In this day and age, it can be hard to pry our children from their screens, whether that be a cell phone, tablet, or game console to get them playing outside. But once you do get them outdoors, you see just how much they truly enjoy it. There are a ton of fun activities to do outside. However, a favorite pastime of many children is riding their bikes up and down the sidewalks. There is nothing like watching the carefree feeling you can see spreading across their face as they pedal up and down.
The wind in their hair blowing, riding back and forth. There is nothing like riding a bicycle! But, children should always be taught to take the proper safety measures in order to ride their bike. Helmets truly are lifesavers and have been for many people. Children should always wear a bike helmet before hopping onto their bikes. We reviewed dozens of kids bike helmets to identify the best of the best. In our search, we considered things like proper fit, comfort, and safety.
If you want to add another layer of fun and safety, then you may want to consider The Best Walkie Talkies For Kids for them to take with them on their adventures.
Many helmets aren’t simply bicycle helmets anymore. Plenty can be used for various sports. For example, the Razor V-17 Youth Multi-Sport Helmet is one of those helmets that can provide protection and safety while your child enjoys riding their bike.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Kids Bike Helmets
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Razor V-17 Youth Multi-Sport Helmet | 4.5 |
| Runner Up | Bell Rally Child Helmet | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Buy | M Merkapa Kids Bike Helmet | 4.5 |
| Best Boy's Helmet | Krash Black Gator Youth Mohawk Helmet | 4.7 |
| Best Girl's Helmet | Raskullz Sparklez Child and Youth Helmets | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Razor V-17 Youth Multi-Sport Helmet
When searching for a helmet for your child, the one thing over everything else that you look for is how well it is going to protect your child from injury. The Razor V-17 Youth Multi-Sport Helmet is our top choice when it comes to superior comfort and protection. It has ergonomically designed padding for an appropriate fit. Plus, it comes with an additional sizing pad set for the best comfort. There are seventeen vents in the helmet in order to keep your child cool without the need for them to remove their helmet.
It features side-release buckles for ease taking it off and putting it on. They are very easy to adjust the straps to that the fit is customized to your child. It meets all of the Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. The best thing about this helmet is that if your child enjoys other activities that require helmets, like skateboarding, using a scooter or they are into snowboarding, this helmet is the perfect multi-purpose use helmet. It comes in quite a variety of colors and patterns that any child would love. The youth helmet fits children’s head sizes 22 to 23.5 inches, and are appropriate for children aged 8 to 14.
Razor V-17 Youth Multi-Sport Helmet Key Features:
- Ergonomically designed interior padding for superior comfort
- Buckle and straps are easy-to-use and adjust
- Features seventeen air vents to keep your child’s head cool
- Multi-purpose use
Our Runner Up Pick: Bell Rally Child Helmet
When we as parents are getting our children ready to head outside to hop on their bikes, we often have to fiddle around with the strap on the helmets to make sure they are adjusted just right. It can be a little frustrating sometimes because we want to make sure that our children are 100% safe. The Bell Rally Child Helmet has eliminated all of that fiddling around with the strap with their True Fit, 1-step adjustment technology. These helmets are designed in a way that they are meant to fit properly every time with just one quick little adjustment, and then your little one is ready to go!
This helmet also features a pinch-guard that prevents your child from getting pinched by the buckle. It has 16 vents around the top and sides of the helmet to ensure cool comfort while bike riding. Coming in a variety of colors, your child will love choosing their very own helmet. The recommended age for this helmet is for children aged 5-8. It will fit children’s heads that measure 52-56 centimeters. This helmet is CPSC certified, so you can be sure that every child who wears this helmet is safe and sound when they ride their bicycle.
Bell Rally Child Helmet Key Features:
- True Fit adjustment technology
- Pinch-guard
- 16 vents to keep your child cool
- Great for kids aged 5-8
Best Budget Pick: M Merkapa Kids Bike Helmet
Built with a strong and sturdy PVC shell, the M Merkapa Kids Bike Helmet is a great option for a child’s helmet. Do not let the inexpensive price tag fool you. You are not trading in high-quality safety protection. This helmet provides safety without costing an exuberant amount of money. These helmets are extremely durable and are built to last. Plus, they come in quite an array of colors and patterns, so your child will love the way they look when they are rolling down the street on their bicycle.
