Best Bike Helmet for Toddlers

While searching for the best bike helmet for toddlers, you must prioritize safety and comfort. Pay attention to safety features such as MIPS technology or equivalent tech, helmet weight, and ventilation/air circulation.

Other aspects to keep your eyes peeled for include fit, color, and graphics. Remember certifications, too, particularly CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission).

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5 Best Toddlers and Kids Helmets (Reviews & Buying Guide)

 

These helmets for toddlers and young children work, but like most other products, they may not  be 100% perfect. In these toddler helmets for biking reviews, I examine the supposed greatness of each while pinpointing all the little flaws you should be aware of before buying.

1. Giro Scamp MIPS Youth Recreational Biking Helmet Review

Although pricier than most, the Giro Scamp MIPS youth recreational biking helmets are well-made, adequately-ventilated, and fit comfortably.

Its polycarbonate outer hard shell and all the other components add up to just 8.9 oz in weight, making this Giro deal the lightest option in these reviews.

The lid amounts to a super lightweight, durable in-mold construction that’s also CPSC approved. The product’s smooth polycarbonate exterior features aerodynamically shaped edges. This design reduces the amount of pedal power the child should expend. However, ir isn’t the most streamlined design I’ve reviewed.

GIRO uses the Roc Loc fit system, a technology that compels the inner foam to match the shape of your child’s head. The straps seem well-made, and the pinch guard on the buckle makes for pain-free product use.

Now to the most important part: skull protection. The Giro Scamp youth recreational biking baby helmets boast the now-famous MIPS, a technology that redistributes rotational impact, protecting small noggins from certain kinds of impacts. An EPS impact liner further enhances the ability of the outer shell to reduce impact.

However, no definitive evidence concludes MIPS actually offers any benefits as far as staving off concussions. There’s really no reason to shun this helmet’s non MIPS version.

Like other activities, cycling generates heat. That’s why GIRO equips this product with eight airflow vents. The inner padding absorbs sweat, keeping the child’s head fresh and dry. The padding also helps with fit.

One more thing. This Giro helmet drops down at the back and sides a little farther than the Lazer options below do. And that might mean somewhat better side and rear protection.

Sizing? It’s available in small and x-small sizes, and here’s a size guide from Giro.

Finally, this helmet can be purchased in any of several kiddo colors. The product also comes with scintillating graphics that’d encourage any kid to wear a helmet and hop on their balance or pedaled bike.

 

Giro makes great products, from great biking shoes to fitting and breathable kids’ helmets. And this product is no exception.

 

2. Lazer Gekko MIPS Toddlers and Kids Helmet Review

The Lazer Gekko MIPS toddler and kids helmet has a somewhat adult look, but it sure fits small head sizes. It incorporates the increasingly popular protective MIPS technology (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) into its design. MIPS supposedly prevents brain injury, but no evidence concludes the tech prevents concussions.

Its design includes 12 airflow vents that enhances air circulation/ventilation while maximizing comfort. It’s light, too, weighing in at just 12 oz (ounces). That’s lightweight enough for a toddler’s not-strong-enough neck and noggin. And its CPSC certification makes it an approved kiddo helmet.

Additionally, this kiddos helmet comes in an attractive blue/pink color, making it a unisex pick both boys and girls will want to wear. It features a drop-down rear offers neck and side protection, and it offers a rechargeable LED light for increased visibility, which means safe riding at night. The helmet is shaped in a way that makes it useful for girls with a pull-through ponytail.

But there’s more. This package includes a visor that shields the child’s eyes from direct sunlight as your little one scoots or bikes around.

Asides from that, this top rated scooter helmet for toddlers and young children also features a spring-loaded Autofit Retention System. This system converts the helmet into a 19.69″-22″ one-size-fits-all option for 3-year-olds. With this universal fit system, your kid gets a custom fit without needing to over-rely on the manual fit adjuster, the chin straps. The helmet’s anti-pinch buckle makes your baby want to wear the helmet and ride the heck out of their playtime all the time. There’s a crash replacement policy, too.

 

If your little one won’t wear anything without graphics, they likely won’t like this Gekko helmet very much.

