A round-up of the best snowboard helmets for 2025-2026, tested, chosen and reviewed by the Whitelines Team
Over the years, it’s become much more commonplace for snowboarders to rock a helmet. Nowadays riders are wearing them on the slopes, in the park, in the backcountry and on the street. The debate will rage on , but we’re not here to get into all that. We’re here to talk you through the best lids that money can buy, and help you try and choose the right snowboard helmet for you.
There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing a snowboard helmet. For a more in-depth guide, you should check out our ‘How to choose your snowboard helmet’ guide. However, if you haven’t got time to do that we’ve listed a few of the key features to look out for below. And no, you shouldn’t just throw your cash at the ‘nicest looking’ one.
“The helmet should feel snug around your skull but not so tight that it’ll squeeze it”
Whatever snazzy new tech and features the helmet has, the most important thing is that it fits you properly. You physically need to try it on, with or without a beanie (whatever is most comfortable for you), to see if it actually sits on your head. The helmet should feel snug around your skull but not so tight that it’ll squeeze. Most of the modern-day helmets have got a tightening system, of some description, to adjust the fit. Alternatively, you can add / remove the helmet’s padding in order to resize the fit to your liking.
On your helmet journey, you may come across helmet’s labelled with a MIPS sticker. MIPS (Multi Impact Protection System) is one of the most advanced helmet technologies around, and has been adopted by multiple companies in order for them to offer better protection for certain kinds of impacts. Have a read through our in-depth article on ‘What is MIPS?’ if you’re keen to find out more.
Additionally, you should also make sure the chin strap is comfortable and easy to use. If you’re afraid that the helmet may get too hot when spring comes along – try and find one with removable ear flaps. Make sure there are plenty of vents too as these will both keep your head from overheating, and also make sure your goggles don’t fog up.
One final thing to note, many modern-day snowboard helmets offer anything from built-in speakers to Bluetooth walkie talkies. Not the most essential part of a helmet, of course, but something to think about.
Best Snowboard Helmets 2025-2026
Anon Oslo Wavecel helmet 2025-2026
Anon Oslo WaveCel Helmet 2025-2026
PRICE: $234.95 / €240 / £215 SIZES: S, M, L, XL MIPS: No NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Anon Oslo WaveCel:
WaveCel’s cellular impact technology offers an alternative to MIPS with crumple-zone protection, wrapped in a lightweight package that tips the scales at just 448g.
Who is the Anon Oslo WaveCel for?
Safety-conscious riders seeking advanced rotational impact protection beyond MIPS, particularly those who value lightweight construction for touring and splitboarding.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
The Oslo pairs WaveCel’s 3D cellular structure with in-mold construction, fusing a polycarbonate shell to an EPS liner. WaveCel distributes impact energy through interconnected shock absorbers, reducing forces while diverting rotational impacts. A 360° BOA Fit System enables micro-adjustments, while Fidlock magnetic buckles allow one-handed operation. Two passive vents circulate air, backed by a fleece liner and ear pads for warmth.
Tester Verdict
Tristan Kennedy
“The main selling point of this helmet is the thing you can’t test* i.e. how well it absorbs the shock of landing on your head. Anon’s WaveCel shock absorbers – which look like wave-shaped lines of green rubber on the inside of the lid -–apparently works like the crumple zone of a car to reduce force impacts. I’ll take their word for it. For everything I could test, however, this helmet was excellent. It’s light, at 448g, adding very little weight to my splitboarding backpack. As you’d expect, it integrates perfectly with Anon goggles, and the magnet clasp is super easy to operate even with thick gloves on. My only quibble was that I’d prefer a slightly lower profile look – but I guess that’s a byproduct of the superior impact cushioning WaveCel offers. And to be honest, if you’re wearing a helmet you’re already (rightly) prioritising brain safety over a stylish hat, so this is a minor point.
*Risking brain injury is a step too far even for Whitelines’ dedicated test team!”
PRICE: £153 / €180 / $206 SIZES: S, M, L, XL MIPS: Yes NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Oakley Mod 1 Pro MIPS:
Skate-style aesthetics meets peak on-snow performance in the Mod 1, with colour and size ranges to suit every melon.
Who is the Oakley Mod 1 Pro MIPS for?
