Did you know that a number of certified and safest helmets for toddlers have been confirmed to cushion kids against accidents that may consequently lead to brain damage? Each year in the US alone, about half a million kids get serious injuries from a bicycle-related mishap. I can bet money on it—more than 70% of the accidents would have been prevented from being outrageous if only someone wore a helmet.
In fact, according to these brain experts, some specialized helmets can help correct the shape of a child’s skull—yep, that’s how important they are. Enough of science and “did you know”—let’s get down to the fleshy part of this review.
To start us off are some of the features to look out for in a good toddlers’ helmet.
How To Find The Best Toddler Bike Helmet?
So, what’s to watch out for in a toddlers’ helmet? Size, adjustability, use, comfort, state regulations, buckle type, and visors are some of the vital things to always keep in check when getting a helmet for a toddler learning how to walk or ride. Of course, there are other facts to consider but these remain to be the top seven. Without much talk, let’s break these down.
Size
When it comes to helmet sizes for toddlers, it’s never a “one-size-fits-all” affair. If you’re a perfectionist (well I am), it may be necessary to measure your child’s head prior to tossing that card to the cashier. The best measuring tool would be a tape measure—by taking the circumference of the head right above the eyebrow.
You can always be sure that a helmet is only as safe as how well it fits—trust me, you don’t want to overlook this tip.
Adjustability
Helmets that are not well-adjusted could not only be annoying to kids but are also likely to fall off—not good for protection business right? Just to be on the safe side, you should go for helmets that have the self-adjusting or dial-in systems.
If your child is uncomfortable in a helmet, he/she won’t give you the slightest of chances to even sip on that glass of “whatever it is you treat yourself to” during that outdoor weekend.
Use
Riding with your kids could be fun—but I imagine how much more fun it would be knowing that a helmet has your kid’s back, or may be the head. And of course, there’s the tiny bit about style—I once bought one for my nephew just for the looks.J
Here’s a little take-home: Helmets have many uses but encouraging dangerous riding or playing has never been one of them. If we you happen to have lived on the same planet as me, you might have come across people who tend to care less when their kids pull dangerous stunts and when asked? “Don’t worry, she has a helmet”, really?
The point is helmets should not be misused—they can only do so much when it comes to injury reduction; well, at least according to these guys.
Comfort
The whole point of getting your child a helmet is to cushion them against any impacts upon falling or collision. I’d imagine how odd it would be if you spent hard-earned bucks on a helmet that is not well-padded to provide coziness. This is a vital trait—it’s not there? It’s time to put it back on the shelf.
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00IQALAOG” locale=”US” tag=”dclover-20″ cart=”n” popups=”y”]The lightweight and well vented Kitten, has a dial adjust and is generally more comfortable for toddlers.[/easyazon_link]
State regulations
There are sizable regulations that are set under the law—it would be such a shame if you got caught on the wrong side out of ignorance. These laws vary from state to state and if I were you, I would inquire about the ones you’re subject to. For instance, in most states, it’s illegal to carry a child of fewer than 12 months on your bike seat or trailer—worse still, without a helmet.
Buckle type
This may not seem like that much of a big deal but it sure is. I know you imagine that the process is simply finding the right helmet size for a toddler and voila! But hold up. If you get a helmet buckle that keeps pinching your child every time they put it on, there’s going to be a battle every time you want it on them. Always go for pinch-free brands in the market. Don’t worry; we’ll look at a couple in a bit.
Visors
A good number of traditional helmets have visors to help protect the wearers from direct sunlight. Some helmets, especially the preschool ones have built-in visors—while others like the skater-style helmets haven’t. Be sure to watch out for this feature to make for an appealing ride for your kids.
How to choose a bicycle / bike helmet
I would be damned if I didn’t share with you the “whys” and “why nots” of getting a helmet for your toddler. Read on.
Why get a helmet?
The difference between a serious head injury and one that enables you to walk away from an accident scene could be one—a helmet. And the same can be said when it comes to kids.
So, what exactly do helmets do? Here’s a list a few advantages of helmets to toddlers.
Prevent direct impact on the toddlers’ skull
Help spread the impact of a fall or knock over a larger area
Brain injury is not worth leaving to chance, it’s devastating—Bicycle Helmet Initiative Trust.
There you have folks. If these three reasons mean something to you—it’s time for that helmet.
Why not?
Helmets don’t make your children invincible—they’re bound to fail in some situations. So, how badly can they fail?
If a helmet is not well-fitting, like I said earlier, it can only do so much.
The helmet only protects what it covers—the upper head. The rest is left to chance, or maybe fate.
If the helmet is not made with proper spongy matter; the impact might exceed the cushioning.
If worn on a sunny day for a longer duration—you might potentially be roasting your child alive.
Information is power and I’m certain you feel powerful already, don’t you?
