Updated on November 26, 2021

There are a few items that are essential to any successful snowboarding expedition. A good bar of chocolate for a snack on the mountain. A better pair of socks so that your feet don’t get too cold. And the best snowboard helmet money can buy.

We all fall now and again, and when you’re snowboarding, that’s no exception. Whether the trail is bumpy or the light is flat, we can catch an edge and topple over at any time. So to prevent that concussion you’re dreading, you need a good helmet. Because apart from adding some much needed style, a proper helmet may just save your life.

We know that choosing the perfect helmet for you can seem like a daunting task, especially with all of the features they come with now-a-days. Fortunately, we here at The Adventure Junkies have picked out the ten best snowboard helmets for you, so you can protect your brain without stressing over which one to buy. Read through the list below and find the best one for you.

For more of our top snowboarding gear recommendations, check out the Best Snowboarding Helmets for Women.

 

Quick Answer - The Best Snowboard Helmets

  1. Smith Vantage MIPS
  2. Giro Ledge
  3. Pret Cynic X2 MIPS
  4. Sweet Protection Ascender MIPS
  5. Smith Mirage MIPS
  6. Smith Maze MIPS
  7. Burton Anon Prime
  8. Giro Nine MIPS
  9. Demon United Phantom

 

Comparison Table - Best Snowboard Helmet

For the best experience turn your device horizontally
NameWeightMaterialVentsAdjustablePriceRatingReview
Smith Vantage MIPS1 lb. 1.5 oz.KoroydAdjustableYes$$$5.0Read Review
Giro LedgeUnavailablePolycarbonateYesYes (Auto Loc 2)$4.8Read Review
Pret Cynic X2 MIPS15.5 ouncesPolycarbonateYesYes (Ripcord System)$$4.8Read Review
Sweet Protection Ascender MIPS14.1 ouncesPolycarbonateYesYes$$$4.5Read Review
Smith Mirage MIPS1 poundPolycarbonateYes (Adjustable)Yes (Tension Dial)$$4.7Read Review
Smith Maze MIPS12 oz.PolycarbonateYes (9)Yes (Self-Adjusting)$$$4.9Read Review
Burton Anon Prime1.09 lbs.N/AYes (23)Yes (Tension Dial)$$$5.0Read Review
AKASO1.8 lbsExpanded PolystyreneAdjustableYes (Tension Dial)$4.8Read Review
Giro Nine MIPSN/APolycarbonateYes (Stack Vent)Yes (Tension Dial)$$$4.4Read Review
Demon United Phantom3 lbs.Industry Standard ABS ShellYes (2)No$4.3Read Review
NameWeightMaterialVentsAdjustablePriceRatingReview
Want to learn more about a technical term? Check out our Features Explained section below.

Need buying advice? Take a look at these Things to Consider.

Reviews - The Best Helmet for Snowboarding

Smith Vantage MIPS

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes
  • Material: Koroyd
  • Weight: 1 lb. 1.5 oz.
  • Vents: Adjustable
Features
  • Lightweight Hybrid SL shell construction
  • Adjustable climate control with 21 vents
  • Offers goggles integration for maximum airflow
Smith Vantage MIPS

BEST OVERALL HELMET

If you’re looking for equally functional and feature-rich head protection, you’ll find the Vantage offers the best of both worlds.

The Vantage is one of the warmest helmets on the market and yet ventilates well thanks to twenty-one adjustable vents. This goggle is extremely compatible with most brands of helmets. MIPS technology mitigates rotational impact forces and the BOA system makes for one of the most adjustable fits on the market.

What I like most about the Smith Vantage MIPS is how stylish it is.

Giro Ledge

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes (Auto Loc 2)
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Weight: Unavailable
  • Vents: Yes
Features
  • Stack Vent aligns with the center vent of your goggles to keep them fog-free
  • On-the-fly vertical tuning accommodates different goggles
  • Removable goggle retainer and earpads
Giro Ledge

BEST FOR BUDGET

For under $75, you’d be hard pressed to find higher quality or better performing head protection.

The Giro Ledge boasts a minimalist feel and no frills design. Hard shell construction is complimented by 8 fixed open vents which provide for ample ventilation. It features a removable auto loc 2 fit system that allows you to dial in the ideal fit.

What I like most about this helmet is the quality coverage that it provides for.

Pret Cynic X2 MIPS

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes (Ripcord System)
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Weight: 15.5 ounces
  • Vents: Yes
Features
  • Audio-ready pockets
  • X-Static® XT2 lining inhibits growth of odor-causing bacteria
  • Fidlock® magnetic buckle is easy to open with one hand
Pret Cynic X2 MIPS

BEST FOR: RESORT RIDING

When you need low profile, lightweight protection, reach for the Pret Cynic X2.

