An e-bike helmet is an essential e-bike accessory for every rider to own. A helmet that fits correctly will protect your head in the event of a crash and significantly reduce the risk of brain injury.
Many electric bike helmets have extra safety features and functionality, such as a visor for the sun or lights and reflectors for visibility.
Each helmet is designed to suit a particular riding style, such as urban, mountain, or road biking, resulting in different looks, functionality, and features. You can also find helmets for e-bikes that protect at higher speeds.
This article will review ten of the best e-bike helmets focusing on urban/commuter-style models and finish with a guide to help you choose the right one.
What is the NTA 8776 E-Bike Helmet Safety Standard?
The Netherlands implemented an electric bike helmet safety standard (NTA 8776) in 2016. It certifies helmets for use up to the e-bike speed limit of 28 mph (45 km/h). Helmets with this certification have denser foam and extra coverage in the front and the back.
The US CPSC helmet standard requires helmets to be tested at speeds up to 14 mph. However, the United States doesn’t have an e-bike helmet law requiring a specific type of helmet.
Some of the helmets in our list below are NTA 8776 certified, while all of them are also US CPSC certified.
- Related guide: 10 Electric Bike Safety Tips when Riding Your E-Bike
Best Ebike Helmets in 2024
1. Bontrager Rally Wavecel
2. Lazer Verde Kineticore
3. Bontrager Charge Wavecel
4. Thousand Chapter MIPS
5. Smith Dispatch MIPS
6. Giro Escape MIPS
7. Specialized Mode Helmet
8. Livall Sport MT1 Neo Smart
9. POC Corpora
10. Smith Express MIPS
1. Bontrager Rally WaveCel
- Price: $160
- Weight: 12.6-16.5oz
- Sizes: S-XL
- Safety Standards: US CPSC Safety Standard, Virginia Tech 5-Star
- Features: WaveCel, Boa fit system, visor, LockDown dividers
The Bontrager Rally is the brand’s first affordable mountain bike helmet with WaveCel technology, almost half the price of the higher-end Blaze.
This helmet is designed to meet the needs of the average rider of electric mountain bikes, balancing comfort, adjustability, and protection.
The WaveCel technology helps reduce the likelihood of concussion in the event of a crash and allows a more snug fit compared to the insert used in Mips helmets.
Riders can get the perfect fit with one hand using the Boa dial, and Bontrager offers an excellent crash replacement guarantee on the Rally helmet.
2. Lazer Verde KinetiCore
- Price: $100
- Weight: 12.3 oz
- Sizes: S/M – M/L
- Safety Standards: NTA 8776 e-bike certified
- Features: KinetiCore, TurnSys dial, light compatibility
Lazer’s Verde KinetiCore commuter helmet is a no-frills option and one of the more affordable choices with rotational impact protection.
KinetiCore, Lazer’s proprietary Mips competitor, uses extra foam with crumple zones to absorb and dissipate energy from an impact instead of an insert. This design also results in a more comfortable fit.
It’s easy to find the right fit with this best ebike helmet, thanks to the TurnSys dial and straps. However, the ventilation is minimal and ineffective, which isn’t ideal for hot weather.
Overall, this isn’t the most comfortable helmet, but it’s the best helmet for electric bike riders on a budget.
3. Bontrager Charge WaveCel
- Price: $160
- Weight: 15.1oz
- Sizes: S-L
- Safety Standards: NTA 8776 e-bike standard, US CPSC Safety Standard
- Features: Boa fitting, WaveCel, magnetic buckle, reflective elements, crash replacement guarantee
The Bontrager Charge WaveCel is the first electric bicycle helmet on our list that meets the NTA 8776 e-bike safety rating for riding up to 28 mph.
This commuter/e-bike helmet has reflective elements and is compatible with Bontrager’s Blendr light attachment for additional safety.
The fit is easy to adjust and snug, thanks to the magnetic buckle and Boa dial. The WaveCel design built into the helmet casing also allows a closer fit.
The Charge helmet isn’t the lightest, and it’s certainly not cheap, but the extra safety features and e-bike rating make it the best ebike helmet if you ride an electric commuter bike and your budget allows it.
