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The ideal full face helmet offers top-notch protection for bikers enjoying gravity-fed riding, from enduro trails to bike park laps. The best models should reduce the likelihood of a head injury without causing overheating.
To test these helmets, we've logged thousands of miles in shuttle laps and park riding, tackling some of the world's best mountain bike terrain. Whether you're looking for big air or blistering fast speeds, we've found some great options for you.
Our favorite full-face helmet is the Specialized Gambit, which is among the lightest models in the lineup. Impressively, it's also among the better-scoring options in impact testing, making it a great helmet for a blend of pedaling and lift-accessed riding. If you need a bombproof downhill-only model, the POC Coron Air Carbon Mips boasts top-notch scores in drop tests, also providing some of the best durability in the review.
We know how expensive a full-face helmet can be, but we've found great value in the Demon United Podium if you're shopping on a tight budget, especially if you're looking to just get into the niche of downhill biking. The specificity of a full face model can be a big deterrent, but helmets like the Bell Super 3R Mips convert from a full face to a half shell, making it a true do-anything option.
Editor's Note: We carried out a substantial update to this review on August 22, 2025, to incorporate thorough impact testing into our scoring. We also included some new models.
The Specialized Gambit is a highly versatile full-face option that can handle enduro pedals and gravity-intensive days in the bike park. While there is commonly a trade-off in protection for low weight, the Gambit came in towards the top of the charts in impact testing, stunning our entire testing team. This model also stood out for its airflow, as our head tester shared, “I didn't flinch one bit when a bike park day required some pedaling. Even when pushing my bike uphill to session a feature, my head stayed far cooler in the Gambit than much of the competition.” If the feather weight of this helmet has got you feeling a little uncertain for exclusive bike park use, check out the burly POC Coron Air Carbon Mips.
While the Gambit breaks the mold as a helmet that doesn't sacrifice protection for a low weight, it isn't as heavily padded for jarring descents and pure gravity-fed use. Additionally, it feels less durable than the downhill-only designs. “I had to get in the habit of babying this helmet when throwing it in the back of the truck, while other hefty models didn't require as much attention,” one of our main reviewers commented. If you need a more robust option and don't prioritize ventilation, consider the Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips. Ultimately, the Specialized Gambit is an excellent full-face helmet for riders who prioritize weight and breathability.
If you're a full-time downhill biker, the POC Coron Air Carbon Mips should be on your finals list. This burly model emerged as the best-scoring helmet in impact testing and became a favorite amongst our team for bike park days. One of our primary reviewers shared, “This is my go-to for intense downhill rides. As long as I wasn't pedaling, the Coron Air was a pleasure to wear.” You'll inevitably scuff up your full-face helmet, whether while riding, in transit to the bike park, or running a shuttle. Fortunately, the POC Coron Air has a robust finish to handle the rough life of a downhill helmet – this was a model I didn't have to be as gentle with, which is greatly appreciated given the rigors of gravity riding.
With generous padding and minimal ventilation, the POC Coron Air Carbon is certainly not the most breathable option available. The helmet feels great at 40 mph, but at lower speeds or when climbing, it's downright hot. It is also substantially more expensive than many other options, so consider the Troy Lee Designs D4 Polyacrylite if you need a more protective model without breaking the bank. Besides a few setbacks, the Coron Air is deserving of your careful consideration as your first or next gravity-prioritized helmet.
Full face helmets are very expensive when compared to their half shell siblings, but the Demon United Podium offers a very affordable way to get full-coverage protection. As one of our main reviewers shared, “This is a helmet that kept me and my head happy throughout testing, particularly considering it costs several times less than the high-end competition.” The Podium offers decent padding, giving it above-average comfort on those bumpy descents. Testers liked the adjustable visor, as preferred angles tend to vary from rider to rider and even time of day.
The impact testing results of the Demon United Podium were less impressive than some of its competition. While the helmet meets the necessary national safety standards, our testing showed other models sustain substantially less damage when subjected to the exact same types of impact. The Podium's design and limited number of vents gives it less airflow which makes the helmet a bit warmer than others in this test. Gripes aside, it feels like a solid helmet for the price. As one of our product testers concluded, “Context is everything. This is so inexpensive it could be the difference between someone getting a full face helmet or not, and with that in mind, this is a great helmet if it's all you can afford.”
