When used with a bit of caution and common sense under proper adult supervision, bicycles, scooters, rollerblades and skateboards can be an excellent way for children to get some exercise, develop gross motor control, and burn off all that energy.

But they are not without their risks. Possible injuries that can be caused while riding include cuts, bruises, pinches, sprains and strains, broken bones and fractures, head injuries including concussions, and even death.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) estimates that there were nearly 240,000 reported cases of injuries to children under the age of 18 caused by bicycles and tricycles that were treated in hospital in the United States in 2014.

Ensuring your child is wearing an approved helmet when riding their bike, even if it’s just a short distance is one of the best ways to protect your child. Three quarters of all American children ride a bike each month, but only about half of those wear a helmet every time they do so. Wearing a helmet is the easiest and most effective way to reduce bike-related head injuries.

The CPSC and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) test helmets to see if they comply with certain minimum standards. Look for one of their certifications on a product you’re considering purchasing for your child to ensure additional safety.

With the above tips in mind, in no particular order, here are 50 of the best bike helmets for kids we consider to be the safest, based on available features and average customer reviews and ratings.

1. Razor V-17 Child Multi-Sport Helmet

This child’s helmet features a smart design that is cutting edge and is suitable for use in a number of different sports including cycling, skating and rollerblading.

Key features:

  • Ergonomic padding
  • Side release buckles
  • 17 vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $17.93

2. Bell Child’s Hello Kitty Adventurer Multi-Sport Bike Helmet

This cute, little Hello Kitty helmet features a hardshell design to help protect your little one’s noggin no matter what sort of adventure they’re on.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • CPSC bike and ASTM-1492 skate compliant
  • Suitable for head sizes 51-54cm

Cost: *Est. $21.18

3. Bell Children Cars Speed Racer Multi-Sport Helmet

This helmet features a hardshell design to help protect your child’s head and features a cool Cars motif for your little race fan. There are a number of matching accessories for a complete Lightning McQueen look.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • CPSC bike and ASTM-1492 skate compliant
  • Recommended for children aged 5-8

Cost: *Est. $16.97

4. Bell Shield Child Helmet

This heavy duty helmet features a vented EVA-lined chin bar around the face to provide additional coverage and protection. Built-in cheek pads and side squeeze buckles allow you to find the perfect fit for your child.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • CPSC bike and ASTM-1492 skate compliant
  • Recommended for children aged 5-8

Cost: *Est. $39.64

5. Schwinn Boys’ Booster Helmet

This cool-looking helmet features a dial easy fit retention adjustment to provide a quick and comfy way to adjust the fit on the fly.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Snap-on visor included
  • Recommended for children aged 5-8

Cost: *Est. $21.99

6. Mongoose Boys Street Youth Skull Hardshell

This helmet features a ghoulish design and matte black finish with a tough outer shell to help protect your child’s head from falls and bumps.

Key features:

  • Internal pad system is 360 degrees for ultimate comfort
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Suitable for multiple sports

Cost: *Est. $24.99

7. Mongoose Translucent Hardshell Youth Helmet

This stylish helmet features a translucent hardshell design that provides your child with maximum protection and a funky pattern underneath. It also boasts internal air channels to increase airflow to help keep your child comfortable.

Key features:

  • Internal pad system is 360 degrees for ultimate comfort
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Suitable for multiple sports

Cost: *Est. $26.99

8. Raskullz Dinosaur Helmet

This super cool dinosaur-themed helmet features a fun spike design on the top and features a shock-absorbing EPS inner shell to help protect your child’s noggin.

Key features:

  • CPSC and ASTM certified
  • Recommended for children aged 3 and up
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $21.99

9. Krash Vector Victor Helmet

Your child will be one cool-looking dude on the bike path or skate park with this spiky-topped helmet. It also features a shock-absorbing EPS inner shell and comfortable, adjustable nylon straps.

Key features:

  • CPSC and ASTM certified
  • Recommended for children aged 8 and up
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $22.99

10. Marvel Spiderman Hero Helmet

Spiderman, Spiderman, wears his helmet wherever Spiderman goes. This Spidey-themed helmet features a shock-absorbing EPS inner shell for additional protection and an easy to adjust chin strap.

