If you’ve ever felt the struggle of finding a bike helmet that truly fits, one that doesn’t squeeze your head or sit too high, you’re not alone. The frustration of compromising between comfort and safety is all too real for those of us with big heads.
We understand the struggle, and we’ve got your back (or rather, your head). So we put together the best bike helmets for big heads.
Stay with us to find helmets that not only fit comfortably, but also provide the protection you need for your cycling adventures.
How do I know my bike helmet head size?
Choosing the right bike helmet is very important because if it doesn’t fit well, it might not do its job properly in a crash. Since you’ll have your helmet on for every ride, you can’t compromise on comfort.
To get the right helmet size, you need to measure the circumference of your head, because that’s what helmet sizes are based on. Follow these steps:
Get a Measuring Tape:
- Use a soft measuring tape if possible, because it works best. But if you don’t have one, you can use a string and then measure it with a ruler.
Measure Your Head:
- Place the tape about one inch (2.5 cm) above your eyebrows, wrapping it around the widest part of your head. Make sure the tape is level and sits snugly, but not too tight. Check out the measurement in centimeters or inches.
Check Helmet Sizing Chart:
- Different helmet brands may have slightly different sizing charts, so it’s best to check the specific brand’s sizing chart you’re considering. They usually have sizes like small, medium, large, and extra-large, given in centimeters or inches.
Helmet sizes can differ from one brand to another, so it’s important to check the sizing chart that comes with the helmet you like.
But I can give you a rough idea of helmet sizes in inches and centimeters, based on what’s common. Just remember, these are ballpark figures and might not match every brand perfectly.
Helmet Size Chart:
| Size | Head Circumference (inches) | Head Circumference (cm) |
| Small | 20.1–21.3 | 51–54 |
| Medium | 21.7–22.4 | 55–57 |
| Large | 22.8–23.6 | 58–60 |
| X-Large | 24.0–25.5 | 61–65 |
9 Best bike helmets for big heads
GTSBROS Adult Bike Helmet with Front and Rear LED Lights
If you have a bigger-than-average head and struggle to find a good-fit helmet, you should certainly try this one. The helmet is lightweight and comfortable, and thanks to its dual Fit adjustable design and size-adjustable dial at the back, you can increase the size up to 64cm.
The 14 vents and inner air-channels really cools your head whether you’re on a casual ride or a full day of biking. The helmet is super light, and the padding is removable and washable, which makes caring for it convenient.
And of course, it’s CE and CPSC certified, giving me confidence in its safety features. The fit is great, and you can easily dial in for that perfect snug feel.
The front and rear LED lights are very bright, and will help to keep you visible on city streets, especially when you’re out riding at night.
The red lights at the back can even blink for extra safety. Overall, the GTSBROS helmet offers a secure fit, comfort, and visibility.
Max size: XL (61-64 cm)
Zenroll Adult Bike Helmet Bicycle Helmets with Detachable Visor
This is also another great option if you struggle to find a helmet that actually fits. It’s ultra-lightweight, so you won’t even feel it on your head. The standard size, along with the dial fit system and side straps, makes it very easy to adjust.
As a protective gear, it certainly meets all standard safety requirements and comes with a PC outer shell and EPS foam inner shell, to provide solid impact resistance in the event of a fall.
The removable and easy-to-wash foam lining pads fully cover the head and ensure a comfortable fit. And it comes with a visor which not only shields your eyes, but also adds to the aesthetics.
With 11 breathable vents, this helmet keeps you cool by allowing ample air to flow while you ride. It’s a winner for those of us with big heads who want both style and practicality in a helmet.
Max size: XL (61-63 cm)
Team Obsidian Airflow Adult Bike Helmet
The maximum size of this helmet is 65 cm, which means it can fit big head sizes. It’s also packed with all the features you’d want in a helmet.
Sturdy, great ventilation, and with a detachable visor, this helmet ticks all the boxes for cyclists who value both performance and comfort.
The 22 air vents keep things cool, even during intense rides. And the sleek matte design adds a classy touch.
It also has washable pads and cushioned chin strap to add to its comfort. The aerodynamic shape, plus the secure grip and comfort, means it’s a pleasure to wear.
Adjusting it is a breeze with the quick-release chin strap and the horizontal and vertical dial fit at the back – tight and snug in seconds.
Max size: XL (61-65 cm)
Gudook Bike Helmet with Front and Rear LED Light
Another great option is this Gudook helmet with a maximum size of 64 cm. The helmet is impressively lightweight, and the pads add an extra layer of comfort. The adjustable chin strap is great for comfort, and adjusting the helmet size at the back is a breeze.
It comes with a 20-hole vent system to keep air flowing and prevent your head from overheating, so no more sweaty rides.
The mesh lining and cushioned head improves the comfort level, plus the easy-to-remove feature for cleaning is a handy feature.
The lights are also an extra safety feature, they’re really bright and actually add to your visibility on the roads, especially when it’s getting dark.
Max size: XL (61-64 cm)
Retrospec Dakota Bicycle/Skateboard Helmet for Adults
The Retrospec Dakota is another solid choice helmet, with a good fit, quality build, and impressive comfort. It’s not just stylish, but also lightweight, and great for long rides.
