Best Snowboard Helmet Reviews of Top Consumer Rated Models
How do you go about choosing the best snowboard helmet? Whether you’re purchasing your first helmet or looking for a replacement, or simply upgrading after a crash that destroyed your last helmet, putting some research and thought into your choice can enhance your experience out there on the slopes.
While there may be a lack of agreement on just how effective snowboard helmets are at preventing serious injury, studies have shown that each year an ever greater percentage of sports enthusiasts are choosing to wear one. And many people can agree that some protection out on the slopes is better than no protection at all.
There is currently no law that dictates the manufacturing standards for snow sports helmets, but there are a couple of independent organizations that certify these helmets. The American Society for Testing and Materials is currently the main standard to which most companies design and manufacture their helmets. The CEN, also referred to as the European Committee for Standardization is the other certifying agency.
While safety, design and function are all important when it comes to finding the best helmet for skiing or boarding, comfort will be a major concern and one that can affect how much or how little time you spend in the snow.
Snowboarding Helmets Buying Guide
In order to narrow down your search for the right model, we recommend reading snowboard helmet reviews. Here, we’ve divided snowboard helmets into a couple of major categories. However, we don’t distinguish between helmets for snowboarding and skiing. The biggest design criteria is protection and fit which share the same standards for both types of snow sports. The main differences in accessories for both of these sports will involve style. As fashion continues to evolve, the aesthetic distinctions are becoming less significant. The main difference between the first couple of categories involves the design and function.
An injection molded model will consist of a thin polycarbonate shell that’s uniformly filled with EPS. This type of helmet is lighter, more expensive and can be equipped with more vents and molded closer than a hard shell model.
The hard shell helmets features the classic skateboard style. These helmets are more affordable and heavier than injection molded models. This style of helmet is made with a hard ABS shell that features EPS foam on the inside.
A visor helmet will feature a built-in goggle visor which the wearer can flip down or up. This helmet style is popular among glasses wearers as well as individuals who prefer wearing sunglasses over wearing traditional goggles. The built-in visor will allow the wearer to easily switch between a built-in low light lens and sunglasses for bright light.
The fit of the helmet you choose will be crucial to your safety and comfort when you’re on the slopes, so finding the right fit will be your first step. A helmet’s fit will influence your vulnerability to the elements and overall comfort. When you’re sizing a new helmet you’ll first need to determine your head shape. Head shapes are often lumped into a few different categories: round oval, intermediate oval and long oval. While each person has a head that’s roughly oval shaped, the degree of the oval-ness can vary. The shape of the circumference of the head will be what’s important. A more extreme oval shape is considered a long oval head shape. In order to determine your head shape you should have someone check out your head from a top view. Measuring your head is another option and many manufacturers will include a size chart that you can check out before you order.
If you’ve never worn a snowboard or ski helmet before, you’ll probably be blown away by how warm they can keep you. A good helmet, paired with goggles will keep the wearer better protected from wind and cold than any kind of hood and toque combo. The thick foam found on the inside of a helmet provides much needed insulation. The ear covers should also be insulated and thick and feature a curve down with a little tension for full protection. In order to keep out the cold and wind, the cheek and forehead area will need to form a uniform seal with the help of your goggles.
Goggle compatibility will be crucial as well and can affect the overall comfort of your time in the snow. Poor fitting goggles can let in drafts, push the helmet back on the head or press down too hard on the nose. Fortunately, there are many models of helmets that are highly compatible with a variety of goggle styles, but on average most helmets are only compatible with goggles produced by the same manufacturer, so do your homework before you buy. There should be no gap between the helmet and the top of the goggles. Be sure that the helmet fits nice and snug over the top of the goggles, but it shouldn’t sit too low otherwise it can push the goggles down or hinder vision. A helmet must be positioned low enough to protect the forehead.
Goggle clips and straps will allow the wearer to attach the goggles to the outside of a helmet. Because of this, the shape of the helmet should be a good match for the style of goggles you choose.
A series of vents can let warm, steamy air out and bring cool air in. Some models feature removable plugs, which means the user will have to remove the helmet in order to adjust the airflow. Helmets with adjustable vents are more ideal. A helmet with this style of venting system allows the user to simply push a lever to instantly fine-tune airflow.
A popular add-on is a Go Pro camera and some styles of helmets feature built-in camera mounts. So look for this feature if you plan on doing a little shooting.
Some models also feature built-in speakers, which will allow the user to listen to their favorite tunes using their smartphone, MP3 player or two way radio. Other helmets just require the addition of ear buds and you’ll be set.
Drop liners and detachable ear pads allow the wearer to customize how much warmth is needed. The removable liners are machine washable for added convenience. Make sure the removable liner is made from moisture wicking fabric. This type of fabric works to draw sweat away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Protection stickers will show that your helmet has been tested and meets certain standards. Look for this type of rating and approval on each model you’re considering.
