Ski helmets aren’t just a stylish accessory, but an essential piece of equipment that can spell the difference between a minor tumble and a life-altering injury. In fact, “Helmets provide a 63 to 88% reduction in the risk of head, brain and severe brain injury for all ages,” according to a University of Washington study. And because skiing and snowboarding are inherently risky activities with high speeds, unpredictable terrain and the potential for collisions with others on the mountain, you’ll need one of the best ski helmets to provide critical protection. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice who’s hitting the slopes for the first time, prioritize your safety and wear a helmet that looks and feels good.
Conquer the mountain in style and comfort with the best ski helmets.
Choosing the best ski helmet is a bit like choosing the best pair of skis—it’s complicated. Not only does it come down to where you plan to use the helmet, but also how it looks, fits and what features it offers. Fit is probably the most important attribute to consider when buying a ski helmet because it directly influences whether or not you’re comfortable wearing your helmet all day, every day. But you’ll also want to consider how it pairs with your broader kit, and whether or not it features venting, impact protection and a washable liner.
Among these considerations, impact protection is obviously a no-brainer these days—all ski helmets sold from a reputable retailer meet the required safety and testing standards. However, you may want to opt for advanced levels of protection, especially if you’re a beginner who’s likely to fall often or a racer where high-speed crashes could have devastating consequences.
From race helmets with maximum impact protection to lightweight, fully vented options for those who prefer to earn their turns, we’ve rounded up the best ski helmets for all types and abilities.
- Best Ski Helmet Overall: Sweet Protection 2Vi MIPS
- Best Value Ski Helmet: Wildhorn Drift
- Best Ski Helmet For Beginners: Smith Method
- Best Ski Helmet For Women: Pret Lyric X2
- Best Ski Helmet For Kids: Smith Glide Jr. MIPS
- Best Ski Helmet-Goggle Combo: Oakley MOD7
- Best Premium Ski Helmet: Anon Merak Wavecel
- Best All-Mountain Ski Helmet: Atomic Four Amid Pro
- Best Backcountry Ski Helmet: Salomon MTN Lab
- Best All-Season Ski Helmet: POC Calyx
MOST POPULAR
Backcountry
Sweet Protection Igniter 2Vi MIPS
Shell material: Polycarbonate | Vents: 10 | Visor/Brim: Yes | Advanced impact protection: MIPS | Weight: 1.4 pounds
The Igniter 2Vi Mips from Sweet Protection is your lightweight, highly-ventilated, all-mountain performer. Built on the brand’s 2Vi platform, the helmet offers the highest level of safety without increasing mass and volume thanks to three levels of protection. As a first line of defense, the hard outer shell employs various levels of thickness to provide more protection to vulnerable zones of the head, while the inner shock absorbing structure is made from four densities of foam to accommodate the impact response from different zones. Finally, in order to cope with rotational forces applied to the brain in the event of a crash, MIPS technology is included.
Ten large ventilation ports can be adjusted depending on the weather, including two at the front to prevent your goggles from fogging up. A simple twist of the dial at the back of the helmet lets you customize the fit, with a goggle hook and retainer as well as an internal goggle garage if you prefer to wear them under your helmet. The comfortable, box constructed ear pads are audio-ready and removable, and the magnetic buckle strap is easy to operate with gloved hands. Pair the Igniter 2Vi with one of our favorite ski goggles, the Sweet Protection Connor RIG Reflect, to complete the look.
Pros:
- Top-class impact protection
- Lightweight and low volume
- Lots of color options
Cons:
- Pricey
Shell material: Polycarbonate | Vents: 15 | Visor/Brim: Yes | Advanced impact protection: ASTM F2040/EN1077 class B certified | Weight: 1.1 pounds
Bona fide bargains are hard to come by in the skiing world, but this value-driven, feature-packed helmet ticks all the right boxes. There’s no MIPS protection here, which isn’t surprising given the sub-$100 price, but the foam and polycarbonate shell will keep you safe in style.
