Guide to buying a mountain bike helmet

The helmet is the most essential piece of safety equipment for mountain biking. Falls are an integral part of the discipline, and head injuries are one of the main causes of serious accidents. Choosing a helmet suited to your discipline—cross-country, trail, enduro or downhill—is therefore not an option, but an essential safety requirement.

Each discipline has its own requirements:

• lightness and ventilation for Cross-Country,
• versatility and comfort for Trail,
• increased protection for Enduro and DH.

Mavic has developed a range of MTB helmets optimised for performance and safety, incorporating advanced technologies (fastening system, optimised ventilation, MIPS, FidLock buckles, etc.) to offer the best possible protection without compromising on comfort or design.

MTB helmets by type of riding

The first criterion for choosing a helmet is your terrain. The intensity of the effort and the type of risks involved differ radically between a cardio ride and a technical descent.

Cross-Country MTB helmet

Who is it for? Cyclists looking for physical performance, efficiency and endurance. In this discipline, the average speed is high and the cardio effort intense. The helmet must provide excellent heat dissipation and not weigh down on the neck. It offers the perfect balance between aerodynamics and airflow.

• If you're looking for a leisure/touring helmet, the Crossride SL Elite is the perfect choice. It's a versatile, very lightweight model, perfect for Sunday rides and training sessions alike.

Trail/Enduro MTB helmet

Who is it for?

Adventurers who climb to descend better and explore all types of trails. Here, the helmet must protect the back of the head and temples more than a road model, while remaining ventilated enough for climbs.

Essential criteria for choosing the right mountain bike helmet

Beyond style, four pillars define the quality of a helmet.

Safety and Standards

All Mavic helmets comply with (and often exceed) the CE EN 1078 standard.

• Outer shell: distributes impact over a large surface area and prevents objects (stones, branches) from penetrating the helmet.
• Absorption: the internal foam (EPS) deforms to absorb energy.
• Rotational technologies: systems such as MIPS (featured in our ranges) allow the shell to move slightly relative to the head during an oblique impact, reducing the rotational forces transmitted to the brain and limiting the risk of concussion.

Comfort and fit

A poorly fitting helmet is useless. If it moves during an impact, it will not absorb the shock in the right place.

Two crucial components:

• Occipital support: the rear fastening system must wrap around the skull without any pressure points.
• Straps and chin strap: they must form a perfect "Y" under the ear and be tightened so that only two fingers can fit under the chin.

A good helmet should "stay in place" even when shaking your head — without sliding forward (which would obstruct your vision) or backward (which would expose your forehead). The fit sometimes depends on the shape of the head (round, oval, etc.) and body type — a helmet that is comfortable for one person may not be comfortable for another. In conclusion: a precise fit + occipital support + properly adjusted straps = maximum safety + comfort, especially when mountain biking, where jolts, vibrations and shocks are frequent.

Visor & Accessories

Essential for mountain biking, the visor has several functions:

• Reduction of glare/sunlight. It blocks direct sunlight, reduces glare and reflections, improving visual comfort and safety when climbing or descending.
• Protection from rain, mud and spray. In case of rain, mud or when following another mountain biker, the visor prevents water, mud or spray from getting into your eyes.
• Safety in case of impact. In some cases, the visor can help deflect branches or objects coming towards your face, providing a minimum of additional protection, even if this is not its main function.

Technologies & innovations

Ergo Hold SL+ fastening system

Fidlock® magnetic buckle

Reflective elements

Insect net

Internal ventilation channels

Internal ventilation channels

EarFit strap

How to choose the right size?

Trying it on is key. A helmet that is too large will tip forward (obstructing your vision) or backward (exposing your forehead).

Trying it on is often overlooked... but it is the key to an effective helmet:

• Nothing can replace trying the helmet on your head: check that it fits well (neither too tight nor too loose), that it stays in place, that it doesn't get in the way, and that it doesn't move.
• Check the adjustment of the occipital wheel/retention system — it should fit the shape of your head and provide a secure fit.
• Side straps + chin strap: the buckle under the chin must be properly adjusted (it is often recommended that you be able to slide 1–2 fingers between the chin strap and your chin).
• If the helmet is too big, too small, or poorly adjusted, it will be uncomfortable.

Maintenance & cleaning of a mountain bike helmet

Regular maintenance

• Cleaning: lukewarm water + mild soap only. Never use solvents or chemical sprays that attack polystyrene.
• Drying: in the open air, away from radiators or direct sunlight (UV rays weaken plastics over time).
• Hygiene: the internal foam pads are removable on Mavic helmets: wash them regularly to prevent bacteria growth from perspiration.

When should a helmet be replaced? (lifespan & signs of wear)

• After ANY violent impact: even if no cracks are visible to the naked eye, the internal EPS structure has been compressed and will no longer fulfil its role. Never repair a damaged helmet; replace it.
• Every 3 to 5 years: materials (adhesives, foams, plastics) age naturally with UV exposure, heat and sweat, losing their elasticity and absorption capacity.