Best Budget Snowboarding Helmets | Protecting Heads & Wallet


When it comes to snowboarding gear, there’s arguably nothing more important than a safe and dependable helmet. While more expensive helmets feature a wealth of modern features and design options, it’s still possible to pick one on a budget that will protect your head in case of a tumble.

The best budget snowboard helmets are those that meet the US ASTM F2040 and European EN1077 safety standards while also remaining affordable. A helmet is only considered safe when it properly fits the wearer, so this is the next key feature to remember when choosing a lower-priced option.

Below, we’ve reviewed our favorite budget snowboard helmets that boast the most desirable designs and features while meeting the necessary safety requirements to protect the wearer in the event of an impact.

The Best Budget Snowboarding Helmets

Compare Top Snowboarding Helmets In A Budget

Snowboarding HelmetOverall ScoreBottom LinePrice
VANRORA
VANRORA
94 Top Pick
A great all-round budget helmet
Check out on Amazon
SPIX
SPIX
92A versatile helmet for winter and summer useCheck out on Amazon
ILM
ILM
91Minimalist on features and priceCheck out on Amazon
TurboSke
TurboSke
90A modern helmet with an old-school designCheck out on Amazon
Stomp
Stomp
87A budget-friendly option for audiophilesCheck out on Amazon
NHH
NHH
85 Budget Buy
A low-cost helmet that’s simple but safe
Check out on Amazon

Detailed Analysis Of The Best Budget Snowboarding Helmets

1. VANRORA Snowboarding Helmet – Staff Favorite

Review - VANRORA
Top Pick

Overall Score: 94

Advantages

  • Extremely comfortable
  • Good range of colors available

Disadvantages

  • Barebones features

Comfort

The VANRORA helmet is incredibly comfortable to wear, even for extended periods, as the lightweight construction and adjustable straps make it easy to find the perfect fit.

The helmet’s padded interior is soft and comfortable against the skin, and the ventilation channels prevent overheating, so you can stay comfortable and focused on riding.

Design

The VANRORA helmet has a sleek and stylish design that is sure to turn heads on the slopes.

The helmet’s glossy finish is eye-catching, and the removable fleece lining and ear pads make it easy to customize the helmet to your liking.

The VANRORA also has a goggle clip that keeps your goggles securely in place and prevents them from sliding off during intense runs.

Finally, the helmet’s dial fit system ensures a snug and secure fit, no matter your head shape or size.

Safety

The VANRORA is designed with safety in mind. The helmet features an ABS outer shell that provides impact resistance and an EPS foam liner that absorbs shock.

The helmet meets the US ASTM F2040 and European EN1077 safety certification standards for snowboard and ski helmets, so you can rest assured that it will provide the protection you need when you need it most.

While none of the helmets on this list feature the modern MIPS architecture, as long as they meet the standards above, you can vouch for their effectiveness.

Range

The VANRORA helmet is available in three sizes, ranging from 21 inches to 24 inches, to ensure you can find the perfect fit for your head.

Additionally, the helmet is available in seven gloss or matte colors, including black, white, purple, navy blue, and pink, so you can choose whichever best matches your style.

Price

While the VANRORA is technically the most expensive helmet on this list of budget helmets, it’s still only around the $50 mark.

In our eyes, this still makes it excellent value for money, given how comfortable it is. The only other thing we could’ve asked for at this price point would be the option to add drop-in headphones in the ear pads.

2. SPIX Snowboarding Helmet – Most Versatile

Review - SPIX

Overall Score: 92

Advantages

  • Can be adapted for use in summer sports
  • Good size range available

Disadvantages

  • Build quality could be better

Comfort

The SPIX is designed with comfort as a priority. The helmet’s lightweight construction, soft inner padding, and adjustable ventilation system ensure maximum comfort and temperature regulation.

The adjustable fit system ensures a secure fit to minimize rolling, and the earpads can be removed on warmer days for added comfort.

