Best Climbing Helmets of 2025

Michael Daley Avatar
Michael Daley
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Climbing helmets are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who enjoys scaling mountains or rock climbing. They provide protection for the head against falling debris and impacts from falls. Climbing helmets come in different styles and materials to cater to various climbing activities. Some helmets are designed for sport climbing and are lightweight, while others are made for mountaineering and are more robust. A good climbing helmet should fit well and be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods. It should also meet safety standards and have features such as ventilation and an adjustable chin strap.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

BLACK DIAMOND Half Dome Helmet Cover #TOP 1
BLACK DIAMOND Half Dome Helmet
ftb score rating icon 9.8
OutdoorMaster Climbing Helmet Cover #TOP 2
OutdoorMaster Climbing Helmet
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Petzl BOREO Climbing Helmet Cover #TOP 3
Petzl BOREO Climbing Helmet
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Climbing Helmets

#TOP 1

BLACK DIAMOND Half Dome Helmet

Black Diamond
Rain
Medium/Large
BLACK DIAMOND Half Dome Helmet Cover
BLACK DIAMOND Half Dome Rock Climbing and Safety Helmet, Rain, Medium/Large

The BLACK DIAMOND Half Dome is a reliable choice for climbers prioritizing safety. Its durable ABS shell provides excellent impact protection, while the EPS foam absorbs shocks, ensuring you stay safe during climbs. Fitting the helmet is a breeze with the adjustable chin strap and a one-handed fit dial, allowing you to find the perfect fit quickly. Additionally, the lightweight headlamp clips keep your light securely in place while you navigate challenging terrains, giving you peace of mind as you focus on your climb.

What We Like
Durable impact protection
Easy adjustable fit
Lightweight design
Secure headlamp clips
#TOP 2

OutdoorMaster Climbing Helmet

805064
Matte Yellow
One Size
OutdoorMaster Climbing Helmet Cover
OutdoorMaster Rock Climbing Helmet Adults Mountaineering Helmet Arborist Helmet Hiking Caving Search and Rescue Tree Climbing Helmet Adjustable

The OutdoorMaster Climbing Helmet is designed for your safety and comfort during outdoor adventures. Its thick core provides excellent protection from falling objects, which is crucial for activities like rock climbing and caving. The helmet also promotes airflow to keep you cool and comfortable, reducing the risk of overheating. Weighing just 290g, it minimizes fatigue during extended wear. Plus, its adjustable fit allows you to easily customize the size with one hand, ensuring a snug and secure feel for various head sizes.

What We Like
Lightweight and comfortable
Excellent protection
Good ventilation
Adjustable fit
#TOP 3

Petzl BOREO Climbing Helmet

A042VA03
Grey
Medium-Large
Petzl BOREO Climbing Helmet Cover
Petzl BOREO Men's Helmet - Durable Rock Climbing Helmet with Enhanced Head Protection - Grey - M/L

The Petzl BOREO Helmet is designed for maximum protection while you enjoy outdoor activities. It offers comprehensive coverage, protecting not just the top of your head but also the sides and back, which is crucial during climbing or caving. The interior is fully lined with advanced foam that absorbs impacts effectively, ensuring your safety. With its hybrid construction, combining a tough outer shell with a soft foam liner, you get superior durability and comfort. Plus, the soft headband adapts to your head shape and conveniently folds for easy storage and transportation, making it a versatile choice for any adventure.

What We Like
Enhanced head protection
Impact-absorbing foam
Durable hybrid construction
Convenient storage
#TOP 4

PETZL Vertex Vent Helmet

A010CA03
Black
Small
PETZL Vertex Vent Helmet Cover
PETZL, Vertex Vent Helmet, Black

The PETZL Vertex Vent Helmet is a comfortable and well-ventilated choice for climbers, with a headband that fits head sizes from 53-63 cm and a weight of 490 g. It is certified by CE, EN 397, EN 12492, ANSI Z89.1 Type I Class C, and EAC, ensuring its safety and reliability during climbing activities.

