Whether heading into rock climbing for the first time or coming back to the sport, the first piece of gear you would like to buy is a helmet. But not merely any helmet will do it because an ill-fitting or bulky helmet will undermine the experience and end up back on the rack when it should be on the head. Investing in a proper helmet could be the difference between life and death if there were to be a rockfall or if you slipped while climbing out.
If you are hunting for the best climbing helmets available, then scroll down and read on to check out our list of the best climbing helmets of 2021.
The Black Diamond Vapor, due to its low weight, is suitable for tough ascents. It has a lightweight polycarbonate shell and polystyrene foam coating for impact absorption. For extra power, a Kevlar sheet is positioned among the shell and the polystyrene covering. The Vapor helmet is therefore very robust and can withstand repeated impacts.
On the side, many vents allow warm air and humidity to escape out. With a plastic slider bar, the headband circumference can be easily and quickly modified, and it has an adjustable chin strap. It comes fitted with three clips to attach a headlamp securely without fuss. The Black Diamond Vapor is super lightweight, but it is also highly durable and one of the top-notch climbing helmets.
Pros
- Ultralight
- Large ventilation ports
- Removable headlamp clips
Cons
- Not as comfortable as others.
In Stock at REI and Amazon from $139
This is one of the best lightweight helmet choices on the market, whether you are riding in altitude, trading, or sports. The helmet weighs less than seven ounces due to its extended polypropylene (EPP), but the partial hard coat strengthening gives full impact absorption. The 16 wide springs’ breathability is ideal, and the chin and rear brakes can be fully balanced to ensure a secure and safe fit.
Two front clips with a rear brake for safe positioning of your headlight for evening climbs are available for the Mammut Wall Rider. This lightweight, low-profile, well-ventilated helmet is something you would enjoy wearing while you climb.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Sleek
Cons
- Some people do not like the half-hard-shell structure.
In Stock Backcountry and at Amazon from $119
3. Petzl Meteor
The Meteor is the perfect helmet to climb and walk. It offers enhanced front, rear and lateral impact protection. The in-mold building is fitted with an EPS foam lining inside a lightweight polycarbonate coating. At 7.9 ounces, the smaller one is weighted, the bigger one is 8.5 ounces. Its low profile and big openings make the house easy for mountaineering in summer and winter. The integration points make it a solid choice for ski tours, and its rear elasticity is compatible with most ski goggles’ headbands. Petzl’s Meteor helmet is a perfect option when you want a helmet that can do double duty for summer and winter adventures.
Pros
- Simple to adjust
- Lots of ventilation
- Various mountain skiing facilities
Cons
- Heavier
In Stock at REI and Amazon from $89
A hard-shell helmet with 11 ounces, the Black Diamond Half Dome is also much heavier than the above-noted helmets. However, it is exceptionally long-lasting and offers adequate protection. It has a wheel that can change the headband’s circumference. Thus, even with the mask and the gloves on, the circumference can be easily and rapidly modified. The Black Diamond Half Dome has headlights that hold your headlights safely. It is a long-lasting helmet at a low cost. The Half Dome helmet is also suitable for beginners. It is also available in a special edition for women.
Pros
- Durability
- Adjustability
- Lifespan
Cons
- Heavy
In Stock at REI and Amazon from $200
5. CAMP Armour
The famous armor provides accurate fit, superior protection, and a striking appearance with seven color choices, all of which have great value! A total of 10 wings for excellent air circulation on the sides of the molded ABS shell. The helmet is ready to use on any adventure with a quick and safe adjustment system.
Pros
- Durable
- Superior Protection
Cons
- Heavy
In Stock at Moosejaw and Amazon from $59
This softshell helmet is suitable for long and challenging ascents. It comprises an EPS spray core and a sturdy, lightweight polycarbonate shell. The Shield II has a revised wing fitting system and a rear adjustment cable that suits various head sizes while maintaining comfort and protection. Even removable padding can be washed in the ergonomically shaped interior. The Shield II has everything you need to make your long climbs safe and comfortable.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fully adjustable chin strap
- Ergonomically-shaped
Cons
- Unique color options
In Stock at Amazon from $99
The Singing Rock Penta is a very lightweight and incredibly cheap helmet since it is made entirely of EPS foam to cover it on the outside with a thin polycarbonate shell. It is pretty comfortable, given the head is equally molded to the foam mold and provides excellent ventilation. The Penta is a perfect alternative to most other budget helmets, nearly all made of plastic hard-shell ABS and are thus very strong. That said, it has the notable drawback of being built as “one size fits all” while having very minimal adjustment choices. We notice that its single size is very small. If this helmet suits perfectly, then it will be tough to find a better value.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Light
- Well ventilated
Cons
- Minimal adjustment possible
In Stock at Amazon from $69
Grivel has not built the Stealth Climbing Helmet to look as if he is smart because this helmet’s unmistakable style improves airflow to give the best ventilation of any climbing helmet from Grivel. This helmet also features a light, hard polycarbonate shell coupled with impact-absorbing foam to protect the crux optimally.
Pros
- Light helmet
- Robust and Durable
Cons
- Unique aesthetic
In Stock at REI and Amazon from $98
That’s all on the best climbing helmets of 2021. We’re done with our part. It’s now your turn to make a choice. All the options mentioned above are worth your investment. So, pick the one that you find the most appealing and within your budget.
Grab your new helmet online today.
Jeremy Alderman is an outdoor enthusiast in Scottsdale, Arizona. He writes on all things camping, hiking, outdoor sports, and travel. His weekends are often filled exploring the desert with his wife Madison and their 3-year-old German Shepherd rescue, Grace. His favorite spot in all of North America is the Oregon Coast.
You must be logged in to post a comment.