Are you looking to narrow down your search for the perfect helmet for your little one?
Well done for taking the initiative to protect your little one. Be they on a bike seat, a trailer, or riding solo on their own balance bike, one thing’s for sure; a helmet is an essential accessory. Yet finding the best toddler or infant helmet can be a daunting task. Besides, bike helmets are not a one-size-fits-all accessory, as some parents would think because no two kids ever have the same size or shape of head.
Even the smallest of riders deserve a befitting helmet. However, identifying an ideal helmet is usually a hassle for most parents. Most of them just don’t know what brand to go for and which features are mandatory for ultimate protection.
That is why we have assembled a comprehensive review of some of the best helmets to protect the smallest noggins.
Take a look.
NOTE: We’ve also got the older kids covered. Check out our best helmets for older kids list
Overview of the Best Toddler, Baby, or Infant Bike Helmets
Here are some of the top-performing and loved toddler bike helmets and baby/infant baby helmets that you can use in bike trailers, balance bikes, and even cargo bikes when hauling kids and when they are either learning how to cycle or cycling by themselves.
We’ve put so much work into this list because we understand how specific the helmet needs of smaller kids might be. We want to help you get a fitting helmet instead of putting just about any helmet you come across to your baby or toddler’s head, which is a positive habit towards saving fragile lives as they have fun.
Our main focus was insights from parents who have bought and tested the helmet, our test results, research, and experience from various surveys we conducted. Instead of top 10, we bring you about 20 baby, infant, and toddler bike helmets. Let’s get started.
1 Giro Scamp Recreational bike helmet – Best Overall with MIPS
Next up is a feature-packed helmet that is a favorite in our experience.
Being one of the smallest helmets you will find in the market, the Giro Scamp helmet’s construction was surely done with the child in mind.
The proof is in the helmet itself. We’re talking; life-saving (if it ever comes to that), comfortable, fitting, and extremely lightweight.
We love that they’ve considered rest-mode. With a flatter-than-most back profile, babies get to wear their helmets comfortably on trailers and their mini-bikes.
Additionally, the comfort of the soft interior is unmatchable.
The Giro Scamp helmet boasts of a highly durable in-mold construction, integrated sweat pads, a dial-adjust fit, pinch-proof buckle, and an integrated visor for sun protection.
It is also available with a MIPS option. The optional Multi-directional Impact Protective System (MIPS) technology gives the choice to incorporate more protection when the force of impact towards the child’s noggin comes from a sharp/hard force. And the price point is affordable than most.
2 Schwinn Infant bike helmet – easy to fit in tiny heads
For the smallest of heads/noggins, the CPSC certified Schwinn infant helmet has quite literally got them covered.
Like the Giro Scamp, this helmet is one of the smallest sizes available. It fits narrower heads easily and features a dial-adjust system retention system for a secure and accurate fit.
Its design is lightweight and very fit for protection from damage, and the internal padding ensures a comfortable fit.
The Schwinn infant helmet also has a flat back for comfort when leaning back against a trailer or bike seat, with the lower end of the shell extended for comfort and added protection from injury.
With six vents holes, the breathability could be better, but if riding under moderately hot weather, the airflow is sufficient.
The only thing we aren’t too crazy about is that the quality isn’t as great as the Scamp, but for the compact size and the price, it’s a great add-on for an amateur rider.
3 Joovy Noodle toddler bike helmet - Durable and effective
When quality meets affordability, the Joovy Noodle helmet is born.
Sized accurately for the smallest heads, this helmet is also equipped to ensure the best wear. Its lightweight on small heads ensures kids’ heads aren’t wobbly while riding their bikes. In addition, the dial adjust allows the perfect fit while a non-pinch chin buckle further promotes the security of the helmet on the head.
We love the conspicuous colors of the chin straps as they allow parents to easily spot and remove the helmet from restless heads.
Fourteen cooling vents keep the helmet breathable. We appreciate that the front vents feature a mesh to protect those riding in trailers from getting hit by bugs.
The Noodle, sized for kids between one and four years old, is available in fun and bright colors that will excite the youngest riders.
4 Kali Chakra Toddler helmet - Best Ventilation (for hotter areas)
In the unfortunate event of a crash, you’d want your child to be wearing the Kali Chakra toddler helmet; and we have several reasons to support this statement.
For one, Kali offers to replace each damaged helmet with a free new one in case of a crash, thanks to their crash replacement guarantee.
Secondly, the in-mold construction minimizes the weight of the helmet while simultaneously offering the protective services one would require in a collision.
