First things first. Wear a Helmet. The great debate between all Snowboarders is to Helmet or not to Helmet? And this debate gets answered perfectly by one of our very best riders: “I used to think helmets were lame, until I ran into a tree and got a concussion. Concussions are lame; helmets are not.” Below you will find our staff’s current Top 10 Best Snowboarding Helmets for 2020-2021.
It’s important for every Skier and Snowboarder to find the perfect helmet to suit their needs. It’s also important to know that not all helmets are alike. That means, don’t think that a Bike Helmet or a Skateboarding Helmet will suffice. Just like you wouldn’t wear flip flops to a gym, you shouldn’t wear anything other than a ski/snowboarding helmet when you’re on the hill because they have specific features like ear coverage, moisture wicking, and temperature-sensitive materials.
The same rules apply for our Helmets as they do our Snowboarding Goggles in our Top 10 Best Goggles for 2020-2021. We reviewed all of these helmets with comfort, durability, construction quality and design in mind. These are among the best Helmets out there, and anytime something better comes along, we will definitely alter this list with the most up-to-date knowledge our team has. Choosing a helmet that’s right for you can be somewhat intimidating, but this Top 10 Best Snowboarding Helmets list is here to help you find the best helmet for your needs. Enjoy, and of course. . .always wear a helmet!
Our Top Rated Snowboard Helmets
1. Burton Anon Raider 3 Snowboard Helmet
2. Burton Anon Helo Snowboard Helmet
3. Bern Watts EPS Snow Helmet
4. Smith Optics Vantage Snow Helmet
5. Giro Range MIPS Snowboarding Helmet
6. POC Obex BC Spin Helmet
7. K2 Diversion Ski Helmet
8. Oakley MOD 5 MIPS Helmet
9. Bern Macon Helmet (Wu-Tang Edition)
10. Smith Holt Snow Helmet
The Burton Anon Raider Snowboard Helmet comes from the world of Skate. So much so that it doubles as a Skateboarding Helmet as well, giving you more bang for your buck as a multi-sport helmet with multi-season certification needed to go along with it.
The ear pads, goggle clip, and cold-weather lining pieces pop off easily for more ventilation during spring riding session or hitting the skate park. And it’s Auto-Adjust Fit System self adjusts to the wearer’s head. This classic skate-inspired shape will keep you cool headed with its low key style.
Specs
| Shell Material | Endura-Shell ABS Construction |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | G-Form RPT high-density Foam |
| Fit Adjustment | Simple Fit |
| Certification | CE 1077B | ASTM 2040 | CE 1078:2012 +A12012, CPSC |
| Ventilation | Fixed, Passive |
| Lining | Classic Fleece |
| Audio Capable | No |
| Weight | 595g |
Powderheadz Rating
The Burton Anon Helo Snowboard Helmet is designed to take some hits over and over again while you build your arsenal of tricks during a park session while listening to music if you replace the removable ear pads with a pair of Outdoor Tech Chips 2.0 Wireless Headphones. And the chinstraps feature the Fidlock magnetic fastening system that allows you to quickly open and close the straps with one hand, even when you’re wearing gloves. You’ll no longer have to spend time taking off your gloves or fiddle with a clip when you’re wearing one these.
Specs
| Shell Material | Endura-Shell injection-molded ABS |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | High-density Foam |
| Fit Adjustment | BOA, Standard |
| Certification | CE 1077B | ASTM 2040 |
| Ventilation | Fixed, Passive |
| Lining | Expedition Fleece |
| Audio Capable | Yes |
| Weight | 370 |
Powderheadz Rating
One helmet to rule them all. An exception to the what we said earlier, the Bern Watts EPS Snow Helmet is the fully CE certified, original visor helmet that offers style, comfort, and protection for when you’re riding on a bike, skateboard, snowboard, or wakeboard. Evolved from the original Bern Baker Helmet, this helmet features the same fit and style, but includes a series of vents on top and back of the helmet to keep you cool running laps in the park or during easy spring riding conditions.
The helmet’s best feature is how highly customizable it is. Bern Helmets are compatible with Summer or Winter liners (this model has one that is included). They also come with audio liners for music that can be changed easily with a quick pull of the velcro. If you’re a very active action-sports athlete, you’ll only need this helmet and a few upgrades to keep you protected year round.
