The 10 Best Ski & Snowboard Helmets of 2023-2024
By: Jen Streby: Senior Buyer | October 5th, 2023
Back in the day, your parents used to show up to the ski hill in a wool cap and a pair of sunglasses, point their straight skis down the fall line, and just sort of hope nothing bad would happen. Thankfully, those days are long behind us. Nowadays, the ski helmet is an essential piece of equipment, protecting the heads of every rider on the mountain, from high-flying daredevils to snow-plowing youngsters (and even your old parents, finally). Aside from being undeniably useful, the ski helmets of today are sleek, stylish, comfortable, and technologically advanced. In the search for the best ski and snowboarding helmets of the season, we’ve put together a collection of our favorites, with different colors, weights, fit and ventilation systems, and protection technologies to suit the needs of any rider.
New This Year:
The 2024 lineup of ski and snowboard helmets showcases a pivot towards minimalist styling without compromising on protection and functionality. This year, the emphasis is on lightweight designs paired with user-friendly fit systems, ensuring riders experience utmost comfort without the bulk. For those uncertain about their perfect fit, choosing a ski helmet that aligns with one's needs can make a significant difference in comfort and protection. Standout models making waves include the Smith Method with its advanced MIPS safety feature, and the Giro Owen & Tenet, which have been lauded for their perfect blend of style and substance. As helmet technology continues to evolve, the balance between aesthetics, weight, and safety remains paramount. The 2024 collection promises skiers and snowboarders a helmet experience that's as streamlined as it is secure.
Smith Method MIPS
The new Smith Method MIPS Helmet is the ultimate accessory for skiers and snowboarders seeking a versatile and reliable helmet with cutting-edge MIPS integration to boot! With its lightweight in-mold construction, zonal Koroyd® coverage and adjustable ventilation, it provides excellent protection against high-impact collisions while keeping you cool and comfortable on the slopes. The helmet's self-adjusting Lifestyle Fit System and sleek design make it a must-have for those who demand style and performance without compromising safety.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 400 g | Fixed: 8 Vents | $140.00 |
Giro Owen Spherical
Designed for those who crave versatility in their adventures, the Giro Owen Spherical Helmet equips you with everything you need. Whether you're conquering big mountain lines, navigating through dense tree shots, or facing massive features in the park, this noggin protector is tailor-made for action. This helmet combines minimalist styling with cutting-edge features like Spherical Technology, ensuring maximum comfort and safety on any terrain. With the Giro Owen Spherical Helmet, Giro introduces the innovative Thermostat Stealth adjustable venting system, allowing you to control airflow while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. Plus, the In Form 2 Fit System enables riders to quickly and easily adjust the helmet's size and vertical fit, ensuring a personalized and secure fit every time.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| N/A | Thermostat Control Adjustable Venting | $239.95 |
Giro Tenet MIPS Helmet
Take the fear and caution out of the equation with the Giro Tenet MIPS Helmet. The Hybrid Construction adds durability into the mix while still maintaining the lightweight fit and feel you desire. Equipped with the In Form 2 Fit System, swift and precise adjustments for a customized fit and unrivaled comfort has never been more effortless, and the breathable Ionic+® Fleece lining, ensures you stay cool and dry throughout your adventures. Most importantly, this brain shield is equipped with MIPS® technology to deliver the utmost protection when it comes to impact. Okay, maybe don't take ALL of the caution out of your riding, but feel free to put some trust in the Giro Tenet MIPS Helmet, it sure can take a beating.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| N/A | Thermostat Control Adjustable Venting | $219.95 |
Smith Method MIPS Round Contour Fit
The new Smith Method MIPS Round Contour Fit Helmet is the ultimate accessory for round-noggin skiers and snowboarders seeking a versatile and reliable helmet with cutting-edge MIPS integration to boot! With its lightweight in-mold construction, zonal Koroyd® coverage and adjustable ventilation, it provides excellent protection against high-impact collisions while keeping you cool and comfortable on the slopes. The helmet's self-adjusting Lifestyle Fit System and sleek design make it a must-have for those who demand style and performance without compromising safety.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 400 g | Fixed: 8 Vents | $140.00 |
Oakley MOD 3 MIPS
Introducing the sleek, revamped Oakley MOD 3 MIPS Helmet. This bad boy not only brings the style, but also boasts adjustable venting, so you can keep your cool on the slopes. With its 360-degree BOA® closure system, customizable comfort is just a twist away, while the innovative Modular Brim System lets you rock a brim or go brimless without sacrificing goggle compatibility. Plus, say goodbye to post-shred funk thanks to the X-Static® lining that annihilates odor and bacteria. It's time to upgrade your dome protection game with the MOD 3.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 550 g | Adjustable Venting | $185.00 |
Anon Oslo WaveCel
