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The 8 Best Ski & Snowboard Helmet Brands

Published on 04/21/2023 · 9 min readLooking for the safest helmet option available? Snowboarding Expert Will Koons takes you through his top brands that will give you the best protection for your head.
will koons, Snowboarding Expert
By Snowboarding Expert will koons

Photo by Joshua Reddekopp

When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, safety should always be your top priority. One of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can invest in is a high-quality helmet. Not only do helmets protect your head from injury, but they can also be a stylish addition to your gear.

With so many brands and models of ski and snowboard helmets on the market, deciding which one is right for you can be overwhelming. That's why we've compiled a comprehensive guide to the top ski and snowboard helmet brands, to help you make an informed decision.

From Giro's groundbreaking Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) to POC's innovative Shearing Pad INside (SPIN) technology, each brand offers unique features and designs to suit your needs. Anon's BOA fit system and Fidlock magnetic buckle provide a custom fit, while Oakley's Modular Brim visor System ensures seamless goggle integration.

But it's not just about safety and functionality – these brands also prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. Many of the top ski and snowboard helmet brands use eco-friendly materials in their products and are dedicated to reducing waste and their carbon footprint.

Whether you're a seasoned pro in the backcountry or a beginner doing some casual resort skiing, selecting the right helmet can make all the difference in your safety and comfort on the mountain. So, strap in and get ready for a deep dive into the world of ski and snowboard helmets, and discover the brand and model that's perfect for you.

Anon: The Ultimate Blend of Style and Function

Anon is a brand that was born from Burton Snowboards in 2001, and it has quickly established itself as a leading player in the snowboard helmet market. Anon's helmets are known for their unique designs and advanced features, and the brand is popular among riders who want to make a statement on the slopes.

Anon helmets are packed with features that cater to riders' needs, including the BOA fit system for a custom fit and Fidlock magnetic buckle for hassle-free adjustments. The brand's helmets also offer excellent airflow, keeping riders cool and comfortable on the mountain. Anon also has a line of helmets that incorporate audio ear pads allowing riders to listen to music on the slopes.

Anon has partnered with professional snowboarders like Mark McMorris and Anna Gasser to develop helmets that meet the demands of top athletes. The brand is also committed to sustainability, using eco-conscious materials and processes to reduce its environmental impact.

Curated Expert Pick: Anon Rodan Mips

Bern: Urban-Inspired Helmets for the Adventurous Rider

Bern is a brand that was founded in 2004, offering helmets with a unique blend of urban-inspired aesthetics and top-tier protection. Bern helmets feature a signature low-profile design that caters to skiers and snowboarders who prioritize style without compromising safety. Bern also features adjustable vents when you need to stay cool and added foam inserts when you need extra warmth without your beanie.

Bern's helmets use innovative technologies like ZipMold+ and ThinShell to provide lightweight, high-impact protection for riders of all skill levels. The brand has partnered with professional athletes like snowboarder Kimmy Fasani and freeskier Henrik Harlaut to develop helmets that meet the demands of top riders.

Bern is involved in sustainability practices and uses eco-conscious materials in its products. The brand is devoted to reducing its environmental impact through responsible manufacturing practices and reducing waste.

Curated Expert Pick: Bern Hendrix

Giro: The Pioneers of Ski and Snowboard Helmet Technology

Giro has been a leader in the ski and snowboard helmet industry since its establishment in 1985. The brand is devoted to producing helmets that combine safety, comfort, and style, and has developed innovative technologies to achieve this goal.

One of Giro's most notable contributions to the industry is the Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS). This technology uses a low-friction liner layer inside the helmet that allows the helmet to rotate slightly upon impact, reducing rotational forces that can cause injury. The MIPS system has been integrated into many of Giro's helmets, including the popular Giro Range and Giro Ledge snow helmet models. Giro helmets also come with stellar ventilation systems and audio systems.

In addition to safety, Giro also prioritizes sustainability. The brand uses recycled materials in its products and is focused on reducing waste and its carbon footprint through responsible manufacturing practices. Giro's eco-friendly packaging is made from recycled materials and is designed to be easily recyclable.

Curated Expert Pick: Giro Ledge

Oakley: A Legacy of Uncompromising Protection and Style

Oakley is a brand that has become synonymous with high-performance eyewear since its founding in 1975, and the brand has extended its expertise to the world of ski and snowboard helmets. Oakley helmets are known for their distinctive designs and superior protection, appealing to riders who demand both style and function. Oakley was also one of the early pioneers of eps foam liner and removable ear pads.

One of Oakley's most notable helmet features is the Modular Brim System, which allows for seamless integration with your goggle strap. This system ensures that riders have a clear and unobstructed field of vision while on the mountain.

Oakley is committed to environmental conservation and partners with organizations like Protect Our Winters (POW) to promote sustainable practices. The brand also uses eco-friendly materials in its products and is focused on reducing its carbon footprint through responsible manufacturing practices.

