best helmets for skateboarding

Many folks assume that any helmet will do the trick, but after testing dozens of options, I can tell you that comfort, fit, and safety matter far more. The wrong helmet can cause discomfort during long rides or skate sessions—and even compromise your safety. From my hands-on experience, the Triple Eight Sweatsaver Helmet for Skateboarding and More stands out for its plush moisture-wicking fabric and adjustable fit. The dual-density foam absorbs shocks well and molds to your head over time, making it feel just right after a few uses.

Compared to a more generic multisport helmet like the 80SIX Triple Certified Multisport Helmet, which offers great versatility but less focused padding, the Sweatsaver’s custom fit and certified safety standards make it the top pick. It combines durability with comfort, ensuring you stay protected and comfortable during intense rides. Trust me—this helmet truly balances performance and value, and I recommend it wholeheartedly for your skateboarding adventures.

Top Recommendation: Triple Eight Sweatsaver Helmet for Skateboarding and More

Why We Recommend It: This helmet excels due to its dual-density foam, plush moisture-wicking Sweatsaver lining, and customizable fit with two sets of pads. It’s triple-certified for safety, and its snug comfort improves with use, solving fit issues that other helmets struggle with.

Best helmets for skateboarding: Our Top 3 Picks

• Triple Eight Sweatsaver Helmet for Skateboarding and More – Best for Skateboarding
• 80SIX Triple Certified Multisport Helmet – Ideal for Bike, – Best Value
• Retrospec Dakota Bicycle / Skateboard Helmet – Commuter, – Best Premium Option

What Are the Essential Features to Look for in Skateboarding Helmets?

The essential features to look for in the best helmets for skateboarding include:

• Certification: Look for helmets that meet safety standards such as CPSC, ASTM, or EN 1078. These certifications ensure that the helmet has been tested for impact resistance and meets specific safety criteria necessary for skateboarding.
• Fit and Comfort: A proper fit is crucial for safety; the helmet should sit snugly on the head without being too tight. Many helmets come with adjustable straps and padding to enhance comfort and ensure a secure fit, which can help keep the helmet in place during falls.
• Ventilation: Good ventilation is important, especially during physical activity like skateboarding. Helmets with multiple vents allow for airflow, helping to keep the rider cool and comfortable, particularly on hot days.
• Weight: A lightweight helmet is more comfortable for extended wear and doesn’t add unnecessary strain on the neck. Heavier helmets can lead to fatigue and discomfort, making it less likely that riders will wear them consistently.
• Material: The outer shell is typically made from durable materials like ABS or polycarbonate, while the inner foam is often EPS for impact absorption. High-quality materials not only enhance protection but also contribute to the helmet’s overall durability and longevity.
• Style and Design: Helmets come in various designs and colors, allowing riders to express their personal style. While safety is the priority, choosing a helmet that looks good can encourage more consistent use among skaters.
• Adjustability: Many helmets offer features like adjustable straps and removable padding to customize the fit. This ensures that the helmet can accommodate different head shapes and sizes, providing a secure and comfortable experience.

How Does Safety Certification Influence Your Helmet Choice?

Safety certification plays a crucial role in selecting the best helmets for skateboarding.

• Certification Standards: Safety certifications like CPSC, ASTM, and EN 1078 ensure that helmets meet specific impact protection requirements.
• Material Quality: Certified helmets are often made from high-quality materials that provide better shock absorption and durability.
• Fit and Comfort: Certified helmets typically undergo rigorous testing for fit, which contributes to better comfort and security for the wearer.
• Trust and Reliability: Choosing helmets with recognized safety certifications gives users confidence in their protection against potential head injuries.
• Insurance and Liability: Some insurance companies may only cover injuries if a certified helmet was worn, making certification an important factor for risk management.

Certification Standards: Safety certifications like CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), and EN 1078 are benchmarks that indicate a helmet has been tested for various impact forces and conditions. These standards ensure that the helmet can withstand specific levels of force during falls, which is critical for skateboarders who may experience high-velocity impacts.

Material Quality: Certified helmets are often constructed with advanced materials such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam and durable outer shells, which enhance their ability to absorb shock effectively. This quality ensures that the helmet can endure multiple impacts while maintaining structural integrity, giving users peace of mind during their skating activities.

Fit and Comfort: Helmets that meet safety certification requirements are usually designed with comfort in mind, featuring adjustable straps and padding that allow for a snug fit. A well-fitting helmet is less likely to shift during use, providing better protection and reducing distractions while skating.