 

3. Lazer Lil Gekko MIPS Toddlers Bike Helmet Review

 

Looking for the best bike helmet for toddlers with a small head? Then this CPSC-approved urban-style MIPS kiddos helmet is the perfect choice. It’s a durable in-mold construction that comes with Lazer’s hassle-free autofit system. And like its sibling reviewed above, it boasts 12 vents for obstruction-free airflow.

It’s versatile, too. When they’re not riding their bike in this helmet, they’ll probably be riding their toddler scooter with a seat. The autofit fit system works for multiple head sizes ranging between 46 cm and 50 cm (18″ to 19.67″). This system relies on an internal cage that supports automatic fit adjustment. The Lazer Lil Gekko MIPS kiddos helmet is one of the best options for little cyclists with small heads including those under the age of 3.

The buckle is designed to lie under the ear, which means it won’t pinch the kid’s chin as happens with some magnetic buckle helmets, and the well-made fit well. Sealed one-piece padding ensures easy refit if your little guy rips it out.

Also, the product features a removable visor. Your little one will enjoy riding on sunny days without worrying about those blinding UV rays.

And at just 10.59 oz in weight, the Lil Gekko is slightly lighter than the Lazer Gekko. And like the Lazer Gekko, this helmet offers a rechargeable rear LED light for safety when it gets dark. Also, this product provides side and back head coverage. And unlike helmets with a pointed back, this flat-back design allows the child to rest their head comfortably on their bike seat.

 

I recommend it.

 

4.XJD Kids and Toddlers Bike Helmet Review (A Super Versatile Budget Option)

The super versatile XJD kids and toddlers kike helmet is perfect for roller skating, cycling, scooter riding, and other outdoor activities. It’s a great deal for adventurous kids who like exploring new interests. As one of the best scooter helmets for toddlers, it’s lightweight, weighing in at just 12 oz. Young necks should easily support this weight.

 

The product’s inner padding (EPS foam) provides adequate sweat wicking while also helping fit and boosting protection against potential head injuries. The helmet provides a smooth round-ish surface (ABS hard shell) that allows your baby to add exciting stickers. And the nice matte finish on the helmet reduces soiling.

For a comfortable custom fit, these toddler helmets use an adjustable dial on the back that joins forces with side-positioned adjustable chin straps and buckles. The positioning of the buckle is pretty much like having a chin pinch guard.

While these kids bicycle helmets have narrow-ish vents, they have a removable inner lining. You can wash the liner after every few uses to keep the helmet smelling fresh and your baby begging you to wear it. The helmet fits head sizes ranging from 48 – 54 cm/18.90″ to 21.26″ , a good fit for the age range 3 – 8 years.

The ventilation system, although not as advanced or efficient as what the Lazer or Lil Gekko offers, includes several air flow vents located mostly on the top. Throw in breathable foam, and you have a kids bike helmet that effortlessly carries heat away while wicking away smelly sweat during intense activities.

Overall, the XJD kids and toddler bike helmet represents comfort, perfect fit, and adequate head protection. Best of all, these helmets come in at an incredibly low price point, (under $30 as this writing).

Even though this is a non MIPS helmet, it’s one of the best budget kiddo helmets out there. MIPS might or might not protect small heads against head injuries and concussion..there just isn’t any solid evidence yet.

 

5.Joovy Noodle Toddlers and Babies Biking Helmet Review (Best Budget Pick)

The Joovy Noodle Toddlers budget biking kids helmet is offered in two size options: X-Small (47 – 52 cm (18.5″– 20.5″) and Small (52 – 56 cm/ 20.5″ – 22″). Make sure to measure your child’s head circumference to avoid sizing mistakes.

Like the XJD above, this product is versatile, protecting little ones as they ride bikes, scooters, trikes, and trailers. If you want a great looking mountain bike style helmet for your child that is also light and functional, this ticks all the boxes. It meets CPSC safety standards for cycling protective wear.

Also, this helmet is designed with an extended visor for good visibility when the little one cycles facing the sun. And for added protection, these bike helmets for kids come with an integrated bug mesh at the front.

What about ventilation? Unlike the other picks in these kid helmets reviews, this option offers a-vent air circulation system or wind tunnel. That makes it a super light helmet that won’t struggle to keep small noggins cool and adequately protected.