The helmet features 11 vents around it to keep your little one cool while they ride. Plus, the helmet itself only weighs 0.45 pounds. That makes for much less stress on little heads and necks. The helmet comes in 2 sizes, small and medium. The small size fits little heads that are 18.5 to 20.5 inches, while the medium measures 20.5 to 22 inches. They are great for kids aged 3 to 8 years old. The helmet also features an adjustable dial so that you can easily fit it perfectly to your child’s head size. It is also a great helmet that can be used for other activities, too, like scooting, skateboarding and skating, too!
M Merkapa Kids Bike Helmet Key Features:
- Built with strong PVC construction
- Comes in 2 sizes
- 11 air vents
- Easy adjustable-fit dial
Best Boy’s Bike Helmet: Krash Black Gator Youth Mohawk Helmet
For boys ages 8 to 14, the Krash Black Gator Youth Mohawk Helmet puts the ‘fun’ in functional when it comes to protecting your child’s head when they are riding their bike. It has soft pads inside the helmet shell to keep their head comfortable at all times. It also features an EPS (expanded polystyrene) inner shell that absorbs shock and impact, sparing your child from any serious head injuries. Many consumers rave about the protection that it gives and that it has even saved a life while being worn while bicycling.
Kids will absolutely love the super-cool mohawk decoration on the top of the helmet. The mohawks themselves are made of high-quality thermoplastic rubber. This makes them elastic and soft to the touch. They are non-toxic and do not add any weight to the helmet itself. It also features an adjustable strap fit system that helps you to secure the helmet on your child’s head safely and securely. The helmet complies with the CPSC safety standards and meets ASTM guidelines. If you are looking for a great gift for the child that loves to ride their bicycle, this helmet is not only extremely safe but very cool to boot.
Krash Black Gator Youth Mohawk Helmet Key Features:
- EPS inner shell
- 11 vents to keep heads cool
- Non-toxic mohawk decoration
- Absorbs shock and impact
Best Girl’s Bike Helmet: Raskullz Girls Loud Cloud Sparklez Helmet
Very similar to our best boy’s pick for a helmet, the Raskullz Girls Loud Cloud Sparklez Helmet makes wearing a helmet a fun and fashionable event, while providing superior protection against accidents. It features very comfortable nylon straps to keep their heads safe, but comfortable. There are 3 different fun designs that girls can choose from. The coolest part about this helmet are the “sparklez,” which is a unique light-up mode on the helmet. There is a convenient on and off switch, as well as an auto-shutoff function, so the twinkling can be off during the day and on a little later in the day!
The helmet also is made with an EPS inner shell, which, much like our boy’s pick helmet, absorbs shocks and impacts. There are plenty of cooling vents around the helmet, so your little girl won’t get overheated while riding her bike. There is also an adjustable strap fit system, which makes it easy for you to adjust to fit their head. Consumers absolutely love the 3D graphics that are printed on the helmet and are very pleased with the protection that it provides for their children. It complies with the CPSC safety standards as well as meeting ASTM guidelines.
Raskullz Girls Loud Cloud Sparklez Helmet Key Features:
- Shock-absorbing material inside the helmet
- Comfortable nylon straps
- Fun light-up sparkles
- Cooling vents around the helmet
Who Should Buy A Kid’s Bike Helmet
If the time has come that your little one is ready to be taught how to ride a bicycle, then it is surely the best time to start the hunt for a good and sturdy helmet. It is imperative to look for a helmet that will keep their head safe in case they take a fall off of their bicycle. There are a lot of different helmets out there, but not all are created equal. That is why it is important to find the best one for your child.
Even if your child already knows how to ride a bicycle, it is always a good idea to update their current helmet every now and again. This is to make sure that it is up to date with the current safety standards, as well as peace of mind, knowing that your child has a newer helmet, versus one that they have worn for a couple of years. Perhaps you are a family that loves to bicycle together, it is great to look at different helmets for the kids, and maybe if they are old enough, to let them pick one out themselves.
