10 Best Climbing Helmets in 2020 – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Petzl Sirocco is hands down the best climbing helmet in the market. It is, without a doubt, one of the lightest models that you can buy. Not only that, along with the ultralight trait, this climbing helmet also offers comfort, resilient EPP foam, and an impact-resistant EPS plate to protect your head.

In terms of comfort, this climbing helmet is on top of its game. It may be mainly due to its ultralight weight. The Petzl Sirocco is so light that, in most cases, they go noticeable even when you wear it for a long time.

Similar to other EPP foam models, this climbing helmet also includes tiny padding on the inside to cushion your head. In addition to that, the manufacturers also provide a spare foam for replacement.

Petzl Sirocco features a minimalistic webbing harness system to keep the helmet secured on the head. Even though it works reasonably well, it may take a while to get used to adjust the fit.

Besides, it also comes with the v-yoke of the chin strap, which is much easier to fine-tune. It also has a magnetic buckle feature. Compared to non-magnetic buckles, it is much easier to latch the magnetic buckles, even when wearing the climbing gloves.

It might come as a surprise, but this climbing helmet comprises 24 vent holes scattered around the front, back, and sides. With such a large amount of vents, this helmet offers exceptional airflow and ventilation, even on warmer days. It features two large holes on the front that allows the airflow to your forehead, which is a rare feature for climbing helmets.

When it comes to durability, the Petzl Sirocco adds a decent score. While it may not last as long as heavy-duty models, it certainly does its job. The shell seems hard and tough enough to resist the harsh outdoor conditions. At first glance, it does not look that durable as a lot of EPP foam is exposed on the outside. However, even after heavy uses, you will not notice any scrapes, dents, or dings in the helmet. In addition to that, it also includes a protective storage bag to keep it safe while carrying them.

Black Diamond Half Dome is by far the best climbing helmet that offers high value for your buck. Although it is not as comfortable or lightweight as other models in the list, it costs you less than half of their price.

Out of the box, this climbing helmet is quite comfortable. It comes with the interior foam lining in the front and above to cushion your head. It also features an adjustable harness system that keeps the helmet at the place. Moreover, the shape of the helmet is also snug and well-built without any unnecessary pressure points.

Compared to all other products in the list, the Black Diamond Half Dome is hands down the most straightforward and easily adjustable climbing helmet. You can simply slide the plastic band on the back to adjust the helmet. You can also spin the small wheel on the back to tighten or loosen the fit. It offers an extensive range of alterations, which means even a large size helmet can easily fit people with a small head.

When it comes to weight, this helmet is slightly heavier compared to other models. While it may not seem like much, however, the extra weight adds a significant amount of discomfort and fatigue while wearing it on a long day.

Compared to older versions, the new version includes more ventilation holes for breathability. It comes with five tiny holes on each side and one in the back of the helmet. However, the ventilation is still not enough and immediately feels sweaty on warmer days.

Yet, the best features of the Black Diamond Half Dome has to be its durability. It features a heavy-duty polycarbonate shell with co-molded EPS foam. For long term use, this model is far more durable compared to lighter weight helmets in the market. Hence it is both UIAA and EU 12492 certified for its performance.

Petzl Meteor is a top-rated climbing helmet that combines comfort, lightweight, and affordability. While its price is not as low as other similar models, the lightweight feature and comfort make this helmet worth the extra bucks.

It is built out of a sturdy shell of polycarbonate plastic injected with molded EPS foam on the inside. It uses a simple and straightforward plastic slider-bar adjustment system, which is exceptionally easy to use. Unlike minimalistic webbing adjustment, this helmet offers a wide range of adjustment.

It comes with dual foam pads — one on top and one on the front — to cushion your head. The shape of the helmet is quite deep and stretched. However, you might still feel your head occasionally in contact with the inside of the helmet, especially in areas where there are no padding. On the whole, this helmet is undoubtedly one of the most comfortable products on the list.

In terms of adjustability, the Petzl Meteor stands amongst the best climbing helmets. Unlike models that use a webbing system, this helmet uses a sliding plastic band in the back of the head for adjustment.

On each end of the band, you’ll also notice adjustable slides. You can either push them together to tighten the band, or depress the release buttons and slide apart to loosen it. It offers a wide range of adjustability, which means a single helmet will likely work for more than one person.