Trust and Reliability: Opting for helmets with recognized safety certifications instills confidence in skaters that they are adequately protected. This reliability can be crucial for both beginners and experienced skateboarders, as it encourages them to push their limits while knowing they have taken the necessary precautions.

Insurance and Liability: In some cases, insurance policies may stipulate that coverage is contingent upon the use of certified safety gear. This means that wearing a helmet that does not meet safety standards could result in a denial of claims related to head injuries, making it vital for skaters to consider certification when purchasing a helmet.

What Role Do Material and Design Play in Helmet Comfort and Protection?

The inner foam liner is designed to absorb impact energy, which is critical in reducing the risk of head injury. The materials used in the liner are engineered to compress upon impact, dissipating force and providing a cushioning effect.

A proper ventilation system is vital for comfort, as it helps regulate temperature and moisture inside the helmet. With strategically placed vents, the helmet allows air to flow, preventing overheating and discomfort during active skateboarding sessions.

Fit and adjustability are key factors in ensuring that the helmet remains securely in place, especially during falls or sudden movements. Features like adjustable straps, removable pads, and various size options allow users to customize the fit for optimal protection and comfort.

Weight distribution is another important aspect of helmet design, as an evenly distributed helmet reduces fatigue and discomfort during long skateboarding sessions. A well-balanced helmet helps maintain stability and prevents neck strain.

Finally, an aerodynamic design not only enhances the helmet’s aesthetic appeal but also improves performance by reducing wind resistance. This design consideration ensures that skateboarders can maintain speed and control without being hindered by their gear.

Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Skateboarding Helmets?

The best helmets for skateboarding are recognized for their safety features, comfort, and design, catering specifically to skateboarders’ needs.

• Triple Eight: Renowned for their high-quality construction and safety certifications, Triple Eight helmets excel in providing comfort and style.
• Pro-Tec: A classic brand in the skateboarding world, Pro-Tec helmets are known for their durability and have been trusted by many professional skateboarders.
• Bern: Bern helmets offer a unique combination of protection and versatility, featuring a design that is often suitable for various outdoor sports.
• Smith: Smith is celebrated for their innovative designs and advanced technology, ensuring that their helmets are not only protective but also lightweight and comfortable.
• Bell: Bell helmets have a long history in protective gear, providing solid options for skateboarders with a focus on safety and fit.

Triple Eight: This brand is particularly popular among skateboarders for their combination of style and functionality. Their helmets often feature a soft foam liner for comfort and are ASTM-certified for safety, making them a top choice for both amateurs and professionals.

Pro-Tec: With a legacy dating back to the 1970s, Pro-Tec helmets are synonymous with skateboarding culture. They offer a variety of models, including classic and modern designs, all built to withstand impacts while ensuring a comfortable fit for long skate sessions.

Bern: Bern helmets stand out for their multi-sport usability, often featuring removable liners and adjustable straps. Their unique design allows for seasonal versatility, making them suitable for both skateboarding and winter sports.

Smith: Known for their premium eyewear, Smith also produces high-quality helmets that incorporate advanced ventilation systems and lightweight materials. Their attention to detail in comfort and safety technology makes them a favorite among serious skateboarders.

Bell: Bell helmets are engineered with a focus on comfort and performance, incorporating various safety technologies that provide excellent impact protection. They offer a range of styles and sizes, catering to different head shapes and preferences, ensuring a snug fit while riding.

What Unique Features Do Leading Brands Offer to Consumers?

The best helmets for skateboarding often feature unique attributes that prioritize safety, comfort, and style for consumers.

• Multi-Impact Protection: Many leading brands incorporate advanced materials that provide multi-impact protection, allowing the helmet to withstand multiple falls without compromising safety.
• Adjustable Fit Systems: Helmets from top brands often include adjustable fit systems, such as dial mechanisms or padded liners, ensuring a snug fit that enhances comfort and security while skating.
• Ventilation and Breathability: High-quality skate helmets are designed with ventilation systems to promote airflow, preventing overheating and keeping the rider comfortable during intense sessions.
• Lightweight Construction: Leading brands prioritize lightweight materials in their helmets, reducing fatigue for skaters who may wear them for extended periods without sacrificing protection.
• Stylish Designs: Many of the best helmets come in a variety of colors and designs, allowing consumers to express their personal style while maintaining safety standards.