We were impressed by how well made, and light, the Drift was, and in our test rides, the adjustable ventilation ports kept us cool—and prevented goggle fogging. It’s not a new helmet design, but Wildhorn have created a workhorse of a lid that’s ideal for most mountain users. There’s no XS or XL sizing though, so measure carefully.
Special mention goes to the FTA (essentially a BOA dial) system that applies even pressure around the head for a comfortable barely-there fit, and also the soft ear pads that are warm without being too bulky, and feature zip access for adding in Bluetooth speakers if that’s your thing.
Pros:
- Classic style
- Superb value
- Great dialed-in fit
Cons:
- No MIPS
- Limited sizes
REI
Smith Method MIPS Koroyd
Shell material: Polycarbonate | Vents: 8 | Visor/Brim: Yes | Advanced impact protection: MIPS, Koroyd | Weight: 0.875 pound
Style, protection and value is the name of the game with the Smith Method. It comes with MIPS—which is fast becoming an essential acronym when choosing helmets–but also features something called zonal Koroyd. Invented by Smith, and already seen on several mountain bike helmets, the impact protection technology is similar to Wavecel (see the Anon Merak). Koroyd has a honeycomb texture that dissipates more kinetic energy than a typical foam helmet.
Weighing a mere 14 ounces, the Method is sensationally light. It lacks a BOA-style twist-fastening system and a magnetic chin strap, which is a shame, but the simple, elasticated fit system flexes nicely to match your head. We imagine this also helps keeps pricing low.
In our test, the helmet was comfortable and unobtrusive, and we enjoyed using the compatible Aleck Nunchucks wireless audio system. The lid fit a wide range of goggles without issue, and the ventilation system eliminated any chance of fogging. In fact, our only complaint with this helmet is the fact the channelled profile inside gave us a serious case of triple mohawk helmet hair.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Light and comfortable
- MIPS and Koroyd impact protection
Cons:
- Basic fit system
Shell material: Polycarbonate | Vents: 12 | Visor/Brim: Yes | Advanced impact protection: MIPS | Weight: 0.98 pound
A favorite amongst Pret’s female athletes, and currently on sale at the time of writing, the Lyric X2 performs equally well at the resort or in the backcountry. This women’s ski helmet takes a lightweight and simple approach to ventilation—choose to keep the 12 vents open for maximum airflow during high-output activities like skinning up, or remove the helmet liner and manually fold down the flaps for a quick change when things get a little chilly.
The lightweight helmet shell is made from overlapping polycarbonate plates that effectively double the shell thickness in critical areas for added safety and durability. Pair that with MIPS technology that reduces rotational forces to the brain in the event of a crash, and you have top-quality impact protection.
A dial at the back of the helmet enables you to adjust the fit up to 4 centimetrs of range and when you want to remove your helmet for that apres-ski drink, simply pull the dial outwards to release all the tension. Other features include an anti-odor wool-blend liner, a magnetic buckle that’s easy to operate with one gloved hand and audio-ready ear covers.
All Pret helmets are designed to work with a large variety of goggles, with a unique brim shape that eliminates any gaper gaps and helps with goggle venting. The Lyric X2 comes in three sizes and a variety of colors—there’s even a special edition helmet designed by Pret athlete Caroline Gleich.
Pros:
- Advanced impact protection
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons:
- Manual vent operation
Shell material: Polycarbonate | Vents: 8 | Visor/Brim: No | Advanced impact protection: MIPS | Weight: 0.75 pounds
The Smith Glide Jr MIPS ski helmet is available in many fun colours (choose the brightest and they’ll be harder to lose) and three different adjustable sizes to fit a variety of ages and growing heads. The buckle and adjustment dial are super easy for kids to use, even with gloved hands, while the fuzzy lining feels soft against the face and head (it also adds a level of warmth).
Several vents, including front vents that work in tandem with Smith goggles to prevent the lenses from fogging up, keep air flowing so your little ones don’t overheat when tearing down the slopes,
To further ease the minds of parents, the Glide Jr. helmet is equipped with MIPS advanced impact protection technology that reduces rotational forces to the brain in the event of a crash.
