8 of the Best Kids' Bike Helmets in 2021

With the bike industry booming, adding more and more younger riders by the day, it's an important time to ensure your kids are safe on their bikes. From first time cyclists to adolescent pros, every child should always wear a helmet and you should encourage them to do so. Most children's helmets can also double for use with scooters (remember those?) too. It's important to buy a helmet that is safe, but also that your kids will enjoy wearing.

That's why we've taken multiple factors into account in putting together our own Best Kids' Helmets guide. "Best" in this case means they meet the following five key criteria:

1. Value: There's no reason to go bonkers on the bill when it comes to finding a decent lid for your kid. Every model here slides in under $80.
2. Safety-Certified: Whatever helmet you end up buying for your little one should be cleared by the CPSC or other similar organization. Our kids' bike helmets article sheds more light on which organizations and why this is so important.
3. Credibility: Hey, we know we're not the only experts in town. Each of our helmets has also received a strong recommendation by at least two other reputable websites.
4. Style: Simply put, kids like them. That said, your particular pup may not be into any of the models on our list, and that's okay (we can't please everybody). But, rest assured, these are popular enough to be seen zooming around neighborhoods far and wide.

Most of our recommendations come in MIPS and non-MIPS versions. This stands for "Multi-Directional Impact Protection System,". MIPS is based on the idea that traditional means of designing helmets are inadequate. They've been built and tested to withstand direct impact, but collisions are rarely direct. More often than not you collide with the ground or other surface at an angle, which can create dangerous rotational forces on your head and neck.

MIPS accounts for this by using a two-layer system. On the outside, you've got your tried and true EPS foam. Inside, MIPS features a low-friction liner with a "slip plane" that sits on your dome. The two layers slide against one another up to 15mm upon impact, further mitigating force to the rider's head. Many helmet manufacturers now offer this technology in their models, which are roughly $20–25 more than traditional helmets. If you're in the market for MIPS, make sure the model you choose has the right designation since some come in MIPS and non-MIPS options.

And now, without further ado…

Bell Sidetrack II

The largest manufacturer of bike helmets in the country, Bell is widely-known and respected in both cycling and powersports circles. Its Sidetrack kid's helmet is designed after the adult Stoker model. Like a true mountain-biking helmet, coverage extends further down the back for even better head protection. Bell's Ergo Fit system also makes Sidetrack sizing easy. Using a full internal cage rather than the traditional half cage, Ergo Fit's dial tightens from both the back and the sides. The system's no-twist, tri-glide side strap sliders stay put better than normal sliders as well.

Head size (cm)	50–57 Youth 47–54 Child
MIPS option	Yes (Youth only)
Price	$69.95 MIPS

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Lazer Gekko

Belgium's Lazer has long been a trusted brand in the cycling world. Its Gekko helmet was designed for the youngest of riders… and the ficklest. Its outer cover can be swapped in and out using up to eight different designs as tastes, moods, and games change. Lazer's Autofit Retention System uses a tension wire that automatically tightens around the head. This provides constant, even pressure for a comfortable fit each time. It also means you won't have to run out and buy a new one after a mild growth spurt. The helmet comes with a large visor to keep the hot sun out of your child's eyes and helps them being able to see clearly in bright light. It can also provide a bit of protect from any low handing branches or twigs for the more serious mountain bike off road trail riders. With 12 open air vents it will keep the kids cool and reduce sweating to add additional comfort.

Head size (cm)	46–50
MIPS option	Yes
Price	$49.99 non-MIPS $59.99 MIPS

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Giro Scamp

Giro is newer on the block than its parent company Bell, but it has caught on quickly in riding circles. The Scamp features a distinct mountain-biking shape popular among little MTBers and non-MTBers alike. Giro's Jr. rendition of its Roc Loc fit system lives up to the standards set by the adult version. When it arrived nearly 25 years ago, Roc Loc eliminated helmet rattling over rough terrain. Now, Giro's helmets are much more stable on the trail while allowing for easy rear-dial adjustment on the go.

Head size (cm)	51–55 Small 47–51 XS
MIPS option	Yes
Price	$59.95 MIPS

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Giro Hale

An upgrade from the older Raze model, the Giro Hale is the next level up age- and size-wise from the Scamp. The Sport version of Giro's Roc Loc system offers a large adjustment range for a solid fit. Its larger rubber dial also makes it easier to turn and adjust. Rather than being part of the fit system, the helmet's side straps are fixed, meaning you don't have to worry about constantly futzing with them. The Hale also features tons of air vents (22) for superb circulation on sweaty rides.

Head size (cm)	50–57
MIPS option	Yes
Price	$59.95 MIPS

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Nutcase Street

Nutcase has something for just about everybody in its Street line of helmets. In fact, Nutcase's goal is to amp up the fun factor when it comes to bike safety. It works with three international artists each year to add even more designs to the lineup, which now has over 35 to pick from. But, these caps aren't just for show. Their dial-adjust fit, locking sliders, and Fidlock magnetic buckles all mean business. Dual-certified for both biking and skateboarding, Street helmets offer strong protection while looking great. They even come in a Little Nutty version for tinier tots (bike-certified only).

Head size (cm)	60–64 Large 56–60 Medium 52–56 Small (Little Nutty 48–52)
MIPS option	Yes
Price	$79.99 MIPS

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Kali Chakra

Kali is known for its adult mountain-biking gear. The fact that its youth Chakra helmet doesn't look like a kid's helmet is what makes it so popular with kids. Chakra contains 21 vents for amazing airflow, extended back-of-the-head protection, and a universal fit ring for easier tightening. Kali's innovative Composite Fusion technology merges the shell and foam liner as well. The result is decreased size and weight alongside increased strength and impact performance. And the best part? How about the unbeatable price tag.

Head size (cm)	52–57 Youth 48–54 Child
MIPS option	None
Price	$39.99 Youth

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XJD

Sometimes less is more. This helmet has a simple, nostalgic, traditional feel. This works well for more than just cycling; it's also perfect for skateboarding, scooters and other outdoor activities. Available in a range of sizes, the adjustable straps and spin dial ensure a snug fit with no wobbling. We recommend this helmet for more junior riders like toddlers, because while this doesn't carry a MIPS option, the impacts they're likely to suffer are less likely to be as hard or as fast as an older child might experience. Made with PVC and EPS foam structure. Available in 6 colorways.

Head size (cm)	55–57 Medium 48–54 Small
MIPS option	None
Price	$19.99

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Rock Bros

This isn't your traditional bike helmet; it's specifically made for downhill mountain biking. It has a detachable face guard, which lets you choose between full- and half-face protection. Advertised as suitable for other activities, though the styling may be a little strange for skateboarding or scootering. It's an ideal helmet for kids looking to rip down a downhill trail, though. It's lightweight, comfortable, and has good air resistance. It features 12 large vent holes to provide cooling air flow. Made from PVC & EPS foam, the helmet ticks the boxes on safety, and even has quick release clips to keep it securely in place without the risk of face scratches or abrasions.

Head size (cm)	53–58 Medium 48–53 Small
MIPS option	None
Price	$69.99

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And there you have it, eight of the best kids' bike helmets to choose from for your little rider's next hard hat. Happy hunting, and don't forget to include your children in the customer journey. There will be fewer headaches—emotionally and quite possibly physically—if they're involved in the selection process.