Important Features To Consider
A kid’s bike helmet should be able to protect your child’s head from any serious injuries, be made of high-quality material, keep your child visible to other vehicles, as well as be easily adjustable, because each child is different, and so is their head size. Here’s what to consider when selecting a kid’s bike helmet for your child:
- Material. Any bicycle helmet, not just children’s, should be made of high-quality material that can withstand an impact, should one occur. Helmets can be made with various materials and foams that can absorb shock. The more popular one that we see is EPS (expanded polystyrene), which is meant to crush in the event of an impact, thus protecting your little one’s head. However, there are other materials and foams that are used such as Expanded PolyPropylene (EPP), which is very similar to EPS, just with a more rubbery feel to it. It is important to find a helmet with a material that you feel safe putting on your child.
- Adjustability. This is a very important point to consider when choosing a helmet for your child. It is so important to make certain that the helmet that you choose for them is of the proper fit. When looking for a helmet, see what ones are easily adjustable. Gone are the days of fiddling around with clips and clasps. Many modern helmets for kids have an easy-to-use adjustable system in order to give the best fit for your child.
- Visibility. Especially during the fall and winter months, it can get darker earlier, even before dinnertime. If the kids still would like to ride their bicycles outside, or you want to go on a family bike trip around the neighborhood, it is important that they be visible to other vehicles around, whether they be other bikers or an automobile. Helmets should have reflectors on them so that they are able to be seen. Many helmets come with reflectors on them. There are even helmets that feature lights on them that make them even more visible with a flashing light so others will see them riding their bicycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it required by law to wear a helmet on a bike?
No, technically there is no federal law requiring bicycle riders to wear a helmet when riding. However, each state in the United States does have their own laws and ordinances when it comes to bicycle helmets. But it is a very good idea to don a helmet when riding. This goes doubly for children. Their bodies are still growing, and they are coming into their own. Children should always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle to protect their heads from any injuries that could possibly occur. It has been proven that wearing a helmet saves lives.
What states require bike helmets?
Currently, only 22 states in the United States have mandatory bicycle helmet laws. Those states include Alabama, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennesee, and West Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia. These are mandatory state laws, meaning they are state-wide. However, at a local level, there could possibly be laws in place on wearing a bicycle helmet. In order to find out the law where you are located, you can always check your municipal locality’s website, or give them a phone call.
Do bike helmets save lives?
Bicycle helmets absolutely save lives and can prevent traumatic brain injuries. The New England Journal of Medicine found that bicycle riders that wore helmets had an 85 percent reduction in the risk of a head injury. They are highly effective in preventing head injuries. This is especially true for children, as they are they make up the majority of severe head injuries from bicycling. Children should always be wearing a helmet when they are riding a bicycle.
How do you measure a child for a bike helmet?
First, make sure that you have fabric measuring tape. You are going to want to measure the circumference of your child’s head. You can measure the size of their head using the measuring tape. All you need to do is wrap the measuring tape around their head, about a centimeter above the eyebrows. If you do not own fabric measuring tape, you can easily use a piece of string and wrap it around their head, and then measure the string. Helmets should fit snugly.
Other Kid’s Bike Helmets We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other kid’s bike helmets. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best kid’s bike helmets list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your child. The information that you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Toddler Bike Helmets
Bell Infant Sprout Bike Helmet
This helmet features “True Fit,” which ensures a perfect fit for your toddler’s head. This helmet is best for heads sized 47-52 centimeters.
Key Features:
- Pinch-guard ensures pinch-free buckling
- Has seven top vents for air circulation
- Features Hi-Impact reflectors for heightened visibility
Cost: $15.00
Perfect for children ages 1-4, this helmet has an extended visor for the most protection. It features 14 air vents with integrated bug mesh in the front vents.
Key Features:
- Adjustable fit dial
- Lightweight
- Perfect for introducing safety
Cost: $27.00
LERUJIFL Kids Adjustable Helmet
This helmet can be adjusted and used for children aged 3 to 8 years. It has a shock-absorbing EPS core.
Key Features:
- Comes with adjustable harness wheel
- Durable and built to last
- Fits children’s head to a tee
Cost: $20.00
OutdoorMaster Toddler Bike Helmet
Made specifically for children ages 3-5, these helmets feature fun designs and exceptional safety. It has 14 air vents to keep your child nice and cool while they are bicycling.
Key Features:
- Adjustment dial for perfect fit
- Hard ABS shell and EPS inner core
- Extra padded edges
Cost: $17.00
Raskullz 3D Characters Child and Toddler Bike Helmet
With super-cool 3D elements, your little one will adore wearing this helmet! This helmet is recommended for children aged 3-5 years old.