Having said that, let’s dive right-in to explore some of the high-ranking safety helmets for toddlers.
Review of 7 Safest Helmets for Toddlers
This guide does not rank the helmets in any specific order; I only get to spoil you for choices. Buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life.
1: Giro Me2 Infant/Toddler Helmet
This 4.3-star rated helmet is a product of Giro and has a sizable fan base on Amazon.
It’s suitable for toddlers learning how to walk, ride or when being carried on a bike.
With 817 Amazon reviews and a good rating to sum it all up, this piece got my undivided attention and thought of unpacking it first. Check it out below.
Features
The helmet comes with six vents for easier breathability—so “why not” bullet 4? Scratch that!
This Giro brand features a built-in visor and pinch proof buckle.
It’s offered in a range of four colours to choose from.
The head protector has a Mini Loc fit system for maximum safety.
The toddlers’ helmet also comes with a stylish micro-shell with a built-in bug net.
Pros
The helmet is comparatively affordable—oh, plus a 17% limited discount.
Four gorgeous colours to choose from? Who gets that in a helmet?
The helmet is extremely light and thin for ease of use by toddlers.
Cons
A few customers are quoted saying the product is not as sturdy as it should be—some pieces had their inner compartments come off hardly six months into the job.
What we love
This product offers a wide range of colour, comfort, among other lovable add-ons all at a few $$$. You know the small talk about cheap, don’t you? Well, don’t be fooled by this one.
Who it’s best for
This helmet is unisex—so if you’re thinking of that baby shower gift, you just got yourself one. Buy On Amazon
#2: Schwinn Toddler Classic Helmet
Schwinn helmet is one of kids favourite—any idea why? There might be prizes…
This helmet is kids’ darling for its unique colour effect. Kids are fascinated by beautiful and pronounced colours.
And I bet your credit card will also love it—it’s utterly affordable. So, how worthy is it? Here’s how.
Features
This amazing piece has eight vents to keep your kid all cooled-up.
With a built-in sun brim, the toddler is under protection against the elements.
The helmet comes in four fashion-forward colours.
This head protector has an extended coverage for extra safety and security.
Pros
The beautiful colours are likely to appeal to your child—we all know how much of a fight they can put up when you’re putting something on their heads—especially if they don’t quite like it.
The helmet is versatile enough to fit a wider range of kids.
There’s free shipment for the product plus some awesome discount of about 15% from its already-low price.
Cons
The helmet might not be suitable for children above three years of age—it’s sort of tiny.
A client on Amazon apparently found the helmet to be heavier than expected—at about one pound, quite strange though.
What we love
This generously-rated helmet offers 5-star comfort—despite being 4-rated. This helmet could easily have scooped 100% positive feedback save for a few ignorable issues. But honestly, isn’t cushioning during impacts the whole idea of a helmet? This piece offer exactly that, and most buyers wouldn’t hide this fact.
Who it’s best for
If you’re on a budget, this is one of the best options around. What’s more, if you cross your fingers tight enough, your baby is likely to love it at first sight. Buy On Amazon
#3: Bell Toddler Boys Shadow Helmet
This toddler’s helmet may not have the best rating around but it earned its spot on this wishlist—I’ll show you how.
The Bell helmet has a ranging price since they come in different colours. Here’s it’s review.
Features
The helmet comes in three beautiful colours—red, blue, and pink.
With six vents, there’s enough room for skin-breathing.
The rear part of the helmet is extended to cushion the neck against injuries.
The surface of the helmet is very sturdy to endure harder impacts.
Pros
The head protector is extremely light at only 0.55 pounds—that’s terrific.
A choice of three is good enough for those who like to be treated to an assortment of colours.
This Bell Collection is fairly priced and massively discounted on Amazon. Currently at 47% off, you better sprint off to Amazon before they have a change of mind.
Cons
The helmet fits only on kids between 3 to 5 years.
Heads ranging from 48-52cm are the only ones welcomed to use the helmet.
The price range is due to colour—not the best factor for ranging the price, I’d say.
What we love
The helmet sizes for toddlers might not be well varied with this piece—but its features vis-à-vis price is sensational and that we love.
Who it’s best for
This budget helmet is best for kids in the range of three to five years with heads not more than 52cm or not less than 48cm. I bet you now see how much important that tape measure is. Buy On Amazon
#4: Paw Patrol PP78357-2 Toddler Helmet
The Paw Patrol helmet is a product of Nickelodeon—and currently rates at 4.3 on Amazon after a stunning 129 reviews. Let’s tear the rating right in the middle to see what it’s made of, shall we?
Features
The head protector comes with a generously-sized internal pad system to offer your child maximum comfort.
In the case of larger or smaller heads, the helmet comes with a dial fit that provides 100% adjustability.
The shell of the helmet is moulded at the lower part to provide protection during falls.
