dramatically improves low-light visibility. A practical helmet for year-round UK cycling where being seen is as important as being protected from impact.
- 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗛𝗘𝗟𝗠𝗘𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗢 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗔𝗚 – 𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗘, 𝗙𝗢𝗟𝗗, 𝗣𝗔𝗖𝗞: The Newlane packable bike helmet transforms everyday cyc…
- 𝗦𝗔𝗙𝗘𝗧𝗬 𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗦𝗧, 𝗕𝗨𝗜𝗟𝗧 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗨𝗞: The Newlane Packable helmet is designed with safety as the #1 priority; that’s why our fo…
- 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗧 & 𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗟 𝗪𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧: Weighing just 470g, the Newlane foldable helmet has a bespoke, padded comfort foam system which …
Buying Guide
MIPS has become the standard for serious cycling helmets. The rotational protection addresses the most common type of cycling accident impact. We recommend MIPS as a minimum standard for any road or trail helmet.
Fit is more important than any other feature. A poorly fitting helmet provides less protection regardless of technology. It should sit level on your head with the front edge two finger-widths above your eyebrows.
Ventilation matters for UK cycling – even mild UK summers can make a poorly ventilated helmet uncomfortable on long climbs. Count the vents and look at their depth and internal channelling design.
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Final Thoughts
Never compromise on helmet quality. The difference between a cheap helmet and a MIPS-equipped mid-range option is significant, and the price difference is small compared to a head injury. Buy the best helmet you can afford and replace it every five years or after any significant impact.