The Fox Proframe RS is a do-it-all full face model that won over our whole testing team. It's a well-ventilated helmet that won't penalize you for pedaling and is one of the most comfortable models we've ever tested. The Proframe is a lightweight model, but it isn't too minimalist for the bike park season. Thanks to the highly adjustable head cage, it's easy to tighten down when the terrain calls for a tight fit. “Tightening the helmet with bike gloves on was easy, and after swapping out the cheek pads, I was able to get the sizing just right,” our tester Zach Lovell shared. For its weight, the Proframe boasts excellent impact test scores, making it an attractive option for those who want to balance safety and weight.
The shell is less burly than some of the gravity-specific models, but if you're mindful of how you treat the Proframe, it's likely to hold up just fine. “The Proframe has above average versatility and I'll be using this model long after the review is done,” our GearLab team leader concluded. If you value comfort above all else, the Smith Mainline MIPS wins that contest while earning commendable scores in several of our other testing metrics.
While DH-specific helmets tend to cost a bit more, the Troy Lee Designs D4 Polyacrylite offers top-notch impact test scores without breaking the bank. While it is among the heavier models in the review, the D4 is one of the most durable full-face helmets we've tested. “Even after this helmet got dropped, took some crashes, and rolled around the back of the shuttle truck, its shell and visor showed very little wear,” our head tester commented. The D4 doesn't have an adjustable suspension retention system, but includes two sizes of cheek pads to help dial in the fit.
The D4 Polyacrylite earned high marks for its comfort from our review team, though the POC Coron Air Mips, although hotter, was ultimately more comfortable for long days in the bike park. Typically, these more downhill-only designs don't offer the best ventilation, and the D4 was no different. “Simply put, this helmet lacks airflow,” one of our riders shared, “I had a tough time keeping it on for uphill pedals or bike pushes.” Besides its weight and ventilation, the Troy Lee Designs D4 Polyacrylite is a great option for hard-hitting riders who appreciate a good value.
The Mainline Mips has become something of a crowd favorite, with attractive aesthetics and an intelligent padding layout to keep your head well-cradled throughout a full day of rough riding. This lightweight full-face was designed with input from Smith's professional enduro racers, and it shows, with inclusions like Smith's Koroyd honeycomb protection keeping weight down and airflow up. “I kept reaching again and again for the Mainline simply because of how well it fit me,” one of our GearLab team members offered. This model features a MIPS liner but lacks an adjustable retention system. If you prefer to dial in the fit more precisely, consider options like the Specialized Gambit or the Fox Racing Proframe RS.
The Smith Mainline didn't perform as well as some of the competition during our drop tests at the ACT lab. In an otherwise top-shelf helmet, this was its most substantial drawback. The Mainline still carries a downhill certification of ASTM F1952, which is the highest standard available in the U.S. for downhill helmets. Take a look at the Poc Coron Air Mips if you're hunting for a more protective option. Besides the impact testing considerations, this is a worthy helmet for trail and enduro riders. As our gear nerd Pat Donahue concluded, “This helmet tops the charts in several metrics, and isn't as expensive as other premium models.”
It's hard to beat the comfort and looks of the Smith Mainline, with a great padding layout and several color schemes to choose from.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Compare Product Specifications
Specifications
Specialized Gambit
Fox Racing Proframe RS
POC Coron Air Carbon MIPS
Bell Super 3R MIPS
Troy Lee Designs D4 Polyacrylite
Smith Mainline Mips
Fox Rampage Pro Carbon Mips
Giro Insurgent Spherical
Demon United Podium
7Protection M1
Awards
Best Overall Full Face
Best All-Arounder
Best Gravity-Specific Option
A Gravity-Oriented Model on a Budget
Best for Comfort
Best Bang for the Buck
Measured Weight (Large)
26.1 oz
31.6 oz
37.2 oz
26.3 oz
41.8 oz
28.6 oz
43.8 oz
36.9 oz
32.8 oz
32.5 oz
Number of Vents
18
22
18
13
24
21
17
20
13
17
Shell Material
Carbon fiber
Polycarbonate
Carbon fiber
Polycarbonate
Polyacrylite
Polycarbonate
Carbon fiber
Fiberglass
Not specifically listed
Polycarbonate
Rotational Impact Protection System
MIPS SL
Mips Integra Split
Mips Evolve
Mips Essential
Mips C2
Mips
Mips
Mips
N/A
N/A
Downhill-Specific Certification
(ASTM-1952-DH)
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Sizes
S, M, L
S, M, L
S, M, L
S, M, L
XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
S, M, L
S, M, L, XL
XS/S, M/L. XL/XXL
XS, S, M, L, XL
Youth M, Youth L, S, M, L, XL
Every helmet in our lineup was pushed through the same rigorous testing process before determining award winners.