With 10 vents, it lets in lots of air to keep your head from sweating, whether you’re on a casual bike ride or an intense all-day cycling adventure.
It’s a versatile multi-sport helmet, and suitable for various activities like biking, skateboarding, roller skating, and scootering.
The two sets of inner pads let you customize the fit for maximum comfort, and the adjustable straps add a personal touch.
Plus, it complies with the U.S. CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets, so you can ride with peace of mind. The Retrospec Dakota helmet essentially delivers on both style and safety.
Max size: L (59-63 cm)
VICTGOAL Bike Helmet with USB Rechargeable Rear Light & Detachable Magnetic Goggles
The VICTGOAL Bike Helmet is a great buy, especially for those with bigger heads who struggle to find the right fit. It offers a blend of safety, comfort, and practicality; plus it has an excellent ventilation system, is lightweight, comfortable with an impressive design.
The helmet comes with a visor and goggles that can be worn together for sun and wind protection.
It has a quick-release buckle and soft chin pad to add to the user-friendly experience. Plus, the integrated USB rechargeable LED light with three modes to improve your visibility on the road.
With 21 breathable vents, overheating is not a concern, and the high-density PC shell and EPS foam offer reliable protection from external impact.
Max size: XL (59-63 cm)
EASTINEAR Adults Bike Helmet with Magnetic Goggle & Removable Sun Visor
This is a well-built helmet with thoughtful details that promote both safety and style. The design is attractive without being too flashy, and the vents make sure you stay cool even during moderate-paced rides.
The lightweight feel is a plus, and adjusting the internal support and chin strap is a breeze, so you can easily get a secure fit.
The face shield, with its one-way mirrored surface, is not just cool but also easy to attach and detach, they’re held in place by powerful magnets.
They effectively shield you from the elements; your face will be safe from the sun and flying debris.
It also has a red LED light on the back, but they’re not very bright, however, they’re USB rechargeable and water-resistant. And you can remove and wash the interior paddings to keep things fresh and comfortable.
Max size: XL (59-63 cm)
Giro Syntax MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet
The Giro Syntax helmet has a solid build quality and fit. It’s comfortable and easy to adjust, thanks to the spin dial at the back. The reflective colored portion adds a nice touch for visibility. The Roc Loc 5 fit system allows for effortless vertical position and tension adjustments.
The helmet feels remarkably light, and has a maximum size of 63 cm, which can fit bigger-than-average head sizes.
With this helmet, you get to enjoy the reliable cooling system that prevents overheating during rides.
This cooling system has a 25-vent wind tunnel ventilation system, which is designed to effectively channel cool air over and around the head while pushing out heat.
And the best part, it has MIPS technology, which is an extra safety feature for redirecting energy in case of a crash.
Overall, the Giro Syntax stands out for its comfort, cooling efficiency, and advanced safety features—a great companion for any cyclist.
Max size: XL (59-63 cm)
ABUS Hyban 2.0, Bike Helmet for Urban Commuting
With a maximum size of 63 cm, the ABUS helmet can fit big head sizes, and it’s very easy to customize. The easy-to-use dial at the back ensures you get a perfect fit for you, while the side straps can be adjusted around the chin for customization.
The rear safety light is a bonus feature to make you more visible and add peace of mind on your rides.
With its reflectors and great airflow, this helmet is a solid choice. It’s not just practical; it’s also ponytail-friendly for those with long hair. And it has a bug mesh to add a layer of protection against insects.
The adjustment system ensures a comfortable and secure fit, making it a top choice for riders who want both comfort and safety.
Max size: XL (58-63 cm)
Is it better for a helmet to be too small or too big?
The perfect helmet for you should neither be too big nor too small. A helmet that’s too small may be uncomfortable and have pressure points on the head, which can cause discomfort and lead to potential safety issues.
On the other hand, a helmet that’s too large will certainly not provide enough protection during a crash, because it may shift or come off easily.
For a helmet to actually do its job of protecting your head during a crash, it should properly sit snugly on the head, it should cover the forehead and feel secure with minimal movement. This way, you’re sure of optimal protection in case of a crash.
Here’s how to measure your head to find the correct bike helmet size for you:
What happens if your bike helmet is too big?
If your bike helmet is too big, it’s not good for safety. A loose helmet can’t do its job right during a crash because it might shift or even fall off, putting your head at risk. It won’t absorb the impact like it should, making the chance of serious head injuries higher.
Plus, a loosely-fitted helmet can be uncomfortable and distract you while riding. So, it’s really important to make sure your helmet fits snug and stays put.
How do I know if my helmet is too small?
If your helmet is too small, it’ll feel too tight and uncomfortable. A tight helmet can squeeze your head, giving you headaches and making it hard to concentrate when cycling. Plus, if it sits too high on your forehead, it won’t shield you well during a crash.
Safety-wise, a small helmet won’t cover all the important parts of your head, leaving you more exposed to injury in an accident. It might also be difficult to buckle up securely, and this may increase the chance of it slipping off during a fall.
To make sure your helmet fits right, it should feel comfortable, cover your forehead well, and not be a pain to wear.
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