15 Best Snowboard Helmet And Ski helmet Choices To Keep You Safe On The Slopes 

A good ski and snowboard helmet is undoubtedly the most important piece of gear a skier snowboarder can own. While it can't prevent concussions altogether, a shock-absorbing helmet can significantly reduce the risk of a serious head injury during a crash. So to help shop, we've rounded up 15 of the best ski and snowboard helmets for you to sport so that you can keep your noggin safe on the slopes.

The 15 Best Snowboard Helmets

If you are looking for a great value helmet, then you can't find anything better than this Anon Omega MIPS helmet from Burton. It comes with an affordable price tag, and Burton offers free shipping on all orders!

This helmet offers maximum protection and has a Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS). This innovative technology mimics the brain's own protective system to provide optimal shock absorption and brain injury prevention. This Anon Omega MIPS Helmet comes equipped with the latest comfort and safety technology. Its lightweight polycarbonate shell features 15 vents for easy temperature control. Goggle ventilation channels maintain proper airflow and reduce fogging issues. The Fidlock magnetic helmet buckle and in-shell 360-degree BOA Fit System ensure a comfortable fit on every head. Fuzzy fleece liner and audio accessory-compatible ear pads keep you warm and cozy while you ride.

Weight:

1.1 lb

Ventilation: 

Adjustable

Audio Compatible:

Yes

For tech-savvy skiers and boarders, there's the POC Obex Spin Communication Snowboard and Ski Helmet. The futuristic helmet has a built-in Bluetooth speaker and microphone so you can make calls and listen to music while you're on the mountain. The safety-driven design comes equipped with a lightweight EPS liner, an easy size-adjustment system, and patent-pending silicone pads for 360-degree protection. Sliding vents and carefully placed airflow channels keep your head cool and goggles fog-free through every ride.

Weight:

0.88 lb

Ventilation: 

Adjustable

Audio Compatible:

Yes

Wildhorn's Drift Snowboard Helmet offers unparalleled performance that makes it a popular choice for professional boarders. The ergonomic, low-profile silhouette is 25% lighter than most other helmets. Its fine-tune adjustment system and shock-absorbing padding provide a safe and secure fit on every head. An ultra-plush interior keeps you super comfortable, while a controlled ventilation system keeps you nice and dry. Audio-compatible ear pads accommodate more earbuds so you can get in the zone while you shred.

Weight:

1 lb

Ventilation:

Adjustable

Audio Compatible:

Yes

Hate bulky snowboard helmets that throw off your balance and interfere with your ride? This Oakley MOD 5 Snowboard Helmet offers the perfect lightweight, protective design for technical riding. Perfect for backcountry skiers looking to keep weight low. Two interchangeable brims allow for seamless goggle integration no matter the shape or size. Adjustable ventilation throughout— including a goggle ventilation channel to minimize fogging— allows for easy temperature control through shifting weather conditions. The removable liner and earpads are machine washable for easy upkeep between trips to the hill.

Weight:

2.5 lb

Ventilation: 

Adjustable

Audio Compatible:

Yes

Hit the slopes in style with this Chloe x Fusalp Faux Leather-Paneled Ski Helmet. The sleek designer helmet was designed in collaboration between the eco-conscious French fashion label Chloe and the French luxury ski wear brand, Fusalp. Its luxe faux leather-paneled hard outer shell is appliqued and embroidered with the two labels' logos for added style points. Padded mesh sides and a padded chin guard offer comfort and protection, while a cozy lining keeps you nice and warm. It's a worthy addition to any snow bunny's apres-snowboard wardrobe!

Streamline your snowboarding gear with this Shadow Ski Helmet from Kask. The visor-style snowboarding helmet has a pair of goggles built right in. No annoying straps or bulky face masks are needed. The photochromatic double lens wicks moisture, minimizes fogging and adjusts to any light conditions. A hard outer shell offers superior shock absorption and an aerating opening on top. It's lined with soft merino wool that naturally wicks sweat and minimizes sweat odors. The comfortable chin buckle was carefully designed for easy adjustments with just one hand— even with gloves on! Perfect for downhill skiing and snowboarding!

