Avoid Bad Injuries with the Best Bike Helmet

Lightweight, great performance, comfortable, and wind tunnel cooling are all features that describe the top rated Giro Aeon. This helmet is the choice of top cyclists for many reasons. The polycarbonate and EPS liner are fused together to keep this helmet super lightweight. In addition to the durable shell, the Aeon has an impact roll cage, for added reinforcement of the helmet without additional weight. The 24 vents are combined with channels that allow air to flow through the helmet, pushing the hot air out the back and cooling your head. The Roc Loc 5 locking system allows you to dial in the perfect fit and adjust the fit up and down as well. The X-Tatic padding is antimicrobial to keep odors to a minimum. The Aeon is a dream helmet, with features that keep you riding comfortably and safely.

The Prevail is an aerodynamic, lightweight road bike helmet designed for all-around great performance. The dual-density EPS gives you outstanding impact performance. Specialized has large ports positioned in the front of this helmet that are unique to them. The micro-dial fit system and height adjustability allow you to dial in the perfect fit. The Prevail is comparable to the number one pick on this list, it is a matter of personal preference. If price point is an issue for you, then this and the top pick may not be your choice.

If you are looking for a helmet that is comparable to the Aeon but with a smaller price tag, the Atmos is the helmet to look at. The Giro Atmos has 26 vents and the same wind tunnel ventilation as the Aeon. An in-mold shell and carbon fiber reinforcement offer lightweight, protection in the event of an accident. The Roc Loc 5 fit system will allow you to dial in a perfect fit. The Giro Atmos has been worn by some of the best cyclists in the world and will offer you the protection, comfort, and performance you are looking for at a somewhat smaller price tag than the Aeon.

The Bontrager Oracle is another lightweight option with some great features. The AgION fit pads keep odors at bay. The internal, recessed channels manage the airflow over your head to keep you cool and comfortable. The fit system allows you to adjust both the height and circumference. Brontrager also offers an unconditional guarantee. They will replace the helmet if you are involved in an accident within the first year of owning it.

If you are on a tight budget but still need a helmet that is comfortable and offers the protection you need, take a look at the Bell Furio. As with most bicycle and rider gear, the more you have to spend, the better the features, however this helmet comes in as a great choice for the budget minded rider. It has 20 air vents, less than the higher end helmets, but certainly enough to make a difference and keep you cool. The fit system will give you the ability to adjust the helmet easily. If you are looking for a budget friendly helmet, this is the one to try.

I chose the Nutcase Gen2 line of helmets as the top commuter pick for several reasons. The first reason is just pure fun. If you are stuck going to work and you have decided to make the commute more fun by riding, Nutcase helmets are the most fun your head can have on the commute. Yes, they offer the protection you need but they do it in style. Designed by a former creative director at Nike, you can chose from any number of crazy prints or a cool, solid matte color. These helmets make you feel like a kid again and bring a smile to your face every time you look at them. I've been riding with mine for several years, it is my personal favorite for commuting. The Gen2 has spin dial fit technology that allows you to customize the fit to your head. The magnetic buckle is a one-handed operation and no more pinching like you get with a traditional buckle. All that fun and at a very reasonable price.

The Echelon II is a budget friendly road helmet. The 2013 design has a lower profile and greater ventilation. The fit system has four height positions and a micro-adjustable dial that makes it easy to adjust the fit while you are on the move. The Echelon II's composite matrix reinforcement allows for greater ventilation without sacrificing protection. This helmet gives you a look that most cyclists think of when they think helmet but at a price most anyone can afford.

The Cannondale Ryker has a look and style like no other helmet on this list. The in-mold construction gives this helmet the strength and durability you need without adding weight. The fit system, with additional padding, allows you to get a snug fit without feeling like you will give yourself a headache before your commute is over. Cannondale tried to optimize the inner shape of this helmet to fit as many head shapes as possible.

The Giro Reverb has a few features not found on the other helmets on this list. The brow of the helmet has a cool, fabric brim instead of the traditional hard plastic and it is completely removable. The fabric allows for a cooler feel. The Reverb has clean lines and a simple design. It has the same great in-mold construction of the higher-end helmets. The Auto-Loc fit system is an elastic based system and has front and back adjustability. This helmet was on the "Oprah's Favorite Things List" for 2012. This may be on your favorite list too, give it a try.

The Sterling has 18 well-positioned vents for maximum air flow. The anti-slip fit system has three height adjustments and an exclusive strap loop adjustment system for making adjustments on the go. It is available with two different padding systems for odor and sweat control and an optional bug netting. The Sterling has a cool eye-wear dock feature for those times when you want to remove your shades but not but them down. If you are looking to stand out, try this helmet in the Fluo color line for added visibility.

