If you are a die-hard mountain biker then your main concern should be a helmet to keep yourself protected from the possible injuries. A full face helmet might be the right choice if you are aiming to cross some risky descents but some riders find it a bit troubling and irritating to ride for long hours with the full face helmet on.
So you are probably thinking of buying an open face helmet right? But will it be able to protect your face, moreover it is not reliable in demanding situations and definitely not the best option for you as a biker.
A convertible MTB helmet can just be the right answer to your dilemma, as it is uniquely designed to adjust according to your needs whereas it also works as a two in one helmet. You must be thinking how this helmet works, well we will tell you everything about it.
What Is A Convertible Mountain Bike Helmet?
A convertible MTB helmet is designed to give you the feel of a full-face helmet when you are up for an adventurous ride and an open-face helmet when you want to enjoy a casual ride around your neighborhood. Its detachable chin-bar allows you to remove or attach it with just a single press of a button.
5 Best Convertible Mountain Bike Helmets Overview
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Best Overall
 |
BELL Super 3R MIPS Adult MTB Helmet |
|
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| Highly Recommended | Highly Recommended
 |
BELL Super DH MIPS Adult MTB Helmet |
|
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| Most Attractive | Most Attractive
 |
BELL Super Air R MIPS Adult MTB Helmet |
|
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| Editors Choice | Editors Choice
 |
GIRO Switchblade MIPS Adult Mountain Cycling Helmet |
|
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| Best for Trails | Best for Trails
 |
ROCKBROS Kids Bike Helmet Toddler Full-Face Helmet |
|
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5 Best Convertible Mountain Bike Helmets Review
If you are looking for the convertible MTB helmet then you are on the right site, proceed further and find out all the info about them. In this article we have mentioned the 5 best convertible MTB helmets, so without further ado let’s move on to the exciting part.
1. BELL Super 3R MIPS Adult MTB Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Cycling
- Item Weight: 1 pounds
- Material: Polycarbonate
Bell Super 3R Convertible Helmet allows you to set the straps according to your liking with its quick-adjust fasteners, these make sure that the straps are all set and fixed properly. Bell Super 3R helmet has quick-drying material which keeps the insides moisture-free.
The captivating thing about it is the MIPS short for multidirectional impact protection system which is an amazing slip-plane technology. The MIPS makes sure that the inside of the helmet is protected from the incoming rotational forces resulting from sudden impacts.
The detachable protective chin-bar allows you to detach or attach it for easy trail riding. It is super convenient and can be easily attached within 3 steps without the need of any tools. It has a great overbrow ventilation feature which allows the cool air to come in and out of the air-channel matrix, this keeps the helmet well ventilated and allows the user to breath freely even with the chin-bar on.
Bell Super 3R helmet comes with an adjustable visor system which assists you to wear goggles or glasses according to your liking. Moreover it functions just fine with or without the visor attached. You can also have a look at bike helmets with visor.
The worth talking feature about Bell Super 3R MTB helmet is the breakaway camera mount which will automatically break free if the helmet gets hit by an outer force which will also reduce the risk of the biker getting injured.
What I Like?
- It is absolutely light weight.
- Bell Super 3R provides maximum face protection.
- It is a comfortable and well-ventilated helmet.
What I Don’t Like?
- Not downhill certified
Concluding Remarks about BELL Super 3R MTB Helmet
Bell Super 3R Convertible Helmet is a leading mountain biking helmet and with its exceptional features it has become number one for quite some customers. It offers improved ventilation with its 23 vents, 4 browports, 6 chin bar vents, therefore it keeps the inside cool and provides maximum breathability. Last but not the least, it is just the perfect choice if you are confused between buying a full face helmet and an open face helmet, however, it is not downhill certified so for downhill I highly recommend to choose downhill certified helmet.