Weight:

1.1 lb

Ventilation: 

Adjustable

Audio Compatible:

No

Ride with confidence in this Atomic Four Amid Pro Helmet. The street-inspired style features a lightweight, low profile with sleek lines and a brimless shell. The 360-degree fit system adjusts with the twist of a knob for a better fit. Innovate Atomic Multi Directional Impact Deflection technology diverts impact away from the wearer's head and minimizes rotational forces during wipeouts. Its Holo Core design includes a crumple zone for maximum shock absorption and concussion prevention. An advanced ventilation system ensures continual airflow to keep you dry and comfortable during wet winter conditions and warm spring days. Last but not least, a cozy Merino 3M X-Static lining wicks moisture and keeps sweat odors at bay.

Weight:

0.84 lb

Ventilation: 

Fixed

Audio Compatible:

Yes

With this K2 Verdict Helmet, saving money doesn't mean sacrificing safety features. The sleek, minimalist design draws inspiration from protective skateboard gear. It's crafted with a brimless ABS shell fitted with impact-resistant EPS foam, Passive-Channel venting, and a K2 Dialed fit system. With four colors to choose from, there's a helmet to complement every snowsuit.

Weight:

1 lb 0.6 oz

Ventilation: 

Fixed

Audio Compatible:

Yes

Protect your head in total comfort with this Allure MIPS Helmet from Smith. The low-profile helmet features an in-mold design, impact-absorbing EPS liner, and self-adjusting Lifestyle fit system to accommodate a variety of head shapes. Removable ear pads and an AirEvac 2 Ventilation system prevent wearers from overheating in warm spring and summer conditions. A wide clip on the back keeps your goggles firmly in place through every slip, spill, and total wipeout. Choose from three stylish matte shades: quartz pink, light polar blue, and merlot.

Weight:

0.75 lb

Ventilation: 

Adjustable

Audio Compatible:

Yes

Take your ride to the next level with this Meninx Snow Helmet from POC. The race-inspired style features a scratch-resistant outer shell, dual-foam liner with multi-impact EPP in high-contact zones, and a lightweight EPS section at the top for added comfort. Slide adjusters and two-step detachable ear pads allow for ample ventilation and easy temperature control. The modern, minimalist helmet comes in five sleek matte shades that coordinate with every snowsuit out there.

Ventilation:

Adjustable

Audio Compatible: 

No

This SHRED Slam-Cap NoShock Helmet goes above and beyond other snowboard helmets to offer superior protection. Its honeycomb foam padding lessens shock, dulls impact energy, and reduces rotational force on the brain. The in-mold polycarbonate shell features an adjustable vent system that keeps you dry and comfortable no matter the elements. An odor-fighting treatment keeps your helmet smelling fresh after a long weekend on the slopes. Its low profile boasts a dial fit system that allows you to tighten and loosen as needed to find the perfect fit every time.

Weight:

0.92 lb

Ventilation:

Adjustable

Audio Compatible: 

No

This sleek Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet was designed with fearless snowboarders in mind. Its Aerocore technology features a tubular polymer core structure for enhanced impact protection and ample airflow. ASTM-approved MIPS uses slip-plane technology to reduce rotational force caused by angled impacts. AirEvac ventilation diverts warm air away from your goggles and out of the helmet through 21 carefully-placed internal channels and vents. The sweat-wicking X-Static performance fabric lining is woven with silver-based antimicrobial thread to prevent sweat odors and mildew. And did we mention how sweet the matte white color looks on the slopes?

Ventilation:

Adjustable

Audio Compatible: 

Yes

This Giro Ledge MIPS Helmet easily adapts to any weather to keep you comfortable and protected all season long. It is equipped with a molded hardshell exterior, EPS impact foam, and a self-adjusting dial fit. MIPS technology dissipates rotational forces to keep your head better protected during hard falls. The plush ear pads can be removed to prevent overheating during warm spring rides. Ample ventilation channels ensure continuous airflow throughout the day. Its lightweight, brimless design makes it an excellent choice for park and freestyle skiing, ski mountaineering, and snowboarding.

