9 Best Ski Helmets to Keep your Head Safe in 2021 (Reviews)

Which ski helmet should you trust? As their popularity has increased, so as the different models that are available in the market. Here we’ve put together reviews of all the best ski helmets so far this year.

These models vary greatly in construction.  Some are designed for massive impacts while others are created for lower impacts. There are also some brands that are licensed by the Multi-angle Impact Protection System (MIPS).

These models are the best for sports such as snowboarding and skiing. Whatever you choose, be sure that it suits your needs.

Choosing the right ski helmet is a no-brainer regardless of your ability level. Due to the latest advancements, ski helmets are now lighter and safer too. Therefore, now is the best time to take the plunge.

There are high-end models that have advanced features. You should always wear a helmet. It is extremely important, safety is always first.

Best Ski Helmet Reviews

Here is a look into some of the best helmets out there that will help protect you if you have any serious falls. Your brain is important, protect it!

1. Giro Ledge Ski Helmet

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Certainly, the Giro Ledge MIPS Snowboard Helmet is our top-notch choice. MIPS is the latest technology that can minimize the direct impact as well as side-impact after-effects of crashes on the brain. Giro is one of those companies that is incorporating this technology into their helmet products.

The MIPS layer is placed between the lining and the foam padding. It features an EPS foam for enhanced impact dampening. It fits well from front to back. Goggles fog will be reduced because it has a Stack Ventilation system which releases the heat upwards.

The goggle retainer clip will always keep your goggles in its place. You can enjoy its great features without having to pay too much. There is a range of colors that you can choose from.

Available Colors: Dark Shadow, Matte Black, Matte Blue, Matte Glowing Red, Matte Mil-Spec Olive, Matte Turquoise, Matte White

Pros:
It has effective ventilation and a removable audio system. It has an excellent price for a MIPS ski helmet.

2. Smith Variance

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While the Smith Variance has a lot of premium features it costs less than $200. This is one of the many reasons why we make this our second choice in our ski helmet reviews.

It has a hybrid construction that is durable and lightweight. It features a Boa system for a perfect fit. The Variance is very warm, stylish and has a comfortable fit. It is a versatile helmet for all skiers. It has adjustable climate control which can keep you warm or cool.

The AirEvac Ventilation can keep your goggles fog-free. Keep your goggles secure with the Ultralight Goggle Lock. You can enjoy listening to your favorite tunes while skiing since this helmet is audio compatible.

Pros:
Warm and well constructed.

Cons:
Earpieces are non-removable. Inferior ventilation

3. Bern Watts Ski Helmet

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The Bern Watts Ski Helmet is our third choice because of its sleek design. It is an ABS hardshell/EPS foam helmet but very light. When you are skiing on warm weather, you can remove the knit liner.

The Watt is certified for biking and skating. It has a low profile sink fit to make you comfortable. It’s not really a bad deal for its value. It can keep your goggles in place since it includes a goggle clip at the back.

Pros:
It is a versatile helmet with a classic design and excellent value.

Cons:
Ventilation is inferior.

4. Giro Montane

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In the meantime, the Giro Montane is our fourth best option due to its lightweight, sleek design. If you want to have a lightweight feel while you are skiing then this is the best ski helmet for you. Despite being the lightest, the Montane also has a lot of features.

It has an in-mold construction and an adjustable venting wherein you can close for cold weather or open for warm weather.

The Roc Loc 5 system, which is also used in their bike helmets, provides the perfect fit. A stack vent is placed around the brim of the helmet in order to keep the goggles moisture-free. The Montane is perfect for resort skiers and for skiers who are fond of alpine touring.

Available Colors: Matte Black, Matte Blue Motherboard, Matte Titanium, Matte White, Matte Black Outpack, Matte Green/Green Splatter, Matte Black Laser Tag, Matte Black Pixel Fade, Matte Glowing Red, Matte Green Motherboard, Matte Olive Outpack, Matte Red, Matte Blue, Matte Highlight Yellow, Matte Orange, Matte Bright Green Splatter, Matte Ano Orange

Pros:
It’s lightweight and equipped with a simple and innovative clip.