The lightweight of the helmet is another winner for us. The child will most certainly forget that they’ve gotten something on their heads.
We love that they’ve taken in the dire need for ventilation, especially when riding under hot weather. The Chakra’s 21 vents will keep sweaty heads aerated. A built-in visor shields eyes from dangerous sun rays.
An easy dial-adjust system ensures the helmet sits squarely on the child’s head throughout their riding adventures.
5 GAOYU toddler/ Baby Helmet
The GAOYU toddler helmet is a well-constructed headgear that is suited for children between 2 and 6 years.
Parents are aware that getting a child to wear a helmet isn’t usually the easiest task; thus, one of the features that sets this helmet apart from its competitors is its three-dimensional spikes and colorful coating. Together, these features work to attract the child; and steer them to wanting the helmet on their head.
A PC shell exterior and a high-density EPS foam interior effectively protect the child’s head in the event of an impact as the material expands and absorbs shock from the force of a collision.
To hold the helmet in place, it features a quick-release chin buckle; and to adjust the helmet’s fit depending on the rider’s head circumference, it spots adjustable straps.
Additionally, 11 vents work to reduce overheating and sweating of the child’s head when riding in the hot summer.
We especially love the GAOYU’s soft inner pads, as not only do they enhance comfort, but they can also be removed and washed to keep the helmet’s interior clean and fresh.
6 KAMUGO toddler/ Baby helmet
Every part of the KAMUGO baby helmet is designed for protective purposes.
With a heavy-duty shock-absorbing expanded polystyrene shell (EPS) construction, this helmet is sure to shield the child’s head from serious injury. Moreover, the sturdy construction promises to last long
Best designed for kids between 3 and 8, the KAMUGO helmet is secured by straps that go under the chin.
It comes at a friendly price point and in a large array of color selections, so children have an easy time choosing their favorites.
The only problem we’ve encountered with this helmet is that the adjustment of the straps requires some skill. However, if done with patience, it’s not too much of a hassle; and once in place, the protection it offers is stellar.
For those who are easy on their bikes, the KAMUGO baby helmet is a highly breathable CPSC helmet to compliment bikes, skates, and scooters.
7 Bell girls Hello Kitty
The Bell Girls Hello Kitty helmet is the perfect combination of fun, comfort, and function.
The cute girly design comprises modern 3D ears and a bow with little girls obsessed with the helmet. For parents struggling to get their children to wear helmets, this is the perfect way to make safety appealing to the young ones.
We love that the Hello Kitty sits on the head well, without interfering with the child’s field of vision, and that it is also designed to stay with the child as they grow. This is thanks to the removable padding that can be removed once your child’s head grows bigger.
It is also endowed with top and rear vents for the hottest of rides to keep it breathable.
The only thing to note about this helmet is that it runs large, so you might want to size down when placing your order.
Otherwise, it is the perfect helmet for stylish young girls who are ready for any type of adventure. Check our list of other CUTE girls’ helmets.
8 LERUJIFL toddler/ Baby bike helmet
Easily one of our favorite features of the LERUFIJL toddler helmet is how light it is. It’s common knowledge that watching the weight of any headgear is important for toddlers as their necks are usually still in the developmental stage. And with that in mind, this helmet is designed to be lightweight (less than 13 ounces); without sacrificing functionality.
The helmet buffers shock with precision while also remaining comfortable on the head, thanks to the combination of a sturdy exterior and cushioned interior.
Designed to be an optimal fit for kids between 3 and 8 years of age, the helmet’s straps are adjustable for ultimate safety
For that personal touch of style, we appreciate that it also comes in a wide variety of colors to choose from.
9 Schwinn Toddler/ baby helmet
Schwinn has a very competitive resume in the world of bikes and their accessories.
This helmet comes highly recommended as it spots a dial-adjust system that is very reliable and easy to use.
One of its best aspects, in our opinion, is how deep it goes. This means that kids will taller heads can fit it without discomfort, and those who fancy a ponytail can also do so instead of letting their head down, as is tradition with most helmets. On the flip side, the helmet may not be the best fit for smaller heads.
Also available in various fun colors and designs, there’s not much to dislike about the Schwinn toddler bike helmet.
It’s always a bad idea *and look* when the helmet is too heavy on the child’s head. Schwinn factors in the weight and still manage to provide every other safety feature one would expect from a baby’s helmet.
10 AGH Toddler Helmet
With just the right combination of features, the AGH toddler helmet is a great protective gear for kids between 3 and 7 years old.