4. Thousand Chapter MIPS
- Price: $145
- Weight: 12.7-14.5oz
- Sizes: S-L
- Safety Standards: CE EN 1078, CPSC
- Features: Mips, integrated taillight, dial-fit system, visor, magnetic fastener
The Thousand Chapter is another commuter e-bike helmet with Mips by a lesser-known brand, with plenty of features to make urban riding more convenient.
The protective Mips insert increases the protective properties of this helmet, while a removable taillight enhances visibility to keep you safe on the road.
The Thousand Chapter fit is comfortable and easily adjustable with dial adjustment and a magnetic fastener for one-handed closure. However, this helmet lacks ventilation for hot summer rides.
Finally, this helmet has a small visor that helps keep the sun out when it’s high in the sky but is too short for low morning or evening sun.
Buy from ExploreThousand.com Buy from REI
5. Smith Dispatch MIPS
- Price: $170
- Weight: 12.6oz
- Sizes: S-L
- Safety Standards: NTA 8776, CPSC, CE EN 1078, AS/NZS2063
- Features: Mips, antimicrobial lining, VaporFit fitting system, one-hand closure strap, integrates with Smith sunglasses
Smith’s Dispatch is a premium commuter-style helmet with a lightweight feel that doesn’t sacrifice protection.
The Dispatch has the additional e-bike safety standard rating and Mips rotational protection. In addition, it’s packed with features such as antimicrobial pads, a removable rear light, and Smith sunglasses integration to avoid fogging.
The fitting is also easy with Smith’s VaporFit dial, which offers 270 degrees of closure with one twist. It’s also possible to secure the helmet with one hand.
Again, as one of the best ebike helmets intended for urban electric bikes, don’t expect much airflow on hot days, but this isn’t much of an issue on an electric bike.
6. Giro Escape MIPS
- Price: $130
- Weight: 1lb 1.2oz
- Sizes: S-L
- Safety Standards: EN 1078, CPSC
- Features: Mips, integrated lights, ponytail compatible
The Giro Escape Mips helmet blends a simple commuter look with a highly protective and feature-rich design. The robust design and extra features come at a weight penalty, though.
Riders can enjoy bright LED lights, 70 lumens on the front and 40 lumens on the back, which last two hours on steady or ten hours on flashing mode.
The Mips insert increases the safety profile and is updated to reduce the likelihood of catching on hair. In addition, the helmet is compatible with ponytails.
This helmet has better airflow than typical commuter models, with 15 vents in total. Likewise, you have easy dial fitting, one-handed buckle closure, and ponytail compatibility, making it a great helmet for e-bike riders with long hair.
Buy from Jenson USA Buy from REI
7. Specialized Mode Helmet
- Price: $120
- Weight: 13.7-15.5oz
- Sizes: S-L
- Safety Standards: NTA-8776, CSPC, Virginia Tech 5-star
- Features: Mips, ANGi sensor compatible, SBC fit system
The Specialized Mode is another mid-range option on our best ebike helmet list that meets the Dutch electric bike safety standard and earns a 5-star rating from Virginia Tech.
This helmet has Mips impact protection and is compatible with Specialized’s ANGi crash detection sensor that calls for help in the event of a crash.
The Mode is relatively lightweight and discreet, with a minimal design and hidden ventilation that’s adequate for e-biking. Its SBC fitting system allows you to find the perfect, snug fit with the twist of a dial.
All things considered, the Specialized Mode is a solid choice for urban riders who want style and protection without fancy extras.
8. Livall Sport MT1 Neo Smart Helmet
- Price: $150
- Weight: 310g
- Sizes: M-L
- Safety Standards: EN1078, CPSC 1203
- Features: 360-degree lighting, brake and turn signal lights, crash detection, Bluetooth speakers, walkie talkie…
The Livall Sport MT1 Neo is a high-tech smart commuter e-bike helmet with 360-degree lighting to help you stay visible in low-light situations.