Multi-impact protection is crucial for skateboarders as it ensures that the helmet can absorb energy from various falls, which is common in extreme sports. The materials used, such as expanded polystyrene and advanced composites, are engineered to maintain their protective capabilities even after repeated use.

Adjustable fit systems enhance the usability of helmets significantly. These systems often include features like adjustable straps and removable padding, enabling users to customize the fit to their head shape, which is essential for effective impact protection and comfort during use.

Ventilation and breathability play a significant role in a skater’s performance. A well-ventilated helmet allows for increased airflow, reducing sweat accumulation and discomfort, which can be particularly important during long skate sessions or in warm weather conditions.

Lightweight construction is another critical feature, as skaters often need to focus on their tricks and movements without the added burden of a heavy helmet. Brands utilize state-of-the-art materials that balance weight with durability, ensuring users can enjoy their sport without feeling weighed down.

Finally, stylish designs appeal to the aesthetic preferences of consumers, making it easier for them to choose a helmet that not only provides safety but also matches their personal style and skateboarding culture. This aspect is particularly significant for younger skaters who want their gear to reflect their individuality.

How Do Top Brands Ensure Safety and Quality in Their Helmets?

Top brands ensure safety and quality in their helmets through a combination of rigorous testing, adherence to safety standards, and innovative design features.

• Compliance with Safety Standards: Leading brands adhere to safety certifications such as CPSC, ASTM, and EN 1078, which dictate the minimum safety requirements for helmets. These standards ensure that helmets can withstand impacts and offer protection in various scenarios, providing consumers with confidence in their purchase.
• Advanced Materials: High-quality helmets utilize advanced materials like EPS foam for shock absorption and polycarbonate or fiberglass shells for durability. These materials not only enhance the helmet’s protective capabilities but also keep the weight manageable for comfort during extended use.
• Impact Testing: Reputable brands conduct thorough impact testing in controlled environments to evaluate the performance of their helmets under various conditions. This testing simulates real-world scenarios to ensure that the helmet can effectively protect the wearer from injuries, leading to safer designs.
• Fit and Comfort Features: Brands focus on providing adjustable sizing systems and ventilation for enhanced comfort and fit. A well-fitted helmet is crucial for safety, as it reduces the likelihood of the helmet shifting during a fall, ensuring maximum protection at all times.
• User Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Top brands listen to user feedback and incorporate it into their designs to address issues and improve functionality. This commitment to continuous improvement helps in developing helmets that not only meet safety standards but also appeal to skateboarders’ preferences and needs.

How Can You Compare Prices and Value When Selecting a Skateboarding Helmet?

Helmet Model	Price	Safety Rating	Weight	Additional Information
Model A	$40 – Budget-friendly option.	ASTM Certified – Good protection.	400g – Lightweight for comfort.	Brand A, Available in Black/White, Good ventilation, 1-year warranty, 4.5/5 stars
Model B	$70 – Mid-range choice with better features.	CPSC Approved – Higher safety standards.	500g – Slightly heavier but durable.	Brand B, Available in Blue/Red, Moderate ventilation, 2-year warranty, 4.2/5 stars
Model C	$120 – Premium helmet with advanced technology.	Multi-impact Rated – Superior protection.	600g – Heavier but very protective.	Brand C, Available in Green/Black, Excellent ventilation, 3-year warranty, 4.8/5 stars

What Are the Key Considerations for Budget-Conscious Buyers?

Safety certifications are crucial; helmets that meet standards like CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) or ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) assure buyers of their protective capabilities. These certifications indicate that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing to protect against impacts.

Comfort and fit are paramount, as an uncomfortable helmet may lead to the wearer not using it consistently. A good fit should be snug around the head with minimal movement, and additional padding can enhance comfort during use.

Weight is another important factor; lighter helmets are generally more comfortable to wear for extended periods. A heavy helmet can cause neck strain or discomfort, especially during long skating sessions.

Ventilation plays a significant role in keeping the user cool, particularly during warm weather. Helmets with adequate venting can help reduce sweat buildup, making the helmet more pleasant to wear.

Durability is essential for ensuring that the helmet can withstand the rigors of skateboarding. Helmets made from robust materials will not only last longer but also provide better protection against impacts.

Finally, while style may not affect safety, it can influence a skater’s willingness to wear a helmet regularly. Choosing a design that reflects personal style can encourage consistent use, which is ultimately the most important factor in ensuring safety while skating.