Key features:

  • CPSC and ASTM certified
  • Recommended for children aged 5 and up
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $22.47

11. Schwinn Girl’s Thrasher Microshell Helmet

From one of the best-known names in cycling, this helmet features a dial fit adjustment system that provides 100% adjustability perfect for both larger or smaller heads. Interior heat sealed pads provide additional comfort for your child.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Removable visor for added protection
  • Fits heads 16-24 inches

Cost: *Est. $19.11

12. Schwinn Girls’ Codex Helmet

This bright pink helmet features a sweet, floral motif and a dial fit adjustment system that is 100% adjustable for larger or smaller heads. Side strap adjusters help to ensure the perfect fit.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Removable visor for added protection
  • Suitable for children aged 8 and up

Cost: *Est. $13.99

13. Bell Frozen Child Bike 3D Tiara Helmet

Your child will be queen of the ice and snow with this Frozen-themed helmet featuring Elsa and Anna and an icy-looking tiara on the front. Suitable for children aged 5-8.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Get the perfect fit with the self-adjusting True Fit system
  • CPSC bike compliant

Cost: *Est. $22.47

14. Bell Minnie Mouse Pretty in Polka Dots Toddler Helmet

This adorable helmet features a fun and sweet Minnie Mouse design, along with high impact reflectors to help increase your child’s visibility. It features a number of vents to help keep your little one comfy and extended rear coverage for additional protection.

Key features:

  • Suitable for children aged 3-5
  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Get the perfect fit with the self-adjusting true-fit system

Cost: *Est. $17.44

15. Schwinn Youth Intercept Helmet, Green

This vibrant green helmet is ASTM approved and boasts a dial fit adjustment system that provides 100% adjustability for larger or smaller heads. Side strap adjusters help to ensure the perfect fit.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Removable visor for added protection
  • Suitable for children aged 8-11

Cost: *Est. $16.80

16. Schwinn Infant Microshell Helmet

Finding the right fit for younger children’s helmets can be particularly tricky but this infant-sized helmet boasts a dial fit adjustment system that provides 100% adjustability that suits larger or smaller heads.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Lower molded shell provides additional safety protection
  • All around internal padding system

Cost: *Est. $15.97

17. Bell Toddler 3D Minnie Me Bike Helmet

This super cute bike helmet features a 3D Minnie Mouse design with fabric bow and ears that can easily be removed. The glittered bottom wrap adds an additional level of style to your little one’s head protection.

Key features:

  • Recommended for children aged 3-5
  • CPSC bike compliant
  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling

Cost: *Est. $24.78

18. Mongoose Youth Street Hardshell Helmet

This hardshell helmet is ideal for use in a variety of sports to protect your little one’s head and is recommended for children aged 7-12. Your child will look sporty and cool while staying safe on their bike, scooter or skateboard.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • ABS shell for added protection
  • Internal pad system is 360 degrees for ultimate comfort

Cost: *Est. $21.37

19. Bell Toddler McStuffins Little Doc Rider Helmet

Recommended for children aged 3-5, this helmet features a true-fit system that helps you find the perfect fit for your child. With just one simple adjustment, you can have the right fit every time.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Extended rear coverage for additional protection
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $39.29

20. Bell Child’s Princess Magical Rider Bike Helmet

This princess-themed helmet features a number of vents to help keep your little one cool and comfortable and boasts the brand’s true-fit sizing system to help you find the right fit every time with just one simple adjustment.

Key features:

  • Recommended for children aged 5-8
  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Fits head sizes 50-54cm

Cost: *Est. $21.95

21. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Child Helmet

Thanks to its dial fit system, you can adjust this helmet to find the right fit for your child quickly and easily each and every time. It provides a stunning look while still being comfortable to wear.

Key features:

  • Extended rear coverage for additional protection
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Built-in visor included

Cost: *Est. $16.50

22. Dora Toddler Microshell Helmet (Pink)

This Dora the Explorer-themed helmet comes complete with an integrated visor for additional protection from the elements and features a number of vents to help keep your child cool and comfortable.

Key features:

  • Snug fit system
  • Bell included
  • CPSC bike compliant

Cost: *Est. $18.77

23. Disney Pixar Toy Story Child Helmet Value Pack

Wow your little Woody and Buzz fans with this helmet value pack that boasts a helmet that is suitable for a number of different sports. There are several vents to provide your child with a comfortable all day fit.

