Coolest helmet designs

Bicycling may make commissions on products which are on their own chosen by our editorial team.

Bicycling may earn commissions on items that are independently chosen by our editorial group.

1/16 photo due to Giro

Broadened polystyrene foam (with greater regularity known as EPS) doesn’t have an excellent reputation regarding ecological concerns; yet it’s the absolute most commonly used material in bicycle helmets. For 2016, Giro features an alternate, greener material—expanded polylactic acid, or E-PLA—debuting in its brand-new Silo commuter helmet.

E-PLA, created from plant biomass—in this case corn—compresses to soak up impacts exactly like EPS does. Along with E-PLA, the Giro Silo features bamboo fibre webbing for the straps, indicating you are able to compost it or turn it into one super-cool flower pot.

Info: giro.com
Get It Now: $50 at Competitive Cyclist

2/16 Photograph thanks to Lazersport

Lazer’s popular flagship Z1 helmet is currently offered with MIPS technology for 2016. MIPS—Multi-directional Impact cover System—is built to reduce rotational forces regarding the mind that result from angled effects on mind. The Z1 MIPS keeps all the standard version’s features, such as for example 31 airy vents and a Rollsys retention system, and it is however lightweight. A wide variety of add-ons is offered for Z1 MIPS including a lock, air conditioning pad, tail light, and LifeBEAM heartrate monitor; but well known this time around of year is the aero address. This synthetic address snaps on, limiting airflow for additional warmth, but offers adequate air flow to keep from getting sweaty. Whenever combined with a headband, the aero cover may just function as ultimate winter defense for the head.

Info: lazersport.com
Buy It Today: 0 at Competitive Cyclist

3/16 photo thanks to Bell Helmets

Commuters selecting the best helmet might just find it in Bell's new Annex. Not just is there a MIPS lining, however the Annex also features an adjustable venting system that Bell calls the Active Aero System. Merely sliding a lever opens the helmet’s top vents for warm-weather use or closes them when it gets chilly. The Annex exists with a face guard, too, improving the fee to $175. Just turning down the face guard can block all insects, rain, and tear-inducing cool atmosphere. Both variations of Annex include a totally free 12 months of ICEdot disaster notice, concerning an online profile linked to a sticker on the helmet for disaster responders. A removable smooth visor and built-in back light mount round out this impressive package.