Specs
| Shell Material | EPS Thin Shell |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | EPS Hard Foam |
| Fit Adjustment | BOA | Sink Fit |
| Certification | CPSC | EN 1078 | EN 1077B| ASTM F 2040 |
| Ventilation | 7 top vents | 4 back vents |
| Lining | Interchangeable Fleece Winter Liner |
| Audio Capable | Yes, included in some models. |
| Weight | 500g |
Powderheadz Rating
This is Smith Optic’s hardcore, top of the line helmet. The Smith Vantage Snow Helmet has a hybrid shell construction that combines a tough ABS shell on top with a lightweight in-mold shell for the back and sides.
The inside of the helmet offers an Aerocore construction that is a combination of EPS and revolutionary Koroyd technology – a series of extruded tubes in a honeycomb formation that crush in a controlled manner upon impact that decelerates the energy that helps reduce the risk of injury.
The Air Evac ventilation system combines two independent regulators that open and close 21 front and rear vents which exposes internal channels and the Koroyd tubes to allow cool air in and expel hot air out.
Specs
| Shell Material | Hybrid SL Shell | Combined ABS and Koroyd |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | Koroyd Aerocore Top/Front | EPS Bottom/Rear |
| Fit Adjustment | BOA FS360, Regular Fit |
| Certification | EN 1077B | ASTM F 2040 |
| Ventilation | Air Evac | 21 Dual Regulator adjustable vents |
| Lining | Nanosilver performance lining |
| Audio Capable | Yes |
| Weight | 500g |
Powderheadz Rating
The Giro Range MIPS is a beast of a helmet loaded with features. Unlike most helmets that use a BOA system to tighten or loosen around you head, the Giro Range Snow Helmet utilizes Conform Fit Technology. By using a two-piece, durable shell and a semi-flexible design, the entire helmet is able to expand or contract to every rider’s individual head shape, giving them a truly integrated, custom fit and the lowest profile possible.
This quality, high-end, performance helmet features MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) which allows the exterior shell to rotate independently from the interior foam liner to help disperse energy from linear and rotational crashes. It’s suited for those who bring it hard and strong on the mountain.
It also comes with adjustable venting with a Thermostat Control system to help keep you cool, Fidlock buckles for quick access, and an integrated but detachable camera mount for you GoPro. This helmet has it all.
Specs
| Shell Material | Articulating Hybrid 2-piece Shell |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | MIPS – Multi-Directional Impact Protection System | Interior Foam Liner + Low Friction Liner + Elastomeric Attachment System |
| Fit Adjustment | CONFORM FIT system, Low Profile Fit |
| Certification | CE EN 1077 | ASTM F 2040-11 |
| Ventilation | 12 Vents | Adjustable Venting with Thermostat Control System |
| Lining | X-Static anti-bacterial lining |
| Audio Capable | Compatitble with all Giro aftermarket audio systems |
| Weight | 1088g |
Powderheadz Rating
The only Back Country (BC) rated helmet on the list., the durable POC Obex BC Spin Helmet is one of the safest helmets out there. It’s thicker shell has aramid panels and POC SPIN tech that provides rotational impact protection that can shear in any direction which minimizes the effects of an oblique fall.
The BC designation refers to the helmet’s RECCO reflector and NFC Medical ID chip, which will aid search-and-rescue teams should something happen to you in the back country.
Specs
| Shell Material | Aramid (Kevlar | EPS) |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | POC SPIN (Shearing Pads) |
| Fit Adjustment | Sidelock Chin | Low Profile |
| Certification | EN 1077B | ASTM F 2040 |
| Ventilation | Adjustable Ventilation |
| Liner | EPS |
| Audio Capable | Compatible with POC AID Communication Ear Pads |
| Weight | 400g |
Powderheadz Rating
Similar to the Smith Optics Vantage Snow Helmet, the K2 Diversion Ski Helmet is built with hybrid construction (a hard ABS front and top with a flexible side and back) that offers maximum protection while remaining lightweight and accommodating for different head shapes. This helmet will definitely protect your head during any crash. The Diversion lets you regulate airflow easily with Dual Active Matrix Venting Technology, allowing you to adjust the vents with just a touch of your finger.
Also included is its K2 Baseline Audio System that seamlessly connects you with your blue tooth compatible audio systems. You can listen to your music with its minimal low-profile speakers inside the Baseline Audio Earpads and have full control of your smartphone with a detachable cord that offers on-the-go pause/play and answer/hang-up functions.
Specs
| Shell Material | Hybrid In-Mold |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | Hybrid In-Mold |
| Fit Adjustment | 360 K2Dialed System |
| Certification | CE EN 1077:2007 | ASTM F2040 |
| Ventilation | Dual Active Matrix Venting |
| Lining | Washable full-wrap liner system |
| Audio Capable | Included, K2 Baseline Audio |
| Weight | 430g |
Powderheadz Rating
For those who subscribe to the religion of Send, or if you’re just supremely accident prone, the Oakley MOD 5 MIPS Helmet is a beast designed for the highest level of performance. Adjustable Ventilation keeps the sweat out of your head after a few rips out of the park. The Fidlock® Buckle has magnets (how do they work?) to help you fasten your helmet with your gloves on. Perfect for when its way to cold out.
