The Best Climbing Helmets of 2022

Our 2022 Review of The Best Climbing Helmets

For our 2022 review of the best climbing helmets, there are several contenders. Many of these models are known from 2019 and 2018, but some models had updates in 2021 or for 2022.

That said, all of the tested helmets will protect you well are certified with US and European safety standards. If you pick just any from the helmets on our list, you will always be safe and well protected. They just come in different forms and colors, and of course, the comfort level and weight differ.

This Article is Updated and New for 2022

This article is kept updated and will expand over time. This is because the manufacturers are still releasing new models. By updating this list and review, we will always make sure that you have a good and current list of reviewed climbing helmets for 2022.

Choosing the right climbing helmet for your needs also comes down to your personal preference and what style of climbing you like best. Depending on the climate and if you are climbing multi-pitch routes in exposed alpine conditions in the Rockies, your choice can be very different from someone who loves sport climbing in Greece.

That’s why we included a little guide to find the right climbing helmet. Read more for details!

There Are Two Kinds of Climbing Helmets: Foam Cap and Rigid Cap

Most climbing helmets today come with a rigid shell and foam inside to keep the helmet in place. But there are some models where the outer shell is made from foam as well. Both are safe and can resist debris and rocks, but the helmets with a rigid outer shell tend to be more durable in terms of scratches and nicks.

In-mold helmets

These helmets come with an outer shell made from polycarbonate, but it is welded to the inner shell using EPS. Outer and inner shell are actually one piece. This technique is good to keep the outer shell thin and lightweight. Generous ventilation openings help to keep the head cool when outside in hot temperatures. In-mold helmets are very common for bike, ski, and mountaineering helmets as well as climbing helmets.

Hardshell helmets

The outer shell is made from hard plastic or even carbon fiber that is attached to the inner shell of the helmet. The inner shell is made from EPS, just like in-mold helmets. By using this technique, the helmet becomes a little heavier, but also more robust. Thanks to the thick construction, these helmets are also insulating. This means they are better for wintertime climbing and mountaineering but tend to overheat in summer a little easier.

Hybrid helmets

Hybrid helmets combine both techniques. There is an upper hard shell part, where the outer shell is injected carbon or plastic and an inner shell from EPS), and the lower part of the helmet is using the in-mold method. This method gives a nice, well-ventilated helmet with lightweight and enough strength. As the outer part of the helmet facing up, which usually takes hits and rock impacts, is made from a hard material, it can resist blows and impacts good. The inner layer is made from foam, and the lower outer layer is made from lightweight EPS as well

Hard-shell helmets are usually a bit less expensive compared to in-mold helmets, but they are heavier and less lateral protection (sideways).

 

How do I select the right climbing helmet for me?

Among all the things you buy for climbing, a climbing helmet is one of the best pieces of protection you can get, except for your harness maybe.

Safety First, but Then Comfort and Breathability

Safety should, of course, be your main concern when picking a helmet. But directly after that, I would focus on comfort and breathability. You want your helmet to protect your head from falling stone and impacts, but for that, you need actually to wear your helmet. And the best way to ensure that you wear your helmet is to buy a comfortable and lightweight helmet that doesn’t feel damp and cumbersome.

Get the Right Size

A bad helmet with a good fit is better than a good helmet with a bad fit. So make sure to adjust the size and try the helmet for fit BEFORE you buy it. Usually, the manufacturers have sizing charts using head circumference to give you a rough idea, but you always need to try on a helmet personally. I cannot use many helmets because of the way my backhead is shaped.

When you adjusted the inner helmet, open the straps and shake your head in all directions. If the helmets stay on your head snug, it might be a good fit. Then close the straps, and check if the straps are on the side and not directly beneath your chin. Move the helmet back and forth; if it doesn’t slip, this is a good sign.

Some helmets have an additional adjustment option for a customized fit. Shake your head and check that the helmet does not move. Adjust the strap on the chin and close. The closure should be on the side and not directly under the chin. Move the helmet manually forwards and backward. Should it move or slip off the head, this means it is too big.

Ventilation Is Also Important

Ventilation is another important factor that you need to consider when buying a helmet. Most helmets with in-mold technology have fairly good ventilation, as the in-mold design leaves plenty of room for designers to carve large ventilation holes. Ventilation is ultra important in summer, but even in winter, it is nice to transport moisture away when you’re on a demanding climb where you sweat a lot.

Climbing helmets are made for multiple smaller impacts, so you don’t need to change and replace the helmet when you get hit by smaller rocks. But if you fall or a big rock hits you, there might be little cracks in the EPS foam layers. These cracks might not even be visible, but they still damage the structural integrity of the helmet and the ability to protect your head when you fall. It’s best to replace the helmet in this case.

Most climbing helmets are made from high-density polystyrene (EPS). EPS is an element that absorbs energy but doesn’t weigh heavy. When EPS cells are hit with an object, the cells which are normally open-close, and they absorb the energy this way.

If the blow is very hard, these cells can close completely – the helmet still works and absorbs the energy as it should. But when the cells are completely closed, they usually break at some point, and then the helmet needs to be replaced.

If you want to know more about the CE and UIAA norms that control how helmets for climbing and mountaineering are tested, read more here in my other article about this topic.

How We Test Climbing Helmets

When we test helmets, we usually wear them doing multiple routes and pitches both in the gym and outside. We also expose them to the outdoors and elements, climbing in sub-optimal cold and hot conditions etc.

After the gym test, we wear them climbing outside and doing some sport climbing and/or trad climbing. This is our test where we also test how good ventilation of the helmet is.

We also wear them for other mountain activities sometimes, such as hiking, walking, mountaineering or ski mountaineering.

Comfort & Weight

Is the helmet well balanced? Does it feel nice to wear even when wearing for hours? Is it heavy?

Robustness and Adjustability

Does the helmet feel solid or fragile? How long does it take to adjust it? Does it need readjustement?

Bonus features, versatility, and practicability

Maybe the helmet has some nice extra features like headlamp clips etc.

Some Really Good Climbing Helmet Brands

You can choose from a large variety of different brands today to find a good climbing helmet. Known and trusted brands include Salewa, Black Diamond, Petzl, Fusion Climb, and Tontron.

But there are lesser-known brands like Decathlons own brand Quechua. Their helmets are cheap and might not be super comfortable – but they are safe and fit well. So if you’re on a tight budget or just need a backup helmet for friends, they are perfect.

Related Questions 

Do I need a helmet for rock climbing?

Yes, a helmet is great to protect your head against rocks and debris and impacts. Take even more care when you belay someone – the worst thing that can happen is that a belayer becomes unconscious while belaying someone else.

How much does a reasonable climbing helmet cost?

Depending on the offer, you can find an entry-level climbing helmet for less than 50$, but it’s also easy to pay 200$.

What is the best climbing helmet for large heads in 2022?

Not much changed in this regard. Most brands offer multiple sizes, and a helmet is also adjustable with straps. In-mold mountaineering and climbing helmets are usually using a polycarbonate outer shell and EPS foam inside, and most actually offer a large knob on the backside to adjust the helmet to your head size.

Can I use my climbing helmet for skiing?

Climbing helmets are not certified for sports like skiing. This is because of the potential impact energy when skiing is much higher than when your head is hit by a little rock, and the helmets for skiing work by deforming and absorbing the energy. As climbing helmets are not certified and built for skiing, don’t wear them if you have a choice. That being said, any helmet is probably better than no helmet.

Can I Wear a Climbing Helmet for Biking?

No, you shouldn’t wear a climbing helmet for biking, due to the same reasons as explained above for skiing helmets. I wrote about this in another article. You can find it here.