In total, the Petzl Meteor consists of 21 different ventilation holes scattered across the front, sides, and rear of the helmet. With such an extensive amount of holes, this helmet is one of the most ventilated products that you can buy.

You’ll mainly appreciate the two large vents on the front of the helmet, which allows ample airflow over the forehead and passes around the sides and the rear of the helmet. Not only that, but the Petzl Meteor also stands out when it comes to headlamp attachment systems. It integrates two low-profile clips that have tiny teeth on the front.

Generally speaking, this system is by far the most flexible headlamp attachment system we’ve come across. It is surprisingly straightforward to slide the headlamp strap underneath it. Additionally, it also includes a single V-shaped elastic bungee on the back of the helmet. This elastic bungee closes over the headlamp strap and comes handy to hold ski goggle straps.

Black Diamond Vapor is widely known for its feather-like weight and exceptional ventilation. Although it is a fairly new model, it still holds a traditional and aesthetic design. It features a polycarbonate outer shell that features an EPS foam liner. Not only that, but it also has Kevlar and carbon rod components molded into the foam to provide structural integrity.

Overall, the Black Diamond Vapor is remarkably comfortable, thanks to its lightweight feature, minimal hardware, and interior padding. It also includes a thin headband on the inside and small padding at the top. Once you secure the fit, the rear adjustment also feels remarkably comfortable. Additionally, it features a chin strap that attaches permanently to the V-shaped yoke, which is slightly complicated to use.

It comes with a rigid rear adjustment band similar to other Black Diamond helmets. It is best to tighten it down with both hands to expand the band to the maximum before wearing it. It comes in two different sizes to ensure precise fit, whether you have a small head or a big head. However, this model does not offer an extensive range of adjustability compared to similar other products.

Without question, the Black Diamond Vapor is an ultra-lightweight climbing helmet. At only 188 grams, this product is the lightest one available from Black Diamond. Approximately, the weight of this climbing helmet is equal to that of a small carabiner. If you compared it with the heavy-duty plastic models, you’d notice a significant difference in their weight.

With the inclusion of vent holes in abundance, the Black Diamond Vapor is hands down the most ventilated climbing helmet in the market. If you’re frequently heading to the crag in hot weather, you will not get a better deal than the Black Diamond Vapor.

This helmet includes nearly as many vent holes as the material used in its body scattered around the rear and sides. However, it does not include any vent holes in the front of the helmet.

Strength and durability seem to be the weak spot of this climbing helmet. As it has a thin polycarbonate shell and polystyrene foam build, it is prone to dents and creases. While Kevlar and molded carbon rods add strength, the Black Diamond Vapor is still fragile compared to heavy-duty models.

Mammut Wall Rider MIPS incorporates game-changing technology with MIPS Brain Protection System. It is a surprisingly lightweight helmet constructed with EPP foam on the inside and a hard polycarbonate shell on the outside.

While other helmets may protect you from minor head injuries, they are not enough to protect you from sustaining internal damage to your brain. However, the MIPS Brain Protection System has been scientifically proven to reduce the potential risk of brain injuries from lateral impacts.

The Mammut Wall Rider MIPS is remarkably comfortable, thanks to the lightweight EPP foam. On the inside, you’ll notice thin foam pads for cushioning the top and front of your head. Unlike other models, this helmet comes with a somewhat circular shape. However, it feels a bit shallower and does not sit on the head precisely.

Besides, this climbing helmet features a simple and minimalistic webbing harness to minimize the weight and keep it firmly on the head. It is pretty straightforward to adjust this helmet by pulling the two webbing buckles tighter in the back. 

Unlike other models, the two buckles in this helmet ensure that the helmet is always centered. Not only that, but the chin strap and the v-yoke are surprisingly user-friendly and effortless to adjust.

The Mammut Wall Rider MIPS is relatively well-ventilated. It combines 16 different vent holes distributed on the sides, rear, and even in the front. While the two vent holes in the front seem fairly small, it passes the breeze directly to the forehead to cool you down. In addition to that, this model also includes the MIPS harness on the inside.

