Conclusion

We hope you’ll never have to rely on a helmet to save you, but we know bad things happen - and quickly - when mountain biking, so a good helmet is a must. One with high levels of protection won’t stop you taking a hit but it can ensure that it doesn’t turn into something much worse.

If you’re after all-out protection a full face is a must because the chin bar adds extra coverage. The Troy Lee Designs Stage is one of the few full-face helmets (along with the

Fox Proframe) that we’ve tested that doesn’t feel like you’re riding in one – the ventilation really is that good. It’s also lightweight, fits amazingly well and looks pimp.

The Leatt Enduro 4.0 V22 doesn’t look as racy but it has good breathability and comfort. What held it back are those Turbine bumpers, which kept falling out, and that the convertible Enduro 4.0 V21 is a better helmet.

The pads kept falling out of the Giro Switchblade too, but then that’s hardly surprising since it’s so tricky to get on and off, which is odd for such a big helmet. Also for a design that is supposed to be versatile and convenient, it felt anything but.

Getting the chin bar off should be something you can literally do on the move in seconds, unfortunately it’s not.

The Fox Dropframe doesn’t offer the same amount of protection as a full face but it’s lighter, better vented and cheaper. It’s also comfortable to ride in, you don’t get cauliflower ears pulling it on and off and it also has a totally dialled aesthetic.

For the majority, a regular open face or half shell is going to be your first choice and if you’re starting out you can’t go far wrong with the Specialized Camber. We’re not fans of the fixed visor and it wobbles a bit when you’re bombing, but for £70 with this level of protection it’s a bargain. The Troy Lee Designs A3 is the next tier up and it’s also a fantastic price right now. Bottom line, it’s one of the most comfortable helmets we’ve tested.

The Bontrager Blaze and Lazer Jackal are at the top end of the price scale which explains their lower ratings. Both are good, we just felt they were expensive for the features and technology on offer, although if you do see them discounted, they’re worth snapping up.

Fit and comfort are key when buying a helmet because if it doesn’t fit right, you either won’t wear it or, when it comes to the crunch, it may not be as effective. The IXS Trigger AM is an excellent helmet, but it was either too tight or too loose. Obviously, it might be spot on for your head size but more accurate retention is always a good thing.

No one likes a hot head, so the Giro Montaro II is the choice if you sweat more than most. The air flow is superb, and it has some quality details and finishing. The only glitch is it doesn’t quite have the coverage.

Creating a helmet that offers next level protection, great venting, excellent features and wrapping it up in a package that looks sleek is a tough ask, but Bell has nailed it with the Super Air. It also feels like it’s been custom made because the fit is amazing. What really capped it off is the fact you can buy a chin bar and convert this into a full face. Yes that adds £90 and it’s stepping into another category but the Super Air is still a standout product. Currently the Super Air is the best on test but our comments and rating are only valid because Bell is currently selling the Super Air at a reduced price of £150 – at £200 it’s still full-loaded but not quite as competitive. Our point being, get this one while you can.