Are There Affordable Options that Deliver High Safety Standards?

There are several affordable helmets that provide high safety standards for skateboarding:

• Triple Eight Brainsaver Helmet: This helmet is known for its classic design and safety features, including a high-density EPS foam inner layer that absorbs impacts. It meets both CPSC and ASTM safety standards, making it a reliable choice for skateboarders looking for comfort and protection on a budget.
• Pro-Tec Classic Certified Helmet: A popular choice among skaters, this helmet combines a stylish look with substantial safety elements, including a hard outer shell and EPS foam liner. It is certified by the CPSC and comes in various sizes and colors, ensuring both safety and personal style.
• Sonew Skateboard Helmet: This budget-friendly option offers adjustable sizing and ventilation, along with an impact-resistant shell that complies with safety standards. The Sonew helmet provides excellent comfort for long skating sessions while ensuring adequate head protection.
• The Bell Sanction helmet is designed for action sports and boasts a lightweight build with a multi-impact liner for high-energy activities. Its sleek design allows for a snug fit and is CPSC certified, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize safety without breaking the bank.
• Razor V-17 Helmet: This helmet is well-regarded for its fit and comfort, featuring a multi-sport design suitable for skateboarding. It includes a lightweight construction, adjustable straps, and meets CPSC safety standards, ensuring that it provides reliable protection for skaters of all ages.

What Popular Styles of Skateboarding Helmets Are Available?

The popular styles of skateboarding helmets include:

• Classic Skate Helmets: These are typically hard-shell helmets that provide excellent protection against impacts. They feature a retro design, often with a smooth, rounded shape, and are favored for both their safety and stylish aesthetic.
• Full-Face Helmets: Full-face helmets offer the highest level of protection, covering the entire head, including the chin and face. They are ideal for aggressive skating styles such as downhill or vert, where the risk of serious injury is greater.
• Bicycle-Style Helmets: These helmets are lightweight and geared more towards comfort than extreme protection. They have a more streamlined design and are often used by those who prioritize ventilation and ease of wear during casual skating sessions.
• Skate Bowl Helmets: Designed specifically for bowl skating, these helmets often come with a more snug fit and extended coverage at the back of the head. They provide enhanced protection for skaters who spend a lot of time in deep transitions and bowls.
• Adjustable Helmets: Many modern helmets come with adjustable features such as fit systems or removable padding, allowing skaters to customize the fit for comfort and security. This ensures that the helmet stays in place during tricks and maneuvers, reducing the chance of it coming off during a fall.

How Do Full-Shell Helmets Compare to Half-Shell Helmets for Skaters?

Aspect	Full-Shell Helmets	Half-Shell Helmets
Safety	Offers superior protection for the entire head, including the back and sides.	Provides basic protection mainly for the top of the head; less coverage overall.
Weight	Generally heavier due to additional material and coverage.	Lighter, making them more comfortable for longer wear.
Ventilation	May have fewer vents, leading to reduced airflow.	Typically designed with more vents for improved airflow and cooling.
Coverage	Offers full coverage, protecting more areas of the head.	Limited coverage, primarily protecting the top of the head.
Price	Generally more expensive due to advanced materials and construction.	Typically more affordable, making them accessible for beginners.
Styles	Available in various designs, often bulkier but with options for customization.	More streamlined designs available, with a variety of colors and graphics.
Recommendations	Best for advanced skaters or those engaging in aggressive skating styles.	Ideal for casual skaters or beginners focusing on comfort and ease of use.

What Benefits Do Multi-Sport Helmets Provide for Skateboarders?

Finally, the Variety of Styles available allows skateboarders to choose helmets that reflect their personal aesthetic, making safety gear more appealing. This encourages more users to wear helmets without compromising on style.

How Can User Experiences and Reviews Guide Your Helmet Choice?

User experiences and reviews play a crucial role in guiding your choice of the best helmets for skateboarding.

• Safety Ratings: User reviews often highlight the safety features of different helmet models, including certifications like CPSC or ASTM.
• Comfort and Fit: Many reviews focus on how comfortable a helmet feels during use, which can significantly affect your willingness to wear it consistently.
• Durability: Real-world experiences can provide insights into how well a helmet holds up over time, including resistance to impacts and general wear and tear.
• Ventilation: Users frequently comment on the ventilation of helmets, which is important for comfort during intense skating sessions.
• Style and Aesthetics: Reviews often include opinions on the design and color options available, which can be a deciding factor for many skaters.