Credit: Zach Lovell
How We Tested
Prior to buying all of these full-face helmets, we did extensive research on just about every downhill mountain bike helmet on the market. We sifted through the specs, the tech talk, and all the marketing hype to pick out the ones that really seemed worth a closer look. After purchasing the finalized lineup, our field testing took place in all corners of the western United States and Canada, including Whistler, Northstar, and several janky, under-the-radar shuttle runs in the great state of Washington. We purchased two of every model, shipping a full sample set to the renowned ACT Lab to conduct impact testing. To dive deeper into our testing process, take a look at our comprehensive How We Test Helmets Article
We break down our testing into five key metrics:
Impact Test (30% of overall score weighting)
Comfort (20% weighting)
Ventilation (15% weighting)
Usability (15% weighting)
Weight (15% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Over the past seven years, we've tested dozens of full-face downhill helmets. This review is brought to you by OutdoorGearLab Review Editor Pat Donahue. Pat is the former Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor at OutdoorGearLab. He has been heavily involved in the bike industry for over a decade. He enjoys all forms of mountain biking, from all-day epics in the backcountry to techy descents. Pat brings a wealth of downhill and enduro riding/racing experience to this review and understands the finer points of head protection.
Also joining us for this review is Zach Lovell, a life long mountain biker and veteran product developer/reviewer. Zach's unwavering attention to detail has been applied across dozens of helmets in GearLab's helmet reviews, from lightweight cross country options to these full face models. He too loves a wide variety of mountain biking, from thigh-burning cross country days to techy downhills.
Analysis and Test Results
Our team of professionals spent several months riding this batch of test helmets. We compared and analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of each model based on on-trail experience and close inspection in our laboratory. We determined six crucial performance metrics, including impact resistance, comfort, ventilation, usability, and weight. Each model was ranked based on these metrics to determine our award winners.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
We don't rate products based on their price. That being said, who doesn't love a good value? Mountain biking is definitely an expensive sport, and often price and performance go hand in hand. Full-face downhill mountain bike helmets can be very expensive, and the average price is continually rising. Models like the Specialized Gambit or the Smith Mainline strike a nice balance between price and performance, offering great scores across the board and are about half the price of premium-priced models. We fully respect how expensive some of the top-performing models are, especially when compared to half shell designs, but options like the 7 Protection M1 or the Demon United Podium offer a much more approachable price point if you're on a budget.
Models like the 7 Protection M1 cost as little as a half shell.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Premium models like the Bell Full 10 Spherical performed incredibly well throughout testing, but it is double the price of other high-end models. The expense can be hard to justify for a piece of equipment you hope not to use. The POC Coron Air Mips is also quite expensive, but both models boast top impact test scores, so if you prioritize safety, the price tag to be worth it.
Top-shelf helmets like the Bell Full 10 Spherical also come with incredible impact test scores, making the high cost more palatable for some shoppers.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Impact Test
The ACT Lab is a world-renowned facility that handles our impact testing of full face helmets. Each helmet was dropped twice (once on each side), once from a lower height to analyze slow impact response, and once from a greater height to analyze fast impact response. Please check out our comprehensive article on How We Test Helmets to see how impact data is collected, analyzed, and distilled into a bottom-line score. It's important to note that all helmets in this review meet or exceed the US standards in helmet safety regulations. Our impact testing is meant to provide you with more than baseline information, showing the results of standardized, repeatable testing in a controlled environment.
Impact Test Analysis Results
Product
Slow
Fast
POC Coron Air
9.5
10.4
TLD D4 Polyacrylate
9.5
9.5
Specialized Gambit
8.9
8
Fox Racing Pro RS
7.7
7.9
Fox Rampage Pro C
9.1
6.3
Giro Insurgent
5
7.4
Bell Super 3R
4
6
Demon United
5.2
3.5
Smith Mainline
3
4.8
7 Protection M1
3.7
3
At the front of the pack, the POC Coron Air Mips boasts an overall score of 9.4. This is clearly a helmet designed for heavy-duty downhilling, and our findings in this metric further support our opinion that this should be on your final list if you don't do much pedaling in your full-face helmet. Coming in close behind are the Bell Full 10 Spherical and the Troy Lee Designs D4 Polyacrylite, both of which belong to the same robust sub-class of full-face helmets as the Coron Air.
The POC Coron Air Carbon Mips emerged as our front-runner in impact testing.
Credit: ACT Lab
While quite a bit lighter, the Specialized Gambit and Fox Racing Proframe RS had high strength-to-weight ratios. Recent trends have created more minimalist full-face helmets, and we're happy to see that their safety hasn't been compromised and they're still adequate for some unplanned somersaults.