What We Like
Comfortable and well-ventilated
Adjustable headband for a customized fit
Lightweight design for comfortable wear during long climbs
#TOP 5

Mammut Skywalker 3.0 Helmet

2030-00300
Titanium
One Size
Mammut Skywalker 3.0 Helmet Cover
Mammut Skywalker 3.0 Helmet - Titanium

The Mammut Skywalker Helmet is designed for climbing enthusiasts who prioritize safety and comfort. Its durable shell, made from a combination of ABS and EPP materials, ensures excellent protection against impacts. With nine fixed vents, this helmet provides ample airflow, keeping you cool during intense climbs. You can easily adjust the fit using a dial, ensuring a snug and secure fit for your head. Certified to CE EN 12492 standards, you can trust that this helmet meets essential safety requirements, giving you peace of mind while you conquer new heights.

What We Like
Durable shell materials
Excellent ventilation
Easy fit adjustment
Safety certification
#TOP 6

BLACK DIAMOND Women's Half Dome Helmet

BD6202083057S_M1
Desert Sage
Small/Medium
BLACK DIAMOND Women's Half Dome Helmet Cover
BLACK DIAMOND Womens Half Dome Rock Climbing Safety Helmet, Desert Sage, Small/Medium

The BLACK DIAMOND Half Dome Helmet is designed specifically for women, featuring a ponytail-friendly design that allows you to comfortably wear your hair up while climbing. Its lightweight construction includes EPS impact foam and a sturdy ABS shell, ensuring protection without adding unnecessary weight. You’ll appreciate the headlamp clips, which make it easy to attach your gear for night climbs. The one-handed fit adjustment dial at the back allows you to quickly find the perfect fit, enhancing your comfort and security during your adventures.

What We Like
Women's-specific fit
Ponytail-friendly design
Lightweight and durable
Quick fit adjustment
#TOP 7

Petzl Vertex Vent ANSI Helmet

A10VNA
Black
One Size
Petzl Vertex Vent ANSI Helmet Cover
PETZL Vertex Vent ANSI Helmet Black

The Petzl Climbing Helmet is a high-quality helmet designed for climbers. It features a six-point webbing suspension system that conforms to the shape of your head, providing you with improved comfort during your climb. The shock absorption is achieved through deformation of the outer shell, which provides you with added protection in case of impact. The CenterFit adjustment system ensures that the helmet stays centered and stable on your head, while the side slots allow you to easily mount hearing protection. The ventilation holes with sliding shutters let you adjust the ventilation as needed from the outside, keeping you cool and comfortable during your climb. Overall, the Petzl Climbing Helmet is an excellent choice for climbers who want a comfortable, safe, and adjustable helmet.

What We Like
Comfortable suspension system
Shock absorption
Adjustable ventilation
#TOP 8

PIP Traverse Climbing Helmet

PIP
280-HP1491RM-11
Black
Medium
PIP Traverse Climbing Helmet Cover
PIP Traverse Non-Vented, Industrial Climbing Helmet with Mips Technology, ABS Shell, EPS Foam Impact Liner, HDPE Suspension, 4-Point Chin Strap, ANSI II, Black (280-HP1491RM-11)

The PIP Traverse Helmet is designed for your climbing safety and comfort. Its lightweight ABS shell ensures you won’t feel weighed down while offering excellent protection. The helmet features Mips technology, which helps minimize head injuries by reducing rotational forces from impacts. For a secure fit, it includes a 4-point chin strap with an easy-to-use quick-release buckle. Plus, the inner suspension system has comfortable padding, so you can focus on your climb without discomfort. This helmet is a perfect companion for all your climbing adventures, combining advanced safety features with comfort.

