Safety is paramount when it comes to climbing. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, tackling a boulder, or navigating a tricky ascent, a reliable climbing helmet is essential. A good helmet protects your head from falling rocks, debris, and impacts during falls. In this article, we will explore the 15 best climbing helmets available today, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons.
1. Petzl Sirocco
Lightweight and Comfortable
The Petzl Sirocco is renowned for its lightweight design, making it a favorite among climbers. It is constructed from a combination of expanded polypropylene and polycarbonate, ensuring durability and impact resistance. The helmet offers excellent ventilation, thanks to its numerous air holes. The magnetic buckle allows for easy fastening, even with gloves on.
Key Features:
- Weight: 170 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Expanded polypropylene, polycarbonate
- Ventilation: Excellent
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Comfortable fit
- Easy-to-use magnetic buckle
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited color options
2. Black Diamond Half Dome
Versatile and Affordable
The Black Diamond Half Dome is a versatile helmet that provides excellent protection at an affordable price. It features a hybrid construction with a durable ABS shell and a foam liner for impact absorption. The helmet has a low-profile suspension system that ensures a secure and comfortable fit. With its adjustable chin strap and headlamp clips, the Half Dome is perfect for both rock climbing and mountaineering.
Key Features:
- Weight: 330 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: ABS shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable construction
- Adjustable suspension system
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Basic ventilation
3. Petzl Meteor
Innovative Design and Enhanced Safety
The Petzl Meteor is a top choice for climbers seeking advanced safety features. It boasts a hybrid construction with a lightweight polycarbonate shell and an expanded polystyrene foam liner. The Meteor is one of the first helmets to meet both climbing and skiing certifications, making it ideal for alpine adventures. The adjustable headband and chin strap provide a customizable fit, while the large ventilation holes ensure optimal airflow.
Key Features:
- Weight: 225 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA, CE EN 1077 (Ski Touring)
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Excellent
Pros:
- Dual certification for climbing and skiing
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Great ventilation
Cons:
- Higher price range
- Limited color options
4. Mammut Wall Rider
Lightweight Protection
The Mammut Wall Rider is a lightweight helmet designed for climbers who prioritize comfort and protection. It features a hybrid construction with a robust EPP core and a hard shell for added durability. The helmet’s minimalist design includes large ventilation openings and a comfortable fit. The Wall Rider also has adjustable straps and a secure headlamp attachment system.
Key Features:
- Weight: 195 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: EPP core, hard shell
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- Comfortable fit
- Secure headlamp attachment
Cons:
- Minimalist design may not appeal to all
- Pricey compared to some other models
5. Black Diamond Vapor
Ultra-Lightweight and Breathable
The Black Diamond Vapor is known for its ultra-lightweight design and excellent breathability. It features a Kevlar-reinforced co-molded EPS foam construction with a polycarbonate shell. The helmet’s open-air design includes numerous ventilation ports, making it ideal for warm-weather climbing. The low-profile suspension system and adjustable straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Key Features:
- Weight: 186 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Kevlar, EPS foam, polycarbonate shell
- Ventilation: Excellent
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight
- Exceptional ventilation
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Less durable compared to some other models
6. Grivel Stealth
Sleek and Durable
The Grivel Stealth helmet stands out with its sleek design and robust construction. It features a polycarbonate shell with an expanded polystyrene foam liner for impact protection. The helmet’s unique shape provides excellent coverage without compromising on ventilation. The Stealth also includes an adjustable headband and chin strap for a secure fit.
Key Features:
- Weight: 190 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Sleek and stylish design
- Durable construction
- Good ventilation
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Higher price range
7. Edelrid Madillo
Foldable and Compact
The Edelrid Madillo is a unique foldable climbing helmet, making it perfect for climbers who need to save space in their gear. It features a robust polycarbonate shell and an expandable foam liner. The helmet can be folded down to a compact size, fitting easily into a backpack. Despite its foldable design, the Madillo provides excellent protection and ventilation.
