A MIPS helmet isn’t a luxury—it’s the one item you don’t go budget on. Spend the extra $25–$30 now; if your head ever hits the ground, you’ll be glad you did.

🛡️ Last Updated: August 21, 2025 — tightened recommendations and added MIPS details.

Why Every Cyclist Should Pay Up for a Quality MIPS Helmet

Quick Answer: This is not the item to go budget on. A quality helmet with MIPS costs about $25–$30 more and is designed to reduce the rotational forces that happen in real-world crashes. If your head ever hits the ground, you’ll be thankful you spent the extra money.

Some gear you can bargain-hunt. Helmets aren’t one of them. Pavement comes at you fast, and most crashes aren’t straight-on—they’re awkward, twisting hits. That’s where a MIPS-equipped helmet earns its keep. Spend the extra money now; avoid the regret later.

Why MIPS Matters

MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) adds a low-friction layer inside the helmet so your head can rotate slightly during an angled impact. That engineered slip helps reduce rotational stress on the brain—the kind that shows up in the real crashes most cyclists actually have. If my head ever meets asphalt again, I want MIPS between me and the ER.

This Is Not the Place to Cut Corners

• We’ll save money on jerseys, pedals, lights, whatever. But your helmet protects the only brain you’ve got.
• A quality MIPS lid typically runs just $25–$30 more than a bare-bones model. That’s a dinner out. Your future self would rather you skip the burger.
• Comfort, fit systems, and ventilation are usually better on quality models—less fussing, more riding.

My Recommended Helmets (All MIPS)

Gear I Actually Recommend

1. Giro Fixture MIPS II — rock-solid value for everyday riders; secure Roc Loc Sport fit, plenty of vents. This is the one I wear. That's it in the picture of me above in Palo Duro Canyon, Texas riding recently.
   👉 Check price on Amazon
2. Giro Helios Spherical (MIPS Spherical) — lighter, racier, and crazy comfortable on long days; Spherical design handles rotational forces elegantly. More expensive but among the best helmets made.
   👉 Check price on Amazon
3. POC Omne Air MIPS — clean look, stable fit, excellent everyday road helmet with MIPS Integra in current models.
   👉 Check price on Amazon

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Fit and Replacement: Two Rules I Live By

• Fit first. A helmet should feel snug without pressure points. Adjust the dial until it’s stable; straps form a “V” around each ear.
• Replace after a crash (any impact) or every 5 years. Foam degrades; tech improves. Don’t nurse a relic.

Bottom Line

Buy the best helmet you can justify, and make sure it includes MIPS. If your head ever hits the ground, you won’t care about the $30 you saved. You’ll care that you protected your brain.

Related: Why Fast Downhills Scare the Spandex Off Me • Top Cycling Visibility Tips • The Only Bib Shorts I Wear (and why)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is MIPS really worth the extra money?

Yes. Most bike crashes involve angled impacts that create rotational forces. MIPS adds a low-friction layer to help reduce that motion. If you’re going to splurge anywhere, splurge here.

Which is better: Giro Helios Spherical or POC Omne Air MIPS?

Both are high quality. The Helios Spherical leans lighter and racier for long road days; the Omne Air MIPS is a comfortable, versatile all-rounder. Fit and feel should decide it—try both if you can.

How often should a helmet be replaced?

Immediately after any crash or hard impact, and otherwise about every 5 years due to foam aging, sweat, UV, and evolving safety tech.