What We Like
Lightweight and durable
Enhanced head protection
Secure adjustable fit
Comfortable padding
#TOP 9

Petzl Picchu Children's Helmet

A049AA01
Violet
One Size
Petzl Picchu Children's Helmet Cover
PETZL Picchu Children's Helmet - Kids' Climbing and Cycling Helmet with Enhanced Head Protection - Violet

The Petzl Picchu Helmet is a top-of-the-line climbing and cycling helmet designed specifically for children aged 3-8 years old. With its dual-certification as a rock climbing and biking helmet, it offers enhanced head protection for all sorts of unexpected impacts. Unlike other helmets that only focus on impacts to the top of the head, the Petzl Picchu Helmet provides top and side protection, ensuring that your child's head is well-protected from all angles. The durable construction of this helmet allows it to stand up to repeated wear and tear, while the adjustable headband and chinstrap ensure a comfortable and secure fit for your little one. With its optimized fit for children and its focus on safety, the Petzl Picchu Helmet is the perfect choice for young adventurers.

What We Like
Enhanced head protection
Dual-certified for climbing and biking
Durable construction
#TOP 10

Black Diamond Unisex Capitan Helmet

BD620221
Pewter-Black
Small/Medium
Black Diamond Unisex Capitan Helmet Cover
BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Capitan Helmet - Pewter-Black - Small Medium

The Black Diamond Unisex Capitan Helmet is a durable and safe option for climbers. It features a combination of EPP, EPS, and 2-piece ABS shell that provides ultra-durability. The helmet has increased side and back protection, an integrated headlamp clip, and removable/reverse Velcro pads. The low-profile suspension system adds to the comfort and convenience of the helmet. Available in two sizes, the S/M weighs 295g and the M/L weighs 325g.

What We Like
Durable and safe
Increased side and back protection
Integrated headlamp clip
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a bike helmet OK for climbing?

No, using a bike helmet for climbing is not recommended. While a bike helmet is better than nothing, it does not provide the same level of protection as a climbing helmet. Climbing helmets are specifically designed to offer the necessary protection for climbing activities, taking into account the unique risks and impacts associated with climbing.

2. Why don't people wear helmets bouldering?

Bouldering typically involves shorter climbs without the presence of rocks or objects above to fall on climbers. Therefore, the risk of head injury from falling objects is minimal, and wearing a climbing helmet is usually not necessary in this specific climbing activity.

3. Why don't sport climbers wear helmets?

In the past, climbers often didn't wear helmets, even in alpine environments, due to their discomfort and bulkiness. Traditional climbing helmets were designed primarily to protect against falling objects rather than falls themselves. However, with advancements in technology, modern climbing helmets offer improved comfort and protection, making them more suitable for sport climbers.

4. What is the difference between a bike helmet and a rock climbing helmet?

The main difference between a bike helmet and a rock climbing helmet lies in their design and intended purpose. Bike helmets are designed to protect against single, blunt force impacts, primarily on flat surfaces like the ground. Rock climbing helmets, on the other hand, are specifically built to withstand multiple impacts from falling objects, offering superior protection in climbing scenarios.

5. What are the disadvantages of MIPS helmets?

While MIPS helmets have been shown to reduce rotational acceleration during certain impacts, their effectiveness is limited when the head is constrained, such as by a neck. However, in real-world scenarios where heads are attached to the body and not constrained, MIPS helmets can still provide beneficial protection against rotational forces.

Editor's Notes

During our climbing helmet research, we found 24 climbing helmet products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 15,299 customer reviews through our big data system to write the climbing helmets list. We found that most customers choose climbing helmets with an average price of $58.38.

The climbing helmets are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of climbing helmets, including BLACK DIAMOND, OutdoorMaster, PETZL, Mammut, PIP. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 346 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Michael Daley Avatar

Michael Daley is a founder of a climbing club. As a climbing expert, he's well-versed in all topics related to travel, including climbing accessories. He loves everything related to climbing and often shares his experience online.