Design

The SPIX has a modern design with a matte finish. It features an integrated goggle clip, allowing you to securely attach your goggles to your helmet, reducing the risk of losing them during your ride.

The ventilation system is also set up in a way that handily reduces lens fogging.

Our favorite aspect of the SPIX is its versatility; by removing the liners and padding, this helmet can also be used for protection when skateboarding or cycling.

Safety

The SPIX has a durable ABS outer shell and an inner layer made of high-density EPS foam, providing excellent impact resistance and shock absorption.

The helmet also meets the ASTM F2040 and EN1077 safety standards, ensuring that it provides the necessary protection in case of a fall or collision.

Range

The SPIX comes in a wide range of sizes, from small to large; however, unlike the VANRORA, the size range is more comprehensive, so a small goes as low as 19 inches.

Additionally, the helmet is available in a variety of six matte colors, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your style and preferences.

Price

At around $40, the SPIX is a steal considering you’re effectively getting two helmets in one and can use it for summer activities and snowboarding. There’s not much more we could ask for at this price.

3. ILM Snowboarding Helmet

Review - ILM

Overall Score: 91

Advantages

  • Unbeatable value for money
  • Comfortable lining

Disadvantages

  • No fancy features

Comfort

The ILM is designed to provide a comfortable fit, even during long days on the slopes. Its lightweight and low-profile construction makes it easy to wear.

At the same time, the adjustable fit system ensures a snug and secure fit. The soft and breathable liner is removable and washable, so you can keep it fresh and clean throughout the season.

Design

The ILM has a sleek and modern design with a matte finish that is both stylish and functional.

The helmet’s adjustable 17-vent ventilation system helps regulate temperature, while the helmet’s aerodynamic shape also helps reduce wind noise and drag, enhancing your overall experience on the mountain.

Safety

The ILM is designed with safety in mind, featuring a durable outer shell and high-density EPS foam liner to provide maximum protection in case of a fall or collision.

The helmet is certified to meet the ASTM F2040 and EN1077 safety standards, ensuring that it provides the necessary protection when you need it most.

Range

The ILM is available in a variety of three sizes and five matte colors, making it easy to find a helmet that fits your head and your style.

We’d have liked to see a few more color options or a gloss finish variety. Still, the available black, white, gray, blue, or red are likely enough of a choice for most riders.

Price

The ILM is the most wallet-friendly helmet on this list, sitting at around $30 brand new. Sure, the range of colors and modern features is limited.

However, you’d be very hard-pushed to find a cheaper helmet that still meets global safety standards.

4. TurboSke Snowboarding Helmet

Review - TurboSke

Overall Score: 90

Advantages

  • Removable earpads and liner
  • Old-school design

Disadvantages

  • Very wallet friendly

Comfort

The TurboSke helmet is extremely comfortable to wear, thanks to its soft and breathable inner lining that conforms to the shape of your head.

It also has a customizable fit with a universal fit ring dial adjuster, so you can easily adjust the helmet’s fit to your head size.

The ear pads are also removable, which is a great feature for those who prefer to wear their own headphones or earbuds while on the slopes.

Design

This helmet has a fairly old-school design that looks great on the mountain.

The TurboSke helmet is made with high-quality materials, including a durable ABS shell and an EPS foam liner for impact absorption.

Additionally, it features a ventilation system that helps keep your head cool and comfortable during intense activities.

Safety

The TurboSke helmet meets both CE EN 1077 and ASTM F2040 safety standards, which means that it has passed rigorous testing and meets the highest safety requirements for snow sports helmets.

The helmet also has a reinforced chin strap and a goggle loop, which helps keep your goggles secure and prevents them from flying off during high-speed runs.

Range

The TurboSke helmet is available in three sizes, ranging from small (20.5″ – 22″) to large (22.75″ – 24″).

You’ll notice this means there’s some overlap between the three sizes, which is a nice option for those who prefer some extra room for a beanie underneath.

It’s available in six matte colors, including a vibrant purple option.