2. BELL Super DH MIPS Adult MTB Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Cycling
- Item Weight: 0.25 pounds
- Material: Polycarbonate
Bell Super DH Convertible Helmet has an EPS foam liner making the outer shell sturdy and hard. Also this EPS liner makes sure that all the force impacts are well managed making it more reliable and demanding.
Moreover the EPS foam liner consists of two layers providing you with maximum safety. The outer layer is made up of EPS (expanded polystyrene) which is a harder foam in comparison to the second inner layer and it comprises the EPP (expanded polypropylene).
The notable thing about Super Bell DH Mountain Bike Helmet is the flex spherical MIPS which is a blessing in disguise as it is capable of managing all sorts of speed impacts like high speed impact, low speed impact and even rotational speed impact.
In other words the MIPS gives you an all-inclusive protection without you even realizing it. The MIPS in bell super DH helmet is without the plastic liner so it enables good ventilation as compared to other standard MIPS helmets. Therefore, bell super DH gives you the confidence to ride and also makes sure that you are well protected. Also read Bell Super DH and 3R Helmet comparison.
It has a detachable protective chin-bar especially constructed for easy and improved trail riding adaptability and you can get this all done without requiring any tools. It has quick drying materials which makes sure that the insides are moisture free.
The sweat guide pads are designed to keep the moisture or sweat away from brow pad and eyewear. It comes with a fidlock buckle which makes it super easy for you to buckle up your helmet and make adjustments according to your need.
The ventilation system is well managed with 19 vents to keep the airflow going. Whereas the air goes in and out of the air- channel matrix for complete breathability. There is an adaptable visor system which gives you enough space to accommodate both goggles and glasses so you are free from the burden of wearing them around your neck. It also has a flawless camera mount which is designed to break free upon collision with a hard surface to keep the rider safe from possible injuries.
What I Like?
- It is durable.
- Bell Super DH is downhill certified.
- MIPS keeps you protected at all times.
What I Don’t Like?
- It is heavier as compared to Bell Super 3R and Leatt DBX 3.0.
Concluding Remarks about BELL Super DH MTB Helmet
Bell Super DH has so many qualities in it, we don’t see why you should not opt for it when buying yourself a convertible MTB helmet.
For winter cycling, I highly recommend you to wear winter cycling helmet
3. BELL Super Air R MIPS Adult MTB Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Cycling
- Item Weight: 1 kg
- Material: Polycarbonate
Bell Super Air R Helmet is your protective guard which offers you complete protection with its spherical MIPS layer. Though, it is found between the two EPS liners of different thicknesses to keep your head protected from the incoming rotational forces.
The polycarbonate shell of Bell Super Air R Helmet encircles the liner for additional safety. Bell Super Air R convertible helmet makes sure that you have enough space to fit in your goggles, it provides you with three different positions for a clear vision without obstructing it.
Super Air R MTB Helmet has some quick-drying materials which helps reduce moisture and keeps the inside fresh and breathable. It offers a removable protective chin-bar which is a captivating feature of Super Air R helmet as it is convenient to attach and detach it without the need of any tools. The chin-bar gives you a breathable and comforting feeling and for your convenience it also has two sets of cheek pads.
While we are at it, I would like to tell you about the overbrow ventilation which is its worth telling feature as it offers you complete breathability and keeps the airflow going with the air-channel matrix.
Bell Super Air R has an adjustable visor system to fit in both your goggles and glasses. Furthermore, it also has a camera mount which needs no ties, zips or tape and is uniquely designed to break free incase of any falls or impacts.
What I Like?
- Provides you great comfort.
- It fits well on your head.
- Offers full protection with the MIPS system.
What I Don’t Like?
- Not downhill certified.
Concluding Remarks about BELL Super Air R MTB Helmet
Bell Super Air R is not just an ordinary helmet but quite the contrary it has some of the best qualities which a convertible MTB helmet should have. Its fidlock buckle provides perfect grip and support so that it won’t slip during your ride.it is surprisingly light weight, so this makes it easier for you to carry it around.