The Giro Me2 is a cute helmet for your youngest cyclist. It comes with a built-in visor and lower rear profile for added protection and a more secure fit. The Mini-Loc fit system allows you to get the best fit for your child. The microshell has a built-in bug net. The Me2 also features a pinch proof buckle to protect your child's delicate skin. The color and graphic options are fun and come in styles for boys and girls. The Me2 is a helmet that is tough to beat for your toddler and at $30 you get a great helmet for a great price.

The Bell Zoomer is a cute, functional helmet for your toddler. The extended rear profile offers added protection. The PinchGuard Buckle gives a no-pinch buckling system. The Zoomer has seven vents to keep your child's head cool. This helmet is one of the most budget friendly on the list.

The Schwinn Classic offers an adjustable fit. It has a lower profile construction for added protection. The Classic has a built in visor to shield your child from the sun. This helmet is another option for someone looking for a simple, no frills, helmet that is budget friendly and will protect your child's head.

Nutcase makes the coolest helmets on the market for kids and adults. The Little Nutty complies with safety standards for kids 5 and older. It comes with a spin dial fit system that is very user friendly. The magnetic buckle gives it an anti-pinch design feature that will save your child's chin from the inevitable pinched skin from a standard buckle. Looking for a variety of styles, Nutcase has you covered. Designs for girls, boys, and kids who just think it is fun to have a helmet with a Glo-Brain on top.

The Bell Fraction is both bicycle and skate safety certified. If you have a child that goes from the skate park to the bicycle, this may be a great choice. This helmet will transition nicely between the two sports. It has classic BMX styling and comes in a variety of colors. The Fraction is available in 3 sizes.

The Giro Rascal has a safety feature not found on the other choices on the list, an integrated, rear, LED tail light. You can switch it on for added visibility. The One-Step fit system allows you to easily fit the helmet to your child. A pinch-free buckle and bug netting add to the appeal of this helmet. The in-mold construction cuts back on the weight of the helmet. The cool graphics may have your kid asking where the helmet is next time they want to ride.

The Troy Lee D2 is another full face option for aggressive riders. The D2 meets downhill safety standards. It is a great helmet for BMX, downhill, and other action sports. The large eye port easily accomodates most any goggles. The adjustable visor allows you to find the perfect placement.

What is in a name? With a name like Kali Protectives, you know what you are getting — protection. The Avatar 2 carbon was designed with motorcycle safety technology in mind. The low density EPS foam is designed for greater impact absorption. The Avatar 2 has an integrated air flow system to keep you cool and removable, washable pads and liner. It is available in five sizes and four graphics choices. This is another full face helmet for you to check out before you buy.

The Giro Hex is an open face helmet for aggressive trail riding and BMX riders that don't want a full face helmet. It is durable, and has an in-mold construction. It has a 15 degree adjustability in the visor. Extreme fit adjustments with the Roc Loc 5 with micro-adjustments as well as front and back adjustments. It is a comfortable option with great ventilation for keeping your head cool while you're out on the trail. If you are looking for a quality open face helmet, add the Hex to your short list.

The Bell Drop is a full face helmet with moto-style and performance. This helmet is safety certified for two standards, CPSC and downhill. The easily adjustable visor was designed for Bell moto-cross helmets. The liner pads are removable. The Drop is constructed with a fiberglass shell. It is a great option for the rider who wants a full face helmet without breaking the bank.

The Giro Remedy is another great full face option for the freerider, mountain biker, downhiller, and more. The Remedy has a lightweight fiberglass shell and a washable interior liner for the mud runs and the sweat of the long rides. The Remedy features a no-tool adjustable visor and wind tunnel ventilation. The liner and cheek pads are replaceable. The Remedy comes in some amazing graphic designs and colors, something for everyone.

The 661 Recon has a poly-carbonate in-mold shell and extended rear profiling. The internal channeling with 18 intake/exhast vents will keep your head cool. This is not a full face helmet but is built to protect your head for your less aggressive rides. Gives the rider a secure fit with a customizable fit system. If you are on a tight budget but still want a helmet that performs, check out the Recon.

Are you looking for the classic skate style helmet? Bell Faction offers a variety of colors and designs in classic style and at a price that fits most any budget. The Faction is a great helmet for the rider who is just starting out on the trails and isn't into the aggressive scene just yet. This helmet transitions nicely from trail to commute. It has an ABS hard shell construction with dual density EPS foam. A great beginner helmet.