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Best Electric Bike Helmets in 2022

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Updated March 8, 2022

What are the features that make for great electric bike helmets? It starts with tested and proven safety ratings; the best electric bike helmets are rated for road use on class-3 e-bikes and electric mopeds. Fit is a close second since any bicycle helmet must fit snugly and properly in order to provide protection as designed. Comfort is also important, especially for longer rides; you’ll want to be wearing an e-bike helmet that has adequate ventilation and doesn’t chafe. It should ideally also look great with your electric bicycle. Visibility is an important consideration, too. Keep reading our electric bike helmet as well as the best electric bike buying guides to learn more.

Top Electric Bike Helmets

 #1  BASE CAMP BC004 Helmet

Award: TOP PICK

WHY WE LIKE IT: With nine ergonomically designed cooling vents, this helmet will make sure you have enough airflow to keep you cool during long-distance rides while the added visor prevents glare from limiting your vision in the sun.

Pros
  • Adjustable and detachable strap
  • 9 cooling vents for better airflow
  • LED tailight helps with night visibility
Cons
  • Limited head circumference range.

The Base Camp electric bike helmet comes in three different colors: black, blue, and white, giving you a decent amount of customizability. While the cooling vents and visor help makes your ride more comfortable, the detachable LED taillight will help you increase your visibility at night while allowing you to carry it in your bag during the day easily. However, you should note that the adjustable strap loosens out over time, so it’s best to make sure you are in the recommended helmet circumference range of 21.65 to 23.6 Inches, as otherwise, it might be too tight or loose.

Moreover, you’ll be thrilled to know that the helmet also comes with soft padding under the chin strap clasp, making it more comfortable to wear and thus safer on rides. The strap is also detachable, so you can easily take it out and wash it to get rid of smells and adjust it back as needed. And with a dual safety certification as well as high-density PC shell and EPS foam, you can rest assured knowing that this helmet will keep you safe in case of most accidents.

 #2  JBM A253 Helmet

Award: HONORABLE MENTION

WHY WE LIKE IT: This bike helmet comes with a lightweight yet sturdy build. It’s also perfect for impact absorption and comfort with durable PVC and PC material on the outside and an EPS foam inside.

Pros
  • Good ventilation
  • Removable inner padding
  • Lightweight yet sturdy build
Cons
  • Adjustments need to be done manually everytime

The JBM Electric Bike helmet features a specialized ventilation design that helps ensure you get enough airflow to keep your head cool during rides. This, along with the lightweight build, makes it an excellent fit for mountain biking, allowing you to comfortably climb the inclines without worrying about an accident. However, even though it has an adjustable strap, you should note that the straps do not lock in place after taking the helmet off, thus requiring you to re-adjust it every time.

On the other hand, the helmet comes with a removable inner padding that you can take out for washing. Thus along with the ventilation, this will help make sure the helmet stays clean and doesn’t begin to smell over time. The helmet is also suitable for both men and women, and with a multitude of color combinations, you can customize it as you see fit at no extra cost.

 #3  MOKFIRE WT-004 Helmet

Award: BEST FOR SAFETY

WHY WE LIKE IT: Coming in several different colors and high-quality material that is both comfortable and strong, this helmet will ensure you don’t have to worry too much about safety. And with the added ventilation, you’ll have enough airflow for the long-distance rides.

Pros
  • Sturdy and protective design
  • Washable paddings
  • Sun visor reduces glare during the day
Cons
  • No place to comfortably store extra bit of the straps

The MOKAFIRE electric bike helmet has a lightweight and simple design with internal and recessed ventilation channels. This helps make sure your head stays cool, while the soft and comfy pads make sure you can peacefully enjoy your ride. And being both removable and washable, you won’t have to worry about them smelling over time either. But, you should keep in mind that while the straps are adjustable, you still need to tuck in the extra bit of strap into the helmet afterward, which might be a little uncomfortable for some people.

Other than that, the helmet also comes with a detachable rear light that features a steady light and flashing mode. Both modes will improve your visibility at night, preventing potential accidents. The ABS hardshell protection on the outside of the helmet and the EPS foam liner are excellent at impact shock absorption, which will immensely help in case of accidents. Also, with a sun visor, the helmet will shade your eyes from glare during the day, making the ride more enjoyable.