As the Mammut Wall Rider MIPS is fully constructed with EPP foam, it is fairly resilient to the harsh outdoor conditions. However, it is not as sturdy and durable as EPS foam. 

For longevity, the manufacturers have also covered the front and the top in a burly shield of hard plastic. Although it can take a few blows and withstand a little abuse, it is advisable to treat it carefully for durability.

Petzl Boreo is by far the most protective and rugged climbing helmet in the market. It integrates an excellent combination of heavy-duty EPS foam on the top and lightweight EPP foam on the rest of the head. 

Besides, these foam layers have a hard ABS plastic shell to maximize durability and longevity. It also helps to keep your entire head protected from any impact. It ticks all the right boxes when it comes to comfort. It ensures a snug fit on the head and restricts any shakes or movements while climbing. 

It features removable soft pads on the top and in the front for proper cushioning. Even though this climbing helmet is relatively heavier compared to lightweight models, it feels exceptionally comfortable and sits well on the head.

Petzl Boreo features the most straightforward and easy to use adjustment system. It comes with a plastic strap on the back with dual buckles and corresponding grooves for precise adjustment. 

Although it does seem to lack a few adjustment points and buckles, it does its job fairly well. Not only that, but it also combines four different clips on every corner of the helmet for headlamp attachment. This system is super easy to use and ensures a firm grip on the headlamp.

When it comes to ventilation, the Petzl Boreo has an above-average performance. It features offset vent holes in the ABS plastic shell and the EPP form beneath it. It has eight vent holes — four on each side of the helmet. The vents are of reasonable size and allow adequate airflow compared to other ABS shell models. However, it is nowhere near as breathable as the premium climbing helmets.

In terms of durability, the Petzl Boreo is the top contender without a doubt. There is no debating, the thick ABS shell outside this helmet is incredibly durable and long-lasting. It can take a few serious blows and still last you for years. 

It has the most protective and sturdy foam in any helmet that combines with an already robust ABS shell. With such a powerful combination, the Petzl Boreo earns its stature as the most rugged, protective, and long-lasting climbing helmet of all time.

Mammut Skywalker 2 is one of the best choices when it comes to affordability and adjustability. It has a robust ABS plastic outer shell with an inner EPS foam liner. This unique combination delivers impact-resistant performance and lasts for years to come.

Frankly, the Mammut Skywalker 2 marginally does its job in terms of comfort. While out of the box, it might feel relatively comfortable. But the fact is there are tons of better options if you’re opting for the most comfortable helmets. This should not be a dealbreaker as there are plenty of other attractive features on this budget-friendly helmet.

One exemplary attribute of this product has to be its adjustability. It holds a unique click wheel tension band on the back to tighten or loosen the fit. It is ridiculously effortless to use this adjustment system. Not only that, but it also comes with the chin strap and v-yoke straps that are super easy to adjust, thanks to slider buckles.

Unfortunately, this helmet has below-average performance when it comes to ventilation. It has a total of eight vent holes — three on each side and two tiny ones on the back. However, the openings are relatively smaller and are not sufficient enough to allow adequate airflow. 

Additionally, it comes with standard four plastic clips design for headlamp attachment. Sadly, these plastic clips also do not seem practical enough. While they do hold the headlamp quite firmly, sliding the headlamp band inside the clips is next to impossible.

The Mammut Skywalker 2 is far and away from the most durable climbing helmet. Unlike lightweight materials, this product has a sturdy ABS plastic shell that is capable of resisting the harshest outdoor condition. 

On a rough day, it might get some scratches and bruises, but it will not have any dents, scrapes, or cracks. It ensures full protection to your head from all the impacts. Not only that, but the Mammut Skywalker 2 is one of the cheapest climbing helmets in the list.

CAMP USA Storm is another lightweight EPS liner and a polycarbonate shell. While it holds similar construction to any other helmet in the market, it comes with a slightly different shape. It is one of the most versatile helmets on the list and makes an excellent choice for almost every climbing pursuit.

Out of the box, the CAMP USA Storm is surprisingly comfortable and cushioning. However, its wheel-tensioning system feels slightly tight, which may potentially cause discomfort on a long day. Nevertheless, the fleece liner is meticulous and soft on the forehead and the top. Unlike the hardshell helmets, this product is much lighter, making it an ideal choice for a long day of climbing.