Key features:

  • Snug fit system
  • Bell included
  • CPSC bike compliant

Cost: *Est. $14.95

24. Raskullz Cutie Cat Helmet

Your little cutie will be stylish and protected in this sweet, little cat-inspired helmet that features a shock absorbing EPS inner shell and adjustable straps to help ensure the perfect fit every time.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Recommended for children aged 3 and up
  • Inserts included to find the perfect fit

Cost: *Est. $36.75

25. Raskullz Hawk Helmet (Black, Ages 3+)

This spike-topped helmet features a shock absorbing EPS inner shell and adjustable straps to provide your child with a comfortable fit all day long.

Key features:

  • Recommended for children aged 3 and up
  • For head sizes 48-52cm
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $36.12

26. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Child Helmet with Masks

This totally excellent themed helmet features four interchangeable masks, so your little one can look like his or her favorite Ninja Turtles character. The sleek, multisport look boasts several top air vents to help keep your little one cool and comfortable.

Key features:

  • Internal padding for additional comfort
  • Adjustable straps
  • Recommended for children aged 5-7

Cost: *Est. $19.96

27. Angeles Child Helmet

This basic helmet will provide your child with protection while out and about on the bicycle. It’s made in the USA and is recommended for children from aged 3-7 or with a head size of 20-21 inches.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • 1 year warranty
  • Meets or exceeds ANSI Z90.4, CPSC, and is Snell B95A certified

Cost: *Est. $30.94

28. Bell Toddler Hot Wheels Trail Blazer Bike Helmet

This cool-looking helmet features a sleek and sporty design with Hot Wheels motif and high impact reflectors to provide your child with increased visibility.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Get the perfect fit with the self-adjusting True Fit system
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $24.99

29. Cars Toddler Microshell Helmet with Bell (Black)

Perfect for the Lightning McQueen fan in your life, this helmet features an image of the famous racer himself and comes complete with a matching bell for the ultimate safety package.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Integrated visor for protection from the elements
  • Lower molded shell provides additional coverage

Cost: *Est. $85.98

30. Airius Xanthus V11iF Helmet

This sporty-looking helmet is available in multiple colors and sizes to suit nearly any little rider’s style preferences and features an easy to use twist retention system to help find the perfect fit for your child each and every time.

Key features:

  • CPSC approved
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Removable, washable pads

Cost: *Est. $15.55

31. Mongoose Razor Kid’s Microshell Helmet, Model MG76424-2

This helmet features an adjustable dial to help you find the perfect fit for your children every time they ride, and adjustable straps complete the package.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Bright and vibrant colors
  • Recommended for children aged 8-10

Cost: *Est. $21.73

32. Schwinn Thrasher Youth Helmet

This helmet offers the ultimate in adjustability thanks to its dial adjustment system and side adjuster straps. Heat sealed interior pads give additional comfort to your little one.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Superior padding to keep your child comfortable
  • Removable visor included

Cost: *Ese. $22.99

33. Bell Barbie Pedalin’ Pretty Child Helmet

This fun Barbie-themed helmet boast the brand’s true-fit system that helps you find the perfect fit for your child with just one single strap adjustment. Your child will be visible thanks to high impact reflectors.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Recommended for children aged 5-8
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $24.99

34. Bell Sports True Fit Toddler Helmet – Strawberry Shortcake

This sweet little helmet features an adorable Strawberry Shortcake design that’s sure to set your little one apart on the road. Recommended for children aged 3 and up with a head size of 18.75-20.5 inches.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Get the perfect fit with the self-adjusting true-fit system
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $21.99

35. Schwinn Infant Helmet, Jungle

This cute, gender neutral helmet features a fun, rainforest design and boasts a 360-degree internal padding system to provide a comfortable fit for your little one. The lower molded shell provides your child with added protection from injury.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Adjustable dial fit system
  • Additional rear coverage for added protection

Cost: *Est. $15.38

36. Bell Mickey Mouse Toddler Bike Helmet

This helmet is recommended for children aged 3-5 with a head size of 48-52cm and features high impact reflectors to help increase your child’s visibility.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Get the perfect fit with the self-adjusting true-fit system
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $24.99

37. Bell Toddler Sofia The First Rider Helmet

This helmet features extended rear coverage to help protect your child’s head even more from accident or injury. Recommended for children aged 3-5.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Get the perfect fit with the self-adjusting true-fit system
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $24.99

38. Dora Hardshell Bicycle Helmet and Protective Pad Value Pack (Toddler)

This helmet features a fun design featuring everyone’s favorite explorer and comes complete with a matching set of knee pads for additional safety and protection.

