Choosing the right helmet is crucial for any longboarder, from beginners to seasoned pros. This guide breaks down the best helmets on the market, highlighting what makes them stand out, and also points out some helmets you should steer clear of. We’ll cover everything from budget-friendly options to high-end choices, ensuring you stay safe while shredding.
Top 11 Helmets for Skateboarding, Longboarding, and Rollerblading
Triple 8 Gotham Helmet Review – The Stylish High-End Choice
The Triple 8 Gotham helmet is known for its sleek design and eye-catching aesthetics. It’s not just about looks, though; this helmet meets both US CPSC and ASTM F1492 safety standards.
Triple 8 Gotham helmet
The grooved EPS and ventilation holes keep your head cool, and the adjustable back ensures a snug fit. While it’s a bit pricey and doesn’t offer groundbreaking features, the reflective option is a great choice for night riding. If style is a priority and you’re willing to spend more, the Gotham might be for you. You can find it on Amazon.com. For a more budget-conscious choice, consider the Brainsaver below.
S-One Lifer Helmet Review – Premium Protection
The S-One Lifer helmet is a favorite among skaters, and for good reason. It’s often considered the gold standard in helmet manufacturing.
S-one lifer half-shell helmet
The outer shell feels sturdy, the straps are durable, and the liners are incredibly comfortable. The extra liners included are great for adjusting the fit as your hair grows or gets cut. While it may be more expensive, the S-One Lifer offers both comfort and style with a wide range of colors available. It performs its main task of protection as well as other certified helmets, but provides a little extra in comfort. If it fits your budget, this is a worthy investment. Find the S1 Lifer at Stoked Ride Shop or on Amazon.com.
S1 Lifer helmet in action!
OutdoorMaster Skateboard Helmet Review – Top Budget Pick
The OutdoorMaster helmet is an excellent, budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on safety.
OutdoorMaster skateboard helmet
It boasts ASTM, CPSC, and even European CE certifications, ensuring your head is well-protected. It comes in multiple sizes, including options for kids. Its ventilation is quite good, and the sweat-absorbing pads provide comfort. The dial at the back of the helmet allows for a customizable fit. While it is a bit bulky, it’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a certified helmet at a low price point. Check it out on Amazon.com or the OutdoorMaster website.
Triple 8 Dual-Certified Brainsaver Review – The All-Around Champion
The Triple 8 Brainsaver is a long-time favorite, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a reliable helmet that has proven its worth over the years in both severe and minor falls.
Triple 8 Brainsaver helmet
This helmet meets ASTM F1492 and US CPSC regulations, making it suitable for skateboarding, cycling, rollerblading, and scootering. It includes two sets of sweat-absorbing liners for customizable fit and comfort, and its chin strap is exceptionally comfortable. The Triple 8 Brainsaver is simple, effective, and highly recommended. Find it on Amazon.com.
JBM Skateboard Helmet – The Affordable Choice
If you’re on a very tight budget, the JBM Skateboard Helmet is a solid pick.
JBM skateboard helmet
It’s certified with CPSC and ASTM ratings, ensuring adequate protection. While it has a slightly odd shape and basic ventilation, it gets the job done, especially for beginners. Despite its low price, it is a certified helmet. If you’re a beginner skater looking for a cheap helmet, check out the JBM Helmet on Amazon.com. For a slightly better design with similar affordability, check the Triple 8 Brainsaver above.
TSG Evolution Skate Helmet – The Underrated Comfort Star
The TSG Evolution is a highly underrated helmet designed by the same experts behind the popular TSG downhill helmets.
TSG Evolution skate helmet
It’s compliant with CE EN1078 and CPSC certifications. The helmet is exceptionally lightweight and comfortable, making it a great choice for those looking for extra comfort. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t meet the ASTM F1492 standard and uses a one-size-fits-all shell which may not be suitable for all head sizes. Still, it offers a good balance of comfort and protection. Find the TSG Evolution on Amazon.com.
Triple 8 Little Tricky – Best Helmet for Kids
The Triple 8 Little Tricky is designed specifically for children. It focuses on both safety and design.
Triple 8 Little Tricky kids helmet
The key is to find a helmet that fits snugly on a child’s head. The Little Tricky also comes in designs and colors that kids will love. With both the ASTM F1492-08 and CPSC certifications for kids aged 5 and up, it is a great choice. To ensure kids actually wear their helmets, they need to like the way it looks, so involving them in the purchasing process is a good idea. Check it out on Amazon.com.
