For those who love their mountain biking, there is nothing like a MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) helmet. Conceived of by a Swedish company, these helmets are the absolute best when it comes to protecting riders, no matter what terrain. These helmets have a two-layer design which is intended to help with head rotation upon impact. This can make it much less likely for a spill to result in a concussion or other nasty brain injuries.

As such, most serious mountain bike riders look for this seal on their trusty helmets. There are a ton of them out there, which is great, but finding the one right for you can be a burden. Every rider has specific traits they want to see in their helmets, and all of these traits are going to vary in different helmets. That’s why we’re here to help. We bring you the best MIPS mountain bike helmets to make that search much easier. Our provided reviews and guides will guide your search, whether buying your first helmet or something in the professional league.

If you are new to mountain biking and just looking into your first MIPS helmet, the Giro Montaro has a lot of great properties for you. First of all, it’s not as expensive as many other helmets of the caliber. That can be a good thing when you aren’t sure whether you want to invest hundreds and hundreds of dollars into a piece of equipment. And for the money, you do get a solid helmet. It includes an adjustable visor, a Camera Mount, goggle integration, and more.

This sturdy helmet comes in a variety of sizes and colors, from flashy to subtle. You can find it in small, medium, and large. The color assortment includes black, olive and bronze, vermillion, black with lime and flames, and many more. There is sure to be one that speaks to you if this helmet is the one you want to pick up. This one will be a solid choice, especially for beginners and intermediate riders. Don’t be afraid to check it out for yourself.

Pros:

• P.O.V. Plus Visor adjustment for on the fly tweaks
• Anti-microbial padding that keeps you safe and dry
• Full camera mount integration to tape all the action
• Strap grippers and goggle integration

Cons:

• Some found camera mount unstable at times
• Sizing can be a bit inconsistent for some
• Internal fit can be uncomfortable for some bikers

Bell is a solid company, and the Super 2R is a very solid product coming from their team. This bad boy is designed for mountain performance, which means it’s super adaptable and loaded with extras. The 2R is made for comfort, a dash of style, and the confidence you need when taking on tough trails. The helmet comes with a huge number of vents, which was impressive. It sports 23 helmet, four brow ports, and six chin-bar. Undoubtedly the most ventilated of the five we have here. It also has an adjustable visor, TAG fit system, and even wraparound protection. It’s bound to keep you safe no matter where you take your wheels.

The 2R comes in sizes small, medium, and large. It also features a number of color combinations. They include black and white, black and red, black and blue, white and blue, and more. The design is pretty slick but not over the top. The helmet sports a removable chin bar and the colors blend nicely. The name of the manufacturer is emblazoned upon the advisor in a way that’s cool, not too in your face. There’s nothing to make it super memorable but nothing that makes it look flamboyant either. Worth a look if you need the cool features at a reasonable price.

Pros:

• Overbrow ventilation for extra cooling
• Integrated camera mount with breakaway feature
• X-Static padding for comfort
• Goggleguide adjustable visor system for great fit

Cons:

• Many find that helmet runs a little small
• Instructions can be confusing to read

The next helmet on the list is the Smith Forefront. This is an excellent choice for the intermediate rider with the need for a safe and comfortable shell. It’s adjustable, and the straps allow you to get comfortable while being sure you are still safe. The visor is one that won’t bother you and does that it should do. It’s light, but not so light you’ll ever feel like you’re unprotected. With an integrated camera mount, light webbing, and cooling lining – this one is a beast but at an excellent bargain. The 21 vents that it offers is only an added bonus when looking at all the perks.

As far as design, size, and color you don’t get quite as many options with it. It comes in an aesthetically pleasing black and green, white and green, or orange and gray. It also only comes in small or large so be wary and make sure you fit the helmet you’re ordering. That said, the actual style does look rather nice but won’t make you stand out in a crowd.

Pros:

• Integrated light and camera mount
• Ventilated protection featuring Koroyd material for safety
• Ultra-light webbing in single layer to keep the helmet light
• AirEvac ventilation through 21 vents allows airflow

Cons:

• Chin strap may not be as sturdy as needed
• Some find it is warmer than expected

We bring Smith in again with another helmet for mountain bike riders out there. This one is called the Optics Overtake and offers a few new and exciting features. It gives you safety and a leg on performance, at least as far as a helmet can go. It features an aerodynamic design with excellent ventilation. The protection features are unparalleled in comparison to other helmets. It’s light and comfortable and won’t add the weight that makes speed possible.

The design is similar to the other Smith helmet we’ve looked at but a little more interesting. There is no visor, which can be a pro or con, depending on your needs. That said it comes in small, medium, and large and a number of colors. You can choose from black, white, black and green, orange and grey, opal and charcoal and others. Likely to turn a couple of heads with the design and colors, it’s a very nice choice.

Pros:

• Aerocore In-mold construction is lightweight
• VaporFit adjustable fit system to ensure safety and comfort
• Ultimate sunglass integration for every ride wear
• 21 vents allowing aerodynamic performance with optimal ventilation

Cons:

• Helmet seems a bit small for some
• Appears to get rather hot, despite extra vents

Our last helmet is a true doozy. This one is from Fox Racing, and you can tell it’s made to take a beating and keep on ticking. It’s cool, and I do not say that lightly. It incorporates a luxury interior that will keep you dry and comfortable. The 17 vents keep airflow going so you don’t get overly hot. Also, this helmet offers three EPS dimensions and two shell sizes. That makes it the best in the market for fit and comfort. Add on the carbon shell, and you have a very sturdy helmet that is going to last. If you’re going for the gold, the Fox is for you.

This helmet comes in sizes from small to XX large, so it’s going to fit you no matter how big or small you are. The colors are just as diverse. You can find things like blue yellow and red, red white and black, and even blue lime and black. That’s just to name a few. It’s the flashiest helmet and for a good reason. If you pick it up, it’s going to give you style, comfort, and professional safety. If you want all three, get the Fox Rampage.

Pros:

• Great fit and design with two shell sizes and 3 EPS dimensions
• Great venting and air through 17 vents and channels
• Dri Lex interior is high-tech and includes molded cheek pads
• Developed and engineered in California, United States

Cons:

• Price is very steep for many riders
• Some find the colors aren’t what they are expecting

There you have it, 5 of the best MIPS mountain bike helmets. We hope this has made your helmet search a little easier and make sure you check out some of our other mountain bike accessories.