An easy-to-use adjustable fit dial makes fit customization a breeze. Turning the knob clockwise tightens the fit while turning counterclockwise loosens it. It expands and grows as your little tyke cycles through different developmental phases. Thanks to its one-size-fits-all feature, the lid should work for little riders as young as 1 year and as old as 9 years.

The chin strap is adjustable for a comfortable fit, and there’s a pinch guard that makes each ride enjoyable and lots of fun. But at 15.2 oz, this isn’t the lightest kids helmet out there. Some adult cycling helmets are actually lighter than this one. I expected a product with that many vents to be lighter than 12-vent ones. This best seller at Amazon (as of now) comes in seven fun colors.

 

The Joovy Noddle represents tons of value at that unbelievably low price point. But I’d not recommend this for very young kids as it’s relatively heavy.

 

It’s time to learn how to choose a good lid for your kid’s delicate little head. Here’s a buying guide to help you select a good gift for your baby.

 

Do Toddlers Need Helmets?

 

Young children should wear protection for the same reason grown ups wear them. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the U.S. sees nearly 400,000 bicycle-related injuries involving children. Fractures, cuts, and bruises happen to be the most common injuries, but head injuries (concussions) also occur. No one likes forking out for avoidable bills. So, have Ryan wear adequate protective gear before he totters out the door.

Another pleasantly surprising fact: Fully 90 percent of cyclists who are killed in crashes have no helmets. Let that sink in (Source: The NHTSA).

But it gets even more interesting. A cyclist who wears protection all the time they’re riding and having fun can low the odds they’ll get brain injury by 88 percent. Additionally, 60 percent of bike crash injuries in the U.S. requiring a trip to the emergency room are from children and young adults.

Conclusion:

Having your child wear reliable head protection before they step out the door is a really good idea.

 

How To Choose a Helmet for a Toddler

 

Wearing a helmet while riding a pedaled or balance bike is vital for your child’s safety. That’s why many states require riders of all ages to wear protection at all times. When choosing the right product for your child, consider the following:

 

1.Size Your Child’s Lid Correctly

 

Children hate using bike helmets that don’t fit comfortably. If the lid is too small or big for your baby’s head size, the child won’t get adequate protection in the event of an accident. In fact, fit is the single most important consideration when it comes to buying head protection. What use is a lid that’ll likely fly off the baby’s noggin when they need it most?

Here’s how to size a toddler’s helmet accurately:

 

It’s all about measuring the circumference of the young rider’s head. especially when buying online. Have them stand straight up and use a tape measure or string to measure their head circumference. Make sure to pass the tape over the widest area of the head, usually a half inch above the brow.

Next, access the manufacturer’s sizing chart and choose the correct size. Note: sizing varies across brands and models, so be sure you’re comparing your child’s head circumference reading with the right size chart.

Make sure there’s space to fit a finger or two between their eye brows and the bottom part of the helmet. Essentially, when the child looks upward, they should see the helmet’s top rim.

 

One-size-fits-all Helmets

 

It’s best to choose a brand and helmet model that features a universal fit ring. Such a product fits a wide size range and your child grows into it. And, you don’t waste much time trying to create the perfect fit. An adjustment knob or dial lets you pull the lid together until it accommodates the kid’s noggin. Most of the recommendations in my reviews have an adjustable fit system so you can save time.

 

2.Head Coverage

 

Choose kids bike helmets that sit flat on the crown of the head. Head coverage should extend to the forehead, but it shouldn’t go so far down. Good bike helmets for kids should also extend downward a bit at the back of the head. The lower part of toddler helmets should be more or less flat so children can rest them on their bike seats without difficulty.

 

3.Side Straps and Buckle

 

Side straps and the buckle system should be integrated in a way that won’t cause a pinching. Properly adjusted straps and buckle form a “Y” shape. The front and back chin straps should converge at the buckle, under the ear.

 

4.Outer Shell, Comfort Liner, and Visor

 

The outer shell should be light, hard, and smooth. Its overall design and shape should aim to reduce drag during bicycling. The exterior may be round or pointed, but some experts believe options with a rounded out rear would be a better bet in a  crash. That’s supposedly because such helmets slide off while pointed ones may catch on the ground. However, no clear evidence proves one shape to be better than the other.