Key features:

  • Built-in visor to help protect your child from the elements
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • CPSC compliant

Cost: *Est. $21.99

39. Krash Deadheadz Toro Skull Helmet

Your little one just might be one of the most terrifying kids on the block with this monster-inspired helmet. Recommended for children with a head size of 54-58cm.

Key features:

  • ASTM and CPSC compliant
  • Shock-absorbing EPS inner shell
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $22.81

40. Mongoose Youth Blackcomb Tattoo Hardshell Helmet

This sleek helmet offers a protective design that’s suitable for use in a number of different sporting activities. It’s easy to find the perfect fit and make adjustments on the go with the D-Tox retention system.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Built-in visor to help protect your child from the elements
  • Recommended for children aged 8 and up

Cost: *Est. $25.49

41. Angry Birds 3D Helmet with Sounds from The Game

Based off the popular video game, this Angry Birds helmet features the classic red bird design and even features the iconic sounds from the game thanks to an included sound chip.

Key features:

  • Recommended for children aged 6-8
  • Easy to adjust straps
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $15.60

42. Bell Child Rex Bike Helmet

This helmet features a snazzy design with an integrated visor to help protect your child from the elements. Recommended for children aged 5-8 with a head size of 52-56cm.

Key features:

  • Pinch guard to prevent pinching while buckling
  • Get the perfect fit with the self-adjusting true-fit system
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $21.99

43. LAZER Max Youth Helmet – Kid’s

This cute, little duck-inspired helmet features a bright and fun design that is also comfortable to wear thanks to its dial fit retention system that adjusts with the turn of a knob.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Removable, washable pads
  • Extra rear reflectors

Cost: *Est. $32.90

44. Mongoose Street Series Swipe Youth Hardshell

With a sleek multisport design and a logoed shell, this hardshell helmet can handle nearly anything your child throws at it. The internal pad system is 360 degrees to provide a comfortable all day fit for your child.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • ABS shell increases durability
  • CPSC compliant

Cost: *Est. $13.69

45. Bell Youth Multi-Sport Helmet

This stylish helmet provides multisport protection for your child whether cycling, blading, or skateboarding and is both CPSC bike and ASTM-1492 skate compliant.

Key features:

  • Fits head sizes 53-56cm
  • Easy to adjust straps
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $14.25

46. Schwinn Child Bastion Zoom Helmet

Find the perfect fit with this helmet’s easy to use dial adjustment system that’s perfect for larger and smaller heads alike. Thanks to its large padding system, your child will ride safely and comfortably all day long.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Extended lower shell for added safety
  • Bright, visible colors

Cost: *Est. $23.60

47. Raskullz Girls Cutie Cat Ride Alongz Helmet

This helmet offers super cute head protection for little girls and features an attached plush atop a well-vented helmet with easily adjustable straps.

Key features:

  • Recommended for children aged 5 and up
  • Recommended for head sizes 50-54cm
  • CPSC and ASTM certified

Cost: *Est. $37

48. Schwinn Infant Helmet, Unicorn

This whimsical helmet offers reliable head protection for the littlest of riders and is specially designed to fit children aged 3 and under. Extended rear coverage and the lower molded shell provide additional protection.

Key features:

  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool
  • Easy to adjust dial fit system
  • Internal pad system is 360 degrees for ultimate comfort

Cost: *Est. $39.99

49. Raskullz Tank Transportz Helmet

This super cool army-inspired tank helmet features a 3D design that’s sure to wow any budding war hero and is suitable for children with head sizes from 50-54cm.

Key features:

  • Recommended for children aged 5 and up
  • Complies with European Standards BSEN1078:2012
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $37.99

50. Bell Child Star Wars R2D2 Multi-Sport Helmet

The head-protecting force will be strong in the one who sports this R2D2 multisport helmet. Suitable for children with head sizes of 51-54cm, it features a hardshell design to help keep your little one’s noggin safe.

Key features:

  • CPSC bike and ASTM F1492-08 skate compliant
  • Recommended for children aged 5-8
  • Multiple vents to keep your child cool

Cost: *Est. $21.42