Best kids bike helmets 2025

Top tips: choosing the best bike helmet for kids

When choosing a new helmet for your child, there are a few key factors to keep in mind.

1. Safety standards: Every helmet we feature meets British or European safety standards, with some offering additional protection like the Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS).
   

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2. Adjustability: Look for helmets with adjustable straps, clips, and dials to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
   

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3. Comfort: Padding and ventilation are essential for keeping your child cool and comfortable, especially during summer rides. A lighter helmet will also feel more comfortable over longer periods.
   

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4. Individual needs: Many helmets are designed for short, straight hair, but we’ve highlighted options suitable for afro/curly hair and Sikh hairstyles. Some helmets are also more ponytail-friendly than others.
   

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5. Style: As long as the helmet meets safety and comfort requirements, there's no harm in choosing one based on appearance. Many kids have a favourite colour or design, and there are plenty of fun options available to make helmet wearing enjoyable for younger children.

How to choose from the best kids bike helmets

If you’re in need of a bit more buying advice before you make a purchase, then here are some of the key things to consider.

Is wearing a helmet a legal requirement?

In the UK, wearing a helmet while cycling is not a legal requirement.

However, in other countries, such as Australia and some US states, it is mandatory, so always check the regulations for the area where you’re riding.

Does my child need to wear a bike helmet?

Unless it’s legally required, or mandatory for a specific event, location, or cycling club, the decision to have your child wear a helmet is ultimately yours.

Many parents choose to ensure their child is always wearing a helmet, but it’s not always easy. Young children, especially toddlers and teenagers, may resist wearing one altogether!

To help you weigh up your options, check out our article, should my child wear a bike helmet?

What is MIPS and do I need it?

When looking into bike helmets, you’ll often encounter MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) or similar forms of rotational impact protection.

The idea is that during a crash, when the helmet strikes a hard surface, the force on the head isn’t just a direct hit but also includes “rotational shearing forces.”

MIPS adds a layer inside the helmet that can move slightly, allowing the outer shell to rotate independently of the head. This aims to reduce the risk of brain injury in an impact. Other brands now offer similar technologies, but MIPS remains the most common in kids' helmets.

As for whether it’s essential, there’s no definitive answer. It can offer extra protection, but at a higher price. Helmets without MIPS still meet standard safety tests and provide effective protection.

For more information, read our article, does my child need MIPS in their cycle helmet?

What are the safety standards a child’s helmet should meet?

Bike helmets undergo various safety tests, and as a parent, it’s natural to want the best protection for your child. The main safety standard to look for is EN 1078 (European) or BS EN 1078 (UK), and all the helmets we recommend meet this requirement.

For a deeper understanding, see our full article on safety standards to look out for when buying a kids bike helmet.

What size helmet does my child need?

Just like a pair of shoes, a poorly fitted helmet can cause problems—too tight, and it’s uncomfortable; too loose, and it can slip, potentially leading to injury. Never buy a helmet that's too big for your child to "grow into."

All the helmets listed here come in various size ranges, and some offer multiple sizes. It's crucial to measure your child’s head circumference before purchasing to ensure a proper fit. Ideally, the helmet should fit snugly, with some room to grow, but still be adjustable for a secure fit from the start.

For guidance, check out our handy guide on how to measure your child’s head for a bike helmet.

If the helmets listed here are too small or too big, don't forget we also have guides to the best bike helmets for teenagers and best bike helmets for babies and toddlers.

How tight should a helmet be?

Once you’ve chosen the correct size, it's important to adjust the helmet properly. High-quality helmets feature adjustable straps, clips, and dials to fine-tune the fit.

The helmet should be snug enough that it doesn’t move around on the head, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable. Straps should lie flat against the skin with just enough space to slip a finger or two underneath. The helmet should sit about two fingers' width above the eyebrows.

For detailed fitting instructions, visit our guide: Is your child’s bike helmet fitted correctly?

Are cheaper kids' bike helmets less safe?

It’s natural to wonder if a cheaper helmet might compromise your child’s safety.

While pricier helmets come with more advanced features and tech, depending on how your child rides, you may not need those extras. All helmets that meet safety standards will provide sufficient protection, and every helmet we recommend here passes those tests.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider the B’Twin 500 children’s helmet from Decathlon. It’s lightweight, meets all safety standards, and costs just £12.99.

However, if your child enjoys more adventurous riding—like off-road trails or mountain biking—investing in extra protection, such as a MIPS-equipped helmet, is a smart choice.

When should I replace my child’s bike helmet?

Helmets don’t last forever, and knowing when to replace them is vital.

If your child has a crash where the helmet sustains an impact, you MUST replace it immediately. Helmets are designed to protect against a single impact, and once the shell has absorbed the force, it can no longer guarantee full protection.

Even if your child never has an accident, helmets have a limited lifespan. As a rule, you should replace your child’s helmet every 2-3 years, as both the helmet and your child’s head will change over time. Factors such as sunlight, sweat, and temperature changes can degrade the helmet. Look for the manufacturing date inside the helmet to know when it’s time for a replacement.