TL;DR: When buying an Anon helmet, consider individual needs such as the size of your head, your budget, and any special features you're looking for. Check for Anon’s standout features like their Fidlock magnetic buckle, WaveCel technology, MIPS impact protection, and BOA Fit System. Remember, investing in a quality and comfortable helmet will keep you protected for seasons to come.

I’m no stranger to “ringing my bell,” and have had more concussions than I care to admit. 2024 marks my 29th year riding a snowboard, and choosing to wear a helmet over the last fifteen years has greatly reduced my issues with head injuries.

I’ve been a major helmet advocate and user ever since my younger brother lost his life from a head trauma while snowboarding without a helmet. I am a professional athlete, and I endorsed Anon for five years of my career. While I am no longer obligated to endorse or promote Anon Helmets, I can genuinely say that they make a great product—one that I would strongly recommend to any skier or snowboarder.

Who is Anon?

Anon, formerly known as RED, is a brand that is manufactured by Burton Snowboards. Burton’s products are widely recognized for their quality and function, and Anon is no different. Anon is the helmet and goggle division at Burton, and is known for its innovation and smooth integration between the goggle/helmet interface for riders. Anon has invested decades into the development of protective equipment, and leans on some of the world's top snowboarders for their feedback through product testing. It is worth noting that all Anon products are backed by a 1-year warranty from date of purchase, and that Anon helmets are also backed by a 2-year crash replacement policy.

What to Consider When Buying an Anon Helmet

Here are some things to consider before diving into your next helmet purchase to help you pick the right fit:

What Are You Using It For?

Understanding your specific helmet needs is important. Anon produces an array of helmets for outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding. The features and designs vary, so taking an educated approach to your helmet selection will give you the best experience-optimizing safety, comfort, and performance.

For example, backcountry enthusiasts may prioritize a helmet that is especially lightweight and breathable. Freestyle or park riders may put a secure fit or MIPS at the top of their list to prevent the helmet from shifting or wobbling mid invert, or to protect against the increased likelihood of slams. It really comes down to personal preference, though, and the price difference between entry-level helmets and high-end are nominal when compared to hard goods like your skis or board. So it’s unlikely you will regret spending a little more on a helmet for added comfort and protection.

What's Your Head Size and Shape?

A well-fitted helmet is essential for both safety and comfort. If you’re unsure what size you are, you should measure your head circumference with a soft tape measure to ensure proper sizing. Anon helmets come in many different sizes, and accurate head measurements will allow you to take the guesswork out of finding a helmet that fits snugly and comfortably.

What Features Are Important to You?

Consider the features that you are looking for in a helmet. Would you prefer adjustable ventilation or fixed? Would you like the added adjustment capabilities that BOA offers? Do you want a helmet that has audio compatibility built in? Identify what's important to you, and narrow down your search from there.

Is It Compatible With Your Other Gear?

Consider whether you need your helmet to be compatible with your other gear. For instance, if you are looking for the best fit between your goggles and helmet, it’s a huge bonus to have Anon Goggles with your Anon Helmet for added comfort. Take a look at Anon Goggles for the best match with your Anon Helmet. Anon also has a line of MFI facemasks and accessories that connect directly with small magnets to their MFI-compatible goggles. If you plan to listen to music or even take calls with your helmet on, Anon also offers helmet models that come compatible with audio systems.

How Much Should an Anon Helmet Cost?

It's important to match your budget with your needs. Anon helmets start at around $80, and provide durable, comfortable, and adequate protection. Mid-range Anon helmets can be found in the $100-$150 range, and may offer more advanced features, such as BOA or audio compatibility. Anon helmets over $150 often include the more innovative safety technologies, like MIPS, along with premium comfort features. Decide what your personal needs are and how much you're comfortable spending before proceeding with a purchase.

Features to Look for When Buying an Anon Helmet

Here are some of the features and technologies that Anon offers in their helmets that help them remain one of the top snow sports helmet manufacturers:

1. Fidlock Magnetic Buckle: This innovative technology brings ease to the clipping and unclipping of the helmet's chin strap. It is an easy-to-use magnetic snap helmet buckle that allows for simple one handed use, without the need to remove a glove or mitten.
2. MIPS System: MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) is an additional layer within the helmet designed to reduce rotational forces that occur on impact. It's a valuable feature if you're frequently in situations with risk of angled impacts.
3. BOA Fit System: This micro-adjustable fit system allows you to fine-tune the fit of your helmet for maximum comfort and safety with the simple turn of a dial. It's super easy to adjust, even with gloves on, making it perfect for on-the-go fit adjustments.
4. WaveCel Technology: Anon’s WaveCel behaves like a network of hundreds of interconnected shock absorbers connecting your head to the outer shell of the helmet. Cells are allowed to flex and glide, which diverts impact force away for your head. These cells can also crumple, allowing for superior shock absorption.
5. Snow Stopper Fabric: Retains warmth and comfort for cold-weather conditions, allowing air to flow into the helmet while preventing snow from entering the vents.
6. Audio Systems: Many Anon helmets are often equipped with audio-compatible systems. These drop-in audio chips bring your favorite songs to your favorite runs for a euphoric match up. Learn more about what headphones or helmet speakers are best for riding with.