4. GIRO Switchblade MIPS Adult Mountain Cycling Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Cycling
- Item Weight: 1 pounds
- Material: Polycarbonate
Giro has always been known for its best performances in descents and what adds more to its appeal is the fact that it is ASTM certified. It has hydrophilic padding which assures that the rider faces no difficulty due to excessive sweating because the moisture is absorbed right away and also it dries up real quick.
The antimicrobial, X-static lining assures that the helmet remains fresh and odorless throughout the ride. Giro Switchblade Convertible MTB Helmet has a two piece shell which comprises two layers, the outer hard layer and inner polycarbonate layer fused to the liner making it more reliable.
Giro Switchblade Helmet has a protective MIPS system which is designed to reduce the impact of rotational forces which may cause some serious disturbances during the ride. Its main priority is to keep you safe which it fulfills effectively by maintaining the strict safety measures.
It has a P.O.V plus visor which is a really cool feature as it offers the rider to adjust the visor in an improvised way. It gives the rider three riding positions and also a high position to fit in the goggles. The best part about this feature is that it allows you to adjust the visor with one hand while riding so you can enjoy your ride without any interruptions.
How can we forget the Roc Loc Air DH Fit system which is really effective and efficient in providing you with absolute comfort, stability and ease. It makes sure that the rider has ample amount of air supply by allowing cool air to pass, it keeps a check on vents and internal channeling as well to keep the airflow going.
It has a wind tunnel ventilation system which proves to be a captivating feature of Giro Switchblade MTB Helmet as it has some exhaust channels which allows cool air to surround the rider’s head while it thrusts the hot and stale air out.
What I Like?
- It is ASTM certified.
- Gives you confidence to ride in half shell mode.
- Withstands harsh impacts with the MIPS system.
What I Don’t Like?
- Not recommended for long climbs in half shell mode.
Concluding Remarks about GIRO Switchblade Helmet
Giro is not only a sensational helmet which provides great protection but it is proven to be the number one choice for risky descents as well. You can definitely rely on it as the MIPS system in it will make sure that you are protect from any harm or injuries. The extra coverage around the ears gives you confidence while descending in half-shell mode.
If you’re an MTB rider and own a bike with disc brakes, you surely would like to learn how to bleed Shimano brakes
5. ROCKBROS Kids Bike Helmet Toddler Full-Face Helmet
Specifications
- Best For: Cycling, Skateboarding
- Item Weight: 380 grams
- Material: Polycarbonate
Rock bros kids mountain bike helmet assures your child’s safety by keeping the safety standards high. It comes with a durable hard PC shell and high density EPS foam which makes the outer surface as hard as a rock and comparatively stronger than a regular helmet.
The inner padding is soft and removable which adds more to your safety and comfort as it is capable of absorbing all the shocks while keeping your toddler safe.
It has 12 large vents that with great expertise provides complete breathability and comfort at the same time. Whereas the material used in it is the assurance to no air-resistance or sweating which ultimately reduces the risk of suffocation or uneasiness.
Rockbros is a light weight helmet and it performs a tremendous job in protecting your spine and makes sure that the head is not burdened. It is a detachable helmet making it easier for you to attach and detach the chin guard whenever you want, and you can get this done with just a press of a button.
Rockbros helmet offers two adjustable sizes which offers most children a great fit and adjustment. Moreover, you can find the perfect adjustment with its 360 degree adaptable buckle and nylon belts which are easy to handle.
You can also read a detailed answer about does your child need full face helmet
What I Like?
- Comfortable and well built.
- Provides protection with its hard coverage.
- Offers complete breathability.
What I Don’t Like?
- The face guard can be a bit challenging.
