Share

Best Buys

Best Snowboard Helmets 2021-2022 | Our pick of the best helmets to keep your head safe

Protect your noggin. We've chosen our favourite helmets for you to rock anywhere from the park to the backcountry.

Over the years, it’s become much more commonplace for snowboarders to rock a helmet. Nowadays riders are wearing them on the slopes, in the park, in the backcountry and on the street. The debate will rage on , but we’re not here to get into all that. We’re here to talk you through the best lids that money can buy, and help you try and choose the right snowboard helmet for you.

There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing a snowboard helmet. For a more in-depth guide, you should check out our ‘How to choose your snowboard helmet’ guide. However, if you haven’t got time to do that we’ve listed a few of the key features to look out for below. And no, you shouldn’t just throw your cash at the ‘nicest looking’ one.

“The helmet should feel snug around your skull but not so tight that it’ll squeeze it”

Whatever snazzy new tech and features the helmet has, the most important thing is that it fits you properly. You physically need to try it on, with or without a beanie (whatever is most comfortable for you), to see if it actually sits on your head. The helmet should feel snug around your skull but not so tight that it’ll squeeze. Most of the modern-day helmets have got a tightening system, of some description, to adjust the fit. Alternatively, you can add / remove the helmet’s padding in order to resize the fit to your liking.

On your helmet journey, you may come across helmet’s labelled with a MIPS sticker. MIPS (Multi Impact Protection System) is one of the most advanced helmet technologies around, and has been adopted by multiple companies in order for them to offer better protection for certain kinds of impacts. Have a read through our in-depth article on ‘What is MIPS?’ if you’re keen to find out more.

Additionally, you should also make sure the chin strap is comfortable and easy to use. If you’re afraid that the helmet may get too hot when spring comes along – try and find one with removable ear flaps. Make sure there are plenty of vents too as these will both keep your head from overheating, and also make sure your goggles don’t fog up.

One final thing to note, many modern-day snowboard helmets offer anything from built-in speakers to Bluetooth walkie talkies. Not the most essential part of a helmet, of course, but something to think about.

Best Snowboard Helmets 2021-2022


Oakley MOD1 Pro

SIZE: S/M/L/XL
PRICE: £127 / €150

New for this winter, Oakley’s given their classic skate-style inspired MOD1 helmet a facelift by introducing the Oakley MOD1 Pro helmet to the line. The Pro version has been enhanced with a dent-resistant Dura-Matter construction, Oakley’s most robust construction method to this date, offering the highest level of durability while keeping the same low-profile design as the classic MOD1 helmet.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Oakley MOD1 Pro Helmet here

MORE INFO:
OAKLEY.COM

Top


Anon Merak WaveCel Helmet

SIZE: S, M, L, XL
PRICE:€320

For Winter 21/22 Anon introduces a whole new collection, including the Merak WaveCel Helmet that is made with the new WaveCel helmet material and weighs only 480g.

The new Merak WaveCel technology works like a network of hundreds of interconnected shock absorbers connecting the head and the outer shell of the helmet. This helps to distribute the impact energy through the network of cells and to absorb impact forces like the crumple zone of a car. By flexing and gliding, WaveCel also helps to divert rotational forces.

The Merak WaveCel helmet is fully loaded with 19 ventilation channels, WaveCel protection and a 360 BOA Fit System that offers a quick, adjustable fit. On top of that, the Fidlock magnetic helmet strap buckle allows for easy one-hand operation even with gloves on.

For added comfort, a Polartec Power Grid fleece liner has been placed inside the helmet while the ear pads maintain quick-drying warmth, providing for a comfortable ride throughout the whole day.

MORE INFO:
BURTON.COM

Top


Giro Jackson MIPS

SIZE: S, M, L, XL
PRICE: €170 / $180

The discrete design of the Jackson helmet is where its strengths lie. With subtle lines for style and a slight brim, this helmet is at home anywhere you take it.

By introducing the “Passive Aggressive” venting system, a design inspired by the aerodynamic airflow lines of high-end auto design, Giro is making sure that you get the right amount of airflow to keep your head cool. The discrete, yet powerful system effectively manages airflow and temperature while in motion or standing still.

Compatible with all Giro Goggles, the Jackson features MIPS technology for improved safety and security. You can also adjust the fit of the helmet with the “In FormTM 2 Fit System”, allowing it to sit tightly against your skull.

Available at 400G (size M), the Jackson also features Polartec padding, a removable goggle retainer and removable ear pads.

MORE INFO:
GIRO.COM

Top


Giro Terra MIPS

SIZE: S, M
PRICE: €170 / $180

Giro’s women’s equivalent of the Jackson MIPS helmet. All the same features, safety performance and lightweigh comfort, but built around women’s specific sizes and colourways.

MORE INFO:
GIRO.COM

Top


Giro Emerge Spherical

SIZE: S, M, L
PRICE: €150

Designed with freestyle riding in mind, the Emerge Spherical helmet fits right in at the snowpark with its sleek and stealthy silhouette. Designed for anything from jump sessions to fresh tracks and urban riding, this is a lightweight, low-profile option with world-class protection.

But it isn’t just about the look, as you’ll find the highly refined Spherical Technology powered by MIPS under the shell for added safety. The technology reduces rotational energy during certain impacts, meaning maximum protection no matter at what angle you hit your head.

The technology also features two layers of impact-reducing EPP foam that aid in reducing high- and low-energy impacts that are often inevitable in freestyle riding.

Featuring ventilation on the top, above the goggles and on the removable ear pads, Giro’s making sure there’s that extra breeze when needed whilst also making sure the goggles won’t foam up.

