There are many MIPS-enabled helmets for all budgets out there. MIPS stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System, and it has been shown to reduce the risk of concussion by up to 10%. MIPS is a system that reduces rotational forces when you crash your head into something.
It is not quite as common as bicycle helmets yet, but it is quickly growing in popularity due to how safe it is. In this article, I will review what MIPS is and why it’s important, then give some information about different budget-friendly MIPS-enabled helmets for beginners!
- 1. Smith Convoy MIPS Helmet
- 2. Giro Register MIPS
- 3. Bell Revolution MIPS Bike Helmet
- 4. Giro Caden MIPS Helmet
- 5. Fox Racing Mainframe Helmet
- 6. Bell Trace MIPS Helmet
- 7. Triple Eight Gotham Dual Certified MIPS Helmet
- 8. Bontrager Solstice MIPS Helmet
- What to look for in a good budget bicycle helmet?
- Why would you want a bicycle helmet with MIPS?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
1. Smith Convoy MIPS Helmet
Smith’s Convoy helmet is perfect for anyone looking for protection without the extra weight. With in-mold construction and MIPS Brain Protection System, it can reduce rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head.
It also fits comfortably with Smith performance eyewear and goggles, has an AirEvac ventilation system to keep your lenses fog-free, and has a VaporFit adjustment system for a customized fit.
This is the bicycle helmet that I use! After trying out different helmets, I found that this one specifically fit the best, was high quality, and looked good. Most other helmets felt uncomfortable in comparison to this one. Because of this, I have it at the highest point on this list as my personal favorite!
Specifications
- Type: Mountain Bike Helmet
- Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
- Colors Available: Black, French Navy, Hornet, Merlot, Pool, Sage, Spruce, White
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Looks great
- High quality build
- Many size options
Cons
- Straps can be a bit annoying to adjust
2. Giro Register MIPS
You’re not one to shy away from a challenge, so why should your helmet? The Register MIPS Helmet is designed for riders who want the added protection of MIPS technology combined with sleek style and lightweight construction. Plus, with a removable visor that can shield you from the sun and 22 vents to keep you cool, this helmet is perfect for any ride, any time.
Giro makes some of the best MIPS enabled helmets! While I found the Smith Convoy to be my favorite in the comfort department, the Giro is an awesome 2nd place for me. It mixes and awesome value with high quality components. If you are stuck to a budget, this is an awesome option. I do also very much like that they have matte colors for their helmets, whereas Smith does not.
Specifications
- Type: Mountain Bike Helmet
- Sizes Available: Universal Adult, Universal X-Large
- Colors Available: Matte Black, Matte Black/Red, Matte Highlight Yellow, Matte Portaro Grey, Matte Red, Matte Titanium, Matte White
Pros
- Very lightweight
- High quality for the price
- Some unique colors to choose from
Cons
- Not quite as comfortable as some other options
- Chin strap may loosen during ride
3. Bell Revolution MIPS Bike Helmet
The Bell Revolution MIPS bike helmet is perfect for cyclists of all ages. With its impact management system, rotational forces are reduced in the event of an impact, providing you with enhanced safety and peace of mind. The visor offers protection from the sun and elements, while the dial fit system ensures a snug, comfortable fit every time. Plus, this helmet complies with the US CPSC safety standard for bicycle helmets – making it a great choice for riders of all experience levels.
Bell has been around for quite some time, and you likely have seen them on big box retailer shelves with their lower end products. However if you are on the hunt for a great budget MIPS enabled helmet, they have that too! This may not the be the highest end product on this list, but it does offer a great bang for the buck, especially if you want MIPS.
Specifications
- Type: Mountain Bike Helmet
- Sizes Available: Universal Adult
- Colors Available: Black, Black/Blue, Black/Red, Dark Titanium
Pros
- One of the least expensive MIPS enabled helmets
- Cool styling
Cons
- Lower end materials
- Is a smaller helmet
4. Giro Caden MIPS Helmet
You’re street-smart and fashion-savvy, so you need a helmet that reflects your style. Enter the Giro Caden MIPS Helmet. Featuring MIPS technology to help protect your brain in case of an impact, plus a Roc Loc system for easy fit adjustments, this helmet is perfect for city cycling. It also comes with a removable visor and wind tunnel vents with internal channeling to keep your head cool, and fits securely on your head with the Roc Loc City MIPS fit system.
This helmet is more meant for urban settings, and the styling reflects that! It definitely looks different than what most people are used to, which makes it a unique experience. As mentioned above, Giro is a great brand with plenty of awesome helmets such as this.
Specifications
- Type: Urban Bike Helmet
- Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large
- Colors Available: Matte Black, Matte Gray
Pros
- Unique urban styling
- High quality helmet company
- Removable visor
Cons
- Not everyone likes the styling
5. Fox Racing Mainframe Helmet
You want a helmet that fits your budget and your head, and the Fox Racing Mainframe Helmet is just that. With MIPS technology for impact protection, this lightweight helmet also features a sweat-beating design to keep you cool when the action heats up. Its simple fit system makes it easy to adjust on the go, so you can focus on shredding those trails with your buddies.