Key Features:
- Weight: 380 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Durable and protective
- Good ventilation
Cons:
- Heavier than some other models
- Higher price point
8. CAMP USA Speed Comp
Lightweight and Versatile
The CAMP USA Speed Comp is a versatile helmet designed for both climbing and ski mountaineering. It features a lightweight in-mold construction with a polycarbonate shell and an EPS foam liner. The helmet is dual-certified for climbing and skiing, making it ideal for multi-sport athletes. The adjustable headband and chin strap ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Key Features:
- Weight: 280 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA, CE EN 1077 (Ski Touring)
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Excellent
Pros:
- Dual certification for climbing and skiing
- Lightweight design
- Good ventilation
Cons:
- Higher price range
- Limited color options
9. Mammut Skywalker 2
Affordable and Reliable
The Mammut Skywalker 2 is an affordable and reliable climbing helmet, perfect for beginners and experienced climbers alike. It features a robust ABS shell and an EPS foam liner for impact protection. The helmet’s adjustable headband and chin strap provide a secure fit, while the large ventilation openings ensure good airflow.
Key Features:
- Weight: 380 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: ABS shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Durable construction
- Adjustable fit
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors
- Basic ventilation
10. Singing Rock Penta
Ultralight and Comfortable
The Singing Rock Penta is an ultralight climbing helmet designed for maximum comfort. It features an expanded polystyrene foam core with a polycarbonate shell. The helmet’s minimalist design includes large ventilation openings and an adjustable suspension system. The Penta is perfect for climbers who prioritize weight savings and comfort.
Key Features:
- Weight: 205 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Excellent
Pros:
- Ultralight design
- Comfortable fit
- Good ventilation
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Minimalist design may not suit all
11. C.A.M.P. Armour
Stylish and Protective
The C.A.M.P. Armour is a stylish climbing helmet that doesn’t compromise on protection. It features a durable ABS shell and an expanded polystyrene foam liner. The helmet’s sleek design includes multiple ventilation holes and an adjustable headband for a secure fit. The Armour is available in a variety of colors, making it a popular choice for climbers who want to stand out.
Key Features:
- Weight: 350 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: ABS shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Durable construction
- Adjustable fit
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors
- Basic ventilation
12. Edelrid Shield II
Lightweight and Robust
The Edelrid Shield II is a lightweight climbing helmet that offers robust protection. It features a combination of a polycarbonate shell and an EPS foam liner. The helmet’s design includes large ventilation openings and an adjustable headband for a comfortable fit. The Shield II is ideal for climbers seeking a balance between weight and durability.
Key Features:
- Weight: 248 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- Robust protection
- Good ventilation
Cons:
- Higher price range
- Limited color options
13. Black Diamond Vision
Durable and Lightweight
The Black Diamond Vision is a durable and lightweight climbing helmet designed for serious climbers. It features a combination of an EPP foam core and a polycarbonate shell. The helmet’s low-profile design includes large ventilation openings and an adjustable suspension system. The Vision also has integrated headlamp clips for added convenience.
Key Features:
- Weight: 215 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPP foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Lightweight design
- Integrated headlamp clips
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited color options
See Also: What Is Belaying in Rock Climbing
14. Petzl Boreo
Versatile and Affordable
The Petzl Boreo is a versatile and affordable climbing helmet suitable for a variety of climbing disciplines. It features a hybrid construction with a durable ABS shell and an EPP foam liner. The helmet’s design includes large ventilation holes and an adjustable headband for a secure fit. The Boreo is perfect for climbers who want reliable protection without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Weight: 295 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: ABS shell, EPP foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Versatile design
- Good ventilation
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Basic design
15. CT Climbing Technology Orion
Comfort and Protection
The CT Climbing Technology Orion is a comfortable and protective climbing helmet. It features a hybrid construction with a polycarbonate shell and an expanded polystyrene foam liner. The helmet’s ergonomic design includes large ventilation openings and an adjustable suspension system. The Orion is ideal for climbers who prioritize comfort and protection.
Key Features:
- Weight: 230 grams
- Certification: CE EN 12492, UIAA
- Material: Polycarbonate shell, EPS foam
- Ventilation: Good
Pros:
- Comfortable fit
- Good ventilation
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Higher price range
- Limited color options
Conclusion
Choosing the right climbing helmet is crucial for ensuring your safety and comfort during climbs. The 15 helmets listed above offer a range of options, from lightweight and minimalist designs to more robust and feature-rich models. Consider your specific needs, budget, and the type of climbing you plan to do when selecting the best helmet for you. Remember, investing in a high-quality climbing helmet is an investment in your safety and well-being.