Price

The TurboSke is only slightly more expensive than the ILM helmet at roughly $35, making it another steal.

While the features are pretty much the same, the TurboSke is a better option if you want a few more color options to match your helmet with the rest of your snowboarding gear.

5. Stomp Snowboarding Helmet

Review - Stomp

Overall Score: 87

Advantages

  • Drop-in audio system support
  • Washable liner

Disadvantages

  • Some comfort issues with the strap

Comfort

We found the Stomp very comfortable for the most part. The inner padding is made of breathable material that wicks away moisture, keeping your head dry and comfortable all day long.

The one downside was that the fit strap occasionally felt like it was digging into the back of the head, but it wasn’t frequent enough to pose much of a problem.

Design

This helmet is equipped with a drop-in headphone system, allowing you to listen to music or take phone calls hands-free while on the slopes.

The helmet also has adjustable vents, allowing you to control the airflow and keep your head at a comfortable temperature as you warm up throughout the day.

The helmet also has a removable and washable liner, which helps to keep the helmet hygienic and odor-free.

Safety

The Stomp is made with a durable ABS shell and meets the safety standards of ASTM F2040 and EN1077. It also features a quick-release buckle, so you can easily take the helmet on and off in an emergency.

Range

The Stomp is available in seven different matte colors, which is a solid enough range. However, it’s worth mentioning they’re all relatively subdued in case you prefer flashier snowboarding gear.

The Stomp also comes in four sizes, ranging from small to extra large.

Price

The Stomp will set you back around $50. While it’s one of the higher-priced helmets on this list, it’s worth it for the ability to add your own drop-in audio system.

Most helmets with this feature tend to be a lot more expensive, so if you’re someone who can’t bear the thought of riding without your tunes, the Stomp is a must-buy.

6. NHH Snowboarding Helmet – Best On A Budget

Review - NHH
Budget Buy

Overall Score: 85

Advantages

  • Adaptable for summer activities
  • Excellent value for money

Disadvantages

  • Lacking European safety certification

Comfort

The NHH features a comfortable and plush interior lining that cushions the head for a comfortable fit. The helmet also has an adjustable chin strap and an easy-to-use dial system to get the fit just right.

With a lightweight construction, this helmet is ideal for all-day wear.

It even comes with a set of lighter liner pads, so you can swap them out in the summer for extreme sports that don’t require as much insulation.

Design

The NHH is another helmet with a more old-school design akin to a BMX helmet, but this is likely because it features a convertible design that allows you to remove the ear pads and replace the inner lining for warmer weather.

The helmet includes multiple vents that provide excellent ventilation to prevent overheating.

Safety

The NHH is constructed with a durable ABS shell and high-density EPS foam that provides excellent impact protection.

While the helmet is listed as meeting ASTM F2040 safety standards, there’s no mention of the European safety certification. This doesn’t mean the helmet isn’t up to the task of protecting your head.

Still, it’s worth checking out the details of your winter sports injury insurance before buying. Some providers are highly specific about meeting these standards before paying out.

Range

The NHH comes in five colors: black, white, gray, and a bright matte blue or pink, which is a solid enough range for most riders but may be lacking for the more fashion-focused snowboarders.

Price

At around the same price as the TurboSke helmet, the NHH is great value for money.

When it comes to choosing between the two, the TurboSke has a better range of colors available, but the NHH has the same benefit as the SPIX, thanks to its ability to convert into a summer sports helmet.

The Final Verdict

Ultimately, the best helmet at any price range is one that will protect your head in the event of a crash.

At a minimum, this means meeting the US and European safety standards and having a fit customizable to your head shape and size.

The rest of the features and design aspects are down to personal preference, so as long as you can guarantee you’ll be sufficiently protected, feel free to choose whichever helmet meets your needs.

Shailen Vandeyar

A proud Indian origin Kiwi who loves to plant trees and play with my pet bunny when not digging my head deep into the world of snowboarding, tricks, techniques, and related safety measures.

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