

There are unpublished indications that the lightest and thinnest helmets do not perform well when impact levels exceed those required by the CPSC standard. Most of them probably do not, except those that provide additional coverage. Without comparative test data we usually do not know if a particular model exceeds the requirements of the standard and offers superior protection. For the US market the CPSC standard is required by law for any bicycle helmet.

But there is still no major advance in impact performance, ventilation or wearability this year that would compel you to replace your current helmet.Īlmost all of the helmets listed below meet national or international standards and offer good protection, although some standards are tougher than others. The trend continues toward the compact, rounder, smoother profile that we think is best when you crash. There are new models in 2013 that are worth a look if you need a new helmet. We recommend looking for a helmet that fits you well and has a rounded, smooth exterior with no major snag points. We have tested a sample of cheap and expensive helmets and found no real performance differences by price.

Almost all of the helmets described below meet standards and offer good if not excellent protection. Summary: Our review finds no radical safety improvement this year that would compel you to replace your current helmet.