Key Features:
- Adjustable strap fit system
- Strong EPS inner shell
- Cooling vents
Youth Bike Helmets
Featuring a “True Fit” system, this helmet is sure to be a perfect fit. A pinch-free buckle system ensures no more ouchies.
Key Features:
- Sixteen vents and a visor to keep cool
- Great for ages 8-14
- Features tapeless technology
Cost: $18.00
Great for children aged 3-8 years old, this helmet features a durable ABS outer shell for superior protection. It also has an inner EPS foam system for shock-absorbing.
Key Features:
- Adjustable chin strap
- Rear dial secure system
- Removable internal lining
Cost: $23.00
This helmet features an inner polycarbonate shell and an EPS liner. It has 8 vents in order to keep your kid chill.
Key Features:
- Pinch-guard buckle
- Ponytail compatible
- Built-in visor
Cost: $35.00
Schwinn Thrasher Lightweight Microshell Youth Helmet
The suggested age range for this fun looking helmet is ages 8 to 14. It features 20 top air vents for ventilation on hot days.
Key Features:
- Adjustable side straps
- Lightweight 3-piece micro-shell
- Dial-adjustable fit system
Cost: $15.00
This helmet will make such an exciting and fun gift for any child riding a bike, as they can decorate it however they want to. It features an ABS hard outer shell for maximum protection.
Key Features:
- Comes with 5 dry-erase markers and stencils
- Available in 2 sizes
- Sturdy and safe
Full Face Bike Helmets
Bell Children’s Blue Full Face Bike Helmet
This full-face helmet will protect your child’s head, mouth, chin and face. It is a great choice for any type of bicycling.
Key Features:
- Cheek pads for a snug fit
- Plastic outer shell, EPS inner shell
- Hexagon-shaped cage venting
Cost: $30.00
MeterMall Children Full Face Covered Helmet
Featuring an outer polycarbonate shell and inner EPS molding, this full-face helmet will fit your child snugly. It also has a chin pad and a comfortable liner for a good fit.
Key Features:
- 16 air vents
- Removable visor
- Adjustable strap for comfort
Cost: $37.00
This helmet is great for children aged 8 to 14 years old and provides superior protection. It comes with extra pads for a secure and snug fit.
Key Features:
- Adjustable visor
- 17 vents
- Large eye-port for use with goggles if wanted
Cost: $27.00
ROWEQPP Children Bike Riding Helmet
Featuring a detachable design to fit according to your child’s riding needs, this helmet ensures full-face safety. It is made of PC and EPS material to keep little heads safe and sound.
Key Features:
- Has rear light for night visibility
- Breathable and lightweight
- Multiple air vents
Cost: $28.00
This helmet can easily convert from a full-face helmet to a half helmet, depending on the comfort and/or needs of your child. It features 4 layers of protection, including EPS foam.
Key Features:
- Aerodynamic design
- Lightweight
- Hard and durable outer PC shell
Bike Helmets With Lights
Atphfety Kids Bike Cycling Helmet
Created with durable PC, PVC and EPS foam, this helmet is great for little ones and will keep their noggins safe. It has a light on the back with two functions, always on and blinking.
Key Features:
- 16 air vents
- Comfortable chin pads
- Adjustable with dial
Cost: $31.00
Created with PVS and EPS, this helmet can withstand impact and protect your child’s head from accidents and falls. It is the appropriate size for children aged 3 to 12 years of age, as it is adjustable.
Key Features:
- Adjustable safety light
- Breathable with 17 air vents
- Lightweight
Cost: $20.00
Featuring a 3-mode LED light on the back, this helmet will ensure high visibility when riding during dusk or night time. There are 11 air vents to promote airflow throughout the helmet.
Key Features:
- Made of ABS and EPS shock-absorbing foam
- Washable liner pad
- Includes travel bag with purchase
Cost: $20.00
Great for ages 3 to 7 years old, this helmet is fully adjustable for the perfect fit. It is lightweight at only 0.5 pounds.
Key Features:
- Washable cushioning pad
- LED safety light on back
- 10 vents for air circulation
Cost: $18.00
This helmet easily adjusts from toddler to youth size in a snap. It is suitable for children 2 to 12 years old.
Key Features:
- LED light with 3 modes on back of helmet
- Lightweight
- Removable inside liner
Cost: $18.00