In addition to that, the MT1 Neo also features brake and turn signal lights that you can control from the handlebar, thanks to a remote button controller.
For additional peace of mind, this smart ebike helmet also supports crash detection, so it can notify your emergency contact of your location in case of a crash.
If your riding partner owns one as well, you can enjoy a walkie talkie function, as this helmet also has a microphone and Bluetooth speakers. These can be used via a remote controller on the handlebars, and you can also use it to answer calls from your smartphone.
On top of that, the Livall Sport MT1 Neo is EN1078 and CPSC 1203 certified, so it meets all the necessary protection and safety standards.
9. POC Corpora
- Price: $150
- Weight: 18.16 oz (515g)
- Sizes: S-M-L
- Safety Standards: EN 1078
- Features: Well-ventilated, reflective details, durable ABS shell
POC Corpora is another heavy-duty choice on our best ebike helmet list that meets stringent safety standards and is suitable for ebike rides.
The unique ventilation profile means that the POC Corpora is perfect for year-round cycling, including the hot summer months. It comes with a dial adjustment system that makes it easy to find a secure, comfortable fit, and make quick corrections with one hand while riding.
This helmet also comes with a durable ABS shell that provides ample protection against hard impacts.
Finally, the POC Corpora comes in three colors and three sizes, so everyone can get the model that fits them best.
10. Smith Express MIPS
- Price: $110
- Weight: 13.7oz
- Sizes: S-XL
- Safety Standards: CPSC, CE EN 1078
- Features: Mips, integrated rear light, dial fit, removable visor
The Smith Express is a sleek commuter option with Mips rotational impact protection.
One benefit of this brand is that it offers four sizes (Small to Extra Large) accommodating larger heads up to 65cm in circumference.
This helmet has a handy integrated rear light that gives you extra visibility, and you can easily turn it on and off while riding.
The Smith is also compact with plenty of ventilation for e-bike riding and a removable visor for keeping driving rain or the glaring sun out of your eyes.
How to Buy the Best Ebike Helmet
It’s important to understand the different helmet technologies and features and how to determine fit so you can confidently choose a product that suits your needs.
E-Bike Helmet vs. Bike Helmet: Are E-Bike Helmets Different?
Since the Netherlands introduced the NTA 8776 electric bike helmet safety standard in 2016, the definition of an e-bike helmet has changed to one designed to protect against greater impact forces and provide more head coverage for riding up to 28 mph (45 km/h).
There is currently no safety standard for e-bike helmets in the United States. However, the abovementioned Dutch standard is being adopted by manufacturers that sell internationally (including in the US).
By meeting the requirements laid out in this standard, the helmets are suitable for class 3 electric bikes and riding up to 28 mph.
Do You Have to Wear a Helmet on an E-Bike?
The legislation regarding helmet use in the US varies from state to state. Some require minors to wear helmets on all e-bikes, others only on Class 3 e-bikes. Some states require helmet use for all ages on all e-bikes, such as Massachusetts and Alabama.
Wear an ebike helmet whenever you’re riding your electric bike, even on short trips around the corner.
If you’re unsure about your local regulations, visit Helmets.org for a breakdown of the helmet laws by state.
However, we seriously recommend getting the best ebike helmet for your needs and wearing it any time you’re riding, regardless of your local laws.
Do You Need a Special Helmet for an Electric Bike?
No, you don’t need a special helmet for an electric bike. The CPSC standard used in the US is required for all helmets and is suitable for use on electric bikes.
However, if you ride at the Class 3 speed limit of 28 mph, an e-bike helmet with the NTA 8776 safety standard will provide additional protection in the event of a crash.
What Is Multidirectional Impact Protection and Why Is It Important?
Mips (multidirectional impact protection system) is a helmet technology that reduces the rotational forces transmitted to the brain upon impact.
Angled impacts are the most common from bike crashes, and our brains are highly susceptible to their effects, so this additional protection can reduce the likelihood of severe brain injury.
Mips technology inside a Thousand Chapter helmet. (Source: Explorethousand.com)
The system involves a lightweight insert between the helmet’s foam shell and padding, providing 10 to 15 mm of rotational movement to dissipate the impact forces.
