A ski helmet is an essential part of snow sports equipment. When skiing and riding, you are traveling at incredibly high speeds, and It’s important to wear a helmet to protect yourself from head injuries.
Rentals are always an option, but having your own helmet gives you the peace of mind that it’s impact-free, safe, and fits you well. As you head out, remember what a wise skier once told me: “Only ski trees as fast as you’re willing to hit a tree.”
Let’s take a look at the best ski helmets for 2023 and beyond.
The best ski helmets
Best budget: OutdoorMaster KELVIN Ski Helmet
- Reinforced ABS shell with shock-absorbing EPS core
- 14 individual vents deliver ultimate day-long comfort
- Removable ear pads and fleece lining can be easily washed
- Adjustable sizing for the perfect fit
- Fully ASTM safety certified
Suppose safety and style are equally as important to you. In that case, you will love this Outdoor Master ski helmet, which fuses those qualities with an advanced airflow evacuation system.
Stay warm and comfortable thanks to soft ear pads and an inner fleece lining, which can even be removed and washed. There’s plenty of plush padding, and the lightweight construction won’t cause discomfort. The helmet has also been designed with 14 individual vents for complete ventilation. I’ve spent up to 10 hours in this helmet and been perfectly comfortable.
Safety-wise, it ticks all the boxes and is ASTM certified. It’s constructed from a reinforced ABS shell, which is available in a choice of nine different sleek matte color combinations. The interior features a shock-absorbing EPS core for both your comfort and protection. Three sizes are available; small, medium, and large, all of which can be further adjusted for a better fit, securing with the adjustable chin strap.
See OutdoorMaster KELVIN Ski Helmet on Amazon
See OutdoorMaster KELVIN Ski Helmet on Walmart
Best all-around helmet: Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Ski Helmet
- AirEvac two ventilation system for ultimate comfort
- Hybrid shell construction with Bombshell ABS and Koyroyd material
- Removable Snapfit SL2 ear pads
- Sleek, low-profile design
- Adjustable BOA FS360 fit system
The Vantage from Smith Optics has an excellent reputation as an all-around helmet, ideal for a wide range of snow sports. Designed with a low profile, it wraps neatly around the head thanks to a Boa 360-degree fit system. Constructed utilizing the brands pioneering AirVav goggle integration technology, it delivers a modern and stylish aesthetic and comes in a wide range of colors.
The helmet utilizes a material called Koroyd, which can absorb 30% more energy on impact than other foam materials. This makes it one of the safest ski helmets around. It may be lightweight and low profile, but it offers excellent damage control and impact resistance levels. Koroyd is also fully breathable and the open cell construction allows fresh air in while expelling hot air and preventing overheating. The Aerocore ventilation system provides constant airflow with 21 different vents, which can each be adjusted according to temperature conditions.
The Smith Vantage is an excellent choice if you are looking for the perfect blend of style and technology in an all-weather ski helmet.
See Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Ski Helmet on Amazon
See Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Ski Helmet on Moosejaw
See Smith Optics Vantage MIPS Ski Helmet on REI
Best helmet with a brim: Oakley Mod 5 Adult Snow Helmet
- Modular Brim system
- Hybrid shell construction
- Removable, softly padded, cupped ear pads
- Adjustable BOA fit system
- Uses MIPS safety technology
Originally designed as a responsive race helmet, the Oakley Mod5 comes in three different sizes (small, medium, and large), plus you get to choose from two different-sized brims. There’s also an extensive choice of colors and patterns.
Mod stands for Modular Brim System. What that means is that this visor helmet should fit any size and shape of head and work perfectly well with your goggle system too.
It also features removable ear pads that are comfortably cupped and conveniently fit over your headphones. Featuring a flexible and adjustable BOA fit system, you can also customize the final fit of this helmet to ensure that it’s snug and remains solidly in place. It features MIPS technology that effectively prevents your rotational forces from acting too intensely on your head if you have a nasty fall. Magnetic straps add to an already impressive list of features.
See Oakley Mod 5 Adult Snow Helmet on Amazon
Great ventilation: Wildhorn Drift Snowboard & Ski Helmet
- Lightweight, ergonomic design with excellent fit
- Fitted with VNT technology – adjustable temperature control ventilation system
- Fully meets ASTM 2050 safety standards
- Super plush, comfortable composite foam lining
- Official equipment supplier to the U.S. ski team
The Wildhorn Drift ski and snowboard helmet is designed to offer the highest levels of comfort and protection. This helmet is ergonomically designed, incredibly lightweight, and provides plenty of protection. With its superior construction, it’s up to 25% lighter than the average ski helmet. The brand behind the Drift, Wildhorn Outfitters, also provides equipment to the U.S. ski team.
