MTB Helmets

Open Face MTB Helmet Buying Guide

The open face helmet is the everyday lid for most mountain bikers. Modern designs offer significantly more coverage than a road helmet — the rear extends down to protect the back of the skull, and the sides wrap lower around the temples. Combined with MIPS and good ventilation, today's trail helmets are a genuine step up in both protection and comfort.

Coverage Levels

Trail helmets vary in how much of the head they cover. XC-oriented helmets (Giro Chronicle, POC Tectal) are lighter with more vents and less rear coverage. Enduro-oriented helmets (Fox Speedframe, Troy Lee Designs A3) extend further down the back and sides, providing more protection at the cost of slightly less ventilation and a few extra grams. For aggressive trail riding, the extra coverage is worth the trade-off.

Ventilation

More vents means more airflow but potentially less structural strength. Premium helmets use strategic vent placement and internal channelling to maximise airflow without compromising protection. If you overheat in helmets, look for models with large front-facing vents and internal channels — Smith Forefront, Giro Montaro and POC Kortal are known for good airflow.

Peak Visor

Almost all MTB helmets have an adjustable peak visor that shields your eyes from sun, rain and low branches. Some detach easily for goggle use. A visor that breaks away on impact (rather than transmitting force to your head) is a safety feature worth having — most modern designs include this.