It’s a lightweight helmet that offers solid coverage and impact resistance thanks to thick EPS construction. With a removable liner, the helmet is both comfortable and clean.
As for keeping sweaty scalps cool during playtime, it features 14 vent holes. An integrated visor reduces the sun’s glare to enhance the child’s comfort and protection further.
An adjustable buckle that comes with a chin pad tightens and loosens to ensure the perfect fit.
The chin pad keeps the helmet in place, and we definitely love just how soft it is. No scratches to the chin, no pinches, and definitely no discomfort from wearing the helmet.
Lastly, the helmet’s cool cartoon prints are a guarantee that children will want to have it on their heads during the entirety of their playtime.
11 Raskullz Infant Helmet
The Raskullz MOHAWK toddler helmet is a glow-in-the-dark helmet that is specially created to captivate young riders with its 3D bendable Mohawk spikes.
It is appropriately constructed for kids between one and three years of age as its lightweight means less pressure on the child’s head.
The helmet’s highly durable and scratch-resistant PVS exterior shell and shock-absorbing EPS shell provide ultimate security against head injuries.
Soft pads keep the interior comfortable; aerodynamic cooling vents maintain airflow keeping the head cool, while adjustable straps easily secure the helmet to the child’s head and ensure the fit is perfect
Our only reservation about this helmet is that the Mohawk spikes are susceptible to damage, making the aesthetic less pleasant. Nevertheless, in the event of that, the helmet’s functionality would not be compromised.
Available in a variety of fun colors and prints, this adorable helmet is all about fun and safety.
12 Nickelodeon Children's Bike Helme
Your paw-patrol fanatic will dig this nickelodeon-themed helmet.
The design is just cheerful and vibrant and bound to attract the youngest riders. Plus, it also comes with a matching paw patrol pad set for a full look of solid protection.
As far as functionality goes, parents can feel at ease with the protection offered by this product. Its molded shell design is not only highly protective but also highly durable; so, you can trust that it will last over a long time.
With extended coverage at the rear end, it offers extra protection to the child’s noggin.
This unit accommodates a wide range of head sizes thanks to an adjustable dial fit that makes it easily be adjusted for a 360-degree custom-fit, just like the professionals do.
Top vents offer ventilation and make this helmet all the more comfortable.
The only drawback about it is that it lies on the narrower end of the size scale. So, take heed to that before purchasing for larger noggins.
13 Bell Side Track II Toddler and infant Helmet
Parents and toddlers alike love the mountain bike style design of the Bell Sidetrack child helmet. This helmet just looks cool!
Not only does it look cool, but it is also professionally equipped for performance.
Internal air channels work with 15 air vents to keep the noggin cool and fresh; a removable snap-in visor protects from sun damage, and an Ergo fit dial-adjust system enables a very accurate fit.
The extended coverage at the back of the helmet offers more protection of the noggin.
With an in-mold construction, this helmet is as strong and as durable as they come. Finally, we love that it is available in both the MIPS and the non-MIPS options.
14 Bell Mickey Mouse toddler bike helmet
The name alone is a sure-tell that this helmet was made for tiny tots, especially those who are obsessed with the Mickey Mouse clubhouse.
It will put a smile on you and your kid’s faces for different reasons.
Parents love that this product boasts high-impact reflectors, making their child more visible and safer while riding on the streets.
In addition, it has added coverage at the back as well as four vents for airflow.
The other thing is that it’s very light, meaning that kiddos aged between 3 and 5, for whom the helmet is designed, won’t have a problem holding their head up in it.
It also features easily adjustable straps for a secure fit and a pinch guard for pinch-free buckling.
The quality of the Bell Mickey mouse helmet could be better, in our opinion, but in comparison to most helmets in the market today, it’s a great option. Just be sure to order a size up as it runs small.
15 Best travel toddler bike helmet
This helmet is designed to suit older toddlers in the 3- to 8-year-old age range, and it offers the best protection for them as well.
The exterior is made of impact-resistant plastic. Its interior is made of high-grade polystyrene foam lining that accurately expands to absorb vibration from the force of an impact and cushion kids from high-risk injuries.
Weighing just over 12 ounces, it’s a well-ventilated and light helmet that won’t damage the child’s head by weighing them down.
The easily adjustable straps enhance the helmet’s ease of use and allow it to grow with the child.
The Best travel toddler helmet is not just limited to biking but is an excellent choice for lovers of skates, scooters, and so forth.
Its availability in a large array of colors is also a surety that the child will score their favorite colour.