It’s modular Brim System allows you to change up the two brims for seamless helmet and goggle integration while its brim ventilation lets the hot air flow unobstructed for better anti-fog performance.
Specs
| Shell Material | Dual-Construction Hybrid Shell (ABS) |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | MIPS |
| Fit Adjustment | BOA 270 Fit System |
| Certification | ASTM F2040 | C EN1077 |
| Ventilation | Goggle/Helmet Integrated Venting / Adjustable |
| Lining | Removable |
| Audio Capable | Yes |
| Weight | 1134g |
Powderheadz Rating
We don’t think we really have to tell you why this is in our Top 10 Best Snowboarding Helmets list. The picture below should say enough, but if that doesn’t the features definitely will. The Bern Macon Helmet is an ultimate all-season helmet certified for biking, skateboarding, snowboarding, and skiing. The 13 passive vents help keep your head temperature just where you want it. And the winter interior liner is replaceable with a summer version.
Like the Bern Watts EPS Snow Helmet, the fit is adjusted with a BOA dial and comes with audio-compatible ear pads to listen C.R.E.A.M. on repeat. Seriously though, It’s a Wu-Tang helmet. That should be more than enough.
Specs
| Shell Material | ABS ThinShell |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | EPS Foam |
| Fit Adjustment | BOA | Sink Fit |
| Certification | CPSC | ASTM F2040 | EN 1078 | EN 1077 |
| Ventilation | Passive | 7 Top | 4 Back | 2 Front |
| Lining | Interchangeable Fleece Winter Liner |
| Audio Capable | Yes |
| Weight | 495g |
Powderheadz Rating
Another multi-sport certified helmet, the Smith Holt Snow Helmet comes with a Bombshell ABS shell and EPS foam liner that will protect your dome from hard impacts. And the self-adjusting Lifestyle Fit System gives you a tight, comfortable fit whether you’re wearing it on its own or using a toque underneath. There are twelve Airflow vents keep your head from getting too hot, and the AirEvac 2 ventilation system is designed to work with Smith goggles such as the Smith Optics I/O MAG to keep them fog-free.
The helmet is also compatible with Smith Optics Outdoor Tech Wireless Audio Chips (sold separately) into the ear pads if you want to listen to music while you ride, or you can remove the earpads off entirely for a real breezy feel.
Specs
| Shell Material | Bombshell (ABS Plastic) |
|---|---|
| Impact Foam Liner | EPS Foam |
| Fit Adjustment | Lifestyle fit | Elasticated Auto Adjuster |
| Certification | CPSC CE EN 1078 | ASTM F2040 | CE EN 1077:2007 |
| Ventilation | Airflow Climate Control | AirEvac 2 system |
| Lining | Beanine Compatible |
| Audio Capable | Skullcandy Audio System Compatible |
| Weight | 550g |
Powderheadz Rating
This is our current Top 10 Best Snowboarding Helmets of the 2020-2021 Season. However, there are tons more of snowboarding helmets out there and we will be updating this list often with the most current information. Think we missed a Snowboarding Helmet or there’s one that deserves a spot on the Top 10 Best Snow Helmets List? Let us know! E-mail us at info (at) powderheadz.com. Need more tips? Look below for a thorough guide on how to determine which helmet is right for you. As always, happy riding!
How-To: Buy Snowboarding Helmets
One of the most important, but often overlooked pieces of Snowboarding Equipment one needs is a Snowboarding Helmet. Even taking a tiny hit to the head without a helmet can completely derail your season. It’s best to not take a chance. There are a number of key things you should look for when you are choosing the right ski helmet. Here are a few features to look out for in your helmet:
Helmet Construction:
Snowboarding Helmets are usually made with EPS (Expanded Polystyrene). However, brands are coming up with more unique structures and below are a few examples:
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) – This tough, rigid foam is the most popular construction material used in snowboarding helmets. It’s a versatile material that can take high force impacts and have hard ABS shells easily attached to them. The foam usually receives a certification of CPSC, ASTM 2040, EN 1077, and EN 1078. However, most EPS helmets are designed to take a single impact. This means that they often need to be replaced after any major fall.