This helmet is all about advanced manufacturing techniques, providing a sharp performance edge. It meets ASTM F2040 safety standards and uses composite foam technology for comfort. The interior lining offers extra insulation.
It’s also an excellent choice if you want to limit head sweat. The Drift has a patented system known as VNT, which enables adjustable temperature control of the helmet’s advanced ventilation system. The fully vented system combines both direct and indirect airflow. Simply slide open or close the vents according to your preferences. The Drift is also audio compatible, featuring ear pads and a fine-tuned adjustment system known as FTA, which can be micro-adjusted for fit and feel.
See Wildhorn Drift Snowboard & Ski Helmet on Amazon
See Wildhorn Drift Snowboard & Ski Helmet on Walmart
Space saver: Retrospec Traverse H1 Convertible Ski Helmet
- Reinforced ABS shell with shock-absorbing EPS core
- 10 individual vents deliver improved comfort and air circulation
- Removable ear pads and fleece lining can be easily washed
- Convertible style helmet ideal for multiple sports
- Lightweight and compact design for enhanced functionality
If you’re on the hunt for a convertible-style helmet that will serve you just as well on your mountain bike as on your snowboard, then this Traverse H1 safety-certified helmet from Retrospec is an excellent choice. There’s no need to purchase two separate helmets and no special steps are required to transform your helmet for your chosen outdoor activity. It also comes in a wide range of colors.
The helmet features a durable and supportive ABS shell combined with a shock-absorbing EPS interior. There’s a removable fleece lining and plush earmuffs which provide additional warmth and protection and are washable. Fitted with ten vents, you completely control your temperature. There’s also a goggle clip that keeps your eyewear securely in place, plus an adjustable ErgoKnob dial, which can be operated single-handed to adjust fit.
See Retrospec Traverse H1 Convertible Ski Helmet on Amazon
Most adjustable: Giro Nine MIPS Snow Ski Helmet
- Multi-directional impact protection system
- In-mold construction
- In-form fit system
- Adjustable vents
- Compatible with Giro audio systems
The Giro Nine has been around for more than a decade. It’s one of the most popular snow helmets and is a staple of snow sports enthusiasts worldwide. It’s an in-mold helmet which means it has an EPS liner on the inside of the helmet that absorbs the impact, as well as a tough polycarbonate outer shell. This makes the helmet lighter and cooler than other helmets, perfect for those long days on the slopes.
MIPS stands for multi-directional impact protection system. That means that the helmet protects against angled impacts where the head can roll around. These sorts of impacts are common in snow sports, so this technology is something to look out for.
It’s fully adjustable to fit any sized head and can be moved to make way for big goggles, sunglasses, or a big collar on the back of your coat. Plus, it has lots of ventilation that can be opened or shut depending on conditions. Giro has their own audio systems, which slot into this helmet. The audio quality is great, and you don’t feel like you’re wearing headphones at all.
See Giro Nine MIPS Snow Ski Helmet on Amazon
Recommended: Zionor Lagopus H1 Ski Helmet
- ABS & EPS material protection
- Adjustable, sweat-absorbent straps
- Goggle loop
- Adjustable vents
If you’re looking for something toward the cheaper end of the ski helmet spectrum, the Zionor Lagopus is a great option. You get pretty much all the features and protection you would get from a more expensive lid without paying a premium price.
The Lagopus helmet combines ABS and EPS materials for double protection. Its reinforced construction means it will handle impact as well as any other helmet in this price range, but it doesn’t feature MIPS or other protection features.
The helmet is easily adjustable and the chin strap is sweat-absorbent. The breathable lining is perfect for adapting to the weather. Because Zionor also makes ski goggles, they know how to make their helmets goggle-friendly. The loop on the back of the lid will keep your goggles stable at high speeds and make sure they don’t drop off on the lift back up. Plus, like most modern helmets, it has a ventilation system that gives you the option to open or close your vents depending on the weather.
See Zionor Lagopus H1 Ski Helmet on Amazon
Best entry-level helmet: Smith Holt Snow Helmet
- Bombshell construction ABS shell
- Adjustable vents
- Made for Smith goggles
- Skullcandy Audio System optional
Smith is one of the original ski brands. Dr. Bob Smith invented the first sealed thermal lens goggles in 1965 because he wanted to get in a few more powder runs when the weather wasn’t great. The company has been making high-quality ski gear for over 50 years.