The brand designed the X2s with direct level 1 ventilation and 12 vents in total. A quick-release ripcord system provides for 4 centimeters of micro adjustment for the most precise fit.

What I like most about the Pret Cynic is that it includes an antimicrobial lining which keeps things smelling fresh when you’re riding hard.

Sweet Protection Ascender MIPS

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Weight: 14.1 ounces
  • Vents: Yes
Features
  • 108 penetration-proof vents—including large internal ventilation channels
  • Integrated clips for headlamp and goggles
  • Compact design packs away with ease
Sweet Protection Ascender MIPS

BEST FOR: THE BACKCOUNTRY

Backcountry conditions require special head protection — and the Ascender fits the hybrid mountaineering boarding bill.
This triple certified helmet includes a multifaceted, 108 vent system that performs equally well on high output days as slower backcountry expeditions. There are also internal vent channels and forehead ventilation.

What I like most about this helmet is that the vents are designed to be penetration proof — so rocks, sticks, and other debris have a hard time penetrating.

Smith Mirage MIPS

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes (Tension Dial)
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Weight: 1 pound
  • Vents: Yes (Adjustable)
Features
  • Fleece liner
  • Lightweight in-mold helmet incorporates Aerocore™ construction and Koroyd® material
  • Snapfit SL earpads
Smith Mirage MIPS

BEST FOR WOMEN

If you’re looking for a women’s specific product to keep you warm and comfy on long days on the slopes, look to the Smith Mirage MIPS.

This helmet is designed to be no-frills, with a reliable dial adjuster to help you achieve that perfect fit. A slider system allows you to change the amount of airflow — even when you’re wearing gloves. 14 total vents function together to provide for adequate ventilation on those warmer weather days.

What I like most about the Mirage is how light weight it is, weighing in at 450 grams.

Smith Maze MIPS

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes (Self-Adjusting)
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Weight: 12 oz.
  • Vents: Yes (9)
Features
  • MIPS Technology To Reduce Rotational Motion In Case Of Impact
  • Adjustable Vents For Control Of Airflow
  • Compatible With Skullcandy Audio Systems

BEST FOR: SHREDDERS WHO LIKE TO ZONE OUT AND TUNE IN

Smith has been a leading helmet manufacturer for quite some time now and the Maze MIPS helmet is no exception. With nine different vent settings make this helmet suitable for any environment, you’re sure to stay cool and collected while wearing this helmet on the mountain. And with the removable goggles lock, you won’t have any trouble taking off your goggles when it comes time for lunch at the lodge. 

Like other leading helmets, the Maze helmet comes with MIPS technology to reduce any unwanted rotations of your head and the resulting impact of any whiplash you may not have intended for. Equipped with Skullcandy audio system compatibility, this helmet is great for experienced riders who want enhanced protection with quality sound.

Burton Anon Prime

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes (Tension Dial)
  • Material: N/A
  • Weight: 1.09 lbs.
  • Vents: Yes (23)
Features
  • ICEdot Emergency ID Service Stores Contact Medical Information For First Responders
  • 23 Vents Provide Maximum Ventilation
  • Goggle Ventilation Outlet To Prevent Goggle Fog
Burton Anon Prime

BEST FOR: EXPERT BACKCOUNTRY RIDERS

It may be the most expensive helmet on our list, but with Burton’s Anon Prime Helmet, you get more than you pay for. With every safety certification out there, 23 adjustable vents, and a comfortable inner fleece lining, this helmet is best for expert riders looking to take their riding into the backcountry. 

Perhaps most notable is the helmet’s unique ICEdot Emergency Identification technology that stores emergency contact and medical information in your helmet for first responders. If that’s too much for you, don’t worry. There are plenty of other helmets on the list for you. But if you’re looking to shred some insane terrain in the back-country, this may be the perfect helmet for you.

AKASO

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes (Tension Dial)
  • Material: Expanded Polystyrene
  • Weight: 1.8 lbs
  • Vents: Adjustable
Features
  • ASTM Certified, The Official U.S. Standard For Helmet Safety
  • Adjustable Vent On Helmet Allows You To Change Airflow As Needed
  • Adjustable Dial On Rear For Easy Size Adjustment

BEST FOR: CUSTOM FIT

The Akaso Helmet is a great, well-rounded helmet for any rider looking for an added level of customizability in more frigid temperatures. With an adjustable vent on the top of the helmet, riders can control how much air comes into and out of their helmet. The removable inner liner and ear pads allow for added comfort control as well. 