Cons:
This helmet is not as durable and warm compared to the other premium brands.

5. Smith Holt Ski Helmet

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On one hand, the Smith Holt is our fifth best ski helmet. It has an ABS construction and made of plastic. A convertible pad kit is included for keeping you warm during the winter and cold during the summer.

It’s quite a bargain for a simple helmet that lacks the latest technologies. However, it’s best when it comes to protecting your head.

The Holt has air vents adjustments that can permit full regulation of the airflow. The dual regulator ventilation system will control air venting on the front and rear sections.

The AirVac system can keep your goggles clear and your head dry by generating optimum airflow. The earpads are removable making it a great value.

Available Colors: Matte Black, Matte Gunmetal, Matte White, Matte Kelly, Matte Fire, Matte Magenta, Matte Oxblood, Matte Pacific, Opal

Pros:
It has an excellent price for great protection. This product has a lifetime warranty.

Cons:
It has a cheap liner compared to the other pricier helmets.

6. Giro Nine

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Incidentally, the Giro Nine has an in-mold construction and it’s also our sixth-best choice. The Giro Nine is responsible for making ski helmets popular. Over the past decade, it’s always been the same formula. A lightweight helmet with good ventilation, perfect fit at a reasonable price.

Despite the fact that this helmet does not have a smooth adjustment system compared to the high-end models but it’s functional. In fact, it suits perfectly on most head sizes and goggles because of its vertical tuning.

If you are not looking for a high-performance helmet then go for Nine. It is a very nice mid-range helmet. One of its excellent features is MIPS. It is a very economical helmet with and a safety feature. It is compatible with all Giro goggles and Giro audio systems.

Available Colors: Matte Black, Matte Dark Shadow, Matte White, Matte Blue, Red, Glowing Red, Matte Bright Green, Matte Highlight Yellow

Pros:
It can fit perfectly on most heads due to its vertical tuning.

Cons:
The performance is not so great.

7. POC Receptor BUG Adjustable Snowboard Helmet

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With POC Receptor Bug, impact resistance construction is the name of the game. This is why we choose this as our seventh best ski helmet. POC has a double-shell system that provides superior durability.

It is perfect for skiers who want to push their limits. This helmet has a Ventilated Double Shell Anti-Penetration system which offers great ventilation.

The Receptor has huge adjustable vents that can direct air effectively on both shells.  It can also be closed during colder days. The Receptor Bug has a size adjustment system which makes it more suitable for a lot of skiers.

It has removable ear pads and neck roll. It is available in a wide variety of colors, from conservative ones to the flashy ones.

Available Colors: Uranium Black, Hydrogen White, Lead Blue, Krypton Blue, Iron Orange, Osmium Green, Bohrium Red, Erbium Yellow, Malachite Green, Oxygen Blue, Arsenic Yellow, Neon Purple, Ytterbium Pink, Actinium Pink, Calcite

Pros:
It has a very durable impact resistance ABS construction.

Cons:
It has thin padding.

8. Smith Vantage

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Although the Smith Vantage is quite pricey it is in our eighth place. It has a hybrid in-mold construction with a low profile design that can outperform other standard EPS foam helmets. Adjustment in the airflow can be done effectively with its 21 slider-regulated vents.

You can close it completely when the temperature goes dip. The Boa technology provides a dialed-in fit that permits micro-adjustments with the use of one hand.  It’s a low profile helmet that is equipped with various smart features.  It has grooves on the sides to hold the goggles appropriately.

Available Colors: Black Pearl, Matte Black, Matte Black/Red, Matte Disruption, Matte Gunmetal, Matte Mustard Conditions, Matte Opal Woolrich, Matte Pacific, Matte Reactor Gradient, Matte Root Woolrich, Matte White, Matte White Feathers, Metallic Truffel, Satin Ultraviolet, White

Pros:
It has excellent build and ventilation with a comfortable fit.  It’s the best helmet for all seasons.
Cons:
It is a very costly helmet.