Your new helmet will also need a chin strap that’s highly adjustable, comfortable and easy to get on and off. Some helmets are equipped with magnetic clips for easier access.
Getting Rid of Your Old Ski Helmet
Helmets are not designed to last a lifetime. With most models sporting EPS liners, which are essentially air and plastic beads that are packed together tightly, EPS models have a reputation for cracking upon impact. This in turn will jeopardize the helmet’s protection the next time you hit the slopes. Because of this, most models that feature EPS are labeled as single impact helmets.
EPP is the other type of impact absorbing material that’s commonly used. Helmets that feature this material are often rated for multiple impacts. While they have a slightly lower safety threshold compared to EPS models, an EPP helmet is more commonly found on the slopes because they don’t have to be replaced after one crash.
But even if you don’t ever crash you’ll still need to replace your helmet at some point. In fact, experts in this field recommend replacing your helmet every three years. After each use, the materials in a helmet slowly breakdown over time. This is often caused by exposure to the elements, hair products, cleaning chemicals and sweat.
Fortunately, many of the major companies feature crash replacement programs and this is definitely worth looking into before buying. This kind of program involves a huge discount on replacement helmets after a helmet has been compromised by a fall.
Other Must-Have Snowboarding Gear
Aside from your board and helmet, a good pair of socks specifically designed for snowboarding is a must for any avid boarder. Ditch the cheap acrylic socks and instead purchase proper snowboard socks that work to wick moisture away and will leave your feet feeling warm and dry. These socks also work to promote circulation and while a little pricey, they’re definitely worth it if you like spending long days boarding.
While goggle shopping, check out low light models. While mirrored lenses look cool, if the sky clouds over, you’ll have next to zero visibility, which is why your main goggles of choice should be low lights.
Plenty of beginner boarders often make the mistake of purchasing super heavy gloves for their first time out on the mountain. But unless you’re hitting the slopes at the coldest point in January or you’re at altitude it’s not likely that you will need gloves that are designed for twenty below. Instead, pack a light or mid weight pair of gloves. These gloves will not cause overheating or make your hands excessively sweaty. You should also bring along a pair of cotton-free glove liners, just in case the temperature drops or you end up with wet gloves.
Cotton clothing is a big no-no in the snow. Cotton’s inability to keep moisture away from the skin means you’ll be freezing in no time. Instead, invest in some thermals made from moisture wicking material.
Last of all, you’ll definitely need waterproof, warm pants and a jacket in order to survive in the snow all day. Instead of purchasing outerwear based on style, look for the best functioning gear that you can afford. Check out the pants and jacket waterproof rating. The higher the rating number the better the waterproofing. More important than waterproofing is breathability. You’ll need any excess sweat to wick away quickly, so also be sure to check out the breathability rating.
A longer jacket will provide more warmth and protection against the elements than a short model. They are also actually pretty useful when it comes to keeping snow outside of your clothes, which is very important when you’re a newbie because you’ll spend plenty of time falling during your first few times on the mountain.
Snowboard Helmet Comparison Chart
| Image | Product | Comparison | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Women's Snow Helmet | Available in 32 colors Equipped with a 21 vent system Highly adjustable Features removable earpieces Innovative lightweight design | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | POC Receptor BUG Communication Ski Helmet | Available in 2 color choices Heavy design Double vent system Removable earpieces | $$$$ | 3.2 |
 | Smith Optics Unisex Adult Vantage Snow Sports Helmet | Equipped with a twenty-one vent system Lightweight design Highly adjustable Available in 33 color options | $$ | 4.5 |
Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Women’s Snow Helmet Review
The Vantage Smith Optics snow helmet for women is designed to fit a wide range of head shapes and comes with removable earpieces and the popular Boa tensioning system which allows the wearer to get the best fit. This helmet is also available in thirty-two different colors, and features high compatibility with a wide range of goggles. Consumers will also enjoy the extensive, adjustable venting system that lets out the hot air and encourages cool air to circulate. The overall comfort and versatility of the Vantage is what makes this model our top rated product.
POC Receptor BUG Communication Ski Helmet Review
The Receptor Bug POC ski helmet features an injection molded design and the classic retro skateboarding helmet look. This is a hard shell model that’s much heavier than traditional helmets, but it offers ultimate protection and is safety certified. It also includes thick foam and lining fabrics which have been described by consumers as soft and comfortable. However, while it remains a popular model among consumers, the overall fit of this helmet is anything but versatile.
Smith Optics Unisex Adult Vantage Snow Sports Helmet Review
The adult Vantage unisex snow helmet is another popular model by Smith Optics and it comes with a ton of popular features including an impressive venting system, airflow climate control and a wide range of color options. Like many newer helmets made by Smith Optics, the unisex Vantage features the patented Boa fit system, making this helmet highly adjustable and allowing wearers to turn a dial until they get the perfect fit.