EPS comfort liners are quite common in kiddos lids, but EPU impact reduction foam isn’t rare. Both are good, and they help minimize impact.

A visor may be important for shielding against sunlight, but it may not be absolutely necessary in some cases.

 

5.Ventilation or Breathability

 

Cycling cause a lot of heat and sweating, and a good helmet should have enough vent holes for temperature regulation. The inner padding should be made from materials that can dissipate heat and absorb sweat. Great padding/liner also comes with anti-bacterial treatment to prevent odors. Small wonder the best toddler helmet in my reviews features lots of cooling vents. Proper ventilation makes bike riding a lot more fun by keeping baby heads cool and fresh.

 

6.Brand, CPSC Certification, and Pricing

 

Listen, fellow parents, brands matter when it comes to choosing a good skateboard or bicycle riding helmet. I’ve seen brands no one’s ever heard of purport to be selling CPSC approved helmet online. But would such a product actually protect your baby in a crash? Maybe… But it’s your child’s life, you know.

Whenever you’re uncertain, buy a well-known brand such as Giro and others. Buy U.S. based brands as you’re 100% certain the lid is CPSC certified. The CPSC certification is a legal requirement instituted by American law. EVERY helmet sold in the U.S. market MUST be tested and approved by CPSC.

 

CPSC vs Snell vs ASTM Certification

 

Snell used to the most popular helmet safety standard in the mid 1990s. But due to Snell’s prohibitive costs to manufacturers, a new standard emerged, the ASTMF1447. Though not legally regulated, this standard became widely recognized and used until 1998 when CPSC was approved as law in the United States.

ASTM vs CPSC, which is better? CPSC is similar to ASTM in every respect, and an ASTM certified helmet can be expected to provide enough head protection when needed. However, the ASTM is a VOLUNTARY standard. Manufacturers aren’t expected to adhere to its requirements. The standard is still used today though not widely.

So, ALWAYS buy a CPSC approved lid for your child. And if it’s ASTM certified as well, that’s even better. But even CPSC certification alone is adequate. And for the European market, CE is a critical certification; insist on it.

 

7.Color and Graphics

 

Choose a product that’s available in exciting kid-friendly colors and graphics. But don’t forget the most critical aspect: noggin protection.

 

What size helmet does a 3 year old need?

 

No particular works for all 3-year-olds. The most accurate way to determine your child’s correct sizing is to measure them as described above. Remember: Take the measurement from the forehead just above the eyebrows going round and back to the forehead for the best fit.

Typically, children aged between 3 and 5 years have a head circumference of roughly 51 x (20 inches). However, size varies from child to child even if they may be the same age. But for the most part, 20″ is pretty much the average circumference children aged 3 years.

What is the best Helmet for Babies and Toddlers?

 

The best bike helmet for toddlers and older children features a slew of components and specialized technologies that make them suitable for little tykes. These crucial aspects include ventilation, crash protection technologies, comfort, and above all, fit. Each of my best bike helmets reviews represents all or at least most of these critical considerations.

So, grab a gift your child will love, one that offers the best protection possible before they head out to explore the world on a bike. Whether it’s pedaled bike with training wheels,a balance bike, trailer, or whatever, have your kid wear a helmet before saddling for a bike ride. And if they need a bit of sun protection, pick up a baby helmet with a built in visor. Oh, and have them wear knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards.

 

Best Kids and Toddlers Helmet for Cycling: Verdict

 

All the options reviewed here are great and are reliable when it comes to protecting infant noggins. These options are sturdy, offer durability, CPSC certification, adjustability, and should fit well without pinching a child’s neck sin.

But whether they’re MIPS or non MIPS, none guarantee protection from concussions. But a fitting lid is a must-have for both the little rider as well as the adult cyclist.

These offers have more or less the same features. but the Giro MIPS recreational youth bike helmet stood out due to it being supremely lightweight at just 8.9 oz. However, it comes in at a heftier price tag. That said, its price point is reasonable and shouldn’t stop a caring parent from buying a truly useful birthday gift for their child. But I see why most parents would consider the seriously affordable Joovy Noddle as amounting to the best bung for their buck.