Over 140 best ebike helmet brands use the Mips technology. Mips also provides bespoke integrated systems for specific high-end models like Giro’s Aries or S-Works’ Prevail 3.
Other companies have followed suit by creating their own systems built into the helmet shell instead of adding an extra insert. These include Bontrager’s WaveCel and Lazer’s KinetiCore.
Theoretically, both designs offer similar benefits to Mips. However, Mips helmets consistently rank highest in Virginia Tech’s ratings.
How to Choose the Right Electric Bike Helmet
The best ebike helmet is the one that fits. Any helmet you buy should fit snugly on your head and stay in place while you ride. In addition, the pressure of the pads should also be evenly distributed across the circumference of your head.
To test if the helmet fits correctly, adjust the closure dial until it’s snug, leave the straps open, and point the crown of your head toward the floor. If it’s a good fit, it will stay in place.
Likewise, you can test the fit by shaking your head; it shouldn’t move more than one inch in any direction. If it does, you’ll need a smaller size.
A helmet that doesn’t fit correctly compromises the protection it provides in a crash and will likely be uncomfortable.
Each helmet manufacturer has a unique design, so the best way to find out if a helmet fits the shape of your head is to try it on.
Alternatively, you can take a flexible tape measure and wrap it around the widest part of your head (usually starting somewhere on the forehead). Then, use this measurement to compare to the manufacturer’s sizing charts.
What Features Should I Look For in an E-Bike Helmet?
The characteristics of helmets for electric bikes differ slightly from regular ones. The majority of e-bikers ride in urban environments and put more emphasis on functionality and comfort than performance.
However, there are also performance-minded electric bike riders who use e-MTB, e-road, and e-gravel bikes and want helmets that suit these specific uses.
All of the electric bike helmets in this article are urban/commuter-style, except for the Bontrager Rally, a mountain bike helmet. Given that, this section will focus primarily on urban e-bike helmets.
Lights and Accessory Mounts
Riding in urban environments during periods of low light requires the use of lights on your bike.
However, you can increase your visibility by choosing a helmet with integrated lights or a mounting point for a light. Extra lighting gives you a greater chance of being noticed by other road users at night.
Choose between models with USB-rechargeable or battery-powered lights, like the Nutcase Vio and Giro Escape, or a helmet with a mount, like the Lazer CityZen.
Some helmets also have mounts for accessories such as a crash sensor (Specialized’s Mode) or Go-Pro.
Recently, there have been more and more smart ebike helmets with integrated crash detection sensors, as well as brake lights and turn signals operated with a handlebar-mounted controller, such as the Livall EVO21.
Weight
Weigh isn’t a significant consideration for electric bike helmets, but a lighter helmet is typically more comfortable.
Helmets with integrated lights like the Giro Escape can weigh over one pound, while other lightweight models like the Smith Dispatch can weigh as little as 12.5oz.
Visor
Visors help block direct sunlight when the sun is high in the sky, so your vision isn’t compromised. Likewise, they can help block some rain from reaching your eyes.
The length and type of visor change between models. For example, the Bern Hudson has a removable visor made of a flexible fabric, whereas the Thousand Chapter has a long plastic one.
Adjustment and Closure
Most modern helmets (all ten in this article) have a ratcheting dial at the back of the helmet or integrated into the shell. This dial allows one-handed micro-adjustments so you can find the perfect fit.
The strap closure varies between models, with some manufacturers opting for magnetic buckles that are easier to close, but most use traditional snap closure.
Ventilation
Again, excellent ventilation isn’t crucial for most e-bike riders, as the motor does most of the work, so you don’t generate as much heat. However, on a hot day, simply wearing a helmet is enough to cause you to sweat, so you’ll want some airflow.
Some models have well-designed ventilation systems that work efficiently with just a few vents, while others can have many vents and direct air poorly, resulting in poor ventilation.
Riders of electric road and mountain bikes will want efficient ventilation for non-winter riding, so reading user reviews will provide insight into the performance of a specific model.
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