 #4  Triple Eight Helmet

Award: BEST FOR WASHABILITY

WHY WE LIKE IT: This helmet comes with two sets of pads that are great at moisture absorption and work great with the adjustable straps to provide more comfort. And being removable as well as washable, you won’t have to worry about the smell either.

Pros
  • Strong protective material
  • Variety of color options
  • Moisture absorbing and washable padding
Cons
  • Size options need to be considered carefully

The Triple Eight helmet is dual certified with its ABS shell on the outside and impact-absorbing EPS foam on the inside, which works together to reduce the dangers of accidents. This, along with its compliance with the U.S. CPSC safety standard, makes it a good fit for children as well as adults who like to try out stuns. However, you should note that it comes in different sizes, and the adjustable straps are limited, so it’s best to make sure you get the one in your size range.

The size recommendations range from 18.9 Inches for the XS and up to 24 Inches for the XL size. Apart from that, you’ll be happy to know that the helmet comes in many different colors: Black Glossy, Black Matte, Blue Matte, Gun Matte, Kelly Green Matte, and White Matte. These color options, along with the simple yet stylish design, lets you choose the one you like best.

 #5  Thousand Heritage Helmet

Award: BEST ANTI-THEFT FEATURES

WHY WE LIKE IT: With a dial fit feature and several size options, you can choose the perfect fit for this helmet. By quickly adjusting the helmet’s fit with the dial, you can make sure you’re both comfortable and safe simultaneously.

Pros
  • Good anti-theft features
  • Plethora of color options
  • Convenient dial adjustment feature
Cons
  • No rear light results in limited visibility at night

Compatible for both men and women, the Thousand bike helmet comes with many features that ensure that you prioritize safety without compromising on comfort. A magnetic buckle allows you to easily lock it in securely and swiftly, while the seven air vents designed onto the headwear make sure your head stays cool. However, you should note that it doesn’t have a rear light which means it’s not the best helmet for riding at night.

Additionally, the helmet comes with a pop lock feature that allows you to use your U-lock to conveniently lock up the helmet and your bike together with no concerns regarding theft. The sustainable microfiber material for the vegan leather straps makes it comfortable to wear and an environment-friendly accessory. Also, with a sun visor at the front, your eyes will be protected from glare when riding your bike during the day.

 #6  Retrospec Dakota CM-1 Helmet

Award: BEST AIRFLOW

WHY WE LIKE IT: This helmet will impress you with the safety features that allow it to be certified for many safety standards. Its high-quality material and comfortable padding help ensure you’re safe from most impacts.

Pros
  • Great shock absorption with the ABS shell and EPS foam lining
  • 10 vents allow for good airflow
  • Variety of color choices
Cons
  • Unsuitable for children

The Retrospec Dakota helmet comes with several color options: Matte Eggshell, Pine Grain, Matte Black, Matte Burnt Orange, Matte Crystal Blue, Matte Forest, Matte Navy, Matte Oat, Matte Slate, Matte Whisper Pink, and Matte White. These color options make for incredible customizability, adding to your look when riding the bike. However, you should note that its size makes it unsuitable for most kids below the age of 14 as the helmet might be too loose of a fit.

But with its three different size options, you can easily find the best fit for you, which will make sure you are comfortable wearing it paired with the EPS foam. The ABS shell on the outside also helps make sure you have good shock absorption in case of accidents while also giving the helmet a sturdy build quality. And with the ten vents for airflow, you can rest assured knowing that your head won’t overheat during long-distance rides.

Beginners’ Guide to Electric Bike Helmets

What Are Electric Bike Helmets?