Pros:
- MIPS advanced impact protection
- Variety of fun colors and sizes
Cons:
- Works best with Smith goggles
Shell material: Dyramatter Hybrid Shell | Vents: Adjustable | Brim: Yes | Advanced impact protection: MIPS | Weight: 1.23 pounds | Lenses: Prizm Visor
Oakley isn’t the first brand to offer a seamless helmet and goggle combo, but with the MOD7, they’ve actually made one that looks cool and performs. There’s bags of style here—as opposed to the unusual sci-fi visor vibe they tend to give off. In fact, it looks like a stylish MIPS helmet with a well-fitted premium goggle that just so happens to have no strap and weighs a mere 1.23 pounds all-in.
Aside from a supremely comfortable helmet boasting great ventilation and an internal retention system that hugs the head in all directions, the headline feature is obviously the fact the goggles clip directly onto the helmet. Dubbed Secure-Connect, it uses a combination of spring-loaded clasps and magnets on the goggle, and fixing points on the helmet to keep the lens in position. There are also clips on the front of the helmet lid for storing goggles, just as you would with regular strapped goggles.
Clipping the goggles on and off, especially wearing gloves, takes practice and a fair amount of force and faff—you’ll soon stop being tender with your lenses—but once they’re clunk-clicked into position, they work brilliantly. And because you can adjust the distance the goggles sit from your face, they offer the most seamless and comfortable eyewear solution we’ve ever worn.
Pros:
- Seamless goggle integration
- Style and comfort
- Expansive viewing experience
Cons:
- Beyond premium pricing
- You have decent goggles already
Backcountry
Anon Merak Wavecel
Shell material: Hybrid Endura-shell | Vents: 19 | Visor/Brim: Yes | Advanced impact protection: Wavecel | Weight: 1.05 pounds
A premium helmet with exceptional ventilation and the very latest in impact absorption technology, the Merek is one of the first winter sports helmets to feature Wavecel—a honeycomb-like interconnected series of shock absorbers that work like a car’s crumple zone by redistributing the force of impacts away from the head. It’s the only form of helmet safety technology to receive funding from the National Institute of Health.
Aside from Wavecel, the two-part helmet construction has 19 ventilation channels, it feels extremely light to wear and the top shell is reinforced to withstand daily dinks and dents. We’d recommend sizing up if you’re between size ranges as Wavecel helmets are designed to be snug, but there’s no doubting the comfort, thanks in part to the Polartec fleece lining and best-in-class 360-degree BOA Fit System.
And thankfully, given the high price, Anon hasn’t scrimped on the extras, with on-
trend colorways, a Fidlock magnetic helmet strap that should be mandatory on all lids and seamless fit for a wide range of goggles.
Pros:
- Next-gen impact protection
- Excellent ventilation
- As stylish as they come
Cons:
- Pricey
- No third-party audio compatibility
Shell material: ABS, in-mold | Vents: Active Aircon | Visor/Brim: No | Advanced Impact Protection: Yes | Weight: 0.83 pounds
For bunny slopes, greens, blues, blacks, sidecountry and yes, even the backcountry, Atomic’s Four Amid Pro helmet delivers on all fronts no matter the terrain. As the designated all-mountain helmet for Atomic’s professional freeski team, this juggernaut of a brain bucket delivers unparalleled comfort, protection, ventilation and added features no matter where you decide to get after it.
The hybrid construction of the exterior shell combines harder materials about the crown of your head to boost protection while a lighter in-mold shell about the base sheds weight. Underneath, Atomic’s HOLO Core padding creates an extended crumple zone to maximize shock absorption (it’s 30% higher than industry standards) and ventilation points shed warmth as your runs heat up. To deliver a secure fit, Atomic employs a turn-dial tightener that secures the helmet around your entire head, and Live Fit pads mold to your noggin to dampen low-level impacts.