The Smith Holt is an entry-level helmet. For the larger sizes, you are looking at around $70, but you still get a lot of style and protection for your money. It’s a great-looking helmet that comes in a range of colors. It has a classic style that will suit any skier.
Plus, it has a lot of the technology of more expensive helmets. The impact-resistant “Bombshell Construction” uses an injection of ABS material to protect your head and the ventilation system keeps your head cool or warm, weather dependent. The helmet will fit any goggles, but it will feel most comfortable with a pair of Smith optic goggles, as they are designed together. You can also buy a Skullcandy Audio System that fits into the helmet, but these are sold separately.
See Smith Holt Snow Helmet on Amazon
See Smith Holt Snow Helmet on REI
Premium ski helmet: Sweet Protection Grimnir 2Vi MIPS Helmet
- Carbon fiber shell
- Audio-ready design
- MIPS technology
- Vents for airflow
- Occigrip dial fit system for easy adjustments
- Lightweight helmet at 1lb 7oz
The Sweet Protection Grimnir 2Vi MIPS Helmet is one of the best MIPS-equipped helmets. While this model is in the premium range, it’s equipped with tons of features to make it well worth it. Some of the stand-out features include a carbon fiber shell, an audio-ready design for music lovers, ventilation slots for airflow, and an occigrip dial fit system for a quick fit.
A carbon fiber shell also makes this one of the lightest helmets on our list while maintaining incredible strength and durability. Unlike cheaper helmet manufacturers, this helmet complies with CE EN1077 class B/ASTM2040 safety standards, so you know you’re getting maximum protection.
See Sweet Protection Grimnir 2Vi MIPS Helmet on Backcountry
See Sweet Protection Grimnir 2Vi MIPS Helmet on Amazon
See Sweet Protection Grimnir 2Vi MIPS Helmet on EVO
Great for park days: Anon Raider 3 Helmet
- Endura shell construction is durable for slide-outs, park days, and trees
- Ear pads for warmth and comfort
- Fleece lining for comfort
- Auto-adjust fit
- Vents to keep goggles from fogging
The Anon Raider 3 Helmet is a cool ski helmet for resort riding. It’s cost-effective, warm, and comfortable and comes with ear pads to keep cold air out and air vents up top for temperature regulation. While we don’t get a ton of bells and whistles here, we do get a high-quality helmet. The fleece lining is soft and comfortable and the auto-adjustable fit system will ensure a perfect fit.
This model doesn’t feature MIPS technology but the endura-shell construction can take slide-outs on the park and tree branches like a champ.
See Anon Raider 3 Helmet on Backcountry
See Anon Raider 3 Helmet on Amazon
See Anon Raider 3 Helmet on EVO
Why trust us
Having suffered a severe brain injury because of a ski accident when an out-of-control boarder hit me, I will personally attest to how important ski and snowboard helmets are. After that incident, I had to replace my helmet and researched the best ski helmets on the market so that I could protect my brain and ensure that if I had another collision, I would be better protected than the first time. All of that knowledge and research, as well as everything I learned about head injuries, I’m passing to you in this guide.
Who this is for
I firmly believe that every skier and snowboarder should be wearing a helmet when skiing downhill or dealing with overhead hazards.
How we picked
Selecting the best ski helmets started with extensive market research, prioritizing those with MIPS technology and angled impact protection. I also looked for models with protective features, adjustable vents and fit, and plenty of safety features.
How we tested
Testing the best ski helmets meant riding with them. We tested both in-bounds and out of bounds. We left no stone unturned in our testing.
Features to look for in ski helmets
Let’s take a look then at some of the key features that you should consider before investing in a new ski helmet.
Ventilation
Venting is necessary to allow cool air to circulate your head. The weather on a mountain can rapidly change, and being too hot is just as dangerous and uncomfortable as being too cold. The higher the level of ventilation, the better the overall airflow. There are two types of venting systems available, referred to as passive and active. Passive is fixed and can’t be adapted, whereas active vents can be adjusted and modified during the day according to weather and temperature changes.
Material construction
You have a couple of choices depending on the type you go for (hard, in-mold, or hybrid). Most snow sports helmets are made from polycarbonate, carbon fiber, or a fiberglass outer shell, all of which offer excellent protection, impact absorption, and are lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Ear covers
Temperatures change rapidly when you’re in the mountains and your extremities are the first to feel the cold. You could opt to wear a balaclava or wooly hat under your helmet to protect your ears or go instead for a helmet featuring earbuds.