Little Nutty – Safest Option for Children
The Little Nutty helmet is a premium option designed with advanced safety features for kids. It includes the ASTM and CPSC certifications, but also comes with MIPS technology for additional safety.
Little Nutty helmet – a top kids' choice
MIPS helps reduce rotational forces during an impact. This helmet comes in great designs and colors, ensuring your kids want to wear it. A dial at the back allows for a custom snug fit. While pricier, the Little Nutty is a top choice for safety-conscious parents. You can find it on Amazon.com.
Triple 8 Sweatsaver Helmet Review – Avoid This One
The Triple 8 Sweatsaver helmet is one you should avoid.
Triple 8 Sweatsaver helmet
It lacks essential certifications from CPSC and ASTM. Although it’s comfortable due to its EVA foam padding that contours to your head, it does not provide adequate protection. Many are unaware of the importance of certifications, but unfortunately, this helmet is not safe for use. It should be avoided. To get a better idea of it, check it out on Amazon.com. For a certified alternative, look at the CERTIFIED Sweatsaver.
Inside view of a Triple 8 Sweatsaver helmet
Pro-Tec Classic Helmet Review – Another Helmet to Avoid
The Pro-Tec Classic helmet is another one to steer clear of, as it does not meet safety regulations.
Pro-Tec Classic helmet
Despite being a best seller, it lacks certifications and does not adequately protect against serious head injuries. Many people purchase it out of lack of awareness, but a helmet needs more than just padding and a shell to be considered safe. Check out the Pro-Tec Classic on Amazon for more information, but avoid purchasing it.
TSG Pass Full-Face Helmet Review – For the Dedicated Downhill Rider
The TSG Pass helmet is the ultimate choice for downhill longboarding. Designed in collaboration with legendary longboarder Martin Siegrist, this full-face helmet provides unmatched protection.
TSG Pass full-face helmet
It boasts a wide field of view and comes with removable visors that provide UV protection. Certified with EN 1078 and ASTMF1952 ratings, the TSG Pass is designed for high-speed riding, protecting your entire head in the event of a fall. The extra thick EPS foam makes the helmet capable of withstanding multiple impacts. You can purchase the TSG Pass on Amazon.com.
TSG Pass helmet with clear and electric silver visors
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Helmet
When shopping for a helmet, it’s important to consider fit, comfort, and of course protection. While aesthetics are important, they should be the lowest priority on your list.
Comfort
Comfort is typically determined by the helmet’s liner. Opt for helmets with removable and washable liners and consider those with thicker padding for greater comfort. Most helmets come with additional liners for customizable fitting and comfort.
Certifications
Certifications are non-negotiable. A certified helmet will include a sticker displaying the regulations it has passed. This guarantees that the helmet has been tested to protect you from head injuries. Helmets must bring impact forces below 300Gs to prevent permanent brain damage.
Look for these certifications on half-shell helmets:
- U.S. CPSC Bike
- ASTM F-1492
- European CE
For full-face helmets:
- EN 1078
- ASTM 1952
ASTM ratings are the most stringent as they ensure protection from multiple impacts.
Proper Fit
Helmets come in sizes ranging from XS to XL. Most companies have a sizing guide that includes the diameter of your head in relation to helmet size. A snug fit is vital for safety as it prevents the helmet from slipping off in the event of an accident.
Bike vs. Skate Helmets
While similar, bike and skate helmets have differences:
- Certifications: Skate helmets usually have the ASTM F1492 for multiple impacts. Bike helmets have CPSC ratings for a single high impact. Mountain bike helmets have the ASTM F1952 rating which is also used to certify downhill full face helmets.
- Shape: Skate helmets sit lower, providing better coverage of the forehead and back of the head, areas more likely to be hit during a fall while longboarding.
- Design: Bike helmets are designed for better ventilation due to the requirements of long rides. Skate helmets don’t usually have this much focus on ventilation.
Conclusion: Which Helmet is Right for You?
For the best all-around protection and value, the Triple 8 Dual Certified Brainsaver is our top recommendation. It is comfortable and well-priced, while being certified. If you’re a dedicated downhill skater, the TSG Pass full-face helmet is the clear winner. However, for beginners, the Brainsaver is perfect.
Ultimately, choosing the right helmet can mean the difference between a fun ride and a serious injury. Prioritize safety and choose a certified helmet that fits comfortably.