Beyond all the science and tech, a merino wool liner naturally eliminates odors and a magnetic Fidlock buckle makes it easy to open and close the locking mechanism with one gloved hand. Should you ever get lost out of bounds, an integrated RECCO reflector helps rescuers determine your location. Find the Four Amid Pro in four colorways through Evo, one of which features artist and skier Chris Benchetler’s signature graphics.
Pros:
- Hybrid shell boosts protection and sheds weight
- Merino liner adds warmth and eliminates odors
- Magnetic buckle offers one-handed locking and unlocking
Cons:
- Pricey
- Design lacks additional vents
Backcountry
Salomon MTN Lab
Shell material: Polycarbonate | Vents: 14 | Visor/Brim: No | Advanced Impact Protection: No | Weight: 0.80 pounds
Lightweight with a massive amount of venting, the Salomon MTN Lab is the ski helmet for those who prefer to earn their turns. The helmet is certified for ski, climb and bike, so it’s perfect for off-piste skiers exploring untouched terrain, and even those who like to bike to the resort.
The 100% Merino wool liner helps keep you warm even if you get sweaty and cuts down on the stink factor. On sunny spring days or for summer climb and bike adventures, swap out the wool liner for the included summer liner to improve breathability.
For those dawn patrol sessions, a purpose-built retainer along the sides of the helmet keeps your headlamp in place so it doesn’t slide around. Other features include an easy-to-use adjustment system and the standard goggle (or headlamp) retainer at the back of the helmet.
Pros:
- Multi-sport approved
- Lightweight
- Well-ventilated
- Goggle/headlamp retainer
Cons:
- No advanced impact protection
- Not as warm due to large amount of venting
Shell material: ABS | Vents: 3x channels | Visor/Brim: No | Advanced Impact Protection: MIPS | Weight: 1.27 pounds (Medium)
Swedish outdoor brand POC (Piece Of Cake, who knew!) likes to do things a little differently, and their latest design, the Calyx, was developed as a multifunctional helmet for skiing, mountaineering and cycling. Many old-school snowboarders fondly recall removing ear pads and using their helmets for skateboarding come summer, and POC has updated this idea, albeit with a bit more style, and a whole lot more safety features.
First and foremost, the Calyx has been tested to meet the strict and unique safety standards for cycling, skiing and mountaineering, so there’s no compromise on safety. MIPS is included alongside a dual-density EPS liner, and for added peace of mind in the mountains, there’s an imbedded RECCO transmitter for emergency rescue.
The ear pads are removable for use in warmer temperatures, and they also fold flat, making it one of the most compact helmets to stash in your luggage. There’s a plush neck warmer included for winter use, too. POC’s universal dial-a-fit adjustment system is easy to use, and can also be adjusted vertically to accommodate odd skull shapes.
In our opinion, it looks and feels like a ski helmet with added benefits, which is no bad thing, and we appreciate the versatility, packability and breathability it provides all year round.
Pros:
- Multi-sport safety
- Modular design
- Modern aesthetic
Cons:
- Looks best as a ski helmet
How We Chose The Best Ski Helmets
While we didn’t turn ourselves into crash test dummies, we did rigorously evaluate each helmet by donning them in real-world conditions. But our focus extended beyond mere protection, encompassing crucial factors such as comfort, fit and innovative features. By combining our firsthand experiences with extensive research into customer reviews, we strived to offer recommendations that align with the broader mountain community’s needs and preferences.
Recognizing the dynamic nature of helmet designs and the constant influx of new features, we make it a point to regularly test and update our recommendations, ensuring that you always have access to the best in ski helmet technology each season. This roundup was last updated December 2023.
What To Consider When Shopping For A Ski Helmet
Choosing the right ski helmet is a subjective endeavor—everyone has a different preference in terms of fit, desired features, venting and protection, not to mention style. Here are a few key considerations to help you buy the right ski helmet.