Perhaps the most important feature on this helmet is the adjustable dial located at the rear of the helmet, which means that you can not only adjust it to fit your size, but if you’re ever looking to pass-it-on, the helmet will easily readjust to any head. We recommend it for all beginner riders and boarders looking for their perfect fit.

Giro Nine MIPS

Specs
  • Adjustable: Yes (Tension Dial)
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Weight: N/A
  • Vents: Yes (Stack Vent)
Features
  • MIPS Rotation Protection For Maximum Safety And Protection
  • Venting Control For Superior Comfort On The Slopes
  • Compatible With All Giro Audio Systems So You Can Listen To Music While You Shred

BEST FOR: EXPERT RIDERS

The Giro Nine MIPS Helmet’s sleek and streamlined designed fits its use. It is a strong, reliable helmet for more advanced riders looking to test their limits a bit further than most. The helmet’s unique MIPS features reduces any rotational motion of your head upon impact which means, in other words, more protection for your brain. 

Much like other helmets, the adjustable vents allow for controlled temperature within your helmet, but unlike other helmets, the Giro Nine comes compatible with all separately sold Giro audio systems. That may not sound so appealing at the onset, but as you continue riding, you may want some killer music to join you, and if you helmet is already compatible with an audio system, that could save you time and a good chunk of money.

Demon United Phantom

Specs
  • Adjustable: No
  • Material: Industry Standard ABS Shell
  • Weight: 3 lbs.
  • Vents: Yes (2)
Features
  • Built-in Audio System
  • Comes with Goggles
  • ASTM and CE certified - Europe and U.S. Standards

BEST FOR: ALL-IN-ONE ON A BUDGET

If the process of finding the right goggles, headphones, and helmet is overwhelming, look no further. The Demon United Phantom Helmet comes complete with everything you’ll need and more! An integrated audio system allows you to listen to music through your helmet while riding, while the included Demon Supra goggles will spare you the extra time and cash of finding goggles on your own. 

If convenience and safety are your priorities, this is the perfect helmet for you. And at such a low cost, this all-in-one helmet is a steal for anyone.

 

 

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN WHEN BUYING A SNOWBOARD HELMET

When buying a snowboard helmet, safety should always be your number one priority. Snowboards, boots, and bindings are important, but if you value your noggin’, a good helmet is essential. You should ask yourself questions like: What material is the helmet made of? How many vents are there for air ventilation? Will this helmet suit my type of riding? We’ve assembled a few key notes to consider when buying your helmet, but check out some more information about how to choose a helmet for more knowledge. 

RIDING STYLE

Are you an aggressive rider? A casual rider? A cautious rider? If you’re a beginner, check out these snowboarding tips. It may be hard, but ask yourself what type of rider you are and gauge your helmet based on that. Aggressive riders may want a less comfortable, more durable helmet to protect against their falls, whereas casual riders may seek comfort first. Gauge your style and then pick a helmet accordingly.

 

COST

Helmets can vary drastically in pricing, but if there’s one item you shouldn’t cut costs on, it’s your helmet. It will literally save your life. This isn’t to say you need the most expensive helmet with the most features, but you do need a safe helmet. One with a durable structure that’s capable of protecting your head from the hard mountain.

 

MATERIAL

What is your helmet made from? Most use the same plastics, and while the specifics aren’t as important as you may think, the texture and style of the material will drastically affect your comfort and safety. A thin outer-shell of a helmet may be best if you wear a hat under your helmet, whereas a thick, layered helmet is best if you want maximum protection.

 

VENTILATION

How many vents does your helmet have? If you overheat quickly, you may want added ventilation, but if you wear a hat under your helmet, you may not want as much ventilation. In any case, the amount of control over ventilation is always something you should consider.

 

 

FEATURES EXPLAINED

EPS OR EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE

A lightweight plastic that is composed of small hollow, spherical balls to cushion impact.

ABS CONSTRUCTION

A layer of hard plastic is combined with a softer foam.

VENTS

Tiny adjustable holes around the helmet that provide ventilation.

 

READ MORE

About The Author

While at the University of Virginia, Nate studied Spanish literature and contemporary philosophy and started for its Division 1 lacrosse team. At 20 years old, he began writing about his experiences attempting the world’s most insane adventures. From backcountry skiing in Patagonia to living in a Brazilian favela and high-altitude ice climbing in the Himalaya, Nate sheds light on parts and cultures of the world that remain widely unknown. He’s been featured on the top-rated travel podcast Extra Pack of Peanuts and has published work in a variety of outdoor publications. Currently Nate works as a freelance writer and explorer and competes for the Israeli National lacrosse team at tournaments around the world. He is fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Nepali and proficient in French and Arabic. This past Spring, Nate became the first ever foreigner to porter in the Himalaya.

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