Which MTB helmet should you choose for XC, trail and enduro?

Updated on 5 November 2026. The recommended products are available at the time of this update.

For XC, choose a well-ventilated, stable open-face helmet; for trail riding, also look for greater coverage at the back and sides of the head. For enduro with demanding descents, jumps or bike park rides, choose a full-face helmet with a chin bar and suitable downhill certification. In every case, the choice only works if the size is correct and the helmet stays in place without feeling tight.

XC, trail and enduro: how your choice differs

• XC and cross country: climbs and pedalling sections make ventilation, low weight and comfort on long rides important. An open-face helmet is a common choice, always taking the difficulty of the route into account.
• Trail: on trails with roots, rocks and technical descents, look for extended coverage at the back and sides of the head. An open-face helmet remains an option, while a full-face helmet becomes worth considering as speed, obstacles and the risk of facial impact increase.
• Enduro: focus particularly on the descents you will tackle. For steep sections, jumps and demanding routes, opt for a full-face helmet without overlooking ventilation and stability.

The discipline name alone is not enough: two trail rides can differ greatly in difficulty. If you are also choosing a bike, you can read Mountain bikes: how to choose between a hardtail and full suspension.

How to choose

Start with the most demanding route you regularly ride and try the helmet on with the glasses or goggles you use on the bike.

• Coverage: check how far the helmet extends down the back of the head and over the temples. Extended coverage protects a larger area, but an open-face helmet still leaves the face exposed.
• Ventilation: both the vents and the channels that circulate air matter. The number of vents alone does not allow you to compare the cooling performance of two helmets.
• Fit: contact should be even, with no painful spots on the forehead or temples. The dial is there to fine-tune the adjustment, not to compensate for a size that is too large.
• Protection: check the stated certifications. EN 1078 covers bicycle helmets; for downhill riding and descending, also look for a specific certification, such as ASTM F1952, and check the bike park or race rules.
• Additional systems: technologies such as MIPS are designed to help reduce rotational forces in certain angled impacts. They do not replace a good fit or eliminate the risk of injury.
• Comfort and everyday use: check that the buckle and straps are easy to use. Removable, washable padding helps keep the helmet clean.

Open-face or full-face helmet?

Choose an open-face helmet when your riding mainly involves pedalling, climbs and routes suited to your ability. For trail riding, deeper coverage can be useful, but it does not provide the chin protection of a full-face helmet.

Choose a full-face helmet when you also want to protect your chin and face, particularly on technical descents, jumps and in bike parks. Consider how much pedalling you will need to do: weight and ventilation affect comfort, but should not lead you to compromise on the protection the route requires.

• Three-quarter helmet: can extend coverage around the ears and sides of the face, but without a chin bar it leaves the chin exposed.
• Full-face helmet with a removable chin bar: allows different configurations. Check the certifications that apply with and without the chin bar and follow the fitting instructions.

How to check your MTB helmet size

The letters S, M and L do not always correspond to the same measurements in centimetres. Use the size chart for the specific model, even if you already own a helmet from the same brand.

• Measure your head: run a soft measuring tape just above your eyebrows and ears, around the widest part of your head. Keep it horizontal and repeat the measurement.
• Wear the helmet level: it should cover your forehead without tilting towards the back of your head. Follow the manufacturer's positioning instructions.
• Adjust the retention system: gradually tighten the dial, if fitted. The helmet should fit snugly without causing painful pressure.
• Adjust the straps: position them around your ears and fasten the chin strap snugly without compressing your throat.
• Check stability: move your head and try gently moving the helmet. It should not slide over your eyes or leave your forehead exposed.
• Try it on for a few minutes: check for pressure points and interference with glasses or goggles. With a full-face helmet, also check that the cheek pads fit snugly without causing pain.

If you are between sizes, try both. If neither stays stable and comfortable, look for a model with a different internal shape.

Our recommendations, available now

MTB Scott ARX Plus Helmet

Suitable for cross-country riders who also use their helmet for gravel or road riding. It offers MIPS, optimised ventilation, MRAS3 adjustment and a removable visor, with a stated approximate weight of 270 g.

MTB Limar Alben Helmet

Worth considering if you are looking for extended coverage and ventilation for your mountain bike rides. It has 22 air vents and a Competition+ system with horizontal and vertical adjustment.

MTB Scott Argo Plus MIPS Helmet

This is a trail model for those looking for extended coverage and the MIPS system. It weighs 320 g and features optimised ventilation, MRAS 3 adjustment and customisable padding.

MTB Fox Dropframe MIPS Helmet

Designed for trail and enduro riding, it has an open three-quarter design and extended coverage of the head, ears and jaw area. It features MIPS, 8 Big Bore air vents and 7 exhaust vents, plus additional padding to adjust the fit.

MTB O’Neal Sonus Solid Full Face Helmet

This is a full face helmet for those tackling demanding MTB trails who also want protection for their face. It lists CE EN1078 and ASTM 1952 certifications, multiple vents, a Fidlock magnetic buckle and a removable, washable liner.

MTB Giro Switchblade MIPS Helmet Matt Gloss Black L

Suitable for those tackling demanding descents who want a model that can be used with or without a chin bar, certified to ASTM-1952-DH in both configurations. This version features MIPS and Roc Loc Air Fit adjustment and comes in size L, for head circumferences from 59 to 63 cm.

You can compare other models in the MTB Helmets collection. For shipping information, see the shipping policy.

When to replace your helmet

After an impact, replace your helmet according to the manufacturer's instructions: damage may not be visible. Also check the shell, straps and retention system, and follow the brand's instructions on service life, cleaning and storage.

Try it at Evolution Bikes in Casapulla

We have been a family-run bike shop since 1974, now in our third generation, offering a workshop, bike fitting and e-bike servicing. Come and try the helmet and have it adjusted at our shop in Casapulla, in the province of Caserta, or ask us for advice based on the trails you ride.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a full face helmet for enduro?

For technical descents, jumps and bike parks, a full face helmet is preferable because it also protects the chin and face. Check the model's certifications and any requirements set by the race or bike park.

How can I tell if my MTB helmet is the right size?

Measure your head circumference and compare it with the model's size chart. Once adjusted, the helmet should stay stable and cover your forehead without slipping or creating painful pressure points.

What does MIPS do in a MTB helmet?

It is a system designed to help reduce rotational forces in certain angled impacts. It provides additional protection and does not replace correct sizing or choosing a helmet suited to the trail.

Do I need to replace my helmet after a fall?

If your helmet has sustained an impact, replace it according to the manufacturer's instructions even if it looks intact. The parts that absorb the impact may be damaged without any obvious signs on the outside.