Fit
Fit is probably the most important attribute to consider when buying a ski helmet because it directly influences whether or not you’re comfortable wearing your helmet all day. First, determine the size you need by measuring the circumference of your head just above the brow line, then match that with the range of sizes available from each brand. Once you think you have the right size, it pays to try the helmet on to ensure it fits comfortably and securely. The helmet should be snug, but not too snug. Most helmets come with a built-in adjustment system to dial in the fit, and some even allow you to adjust the level of padding.
Protection
All ski helmets sold from a reputable retailer meet national and internal safety standards these days, but you might want advanced levels of impact protection, especially if you’re a beginner who’s likely to fall or a racer where high speed crashes could have devastating consequences. New technologies such as MIPS, SPIN and newcomer Wavecel, protect your brain against rotational forces in addition to the standard impact protection of the helmet’s foam liner. Keep an eye out for terms like MIPS, SPIN and Wavecel when researching helmets to find those with superior impact protection.
Safety Certifications
Look for helmets that meet safety standards such as ASTM F2040, CE EN 1077 or Snell RS-98. These certifications indicate that the helmet has passed rigorous tests for impact resistance and penetration. While you could purchase a helmet that doesn’t meet these safety standards and save a little money, we don’t suggest doing so. After all, you can’t put a price on your personal health.
Ventilation
On warm days, or if you prefer to earn your turns in the backcountry, venting is necessary to ensure your head doesn’t overheat. But when the weather turns cold and windy, you’ll want more layers to seal in that precious heat. Determine the amount of venting you need for the type of skiing you prefer and the conditions you normally encounter. Many brands offer venting solutions with a switch to open and close the vents depending on the weather, while others align vents on the front rim to help keep your ski goggles from fogging up.
Visor And Goggles Compatibility
Some helmets come with built-in visors or are designed to accommodate goggles, which can be a convenient and practical feature. While fit and comfort will ultimately dictate which goggles are right for you, we recommend shopping for goggles from the same brand that makes your helmet, as you’re more likely to find compatible options that fit well, reduce gaps and make for a more enjoyable experience on the hill.
Audio Compatibility
If you like to listen to music while you earn your turns, look for helmets with built-in audio systems or those that are designed to accommodate headphones. Most every brand on this list offers a helmet with built-in speakers or room for your headphones, so options abound. Just be sure to exercise caution when skiing or boarding when listening to music as you won’t be able to hear others on the hill.
Additional Features
Consider any number of additional features that continue to advance the ski helmet industry. These may include audio compatibility if you enjoy listening to music when you ski or ride, style choices such as color and brim (or no brim) and multisport use—whether the helmet can also be worn while biking or skateboarding.
Are Ski Helmets Necessary?
You can think of a ski helmet as you would a bike helmet: Nobody’s forcing you to wear one, but you absolutely should. Even if you’re a semi-professional skier cruising down an open blue, accidents can happen when you least expect them. You could catch an edge through the trees, stumble over an unforeseen obstacle buried in the snow or suddenly find yourself on a collision course with someone who isn’t in control. Needless to say, wearing a helmet isn’t fun, but it is essential, and today’s ski helmets are more comfortable and capable than ever before. Invest in one that meets your needs and you’ll barely notice it’s on your head.
What Does MIPS Mean For Ski Helmets?
MIPS stands for multi-directional impact protection system, and it’s a new technology designed to manage energy from rotational or angular impacts. While traditional helmets are designed to protect your head in the event of direct impacts, MIPS technology imitates the brain’s natural impact protection system by sliding the helmet over your head upon angled impacts. Some helmets implement MIPS technology, but others like Atomic employ their own MIPS-like technology that’s equally capable in the event of a crash.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Ski Helmet?
Ski manufacturers recommend replacing your helmet every five years, but you should replace it sooner if you notice cracks or defects in the shell, the interior padding is breaking down, or the helmet has been involved in a crash. In fact, you should never wear a helmet that’s been involved in a crash as the helmet’s structural integrity is now compromised. When it’s not in use, the CDC recommends storing your helmet in a cool, dry place to ensure the materials don’t break down over time.
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