9. Giro Range MIPS

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Finally, the Giro Range is our ninth choice. It has a hybrid construction with a perfect fit. In fact, it is considered as one of the most comfortable ski helmets. Its semi-flexible design can let you adjust everything by turning the dial.

Everything will be in accordance with your head from the shell to the liner.

The Range has a remarkably low profile design with a high price. However, its cost can somehow be justified by its smart features including the MIPS safety layer. It also has am adjustable stacked ventilation to keep you cool or warm depending upon the temperature.

Another feature is the built-in GoPro mount.  It is compatible with all Giro goggles and Giro audio systems.

Available Colors: Matte Black, Matte Black Fabricator, Black, Matte Black Shadow, Matte Glowing Red, Matte Bright Green, Matte Turquoise, Matte White

Pros:
It’s fit is beyond comparison.
Cons:
Its price is out of range for most skiers.

Ski Helmet Buying Advice and Guide

In order to help you find the helmet which fits you best, we’ve put together a buying guide alongside out ski helmet reviews.

This guide will cover helmet construction types, ventilation, different types of liners, and size. This is all basically about finding the most safe and comfortable ski helmet for you.

Ski Helmet Construction Types

Construction can be broken down into ABS (for durability), in-mold (lightweight) and hybrid (for a balance).

ABS

ABS helmets are made in an authentic, traditional style with a hard layer of plastic, with a foam liner inside. The combo makes these helmets tough and durable at the expense of weight.

If you compare them to newer, in-mold helmets, you will really notice the difference in weight.

But the price of ABS ski helmets makes up for this. You can normally save a lot of money by purchasing a cheap ABS helmet, rather than an in-mold.

In-mold and Hybrid In-mold

In-mold and hybrid in-mold tech is normally how high end and newer manufacturers build their helmets. In-mold combines a polycarbonate thin shell with an EPS foam liner all the way through design.

What you end up with is a helmet which cuts weight and allows the user great head and neck manoeuvrability. Ventilation is often much better with these models.

Ventilation: Adjustable or Fixed Ski Helmets

Ventilation is one of the most important factors to review when purchasing a ski helmet. These vents often open and close throughout the day as the temperature changes. Therefore, the design must be top-quality and seamless.

The total number of vents on a helmet often differes between models. Generally, the greater the number of vents, the more ventilation.

However, with an increase in ventilation, there often comes an increase in price, too.

There are also adjustability and design to consider in the ventilation of a ski helmet. Lots of helmets, from mid to high-range, feature adjustable vents.

These can be opened and closed depending on how hot/cold you head is.

As you can imagine, adjustability is definitely preferable, but often more expensive.

Liners: Comfort and Warmth in Ski Helmets

As we all know, the most important factor when buying a ski helmet is almost always comfort. If it isn’t comfy, whats the point?

That’s why the quality of the liner is very important. The material and quality of the liner will become more and more evident the longer you stay out on the slopes.

If you’re spending under $100, it is apparent that the quality of the liner will deteriorate over time.

If you spend $200+, on the other hand, you will normally receive something with a squishy, soft liner that will keep your head cosy for much longer!

The cheaper helmets also cut corners whilst constructing the helmets, and you end up with something that doesn’t quite fit, leaves marks on your forehead, or is too loose.

Size

When reviewing your choices of ski helmets, never forget to measure yourself so you get the right size! Alongside our ski helmet reviews, we’ve included a size guide.

To measure your head size, wrap the tape around your head, just behind the ears, and level front to back.

Once you’ve got your measurements, use the chart above to find out your size.

Final Thoughts on Ski Helmets

We hope that these reviews of ski helmets have helped you in choosing your ski helmet. Always remember that ski helmets, ski jackets and snowboard jackets are very important when doing any winter sports.

If you have the ability to minimize the risk of injuries when doing any winter sports you should, however, helmets have its limits with protection so you should always be cautious.

In some cases, helmets do not only provide protection but they are also equipped with the latest technologies.

For example, if you want to record what you are doing helmets can have attachments for capturing those amazing moments by attaching a camera to it.

Let us know which of our ski helmets you think are the best, and which ones we should include in our reviews next!