Conquer the slopes with the confidence-inspiring Anon Oslo WaveCel Helmet. With its clean lines and adaptability, the Oslo is perfect for shredding the park, exploring uncharted territories, or tackling any adventure that comes your way. With the BOA® 360 fit system, Fidlock® magnetic buckle, and WaveCel® shock-absorbing tech, this helmet offers a seamless blend of comfort and protection that'll keep you riding with confidence all season long.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 424 g | Fixed: 10 Vents | $219.95 |
Bern Hendrix Carbon MIPS
ABS shells are high quality and to think the Bern Hendrix Carbon MIPS Helmet has a shell that's TEN TIMES stronger is really something. The iconic low-profile brim lets you stay protected without feeling claustrophobic, and the Compass fit makes getting tweaking the sizing as easy as 1,2,3. Lined with RibTech EPS, the liner crushes into channels should you happen to endure a crash. This provides extra protection that prevents serious injury. Remember, you can put a cast on your arm and tape up a twisted ankle, but you can't get a new noggin' so you best protect it as well as possible.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 427 g | Fixed | $349.95 |
Sweet Protection Winder MIPS
The Sweet Protection Winder MIPS Helmet is the sleek and modern helmet for exploring anywhere on the mountain. The goggle garage pairs seamlessly with your goggles to eliminate gaper gap and MIPS technology reduces the impact of rotational forces for protection and style without the high price tag.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 440 g | Fixed | $149.95 |
POC Obex BC MIPS
Backcountry accidents are each a unique circumstance needing an equipped and educated unique individual handling. The POC Obex BC MIPS Helmet is designed with technology offering assistance during those first critical moments after a crash in the backcountry. The Obex BC comes equipped with the added protection of MIPS, a RECCO® Reflector for traceability, and in the case of a serious accident, an embedded NFC medical ID chip gives crucial medical information to medical rescuers on the scene. Compatible to have a seamless fit with POC goggles, the Obex BC MIPS Helmet is also compatible with the Obex Communication Headset (sold separately).
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 500 g | Fixed | $249.95 - $270.00 |
Smith Vantage MIPS
For the man who doesn't do anything halfway, the Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet is a cut above the rest in every department. A unique hybrid shell that combines the durability of a hardshell on top with the weight advantages of an in-mold construction below this noggin protector has low-profile Regulator™ adjustable venting, a Boa® FS360 fit system for on the move customized fitting, and one of the best looking designs on snow.
| Weight | Ventilation | Original Price |
| 500 | 21 Vents: Adjustable | $270 |
Learn More With Our Other Accessories Guides:
- Sunglasses - How to Choose
- Sunglasses - Style & Face Shape
- Goggles - How to Choose
- Goggles - How to Wear Goggles with Glasses
- Goggles - How to Prevent Fogging
- Helmets - How to Choose & Fit Guide
- Helmets - MIPS Technology
- Gloves & Mittens - How to Choose
- Hats - Types, Styles, & Materials
- Socks - How to Choose Ski & Snowboard Socks
Discover Our Favorite Accessories:
- The Warmest Mittens
- The Best Face Masks, Neck Tubes & Balaclavas
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Mittens
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Helmets
- The Best Kids' Ski & Snowboard Helmets
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Socks
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Gloves
- The Best Kids' Ski & Snowboard Gloves
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Goggles
- The Best Kids' Ski & Snowboard Goggles
- The Best Value Ski & Snowboard Goggles
- The Best Ski Bags
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Boot Bags
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Backpacks
- The Best Snowboard Bags
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Wax
- The Best Snowboard Stomp Pads
- The Best Ski & Snowboard Glove Liners
- The Best Snowboard Wrist Guards & Protective Gear
- The Best Heated Ski Socks & Ski Boot Heaters
- The Best Beanies
The Selection Process:
Our snow accessories buyers have an endless amount of knowledge on all things snow accessory related stemming from years of experience in the outdoor industry in tandem with their countless hours spent outside in all conditions around the world. From hot to cold, snow, rain, wind, and even sunshine, they know what accessories will keep you comfortable and really up your experience outside. evo's buyers assess all products coming to market, lean into this knowledge, and put together this selection of the best products. They have a unique perspective as they truly see everything offered across the category.
Jen Streby
Hi! My name is Jen and while growing up in the very cold Midwest, I didn’t have much experience in the snow apart from sledding and building your classic snowman. Eventually, after college, I migrated my way out to Utah. There I stepped on the snow on skis for the first time at the young age of 27. The first experience being at Alta, doing a complete yard sale under the Collins lift on my first run. Stubborn me didn’t give up. I soon after got a job at Snowbird where I grew to love the sport and learned to love the mountains in the wintertime as much as I do in the summer.
My winter passion didn’t change upon moving to the PNW where I call Seattle my home. I started with evo 6 years ago and have been a buyer for several categories, one of which currently includes the snow accessories category. Come to me if you want to talk about helmets, goggles, gloves, and more.