Curated Expert Pick: Oakley MOD

POC: Swedish Style Meets Cutting-Edge Safety

POC is a Swedish company that has quickly gained recognition for its stylish and safety-conscious helmets. The brand's design philosophy is rooted in Scandinavian minimalism, with clean lines and bold colors dominating its helmet designs.

POC is engaged in reducing injury potential, and its helmets often boast cutting-edge safety features. One of its most innovative technologies is the Shearing Pad INside (SPIN) system, which aims to reduce the force of oblique impacts. This system uses a series of pads inside the helmet that allow it to rotate slightly upon impact, reducing the amount of force transferred to the head.

In addition to its safety features, POC also prioritizes sustainability. The brand uses recycled and eco-friendly materials in its products and is committed to reducing its carbon footprint through responsible manufacturing practices.

Curated Expert Pick: POC Obex

Salomon: Legendary Expertise for the Modern Rider

Salomon has been crafting high-quality ski equipment since 1947, and its helmets have earned a reputation for comfort, durability, and unparalleled protection. The brand offers helmets that cater to all types of riders, from beginners to seasoned experts. The Salomon mtn lab line is geared toward backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering. This premier line offers higher-end polycarbonate in-mold helmets that shave ounces when it matters most. This line features adjustable ventilation with a headlamp clip and goggle compatibility desired by backcountry skiers.

Salomon uses innovative technologies like the EPS 4D foam tech to provide advanced crash protection. This system features a combination of materials that absorb and disperse impact energy, reducing the risk of head injury.

Salomon is pledged to environmental responsibility, with initiatives like the Salomon Sustainability Program focusing on reducing its carbon footprint and preserving the planet. The brand uses recycled and eco-friendly materials in its products and is dedicated to responsible manufacturing practices.

Curated Expert Pick: Salomon Husk Pro

Smith: Innovation and Performance in Harmony

Smith has been a pioneer in ski and snowboard helmet technology since its founding in 1965 building some of the best ski helmets available. The brand's helmets are known for their advanced features, including the Aerocore construction featuring Koroyd. This system provides advanced impact protection and ventilation for a comfortable ride and is incorporated into popular models such as the Vantage Helmet. For weight-conscious skiers, the Smith Mission Mips helmet is great for backcountry use.

Smith helmets are favored by professional athletes like snowboarder Austin Smith and skier Angel Collinson, who appreciate the brand's focus on performance and innovation. Smith is also pledged to sustainability and environmental responsibility, partnering with organizations like 1% for the Planet to donate a portion of its sales to environmental causes.

In addition to its helmets, Smith also produces helmets for biking, eyewear and other accessories allowing riders to complete their look with complementary accessories.

Curated Expert Pick: Smith Vantage

Sweet Protection: Uncompromising Safety Meets Scandinavian Design

Sweet Protection is a brand that hails from Norway, and it has made waves in the ski and snowboard helmet industry since its founding in 2000. Sweet Protection is renowned for its cutting-edge technology and sleek, minimalist designs that appeal to serious riders. Sweet Protection has incorporated BOA dial head and chin strap tightening making it super easy to dial in your fit.

Sweet Protection's helmets feature innovative materials like carbon fiber and MIPS technology, providing the ultimate in safety and performance. The brand has a roster of professional athletes, including skier Markus Eder and snowboarder Terje Håkonsen, who rely on the brand for their head protection.

Sweet Protection is focused on sustainability, reducing waste, and promoting responsible manufacturing practices. The brand also partners with organizations like Protect Our Winters (POW) to promote environmental conservation.

Curated Expert Pick: Sweet Protection Switcher

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, selecting the right ski or snowboard helmet is crucial for ensuring your safety and comfort on the mountain. Each of the brands listed above offers unique features and designs that cater to a variety of riders' needs and preferences.

Whether you're looking for cutting-edge technology, stylish designs, or eco-friendly options, there's a brand out there that has a helmet to suit your needs. From Giro's patented MIPS system to Smith's Aerocore construction, each brand offers its own advanced safety features and technologies.

If you're unsure which brand or helmet model is right for you, it's always best to consult with a Curated Ski and Snowboarding Expert. We are here to help you find the perfect ski or snowboard helmet to meet your needs. Whether you need help selecting the right size or want to learn more about the advanced features of a particular brand, our experts are available to answer any questions you may have.

Curated Experts are dedicated in providing our customers with the best advice and guidance when it comes to selecting ski and snowboard gear. So, if you need help finding the right helmet for your next adventure, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Let us help you hit the slopes with confidence, knowing that you're protected by the best helmet technology available. Put your lid on and get on the slopes!

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Shop Helmets on Curated

Anon Rodan MIPS Helmet
$107.97$179.95
Bern Hendrix MIPS Helmet
$74.98$149.95
Giro Ledge MIPS Helmet
$78.70$104.95

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POC Obex MIPS Helmet
$120.00$199.95
Salomon Husk Pro Helmet
$95.97$159.95
Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet
$151.25$275.00
Smith Scout MIPS Helmet
$60.50$110.00
Smith Mission MIPS Helmet
$79.75$145.00
Smith Scout Helmet
$49.50$90.00
Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet
$151.25$275.00

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