Electric bike helmets are helmets used to provide head protection while riding an e-bike or electric scooter. The US Department of Transportation doesn’t have specific standards for electric bike helmets, however, there are independent and international certifications for electric bike helmets. All cycling helmets sold in the US must pass consumer product safety commission safety certification standards for bike helmets. Regular bicycle helmets are in general use for pedal-assist-only e-bikes and lower-speed 250-Watt e-bikes. For higher-speed class-3 e-bikes, many prefer DOT-approved motorized cycle helmets for a higher level of protection. And for easy storage and transportation of your ebikes, consider purchasing the best bike rack for electric bikes that is easy to install on a wide variety of automobiles.

Electric Bike Helmets and Electric Bike Types

Electric bikes are broadly defined as bicycles that use a combination of pedals and an electric motor for propulsion. There’s a wide range of electric bike types, from light-duty 200-250W mid-drive bikes that may resemble a traditional pedaled bicycle, all the way to class-3 electric bikes and cargo e-bikes which may have similar power levels to electric mopeds and road-going scooters. Different types of helmets may work best with these different classes of electric bikes.

Electric bike helmets are required by law in some areas. In other areas, wearing a helmet is recommended but not mandated. US laws generally require helmets for e-bikes with over 750 Watts or that use electric power when traveling over 20 mph.

How Electric Bike Helmets Work

Electric bike helmets are designed to provide head cushioning in case of a fall or crash in order to reduce the severity of concussions and help prevent skull fractures.

A well-designed e-bike helmet should offer a MIPS–Multi-Directional Impact Protection System or similar construction that protects against angular rotational forces as well as linear deceleration forces during angled impacts. The most common bike falls involve more angular than linear velocity change forces. MIPS works by including a slip-plane liner or similar extra, structured cushioning that keeps the helmet in position during a sliding or rolling impact.

E-bike helmets should also offer adequate coverage; many riders opt for a lightweight moped or scooter helmets due to the greater area of coverage these typically provide. Electric bike helmets are designed for good outward sightlines as well; a quality helmet shouldn’t compromise your peripheral vision too much. Some e-bike helmets include a rear light or reflective paint to boost visibility. Many e-bike users opt for commuter or road bicycle helmets. When it comes to faster 750-watt and above e-bikes, riders may prefer the extra protection of a DOT-certified helmet. And to add security to your electric bicycle parking, we recommend any of the gadgets listed in our buying guide on the best electric bike locks.

Why Should You Buy a New E-Bike Helmet?

Do you need an e-bike helmet? If you ride an electric bike for fun or as part of your commute, a helmet is an important safety consideration, even more so than when riding a traditional bicycle. On faster class-3 e-bikes or higher-powered electric mountain bikes, a helmet with the appropriate safety rating is a must.

New e-bike helmets offer improved protection and a more comfortable riding experience compared to older designs. Modern helmets for road and track biking typically offer good airflow that helps keep your head cool, while also maintaining adequate coverage.

Some helmet companies have released new models designed for use with electric bikes. These may incorporate safety features such as multi-directional impact protection and anti-slip lining. This adds up to additional protection for ebike riding compared to the typical mountain bike helmets or commuter bike helmets.

Is an Electric Bike Helmet Worth Buying?

If you ride an e-bike with an assisted speed higher than the typical road bike speeds, a helmet designed for faster speeds is a good idea. You’ll want to look for international or ASTM safety certification labels for electric bikes or mopeds. These types of helmets generally offer improved coverage and slip protection compared to standard cycling helmets.

Improved Safety: E-bike riding involves faster average speeds than pedal-only cycling. Therefore it’s a good idea to invest in a more robust helmet for better protection against head injuries in case of a fall or accident.

Visibility: Many electric bike helmets add safety by increasing visibility as well. This can involve rear lights, reflective paint, or bright colors.

Style and Design Features: Many eBike helmets offer a unique style that makes them stand out from ordinary bike helmets. While you may not want a full-face helmet, there are plenty of high-quality helmet options that offer side protection and still allow some air circulation.

Why an Electric Bike Helmet May Not Be for You

Among the reasons some people hesitate before purchasing a new helmet for their electric bike are concerns with weight, fit, and helmet sizes.

You Already Have a Bike Helmet: If you ride your e-bike using mostly pedal-assist, it may not feel substantially different from riding a non-powered traditional bicycle, and thus you may feel like your old bike helmet is more than adequate. If, however, you commute regularly with an e-bike or ride on hilly terrain, you may attain higher speeds through certain sections of road or trail. This might make it worthwhile to switch to an ASTM-rated e-bike commuter helmet.