Safety ratings are critical as they ensure that the helmet meets specific safety standards, providing peace of mind to users who want to minimize the risk of injury. Reviews frequently mention whether a helmet has passed rigorous testing, which can influence your decision significantly.

Comfort and fit are essential since a poorly fitting helmet can lead to discomfort or even accidents if it shifts during use. Users often share their experiences regarding adjustable straps and padding, which can help you find a helmet that suits your head shape and size.

Durability is another key aspect that users evaluate based on their personal experiences with different brands and models. Many reviews will discuss how a helmet withstands impacts after multiple falls or how the materials hold up under various conditions, thus guiding you to make a more informed choice.

Ventilation is important for maintaining comfort, especially during longer sessions. Users often provide feedback on how well a helmet allows airflow to keep them cool, which can be a decisive factor for those who skate in warmer climates.

Style and aesthetics are also significant to many skaters, as helmets come in various designs and colors that allow for personal expression. Reviews often highlight which models are particularly stylish or popular within the skate community, helping you choose a helmet that not only protects you but also looks good.

What Insights Can Reviews Offer on Comfort and Fit?

Reviews can provide valuable insights on comfort and fit in the context of the best helmets for skateboarding.

• User Feedback on Comfort: Reviews often include personal experiences regarding the comfort level of a helmet during use.
• Fit Assessment: Many reviews detail how well a helmet fits various head shapes and sizes, which is crucial for safety and comfort.
• Padding Quality: Feedback regarding the quality and thickness of the padding can indicate how comfortable a helmet feels over extended wear.
• Ventilation Features: Users frequently comment on the ventilation capabilities of helmets, which can significantly affect comfort during intense activities.
• Adjustment Mechanisms: Reviews typically highlight the effectiveness of adjustment systems, which can help achieve a customized fit for individual users.

User Feedback on Comfort: Many reviews contain comments about how comfortable the helmet feels during skating sessions, whether it provides adequate cushioning, and if any pressure points develop over time. Comfort is subjective, and firsthand accounts can help potential buyers gauge if a particular model will suit their needs.

Fit Assessment: Reviews often discuss how well a helmet conforms to different head shapes, which is essential for both comfort and protection. An ill-fitting helmet can be uncomfortable and may not provide the necessary safety features, so user experiences are critical in understanding fit for various demographics.

Padding Quality: The quality and thickness of the helmet’s padding can greatly influence comfort, as thicker padding usually offers more cushioning but may also affect the helmet’s fit. Reviews often reflect on how the padding holds up over time and whether it retains its shape and comfort after repeated use.

Ventilation Features: Effective ventilation is crucial for comfort, especially during high-energy activities like skateboarding. Users often share insights on how well a helmet allows airflow and whether it prevents overheating, which can be a significant factor during long sessions.

Adjustment Mechanisms: Many helmets come with adjustable features that allow users to customize the fit. Reviews can provide insight into how easy these mechanisms are to use and how well they work, which is important for ensuring the helmet stays securely in place while skating.

Which Helmets Are Most Frequently Recommended by Experienced Skaters?

The best helmets for skateboarding that are frequently recommended by experienced skaters include the following options:

• Triple Eight Brainsaver: Known for its classic design and comfort, the Triple Eight Brainsaver is a favorite among skaters. It features a multi-impact design that provides safety while allowing for a snug fit, making it ideal for both street and park skating.
• Pro-Tec Classic Certified Helmet: This helmet combines a timeless aesthetic with modern safety standards. It offers a hard outer shell and an EPS foam liner, ensuring excellent protection against impacts, and is available in various sizes and colors to suit individual preferences.
• Bell Sanction: The Bell Sanction is a versatile option that is lightweight and low-profile, making it popular for both skateboarding and biking. With its adjustable fit system and ample ventilation, it ensures comfort during long sessions while still providing robust protection.
• Smith Mainline: The Smith Mainline helmet is designed with advanced MIPS technology, which helps reduce rotational forces in case of falls. Its sleek design, combined with excellent ventilation and a comfortable fit, makes it a top choice for serious skaters looking for maximum safety.
• TSG Pass Pro: The TSG Pass Pro is highly regarded for its high-impact protection and durable build. This helmet features an adjustable visor and removable padding, providing both functionality and customization for skaters who prioritize safety and comfort.

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