From first rides to trail days — there are the helmets we trust to keep kids comfortable, confident, and protected.
Choosing a helmet for your kid can feel just as overwhelming as choosing a bike. Between sizing, styles, certifications, and price points, many parents are left wondering which helmet will truly fit their rider well and support confident, comfortable riding.
This guide is here to help you navigate through all the options with ease. It’s built on experience, not guesswork. Every helmet here is one we’ve seen work with real kids, giving them reliable coverage, smart protective technology, and clear lines of sight while riding. Fit and sightlines matter, and these are the helmets that consistently get it right.
Whether your rider is just starting out, cruising paved paths, or tackling trails, there’s a helmet that matches where they are now—and where they’re headed next.
Jump to the helmet category you’re looking for:
The Best Little Kid & Toddler Bike Helmets of 2026
Helmets for toddlers and little kids come with a unique set of challenges. Young riders have proportionally larger heads, shorter necks, and developing balance — so fit, coverage, and visibility matter big time.
A great helmet in this category should:
- Sit low and level on the head for proper protection
- Offer excellent rear and side coverage
- Maintain a clear field of vision
- Dual adjustment at the crown of the head and around the ears for a secure, comfortable fit
Best in Class: Giro Scamp II MIPS
Price: From $84.95
Pros: Excellent coverage, lightweight feel, strong ventilation, advanced rotational protection
Cons: Higher price than non-MIPS options
Why it’s our pick: The Giro Scamp II MIPS stands out thanks to MIPS® Evolve Core rotational technology. Combined with Giro’s excellent shell shape and coverage, this helmet consistently fits little heads well without sitting too high or blocking vision.
Best All-Rounder: Giro Scamp II
Price: From $64.95
Pros: Great fit and coverage, lightweight, excellent ventilation, more accessible price
Cons: Does not include MIPS rotational protection
Why it’s our pick: The Giro Scamp II delivers many of the same fit benefits as the MIPS version, without the higher price tag. It’s a top choice for everyday neighborhood rides.
Best on a Budget: Kali Chakra Child Lighted Helmet
Price: From $50
Pros: Built-in rear light for visibility, good coverage, lightweight, approachable price
Cons: Less refined fit system than premium options
The Best Ride-anything Kids Bike Helmets of 2026
Whether your kiddo is new to riding or comfortable tackling the trails, these helmets deliver the coverage needed for adventuring everywhere.
Best in Class: Troy Lee Designs Youth Flowline MIPS
Price: $105
Pros: Excellent coverage, trail-focused design, strong ventilation, MIPS protection
Cons: Higher price point
Best All-Rounder: Giro Fixture MIPS II
Price: $84.95
Pros: Great value, MIPS rotational protection, lightweight feel, versatile design
Cons: Fit isn’t as refined as premium models
Best on a Budget: Kali Chakra Youth
Price: $55
Pros: Affordable price, good coverage, lightweight, simple fit
Cons: No MIPS technology
The Best Kids Full-Face Mountain Bike Helmets of 2026
Full-face mountain bike helmets offer the highest level of coverage for kids who are riding steeper trails, bike parks, or pump tracks.
Best in Class: Kali Maya Full-Face Helmet – Youth
Price: $155
Pros: Excellent coverage, lightweight, removable chin bar
Cons: Warmer than open-face options
Best All-Rounder: Kali Zoka Full-Face Helmet – Youth
Price: $155
Pros: Strong coverage, durable, non-removable chin bar for extra security
Cons: Slightly heavier feel
Best on a Budget: Rockbros Kids Full-Face Helmet
Price: $90
Pros: Very affordable, removable chin bar, lightweight feel
Cons: Less refined fit and ventilation
The right helmet matters
The best kids’ helmet isn’t about having the most features — it’s about fit, comfort, and protection that matches how your rider actually rides.
Resources
Buddy Pegs Bike Shop
Address: 1401 SW I St, Bentonville, AR 72712
Phone: (479) 268-4030
Website: www.buddypegs.com
If you’d like support, stop by the shop and we’ll happily help with helmet sizing and fit. You can also reach out to our Retail Director Carson directly at Carson@Buddypegs.com with any questions.
Pedal Kids USA
Get them trail-ready! Join our community of young riders for skills, thrills, and local youth cycling classes:
