Just as helmets are essential for mountain biking, enduro, and downhill riding, they are equally crucial for road cycling. Road bike helmets are designed to offer protection on the road, tailored to the specific needs of road cyclists, and feature aerodynamic shapes to accommodate high speeds. However, finding the right helmet isn't always straightforward. What features should a road bike helmet have? How should it fit, and what size do you need? In this guide, we'll explore what to consider when purchasing a road bike helmet and highlight which helmets pair perfectly with NAKED Optics sports sunglasses.
What You'll Find in This Guide - Road Bike Helmets for Your Sports Sunglasses
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Key features of a road bike helmet
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Different helmet safety systems
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Determining your helmet size
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Ensuring the correct helmet fit
- Road Bike Helmet Tests: Helmets Compatible with NAKED Optics Sports Sunglasses
What Features Should a Road Bike Helmet Have?
Road bike helmets are characterised by their lightweight construction and aerodynamic design. Given that road cyclists often adopt a crouched position, these helmets differ in shape from standard enduro and MTB helmets. Depending on individual needs, cyclists can choose from various models: ultra-light helmets, aero helmets, helmets with safety systems (like MIPS, SPIN, WaveCel), time trial helmets, or visor helmets. It's essential to select a helmet that aligns with your specific requirements.
Different Helmet Safety Systems
When purchasing a cycling helmet, ensure it's equipped with a safety system. Technologies like MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) and WaveCel aim to reduce rotational forces during impacts, offering enhanced protection. MIPS, in particular, is widely used across various helmet brands. It incorporates a movable inner shell that, upon impact, can reduce and redirect forces, potentially lowering the risk of concussions or severe traumatic brain injuries.
How to Determine Your Road Bike Helmet Size
A helmet can only protect you effectively if it fits correctly. Therefore, wearing the right size is crucial. If purchasing in-store, you can try on different sizes to find the best fit. For online purchases, it's vital to know your head circumference. Most manufacturers provide sizing charts on their product pages. To measure your head, use a tape measure: start at the centre of your forehead (just above the eyebrows) and wrap it around your head. Common helmet sizes include:
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Small (55–56 cm)
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Medium (57–58 cm)
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Large (59–60 cm)
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Extra Large (61–62 cm)
Some brands also offer dual sizes like M/L.
Ensuring the Correct Helmet Fit
The fit of your helmet is paramount. A well-fitting helmet should sit level on your head, not tilt forward into your face or slide back onto your neck. When worn, it should remain stable even when you shake your head. If the helmet doesn't pinch or press uncomfortably, you've likely found the right fit.
Road Bike Helmet Tests: Helmets Compatible with NAKED Optics Sports Sunglasses
An essential factor when choosing a road bike helmet is its compatibility with your sunglasses. The helmet and sunglasses should align seamlessly to ensure comfort and stability during rides. To assist in your decision-making, we've tested several popular helmet models with our NAKED Optics sports sunglasses. Below are our recommendations.
POC Omne Air MIPS
Equipped with the MIPS safety system, the POC Omne Air MIPS offers optimal protection for road cyclists. We've tested the size S (50–56 cm), and it pairs exceptionally well with our sports sunglasses, The VOLT and The HAWK.
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POC Ventral Air
Another popular model from POC, the POC Ventral Air, has been tested with our sunglasses The BLADE and The VOLT. The combination ensures a comfortable fit and enhanced aerodynamics.
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Uvex Boss Race
The Uvex Boss Race helmet, suitable for both men and women, features an aerodynamic ventilation design with 19 air channels. Our sports sunglasses, The VOLT and The FALCON, align perfectly with this helmet, ensuring optimal comfort.
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Giro Isode
The Giro Isode helmet, featuring MIPS technology and quick-drying padding, has been tested with The FALCON and The VOLT sunglasses. This combination offers a clear view and comfortable fit for road cycling.
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Giro Foray
The Giro Foray is a lightweight and sleek helmet which incorporates the MIPS technology and boasts a robust In-Mold construction. Our sports sunglasses, The HAWK and The VOLT, pair excellently with the Giro Foray in the size S (51–55 cm), ensuring a snug fit.
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ABUS Viantor
The ABUS Viantor helmet is a sporty option for beginners, suitable for both men and women, and comes with a ventilation system. Both The VOLT and The HAWK sunglasses fit seamlessly with this helmet, offering enhanced comfort.
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ABUS AirBreaker
The ultra-light ABUS AirBreaker helmet pairs exceptionally well with our sports sunglasses, The BLADE and The VOLT, providing a comfortable and secure fit.
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Purchase Road Cycling Sunglasses Online
NAKED Optics cycling sunglasses are compatible with the most modern and popular road bike helmets. If you're curious to see if fellow cyclists in the NAKED community use the same helmet, visit our Instagram page. Our community members frequently share their experiences and gear setups: #nakedoptics #lifeisbetternaked.
Credits: Christiane Freimann, Mathäus Gartner & Elias Neier