Helmets Add Weight: If weight and riding comfort are your main considerations, there are a number of popular helmet models that are very light (less than 1 kg) and offer more impact protection than you’d get with a regular bike or skateboard helmet.

Finding the Right Fit: An uncomfortable or chafing helmet can be a distraction while riding, and finding the right fit can be challenging. Modern helmet manufacturers often provide detailed sizing specifications, however, minimizing the risk of getting the wrong fit. Some popular helmet brands have IRL storefronts, too. This lets you try on various models until you can settle on the perfect helmet.

How Long Will an Electric Bike Helmet Last?

While a helmet doesn’t necessarily wear out, per se, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends replacing a bicycle helmet every 5-10 years depending on use and storage conditions. Over time, UV light can damage the plastic casings and moisture/ drying cycles can affect the structure of the foam.

In general, a bike helmet that’s been through a significant impact should not be reused.

Straps and fasteners can wear out from use as well. Once the straps have become frayed, they might not keep the helmet in place securely during a crash. This can compromise safety, so a helmet with damaged straps should be repaired or replaced. Surface scratches typically don’t affect the functionality of a helmet, but any serious impact will deform the inner honeycomb structure and slip lining.

Cracks and wear-markings on the inside of a helmet may also mean the structure of the foam is no longer intact and the helmet should be replaced.

How to Choose the Best Electric Bike Helmets?

There are a number of key features that go into picking the best protective bicycle helmet for your electric bike rides. ASTM or DOT certification is crucial to validating the safety performance of a helmet. Fit is also a key aspect of helmet design. Finally, look for a helmet that provides good airflow and is comfortable to wear. Many e-bike riders also look for features such as a removable visor or magnetic buckle.

Electric Bike Helmet Key Factors to Consider

There are a few questions to ask to help decide on the best helmet for e-bike riding.

What Kind of E-Bike Do You Ride?

The right helmet depends to some extent on the type of bike; a throttle-controlled electric bike, or one using a motor with over 750-Watts, may mean a higher maximum speed and thus a helmet with additional coverage and protection. An e-bike with its own lights means you may not care if the helmet comes with visibility features or rear lights as well.

Do You Mostly Commute or Use Your E-Bike for Fun?

Depending on the type of riding you do, different features may stand out more. For long commutes, a well-fitted helmet is essential, as is good airflow and outward visibility. You may also want a smart helmet with built-in anti-theft features.

For trick riding or riding on dirt trails, you may want extra coverage to protect against vertical impacts and you may be able to put up with a heavier helmet. For trick riding, eye protection may be warranted as well.

What’s Your Size?

The right fit is essential to finding the perfect helmet. Not only will a poorly-fitted bike helmet not be comfortable, it will also not provide the same level of crash safety protection as a helmet that fits correctly.

What Style Do You Like?

E-bike riders can use differently styled helmets. You might want something designed to look like a traditional mod vintage scooter helmet with a visor or a more streamlined road bicycle helmet-like design instead.

FAQs

Do you have to wear a helmet when riding an electric bike?

In general, it depends on the type of electric bike. Riders of Class-1 e-bikes–limited to 20 mph–are subject to the same helmet laws as regular bike riders. In the US, bike helmet laws vary by jurisdiction. Wearing a helmet is usually required when riding an electric bike above 20 mph or when riding an e-bike with over 750 Watts of power.

Are E-Bike helmets different from traditional bike helmets?

Regular cyclist helmets are often used for riding e-bikes less than 20 mph or for recreational, occasional e-bike use. However, commuter e-bikes do go faster on average than pedal-powered bicycles, and so you may want to consider upgrading to a helmet designed for use with an electric bike.

What is different about E-bike helmets?

Compared to road cycling helmets, E-Bike helmets have expanded coverage, making them sometimes appear similar to scooter helmets. They may also provide superior crash impact protection. E-bike helmets also may include a visor for more complete face protection.