MORE INFO:
GIRO.COM

Top


Giro Envi Spherical (W)

SIZE: S, M
PRICE: €250

Giro’s lightest and best-equipped women’s backcountry helmet, the Envi Spherical. Made for epic backcountry touring, as well as for fresh corduroy, this lightweight (400G size M) helmet is worth the money.

Comfort and durability are where the Spehrical’s strengths lie. The extremely lightweight construction makes you forget you’re even wearing a helmet, allowing you to focus more on the turns and hike back up without being weighed down.

For added safety, the helmet also features Spherical Technology powered by MIPS, which aids in the reduction of rotational energy during certain impacts (meaning the maximum level of protection no matter what angle your head hits the slope).

When things start to heat up, the stack ventilation and thermostat control take over thus making it easier to control the temperature and not overheat. The padded ear pads can also be removed, which may become a valid option especially in springtime.

MORE INFO:
GIRO.COM

Top


Oakley Mod1

SIZE: S, M, L, XL
PRICE: £81 / €100

BUY FROM

With a lightweight and low-profile design, Oakley’s MOD1 helmet is a solid choice if looking for a classic skate-style helmet to keep the head safe without looking too chunky.

Sometimes simplicity is key, and a good helmet doesn’t need all the latest features. With MIPS integration, a low friction layer designed to reduce rotational motion transferred to the brain during an impact, the MOD1 has plenty enough tech to keep the skull safe inside it.

The BOA 360 fit system helps to deliver an exact fit, while the Fidlock buckle system lets you fasten the helmet even with gloves on.

This helmet is available in three fits: standard, Asian and youth.

MORE INFO:
OAKLEY.COM

Top


Oakley Mod3

SIZE: S, M, L, XL
PRICE: £136 / €160

BUY FROM

What tells the Oakley MOD3 apart is the adjustable ventilation system that allows the riders to dial in helmet ventilation perfect for them at any given moment.

The vents allow for hot air to rapidly escape out the top of the helmet when hot, and when temperatures turn, one can simply go ahead and close the vents to keep the head warm and dry.

Designed with all-mountain versatility in mind, the MOD3 delivers high levels of both comfort and protection. The BOA 360 system allows for the helmet to fit perfectly around the head which also makes it more secure, while the MIPS technology protects the head from the inside.

Oakley’s MOD3 helmet also comes with an MBS, Modular Brim System, meaning you can decide if you want to ride with a brim or no brim without jeopardizing goggle integration

MORE INFO:
OAKLEY.COM

Top


Shred Notion Noshock

SIZE: S, M, L
PRICE: €200 / $200

Lightweight and durable, SHRED’s flagship Notion NoShoch Helmet comes in a clean design with plenty of tech underneath the shell and loads of vents for added ventilation.

Equipped with SHRED’s Smart Impact Protection System, the Notion NoShock helmet pairs up SHRED.’s rotational energy system with the Slytech Shock Absorption.

RES, the rotational energy system, is a patent-pending technology that manages the effects of rotational accelerations to the head on impact by allowing a relative movement between the helmet and the head through the use of thin, multi-directional absorption units made with an elastic layer.

Combined with SHRED.’s patented solution to increase linear impact energy dissipation with the Slytech Shock Absorption, you’ve got yourself a shock-proof helmet that does everything in its power to protect the head.

As for ventilation, there’s plenty to keep the head cool too, including an anti-microbial technology to provide permanent odour protection. To top things up, the helmet is also equipped with a RECCO reflector that enables rescue professionals to search for you in the event of an avalanche.

MORE INFO:
SHRED.COM

Top


Smith Vantage Men & Womens

SIZE: S, M, L, XL (Only Men)
PRICE: £220 / €230

Lightweight and tough, the Smith Vantage and Vantage women’s helmet are designed for dedicated riders looking for something to keep them comfy and safe all season long.

Loaded with tech, the Vantage helmets come with Zonal Koroyd technology, a lightweight, energy-absorbing and ventilated impact protection. To top things up, the MIPS Brain Protection System adds further to your safety as it reduces rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head.

Thanks to the BOA 360 Fit System, you can also micro-adjust the size around the head with the turn of dial, making the helmet more firm fitted for increased safety.

For added breathability, the helmet includes 21 vents with dual adjustability that lets you fine-tune airflow to meet the conditions. And, when things really start to heat up, the audio-chip compatible ear pads can be removed. However, if starting to feel sweaty, the antimicrobial lining fights odours, leaving you smell-free.

MORE INFO:
SMITH.COM

Top


Sandbox Classic Snow 2.0

SIZE: S, M, L(Men’s Only)
PRICE: £125

Known for their classic peaked snowboard helmet shapes, Sandbox knows how to deliver safe helmets that stand out on the piste. This unisex Classic Snow 2.0 helmet is definitely value for money.

Comfort and function are what the Classic Snow 2.0 Helmet is all about. There’s venting both at the front of the helmet as well as a goggle compatible venting under the peak of the helmet. This makes for a much more comfortable ride as the helmet doesn’t cause the goggles to fog up. On top of that, the two vents link up to internal channels in the helmet that draw air through its shell and out of two vents at the back.

If you’re one to put their tunes in while riding, the removable audio compatible ear pads will be like the icing on the cake. Removing the ear pads will also come in handy for the warmer days, as well as the removable lining.

MORE INFO:
SANDBOX.COM

Top

Share

Newsletter Terms & Conditions

Please enter your email so we can keep you updated with news, features and the latest offers. If you are not interested you can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell your data and you'll only get messages from us and our partners whose products and services we think you'll enjoy.

Read our full Privacy Policy as well as Terms & Conditions.

production