We can't believe that the Specialized Gambit, which is one of the lightest helmets in the review, scored so highly in impact testing.
Credit: ACT Lab
Slow Impact Test Results
In the slow impact testing, the POC Coron Air Mips stood out with a score of 9.5. Unsurprisingly, the downhill-oriented Fox Rampage Pro also came out towards the front of the pack with a score of 9.1, followed closely behind by the Specialized Gambit.
This graphic shows the performance differences between the top performer, a more average helmet, and a model that didn't score as well.
Fast Impact Test Results
In fast impact testing, the POC Coron Air Mips once again came out on top. The Troy Lee Designs D4 Polyacrylite also did well, and the Fox Proframe RS even held its own.
This chart shows the g-force details of our fast impact testing, including the best, average, and worst results.
Comfort
A comfortable helmet allows riders to focus on the trail or feature in front of them and not be distracted by a pinch or pressure point. One of the biggest reasons our testing process included months of real-world riding was to have multiple perspectives on the all-day comfort of each helmet, even as the foam pads began to compress and break in.
The Smith Mainline won over our entire testing team in the comfort metric, thanks to the next-to-skin feel of the padding and its optimal placement. Although more modest in its cushion, the Fox Racing Proframe FS also came out on top, thanks to its well-made Boa suspension, which allowed us to fine-tune the fit.
Smith did a great job of making this helmet well-padded without it getting too hot.
Credit: Zach Lovell
The POC Coron Air MIPS, Fox Rampage Pro, and Giro Insurgent Spherical helmets also performed well, offering a cushioned and heavily padded feel characteristic of more DH-only helmets. Among convertible helmets, we found the Bell Super 3R Mips to be exceptionally comfortable. In both full-face and half-shell settings, it is pleasant against the head and is free of any pressure points or hot spots. It also offers a high level of adjustability but suffers some in aggressive terrain.
Generous padding in these more heavy-duty helmets, like the Giro Insurgent Spherical, makes for all-day comfort at the bike park.
Credit: Zach Lovell
The Bell Full 10 Spherical was also incredibly comfortable and became a favorite amongst our team in the downhill-favored category. It includes two different cheek pad sizes, which are easily swapped thanks to magnetic backing.
We loved the easy-to-swap cheek pads of the Bell Full 10, making it quick to adjust pad sizing.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Ventilation
To analyze each helmet's ventilation profile, we took detailed notes throughout testing. We checked in with riders at certain spots on the mountain to gauge their level of comfort. We then rode the helmets back to back while paying attention to just the air flow to understand how the designs and vents influenced their ventilation.
The best-ventilated helmets in the test included the Specialized Gambit and Smith Mainline. Not only do these lids have large, open vent ports, but they're also extremely light with more space between padding sections. Another top performer was the Bell Super 3R Mips, especially if biking uphill without the chin bar, which easily stows in a CamelBak or fanny pack.
Huffing uphill? Just take the Super 3R chin bar off and enjoy a more comfy walk or pedal, as long as you don't have to switch modes too frequently.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Another favorite was the Fox Proframe RS, which has design similarities to the Gambit. The Proframe relies on reduced padding and the Boa suspension/tightening system for improved ventilation, which provides an accurate fit without compromising airflow.
The generous venting and space between the head and helmet made the Proframe RS a much more breathable helmet.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Usability
Full face helmets vary in design from heavy-duty models that favor lift or car-assisted riding to enduro-friendly options that are easier to pedal in. Usability is an examination of a model's ease of use, features, additional gear included, and durability.
The most durable helmets in this test were the POC Coron Air Carbon MIPS, Smith Mainline, Giro Insurgent Spherical, and Fox Rampage Pro Carbon MIPS, which withstood testing with no severe signs of wear. Similarly, the heavy-duty Troy Lee Designs D4 Polyacrylite did very well.
Among convertible helmets, the Bell Super 3R Mips stood out in usability. The mechanism that allows you to remove and attach the chin bar has been redesigned and feels significantly more robust than past iterations. It's easy to switch this model between half and full shell, making it a great quiver-killer if you're ambitions aren't primarily downhill.
The Super 3R is quick and easy to switch between full-face and half shell depending on your intended ride.
Credit: Zach Lovell
More and more helmets are coming with extra cheek pads, giving riders the ability to fine-tune the fit. In fact, almost all of the helmets added to this review in the past couple of years have included extra cheek pads. The Giro Insurgent Spherical, for example, comes with 25mm cheek pads installed. If you need to snug up the fit, you can install the included 30mm cheek pads. Swapping these pads is extremely simple, usually with magnets or velcro to secure them to the helmet's shell. Additionally, helmets like the Fox Proframe RS offer a boa tightening system, making it very easy to dial in the fit.