Weight:

1 lb 2oz

Ventilation:

Fixed

Audio Compatible: 

No

This Smith Mirage MIPS Ski Helmet offers ample protection without any unnecessary weight. It features innovative MIPS technology with Aerocore material and a low-friction layer that reduces rotational forces and minimizes impact resistance. Snap-fit earpads and adjustable venting keep you warm on snowy days and cool on sunny spring runs. The lightweight polycarbonate shell is easy to adjust (even with gloves on) thanks to a simple dial system. Perfect for backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding. With four colors and three sizes to choose from, it's a no-brainer for any ski bum.

Weight:

1 lb

Ventilation:

Adjustable

Audio Compatible: 

Yes

Anon's Merak Wavecel Helmet offers superior protection, comfort, and style. The lightweight helmet is lined with innovative WaveCel, a collapsible cellular structure that reduces impact and rotational force by lowering impact velocity and redirecting energy away from the head. A 360-degree BOA Fit System offers easy micro-adjustments around the entire inner shell at the turn of a dial. The Fidlock magnetic closure makes it easy to buckle your chinstrap with a single gloved hand. Its lightweight shell has 19 vents that can be opened or closed to fine-tune your temperature. Polartec Power Grid fleece liner and ear pads wick moisture to keep you dry and warm until the very last run. The best part is, it's compatible with most headphones, so you can jam out while you ride the lift.

Weight:

1.06 lb

Ventilation:

Adjustable

Audio Compatible: 

Yes

How To Find the Best Ski And Snowboard Helmets

Ventilation

Most ski helmets and snowboard helmets offer ventilation, but not all vents are created equal. Some helmets have adjustable vents that allow you to adjust the airflow based on your desire. Adjustable vents are the more desirable option as it is more versatile based on your need. Some helmets have removable plugs. This type of plug does require you to take off your helmet to adjust airflow, so it is not the most convenient. And some helmets have fixed vents, which provide less warmth than the adjustable option. With fixed ventilation, you will have to compromise on a bit of comfort, as having cold air flowing through constantly can be pretty chilly.

Audio Compatibility

Most helmets you find on the market today are compatible with some sort of audio system. Especially well-known brands like Smith helmets can accommodate speakers or headphones.

Safety Tech

The key to finding the safest snowboarding or ski helmet is to find one that fits properly. Be sure to measure your head and double-check the size chart before making a purchase.

The best helmets offer innovative MIPS technology, ample ventilation, and an adjustable dial for a snug, comfortable fit over different hats, hoods, and layers.

You can also look for ASTM certified helmets or CE certification as the helmets have been tested and assessed to ensure that they meet standards.

Most helmets nowadays are built-in with shock-absorbing foam. Instead of your head and brain suffering from any impact, the helmet takes the brunt of the hit.

Fit

The best helmet should have an adjustable fit, like an adjusted Boa dial. This way, you can fine-tune the helmet's fit to your needs and get that perfect fit.

Goggle Compatibility

Nothing is worse than having freezing air lasting through the gap between your goggles and the bottom rim of your helmet. Nowadays, you can find a helmet with a goggle. If you already own a pair, make sure it fits perfectly on the helmet. Otherwise, it may be best that you purchase a helmet that comes with a goggle. 

Gender-Specific Helmet

Several helmets are unisex, so either men or women can wear them. While women and men have similar fits, purchasing a gender-specific helmet will give you a better fit in most cases.

FAQ

Snowboard vs. ski helmet

There is no technical difference between a snowboard helmet and a ski helmet. But each helmet does offer its own features. For example, backcountry helmets are lighter and well ventilated, and racing helmets are designed to provide aerodynamic protections.

How To Choose the Right Size

Before going to a ski shop, first, measure your head. You can either measure it yourself at home or have customer service at the store to do it for you. Knowing your head measurement will help determine your size. Many helmets on the market today have a custom fit adjustment that will help you dial into the perfect fit.

When trying on helmets, it's important to try on several helmet models to make sure it fits comfortably and securely on your head. No one wants to wear a helmet that is too tight all day, nor wear a loose helmet down the slope.