If you want the MIPS system, then this is arguably the most accessible way in – certainly for Oakley’s line. Lots of reassuringly strong tech for not a huge asking price.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
MIPS significantly reduces the risk of a brain injury when falling at an angle (something pretty common on the slopes). The Duramatter outer shell is impressively ding-resistant too; great for the frequent traveller.
PRICE: £180 SIZES: M, L MIPS: Yes NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Spy+ Stargazer:
Back for its second year, this lid boasts a subtle style – under which lies a whole heap of tech, including the potentially skull-saving MIPS system.
Who is the Spy+ Stargazer for?
Everyone, really – but given that the shell, foam liner and fleece are all made from recycled material, this one is a must for eco-centric riders.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
A dial-cranked liner keeps the Spy+ Stargazer sitting nicely on any head from first run to last, and the vents are easy to open and close even in mitts.
Tester Verdict
Pat Nichols
“This fit very comfortably; snug without being too tight, and the adjustable strap allowed me to dial in without creating any pressure points. The only negative was that the interior liner moves around a little, separate from the frame of the helmet. There’s no rattling around or excessive movement, though – it’s only noticeable as you put the helmet on or off.The vent opening system was discreet and seamless – very functional and effective – and the strap for locking down the goggles was well designed, never coming loose. Style-wise, it’s a little average. It’s not the roundest I’ve seen on my helmet tests this winter, but it was still a little cannon-bally for my taste. This isn’t so much a negative against Spy+ but all helmets in general at the moment. They seem to have referred back to the mega-dome style, pre the sandbox revolution of a decade or so ago. By comparison, my Anon helmet from four years ago is a much lower, snugger profile. Maybe it’s the modern tech integrations of MIPS, etc, that’s caused it (I have no idea!), but I prefer a sleeker fit.”
PRICE: €87-€145 / £140-£149 / $87-$160 SIZES: S, M, L, XL MIPS: Yes NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Smith Method MIPS:
It’s the complete package. MIPS and Zonal KOROYD combine for dual-layer impact protection, wrapped in a minimalist shell that weighs just 400g. Noice.
Who is the Smith Method MIPS for?
Park rats and all-mountain riders who want premium safety tech without breaking the bank or carrying extra weight on their head all day.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
The Method fuses MIPS rotational protection with Zonal KOROYD’s energy-absorbing cellular structure in lightweight in-mold construction. Smith’s self-adjusting lifestyle fit system flexes to match your head shape, while eight fixed vents team with AirEvac technology for fog-free goggle integration. Removable Snapfit SL2 ear pads add warmth and audio compatibility. It’s also beanie compatible and available in Round Contour Fit for rounder heads.
Tester Verdict
Pat Nichols
“This is the best helmet on the market as far I’m concerned. Insanely light and with the stretchy liner that automatically fits your head it actually feels lighter and less restrictive than just running a beanie. Oh, and it has MIPs and is one of the cheapest on the market too. Light, Low profile, good looking, protective and affordable… I even bought one for myself. What more is there to say?”
PRICE: £135 / €150 / $169 SIZES: S, M, L/XL MIPS: No NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the K2 Stash:
This is a real back-to-basics model, easily customisable thanks to a simple yet effective design. And it’ll still keep your head out of trouble, of course.
Who is the K2 Stash for?
If you want the option to whip the lining out and just rock a beanie under the shell, the Stash lets you do that. It can also serve as a bike helmet.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
If you’d prefer to keep the liner in, twisting the dial at the back closes it up with an even spread, meaning no uncomfortable pinching.
PRICE: £100.00 / €99.95 / $124.95 SIZES: S, M, L MIPS: Yes NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Giro Ledge FS MIPS:
Giro’s helmet expertise spans cycling to skateboarding and of course wintersports, and the Ledge brings that pedigree to park riding with integrated MIPS and hard-shell durability at an accessible price.
Who is the Giro Ledge FS MIPS for?
Budget-conscious park riders and beginners who want proven MIPS protection from a trusted brand without splashing out on premium in-mold construction.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
The Ledge uses hard-shell construction, molding a rugged ABS outer shell to an EPS liner for bomber durability. Integrated MIPS reduces rotational forces while working with the Auto Loc 2 Fit System. Stack Vent Technology aligns with goggle center vents to combat fogging, while Vertical Tuning eliminates gaper gap. Removable ear pads and Super Cool vents complete the smart, minimalist package.
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