The graphics on the skin of the helmet are meant to appeal to toddlers—for them, it’s always cartoon time; Nickelodeon offers them just that.
Pros
The product is made from one well-known provider of kids’ stuff including a cartoon channel. They wouldn’t be wrong on this one, would they?
This Nickelodeon helmet is well ventilated—no clogging up of sweat.
The stylish cartoon imprints on the helmet offer a great winning formula for kids to put on.
Cons
It’s a shame that the product comes in only one colour—I’m hoping Nickelodeon can purchase more paint for a wider variety in the next batch they produce.
It only fits kids between 3 to 5 years of age.
What we love
This is another great product from the Nickelodeon family with lots of breath-taking features and honestly if kids love it, who are we not to?
Who it’s best for
Toddlers aged between 3 and 5 have been reported to appreciate this helmet so I say get it for him/her if she’s in that range. Buy On Amazon
#5: Bell Mickey Mouse Toddler Helmet
The safest helmets for toddlers are not as easy to come by as flipping out your credit card and you have one on your kids’ head. With countless helmets out in the market, quality can only remain to be for the chosen few—my readers included.JJ
But thanks to our ever-detailed content, you get to have a front row seat to our fleshiest take on featured products.
Features
This modish helmet comes with seven well-sized vents to keep your child’s head cool.
Coupled with a pinch guard, the annoying pinch-buckling will be the least of your worries.
It caters for a wider range of use of between 3 to 5 years of age.
The skin of the head protector is noticeably customized for kids.
Pros
Some customers alluded to the fact that the helmet was quite versatile—with some two-year-olds comfortably wearing them.
The inner layering is made with soft cushioning—it doesn’t suck if worn for a longer time.
For kids who are fans of Mickey Mouse, this piece could be just what they needed.
Cons
Apparently, the helmet is small for some two-year-olds—not to talk of 5. So, you really need to be careful about the size before getting one of these.
One colour choice—not looking too good on this reputable brand.
What we love
Compared to other plain coloured helmets, I fell for its amazing graffiti at my age—I’d imagine how much more as a kid. The Mickey Mouse look is a definite plus for this toddlers’ helmet.
Who it’s best for
If your child is the type that gets fixed on the TV watching cartoons for hours—the cartoon graphics on the helmet might help to get him/her used to wear a helmet. Buy On Amazon
#6: Winmax Multi-sport Kids’ Helmet
Winmax is one such great sporting helmet for kids with currently a relatively small fan base on Amazon.
You have my assurance that nothing makes it to this coveted list by accident, folks—take a look below.
Features
How does a treatment to a choice of seven colours feel like to you—I mean your kid? Yep, that’s right. You get to choose from a range of seven peculiar colours.
This helmet is made with ABS & EPS materials which are great shock-resisters.
It contains awesome air vents for enhanced breathability.
Winmax offers the perfect blend of colour and style—if only the price…
Pros
The helmet is multi-purposed—it can be used for rollerblading, kids skateboarding, scooting and so much more.
It features unique kids’ patterns meant to entice them—trust me when it comes to kids helmets; you need all the help you can get to have it on their heads.
The helmet has a great adjustable range for easier fitting on a toddler’s head.
Cons
The one downside that can’t be ignored with this helmet is its comparatively high price tag.
What we love
Other than the “price thing,” every other feature in this head protector is stunning—did I mention how gorgeous the inner cushioning is?
Who it’s for
This Winmax brand is suitable for older kids who are able to take part in more physical activities—such as skating. Buy On Amazon
#7: Joovy Noodle Helmet
I found this helmet to be fairly versatile compared to most of its counterparts—well, at least among the so far listed.
The level of customization is awesome—couldn’t wait to break it down for you.
Features
The Joovy Noodle Helmet is one of the few that meet the CPSC standards.
It’s made with a head size of about 18.5 to 20.5 inches. This should comfortably fit any child between the ages of 1 to 4 years.
The 14 vents mean it’s time to be cool.
It also comes with an adjustable fit dial, an extended visor, and a pinch guard chin strap.
Pros
The helmet is available in six distinct colours—black, blueberry, red, greenie, pink, and orange.
Joovy is well padded to ensure maximum comfort to your kid.
The extended visor is a bonus feature we simply can’t ignore.
With this piece, you don’t have to imagine any more of a helmet weighing less than 1 lb.
Cons
The helmet is too small for three year olds.
The helmet is sort of disproportionately narrow—if a buyer review is anything to go by.
What we love
I have expressed my reservations on this product but one thing stands out—the Consumer Product Safety Commission Certification. Nothing more to say, the safety of kids’ stuff is simply non-debatable.
Who it’s best for
This Joovy helmet is highly recommended for children under the age of 4 years—it’s not every day you get to buy a CPSC Certified product, is it?