It features a click wheel tensioning system for adjustability. This system is probably the easiest way to adjust your helmet. The click-wheel at the back works quite efficiently and tightens up well. 

Not only that, but it also includes clips on the V-yoke that comes handy to adjust the positioning around your ears. However, if you’re likely to use it for a long climbing session, you might feel it slightly tighter around the chin.

CAMP USA Storm includes 21 different vent holes scattered around the helmet. Compared to other EPS models, the vent holes are much smaller on this climbing helmet. It still offers exceptional ventilation and feels remarkably cooler than the hard shell models. 

In addition to that, the headlamp attachment of this particular climbing helmet feels firm and easy to fasten. It includes low profile headlamp clips, which means it will not snag on the slings or clothing.

Like most other polycarbonate shell helmets in the market, the CAMP USA Storm holds up to the everyday abuse well. While it may not be as durable as the heavy-duty helmets, it certainly does its job in this department. It may likely get dented and dinged after a few heavy uses. Still, it certainly stays resilient without cracking or shattering.a

Petzl Elia is one of the few climbing helmets on the market designed especially for women. While it does not have a considerable difference compared to the men's version, the female climbers will undoubtedly appreciate the cutout tightening system to accommodate a ponytail.

It features a hard ABS outer shell with an expanded polystyrene (EPS) liner on the inside. The Petzl Elia is by far the most comfortable ABS style helmet on the market. It features the exclusive Omega ponytail system to accommodate long hair comfortably. 

It comes with a band that reaches the back of the head and molds in an upward curve to accommodate the ponytails perfectly . Most female climbers will also appreciate its single chin strap that includes soft padding at the brows to protect the forehead from the plastic.

To be fair, the tensioning system is not the most simple adjustment system out there. It certainly takes a while to get used to this system. Unfortunately, the Petzl Elia comes in a single size only. Therefore, anyone who falls out of the dedicated size may have trouble finding the right fit. However, the inclusion of a single chin strap is an excellent and easy-to-use feature.

While old school ABS helmets are known for their poor ventilation system, the Petzl Elia comes with much better ventilation. In total, this climbing helmet features seven vent holes scattered around to allow maximum airflow. 

Furthermore, the Omega headband system also encourages better ventilation by keeping the hardshell a little higher than your head. It also includes the headlamp attachment clips, which is pretty straightforward to use. For ice climbers, the Petzl Elia also supports the Petzl's VIZION eye shield.

When it comes to durability, the ABS plastic shell of the Petzl Elia deserves praise. This climbing helmet is exceptionally robust and can withstand day to day abuse on the outdoors. While it may take a few dents and scrapes after heavy uses, it will still last for years.a

The Singing Rock Penta is another lightweight climbing helmet made of expanded polystyrene foam with a polycarbonate outer shell. While most budget-friendly helmets are made of heavy-duty ABS plastic, this product is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for lightweight options.

In terms of comfort, this climbing helmet is comparatively smaller in size. It is a molded foam helmet that does not offer much flexibility. This helmet provides a snug fit and better comfort for people with smaller heads. Similar to other models, the Singing Rock Penta also includes soft cushioned inserts on the inside to cushion your head.

Like we’ve mentioned earlier, this climbing helmet is one of the least adjustable helmets in the market. It features a harness adjustment system, which includes lightweight webbing. It comes with two buckles in the back for adjustment. It also comes with the v-yoke straps that go around your ears to the chin strap. The chin strap is sewn to the v-yoke and cannot be adjusted.

It comes with standard four plastic clips for holding the headlamp’s band. The four clips on each corner are recessed into the shell to maintain the smooth outer surface. Therefore, you might need to take off your helmet to mount the headlamp. But, the plastic clip seems a bit fragile and prone to breaking off.

For ventilation and adequate airflow, the Singing Rock Penta combines a total of 11 large vent holes — four on either side and three on the back. It is beyond question that there are much better ventilated climbing helmets in the market. Nevertheless, this product has a decent performance in this department. 

Singing Rock Penta is quite durable and long-lasting. It has a thin polycarbonate shell coating on the outside that protects the padding on the inside. Even after heavy use, you won’t notice much dents or nicks on the hardshell.