The Proframe RS can be quickly tightened up before your next run.
Credit: Pat Donahue
The downhill helmets we tested came with a variety of extras ranging from spare visors, helmet camera mounts, and speaker pockets, and all came with storage bags. Many of the bags are simple fabric sacks, but models like the Troy Lee D4 and Fox Rampage Pro Carbon came with a substantial storage bag that can also accommodate goggles, gloves, and a few other small items. These bags can prevent your helmet from getting scratched up in transit or dusty in storage.
Weight
The importance of weight will depend on the rider's preferences and intended uses. We're seeing lighter and lighter helmets every year without any reduction in strength or durability, even in the helmets designed for full-time downhilling.
Coming in at a staggering 26.1 ounces, the Specialized Gambit is among the lightest options we've yet seen in a full face helmet. Impressively, it still scored very well in our impact testing. Including its chin bar, the Bell Super 3R Mips is another standout in this metric, weighing only 26.3 ounces.
When considering it's impact scores, the low weight of the Gambit is truly impressive.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Amongst the heavier helmets meant to be more robust and durable, the POC Coron Air Carbon Mips particularly stood out, weighing only 37.2 ounces. Helmets of a similar class came in as much as 15% heavier.
Downhill helmet testing is hard work. We promise.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
How to Choose The Best Full Face Bike Helmet
We've put together some important considerations to help simplify the buying process for your next full-face helmet.
What Type of Riding Do You Want to Do?
While most full-face helmets are geared towards hard-charging, gravity-fed riding, different helmets vary in their protection level. Some helmets are labeled with downhill certification but are best used in Enduro settings. Other helmets emphasize a heavier construction and the highest level of coverage, best suited for lift-accessed runs. If you plan to spend most of your time shuttling and riding bike parks, a heavier, burlier-constructed helmet is likely to offer more longevity. If you plan on Enduro riding or even pedal-assisted laps, choosing a helmet that sacrifices a bit of bulk to save weight will offer more versatility while still providing more protection than half-shell helmets.
Choosing a helmet that matches your riding style and terrain helps ensure you are properly protected.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
What About Fit?
The unique size and shape of an individual's head can complicate the fitting process for full-face designs, but certain characteristics and features can help increase comfort. Some helmets feature a retention dial system, which can adapt to different-shaped heads. These dial systems can help the helmet feel snug and prevent it from moving or rotating while riding rough terrain. Other aspects, such as foam density, padding placement, and antimicrobial padding, significantly influence the feel and form of each helmet. Taking the time to measure your head size will steer you in the right direction and give you a good starting point.
Fit is among the most crucial considerations to make in a full-face helmet. Some options have more padding than others, though that can come at the cost of breathability.
Credit: Zach Lovell
How Important is Ventilation?
There's no doubt that full-face helmets don't offer the same ventilation as half-shells, but some models do provide better airflow than others. If ventilation is a high priority for you, consider the size and quantity of vents, as well as the padding surrounding your head and face. Typically, lighter, enduro-oriented helmets offer better ventilation than true downhill helmets. In addition to helmet characteristics, consider your climate and the duration of your rides, as these factors can impact the amount of ventilation you require.
Ventilation varies greatly between designs and is a worth while attribute to examine while shopping.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Features to Look For
Goggle compatibility, adjustable visors, and camera mounts are some common features you'll find on downhill helmets. Some features, such as a camera mount, are entirely a matter of personal preference, while others, like an adjustable visor, can make or break a helmet choice. When selecting a new helmet, consider its compatibility with your existing gear, such as goggles. Also, consider the necessity for adjustments, whether it be for your visor or the adjustable dial for your head. And consider if you have any specific needs, such as compatibility with a camera mount.
Considering a new helmet? Make sure to find one with the right features for you.
Credit: Pat Donahue
Conclusion
With more full-face helmets than ever before, it's easy to get lost in a sea of marketing claims, tech jargon, and various safety features. Our best advice? Be completely honest with yourself about how you actually ride and what you really need from a helmet. Think about the kinds of rides you do most often and when you'll really need that extra protection. This should help you quickly narrow down your choices. From there, this guide will help point you toward the perfect helmet—one that suits your style, fits your budget, and, most importantly, keeps you safe out on the trails.
Our professional gear reviewers have ridden and analyzed the best bike gear and accessories on the market. From knee pads to gloves, we've done deep dives into mountain bike products from head to toe. If a full face helmet feels like too much to pedal in, GearLab has performed a comprehensive review of the best mountain bike helmets if only needing a half shell option.