G-Form RPT (Reactive Protection Technology) – G-Form Helmets comprises of a material that changes its state when it takes an impact to dissipate energy. In it’s resting state the material’s molecules slightly repel each other that make it soft and flexible. An impact causes the the molecules to instantly connect together to absorb the energy before returning to its soft and flexible state. G-Form RPT Helmets are incredibly durable and able to take multiple impacts.
In-Mold – Popular In-Mold Helmets are considered the alternative to traditional EPS helmets and are created in one of two ways:
- An EPS liner without the ABS shell attached to it is dipped or sprayed with a thinner PVC plastic.
- A PVC shell is injected with polyurethane foam.
Both methods create a lighter, thinner, and lower profile helmet that achieves CPSC, ASTM 2040, and EN 1077 certification.
Koroyd – Koroyd is constructed with co-polymer thermally welded extruded tubes that absorbs and dissipates energy efficiently. The helmet is more breathable than more traditional helmets and offers maximum protection with minimal weight.
Fit Adjustment:
Snowboarding Helmets come with two styles: Standard and Adjustable. The three most common adjustable helmet types are:
BOA – a dial ratchet system that offers powerful, on-the-fly micro-adjustability and a glove-like fit around the head. This feature is offered on higher end models and definitely worth the price.
Foam Pads – These helmets have series of foam inserts of varying sizes that can be swapped inside the helmet to change the fit quickly and easily. It’s much cheaper option then the BOA system and perfect for those who like to wear a beanie under their helmet.
Sliders – These helmets come with an adjustable band within the helmet that you can adjust to make the helmet feel more snug.
Certification:
Helmets are constantly tested to ensure their level of protection and your safety. There are a number of different certifications that each helmet can receive. Many helmets on this list have multiple certifications attached to them:
ASTM 2040 (American Society for Testing and Materials) – standard specification for non-motorized recreational snow sports.
CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) – certification is found on BMX, Cycling, Mountain Biking, Ice Skating, Roller Skating, Scooter, and Sledding Helmets. These helmets are tested to sustain more than one impact but should be replaced if there is any visible damage.
EN 1077 – This is the European standard for non-motorized recreational snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding helmets. Class A helmets protect the top, rear, ears, and sides of the head. They are also able to withstand an impact from a drop of 75cm. Class B helmets protect the top and rear of the head and can withstand a drop of 27.5cm. Most of these helmets are made with EPS or In-mold liners and ABS or PVC outer shells.
EN 1078 – This is the European standard for biking, rollerskating, and skating helmets. These helmets are made with EPS or In-mold liners and ABS or PVC outer shells.
Snell N-94 – US standard for non-motorized sports such as skateboarding and rollerskating.
Snell S-98 – US standard for skiing and snowboarding.
EN-1080 – Similar to E 1078 but specifically for children’s cycle helmets.
Snell B 90A | B-95 | B-90 | B-90TT | B-95TT – US standards for different cycling activities.
Ventilation:
Vents are needed to help your head stay cool after a long day of skiing or snowboarding. It may sound counter-intuitive being in cold weather, but eventually your head gets hot and sweaty from wearing a helmet. Most helmets will have passive vents that will allow air to flow freely through the helmet as you ride. The best helmets will have adjustable vents with lever that allow you to customize the amount of air coming in.
Another key feature to pay attention to is to see if your goggles line up with your helmet vents. Most manufacturers will make sure that their helmets and goggles work in sync with each other by creating channels that meet between the goggles and the helmet. This helps keep a constant flow of air between them, preventing fog.
Other Features | Accessories:
Audio – Some helmets will come with the ability to have speakers to be placed in their ear pads. A select few, such as the K2 Diversion Ski Helmet, will already have them included. If some helmets don’t have audio-capable ear pads, its fairly easy to replace them with those that are.
Camera Mount – With the rise in popularity of helmet-mounted action cameras such as GoPro, some helmet styles will have built-camera mounts for the GoPro to attach to, such as the Giro Range Snowboarding Helmet.
Goggle Clip – Most helmets have a clip in the back that locks-in the goggle strap to the helmet. Many of us at powderheadz.com have taken a few tumbles here or there and it is nice not to ‘yard-sale’ all of your equipment when you fall.
Liner – Some helmets will have detachable liners and/or ear pads which are usually washable. And please, wash them. If you’re snowboarding or skiing often, they end up pretty funky.
This is our current Top 10 Best Snowboarding and Ski Helmets of the 2020-2021 Season. However, there are tons more of Snowboarding Helmets out there and we will be updating this list often with the most current information. Think we missed a Snowboarding or Ski Helmet and that there’s one that deserves a spot on the Top 10 Best Snowboarding Helmets List? Let us know! E-mail us at info (at) powderheadz.com.
As always, happy riding!
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