Fox Racing has been around for quite some time, and they continue to make great products, and this one is no different.
Specifications
- Type: Mountain Bike Helmet
- Sizes Available: Small, Medium, Large
- Colors Available: Black/Gold, Florescent Red, Florescent Yellow, Slat Blue, White
Pros
- Removable liner that can be washed
- Great styling
Cons
- Not many reviews available
6. Bell Trace MIPS Helmet
Slip-plane technology inside the helmet designed to reduce rotational forces that can result from certain impacts? Puh-lease. With a Bell Trace helmet, you’re protected impacts, big and small.
Plus, the integrated MIPS system ensures that your head will stay nice and safe even if you take a tumble.
As mentioned in another Bell product higher up on this list, this company makes some awesome budget friendly products, such as helmets. You can know that you are getting a reasonable product when going with them.
Specifications
- Type: Mountain Bike Helmet
- Sizes Available: Universal Adult, Small/Medium, Medium/Large, Universal X-Large
- Colors Available: Matte Black, Matte Blue, Matte Blue/Gray, Matte Hi-Viz/Black, Matte Red/Black, Matte White/Silver
Pros
- Plenty of sizes to choose from
- Many different color options
- Budget friendly option
Cons
- Not the nicest helmet on the list
7. Triple Eight Gotham Dual Certified MIPS Helmet
Triple Eight Gotham Dual Certified Helmet with MIPS Technology. You know that feeling you get when you’re just about to hit the half-pipe or start cycling down a hill and then–BAM–you take a hard fall? Well, thanks to our Triple Eight Gotham Dual Certified Helmet with MIPS Technology, now you can skate or bike worry-free!
This helmet is designed to reduce rotational forces to the brain caused by angled impacts, meaning you can stay safe while doing what you love. Plus, our patented Conehead EPS liner technology provides a lighter helmet with greater energy displacement on impact.
Specifications
- Type: BMX Styling Helmet
- Sizes Available: X-Small, Small
- Colors Available: White Matte, Blue Matte, Black Matte
Pros
- BMX style helmet
- Cool matte colors
- Great for children or people with small heads
Cons
- Won’t work well for off-road cycling
8. Bontrager Solstice MIPS Helmet
With Bontrager’s Solstice MIPS Helmet, you’ll enjoy the safety of knowing that your brain is well-protected from rotational motion injuries. The low-friction layer in the helmet slides 10 to 15mm in all directions, reducing rotational motion to the brain during impact. The Fidlock magnetic buckle fastens effortlessly for a quick, secure fit and the intuitive, one-handed Headmaster fit system adjusts height and circumference.
You even have 2 choices for constant coverage with the built-in and removable visor options. LockDown dividers make helmet strap management clean and easy to adjust and internal, recessed channels move airflow over your head to help keep you cool and dry. Soft, comfortable, and moisture-wicking.
Specifications
- Type: Mountain Biking Helmet
- Sizes Available: Small/Medium, Medium/Large
- Colors Available: Black, Crystal White, Radioactive Yellow, Viper Red, Waterloo Blue
Pros
- High quality brand
- Easy to adjust helmet
- Moisture wicking
Cons
- Runs a bit small
What to look for in a good budget bicycle helmet?
When looking for a budget bicycle helmet, there are a few key factors to consider. MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology is one of the most important features, as it helps to reduce rotational forces that can be caused by certain impacts.
Most importantly, make sure that the helmet fits well and is comfortable to wear, as you don’t want it to be a nuisance while riding. Finally, check the ventilation to make sure that it will keep your head cool on those hot days.
Why would you want a bicycle helmet with MIPS?
If you’re looking for extra protection while cycling, a helmet with MIPS is a good option. MIPS helps to reduce rotational forces that can be caused by certain impacts, which can lead to serious injuries.
It’s also important to consider other features like ventilation and fit when choosing a bicycle helmet, as you want it to be comfortable and keep your head cool. MIPS helmets are an investment in the future of cycling, so make sure to purchase one with this technology included!
Frequently Asked Questions
Much like anything in this world, the higher quality a helmet is, the safer and more comfortable it will be. However all helmets sold in the USA are held to a specific standard for safety, and because of this, inexpensive bike helmets are a safe option.
Conclusion
Bike helmets are an important safety feature for all cyclists, but not everyone can afford MIPS. If you’re looking for a budget helmet with MIPS technology, the Bell Trace MIPS Helmet is your best bet. It’s one of the least expensive models on our list and offers a wide range of features that make it worth every penny!
Top 6 Reasons Why Bicycles Don’t Have Kickstands