Concluding Remarks about ROCKBROS Full Face Helmet
Rock bros is the best choice if you are looking for safety and comfort for your child. It is detachable and easy to wear and with the addition of its adjustable design it looks even more appealing. Its 12 large vents increase the airflow and keep the insides fresh and cool. You can also present this helmet as a gift and it is something your child would love and enjoy and more importantly it will increase their interest in outdoor activities.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Convertible Mountain Bike Helmet
What to look for while buying a MTB helmet? This might be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of buying a MTB helmet and buying a perfect helmet with all your required features is no big deal now, as we have mentioned everything in this buying guide to help you find your preferable helmet. You will find some of the best MTB helmets here with their tremendous features, so make sure you get yourself one of these helmets.
Visor of a helmet
A visor is an important element for a helmet as it makes sure that your eyes are protected from any mud or dust particles. Moreover it should be adjustable, stable and rattle free to provide you with utmost comfort and ease. In addition to this, a good quality visor has some flexible materials and breakaway fixtures which essentially stops the visor from being a lever as it can harm your neck region in incase of a crash.
Helmet padding
Internal padding of a helmet is another essential factor of a helmet as it is required to maintain the helmet stability, comfort and moisture. The pads make sure that the inside of a helmet is moisture free and absorbs a good amount of heat as well, they should be removable so they can be washed easily. Further adding to this, you should also check the material of pads and make sure that they are skin friendly. Another thing is their thickness, while buying a helmet makes sure that the padding has enough thickness to support your head and give you comfort.
Ventilation
A helmet with a proper ventilation system is necessary as it works to regulate the internal temperature and also improvises the airflow to keep the insides cool. Most helmets have intake and exhaust vents to keep the air going in and out of the helmet through internal channels. The vents are also a factor for the improvised looks of a helmet.
Chin-bar Attachment
Detachable chin-bars are there to give you the feel of both full-face helmet and an open-face helmet so if your situation demands a change it will not be an issue for you. Chin-bars which have safety standards like trail riding and DH certification are more reliable and provide full protection.
Protection System of Helmet
An effective protection system consists of hard shell and multiple foam densities to keep the rider protected from coming shocks and impacts of different velocities and in some cases it inhibits the rotational forces as well. MIPS is the most effective and known protection system which is a slippery plastic liner that absorbs energy and harsh impacts when the helmet hits a hard surface.
Helmet Chinstrap
Keeping the helmet fit and in place with a chinstrap is important but it is not the only thing to look for, you also need to make sure that it is not itchy, scraping your skin or digging in your jaws or ears because you would not want something like that. Although there are some helmets which have magnetic clasp for quick installation and some have plastic clasp which are much lighter and less obtrusive in comparison to others.
Goggle Parking
Not all helmets have enough space to fit in the goggles and it’s a must have for the riders who use contact glasses. In this case make sure that your helmet offers you enough space to park your goggles. Some helmets have eyewear stow points that come handy for some users.
Are convertible mountain bike helmets safe?
Yes, they are not only safe but you can definitely rely on them for your protection. This is because a convertible helmet allows you to switch between an open-face and a full-face one depending on your situation. Its exceptional features include the MIPS which is the best known protection system in a helmet, it is the assurance of your face and jaw’s safety in case you met with an accident.
Final Verdict of Convertible Mountain Bike Helmet Review
A convertible helmet has proven to be more effective and convenient than a regular full-face or open-face helmet. Moreover it saves you from the trouble of buying any of them because it serves as a two in one helmet, its removable chin-bar allows you to switch its modes to however your situation demands.
A helmet’s main function is to provide you comfort and protection at the same time and the convertible helmets are designed to offer you both and much more with their remarkable features they assure your safety and ease in an effective and improvised way.
To sum things up, if you are confused between buying a full-face or an open-face helmet then we would suggest you to buy a convertible helmet as the results will not disappoint you and you will be surprised by its performance. Therefore, we have mentioned above the top 5 rated convertible mountain bike helmets for your guidance.
If you are searching for quality cycling products with better guidance, especially mountain bikes and their accessories, I am here to give this valuable information to you. Now you have trusted place to choose your needs from standard product collection.