The best commuter bike helmets have a different aesthetic from the best road bike helmets. Whereas road bike helmets are designed for ventilation and aerodynamics when travelling at speed, a commuter bike helmet usually has a more enclosed design with more coverage and less venting to handle different requirements of commuting by bike. They’ll fit in whether you are riding a hybrid bike, a folding bike, an electric bike or, mixing all of the above, a folding electric bike.
If you are riding an electric bike, it’s worth considering buying one of the best e-bike helmets rather than an urban number, as they’re engineered for additional protection at the higher speeds that electric bikes can achieve.
Of course, the reason for a helmet is to protect you if you have a crash and to that end, both road bike helmets and the best commuter bike helmets incorporate features including MIPS (Multidirectional Impact Protection System) or equivalent technologies. If you want to know more about impact protection tech, it’s covered in our buyer’s guide at the bottom of this piece, along with other features to look out for when buying a helmet for your commute.
Alternatively, read on for our pick of the best commuter bike helmets, including models we’ve ridden and rated and other helmets that we reckon are worth considering. We put lots of commuting and riding miles in on the bike and considered the safety features of all the helmets listed closely so you can make the most informed decision when purchasing the right helmet for you.
Best commuter bike helmets available today
The Giro Escape MIPS helmet shares many of its features with the Giro Camden MIPS helmet (see below) but is lighter. Like the Unit 1 Faro, it’s another helmet that has built-in lighting front and rear with controls on the rear of the helmet and up to 10 hours runtime.
Giro’s MIPS liner is better integrated than many MIPS implementations, so it’s less likely to catch on your hair.
The soft-touch matt finish is available in three colours and the helmet looks stylish too. It’s comfortable to wear, although the rear padding can’t be removed for cleaning.
Our full review of the Giro Escape MIPS helmet will provide you with more information.