Remember, the best helmet for you is going to depend on exactly that: YOU. So, take stock of what you value in a helmet. Whether it's advanced safety features, comfort, ventilation, or audio integration you crave, there is sure to be an Anon helmet that’s right for your portfolio.

Most Recommended Anon Helmets

Below you will find some of my most recommended Anon helmets that we offer here on Curated, and what I love about each of them.

Anon Raider 3: Best For Protecting Your Head On a Budget

The Anon Raider 3 is a big hit, without the big price tag. The hardshell exterior brings ample protection, yet has a relatively low profile. Its integrated ventilation keeps your head cool and goggles free from fogging. It features a fleece lining to protect you from the elements, and removable ear pads allow you to control your temps and your look.

Key Features:

• Hardshell Exterior: Provides excellent protection and durability to last for years to come.
• Integrated Ventilation System: Built-in vents to keep you cool and prevent your goggles from fogging up.
• Auto-Adjust Fit: A key component for bringing you ultimate comfort and a highly secure fit.
• Fleece Liner and Ear Pads: Provide added warmth for all-day comfort and cold weather enjoyment.

Anon Define: Best for Kids

The Anon Define kids helmet was designed with children and parents in mind, and keeps the hassle and fuss at a minimum—giving the fam maximum enjoyment on the slopes. Its hardshell exterior brings everyday durability, and the 180° BOA Fit System provides easy adjustability.

Key Features:

• Integrated Goggles: The Anon Define Helmet simplifies your child's experience by integrating goggles into its design, ensuring that they never get too lost in the sauce.
• 180° BOA Fit System: A quick and micro-adjustable fit system allows you to adjust the helmet with ease using a single hand.
• Fixed Vents: Keeps air flowing through the helmet to prevent fogging and aid with all-day comfort.

Anon Rodan - Best for the Music Heads

The Anon Rodan features MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) for an additional level of safety, allowing you to crash harder and more often with maximum brain cell retention. This is a lightweight, low-profile helmet that weighs in at just 430 grams, and comes audio-compatible—so simply insert the headphone speakers of your choice for on-mountain audio entertainment.

Key Features:

• 360º BOA Fit System: A turn dial at the back of the helmet allows the rider to adjust the liner for a personalized fit.
• Fidlock Technology: The easy-to-use magnetic buckle enables the rider to buckle and unbuckle the helmet without removing their gloves.
• Passive Ventilation: Air channels pull fresh air in from the front while releasing warm moisture through the rear of the helmet.

Anon Windham: Best for Max Durability With Superior Protection

The Anon Windham WaveCel Helmet pairs simple hardshell durability with the advanced impact protection of WaveCel technology. This helmet is super comfortable, warm, and stylish, featuring a goggle clip that can be removed without the need for a tool.

Key Features:

• 360° BOA Fit System: Simply turn a dial at the back of the helmet to adjust the liner for a personalized fit.
• Polartec Power Grid Fleece Liner: This liner provides additional warmth for added comfort in even the harshest of elements.
• WaveCel Technology: This tech, developed by Anon, protects best against concussions. During impact, it protects against both linear and rotational forces.

Anon Logan - Best for Skiers or Boarders Looking for Lightweight Comfort

Designed for comfort, with plenty of innovations. The Logan is a wonderful choice for those looking for a safe and stylish helmet loaded with technical features. This lightweight, low-profile helmet focuses on safety, while still keeping the price low compared to similar offerings from other brands.

Key Features:

• WaveCel Technology: This technology features flex and glide, which divert impacts away from your head, crumpling for superior absorption on impact.
• 360º BOA Fit System: A turn dial at the back of the helmet allows the rider to adjust the liner for a personalized fit.
• Passive Ventilation: 10 precisely placed vents allow fresh air in through the front, and pull moisture and heat out the back for a perfect climate zone and fog-free goggles.

Find the Best Anon Helmet For You

I truly believe that no one is “too cool” to wear a helmet, and that a proper-fitting helmet is actually more comfortable to ride with than just a beanie. I hope that this article gave you more information about how to get the most out of your next helmet purchase.

If you are hesitant about skiing or riding with a helmet, or you already wear a helmet but are overwhelmed by the vast amount of options on the market today, reach out to me personally or another Curated Winter Sports Expert for free, personalized advice and guidance.