Chin strap
If you don’t have a chin strap securing your helmet in place, chances are your helmet won’t stay in place. The chin strap should be adjustable so that you can customize the fit. Also, consider going for one that’s sweat-absorbent which will add to the overall comfort of wearing a ski helmet.
Protection system
If you are new to the sport or you take your safety seriously, then you should consider going for a helmet that features MIPS (multi-directional impact protection). MIPS isn’t available in all helmets but it’s an excellent feature reducing rotational forces on the brain that can be caused by impact at different angles. In helmets featuring MIPS, a low friction layer sandwiched between the outer shell and the inner liner works to absorb energy on impact. This allows the helmet to slide directionally according to the impact angle, protecting the head.
Fit
We cover fit more in depth below. In short, your helmet should be snug and comfortable without restricting movement or hurting your ears or chin. You shouldn’t have any obvious gaps anywhere in your helmet.
Goggle compatibility
Goggle compatibility is another must-have for all ski helmets. Before purchasing, check and see if your goggles are compatible with your ski helmet and that you feel comfortable getting them in and out with a gloved hand.
Warmth
Depending on the kind of skiing you’re doing, how much warmth you need will vary. Folks who are only skiing in the ski resort can get away with extremely warm helmets with great insulation. Anyone doing ski touring, backcountry skiers, or folks who are ski mountaineering will be working out a sweat on the up but may want a helmet on during that time to protect themselves from overhead hazards. They will need plenty of ventilation or even adjustable ventilation.
Type of helmet
There are two main types of snow sports helmets, hard shell or in-mold. Some variations exist (hybrid designs), which are a mixture of the other two, providing the best of both worlds.
Hardshell
Utilizes a durable ABS shell bonded to a lightweight EPS liner. This style provides less overall ventilation but tends to be more affordable and hard-wearing. It’s a popular choice and excellent at absorbing impact from a fall or collision.
In-mold
Consists of a tough polycarbonate outer with an impact-absorbing EPS foam liner. This style of helmet is more comfortable and lightweight and offers a good amount of head ventilation while still providing impact protection. They’re well-fitting and flexible and tend to be available in more stylish-looking designs.
Hybrid
Helmets are a mix of the two, blending to deliver balance with durability, and ventilation with ample protection.
Ski helmet safety certifications
Currently, a global safety standard isn’t in effect, so look out for your local standards and ensure that your helmet complies with the following to be confident that it offers adequate protection:
Common European norm (CEN)
The American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) – the minimum standard required F2040
Snell memorial foundation
Protection level Snell RS-98
Ski helmet FAQ
Q: How should my ski helmet fit?
Your ski helmet should deliver a snug and comfortable fit that won’t come loose or move around too much. To ensure you have the correct size, measure around the fullest part of your head, above your ears, using a tape measure. It’s also recommended to try your helmet on for a final sizing before purchasing, or if buying online, ensure that there is a return policy.
To be sure, align the front of your helmet with your eyebrows and tighten the chinstrap in place. There should be no discernible gaps between the inner lining and your head. Also, ensure that the back of the helmet isn’t digging into your neck uncomfortably, causing restricted movement. It’s additionally a good idea to try your helmet on with regular ski goggles to make sure that everything fits well together.
Q: Why should I wear a ski helmet?
While it is a matter of personal preference and not currently mandatory, a helmet is essential if you want to protect your head against impact. Even if you are the most competent and experienced skier in the world, it only takes someone else to lose control and crash into you on the slopes for a potentially life-threatening accident to occur.
Q: How often should I replace my ski helmet?
Any time you’ve had a crash or suffered some kind of direct impact, your helmet should ideally be replaced. That’s also the same if you drop your helmet too. Just one case of impact could seriously compromise the overall effectiveness of your helmet and put you at risk of a head injury.
Q: What is MIPS?
MIPS stands for Multi-Directional Impact System. MIPS technology reduces rotational forces on the head in the event of a crash which can reduce the severity of head injuries. As someone who has had a severe head injury from a ski accident, I highly recommend a helmet with MIPS technology.
Q: Do I wear a hat under a ski helmet?
Generally, no, you won’t wear a hat under a ski helmet, as this can cause your helmet to fit improperly. Additionally, most helmets are insulated and warm enough that you don’t need a hat underneath. If you’d like coverage under your helmet, your best bet is a balaclava.
Sources:
- Helmet Safety – National Ski Patrol
- Ski Helmet Fact Sheet – Centers For Disease Control And Prevention