16 JetBlaze toddler bike helmet
There’s a lot to love about the JetBlaze toddler bike helmet.
Our favorite feature is just how light it is. Weighing approximately 7.5 ounces, even after hours of riding, little kids don’t feel tired from the helmet's weight.
The minimal weight is factored in as the helmet is designed with the latest in-mold technology, which entails the shell and EPS foam being fused to create one piece.
It is designed to accommodate head circumference between 48 and 52cm. The rider’s customized fit is ensured with the helmet adjustable dial system and adjustable straps.
In addition, for maximum breathability, it has 16 well-placed vent holes throughout the helmet. Lastly, because the liner is removable and washable, the freshness in the helmet’s interior is a sure factor.
17 Giro Me2 Infant/ Toddler bike helmet
It is hard to beat the features of the Giro Me2 infant bike helmet.
It’s a high-quality micro-shell helmet that’s built to last while offering the highest protection throughout its shelf life, but what makes it stand out is the mini-loc system.
The Giro’s mini-Loc system, which is utilized in all Giro helmets, entails straps that are easy to put on and do not pinch.
The interior’s make is of soft padding so that they fit on the little noggin is cozy, and to ensure that it stays with the child as they grow, the helmet is highly adjustable.
Cooling vents keep it breathable, and with the addition of a bug mesh and visor, it offers solid protection from both bugs and overexposure to the sun.
Lastly, this helmet comes in a cute and bright color that will definitely get the child noticed; and, in turn, enhance their safety.
18 Coleman ComfortSmart Portable Camping Cot
brand that you can trust.
Schwinn is no newcomer in the world of biking, and it is evident in its products.
What gives this helmet a different feel and look compared to other helmets is its 3D teddy bear design. The cute aesthetic is bound to entice any toddler and encourage them to keep the helmet on!
The helmet that is suited for children up to 3 years old goes beyond aesthetics and offers full protection all around, thanks to the micro-shell.
An adjustable dial fit system that is extremely easy to adjust locks the helmet in place, while the vented construction promotes supreme air circulation on sunny days.
We love that it is equally lightweight as it is protective; and that the interior padding made of Styrofoam material is both shock-absorbing maneuverable for ultimate comfort.
For kids whose head sizes lie in the 17.5 to 19.5 inches range, the cute Schwinn 3d helmet is a solid choice.
19 Bell Minnie Mouse Toddler Helmet
Parents love this helmet’s safe construction, while kids love the cartoon design featuring Minnie Mouse!
The Bell Minnie Mouse toddler helmet fits heads between 52cm and 58cm, but it allows room for ponytails, unlike most helmets. And that is another reason why little girls always glee with joy over this helmet.
Not just created for the looks, this helmet is sturdily constructed with 13 vents for coolness and a removable visor to limit the amount of sun glare that the child is exposed to.
With a chin strap that is easy to adjust, the helmet ensures a snug fit that’s accurate on different wearer’s head sizes.
It’s also lightweight, so it banks on comfort.
We noticed that the helmet also runs small, so you definitely want to size up as you place an order.
20 Atphfety Toddler Kids bike helmet
The Atphfety toddler bike helmet is another solid choice for any young rider with a 50-54cm head circumference.
It is available in various colors and excellent graphics to allow kids to customize from their favorite.
The helmet’s shock-proof EPS material protects little heads from hard impacts.
We love that the helmet is suited for wearing during long treks without irritating sensitive skin. This is thanks to the cozy interior, 11 vent holes, and adjustable quick release buckle.
And the helmet is not limited to biking but can also be a protective gear for other sports such as skating and riding scooters.
If the kid happens to love it so much, Atphfety also offers a youth size for older kids once they outgrow their toddler size.
What to look for when selecting a good bike helmet for an infant, toddler, or baby
When your little one is ready to test their first set of wheels, you will likely want to equip them with as much protection as you can.
For that, there is a criterion that is specific to choosing an ideal helmet, as there is for other protective gear such as cycling pads. Here at kiddingZone, we have a comprehensive criterion that we use when selecting the best bike helmets for toddlers.
If you’re wondering, here are the most crucial things to look out for when choosing a helmet for:
Size of the helmet and the head of the baby
The biggest mistake you can make is getting the wrong size helmet for your child as this counter the protection you want for them.
To get the right size, measure the child’s head and then measure it against the helmet’s age range and head circumference.
Go for a helmet where your child’s head circumference lies in the lower end of its size. This means that not only will the helmet fit them concisely, but it will also allow them to grow into it.
Most helmets are sized from 47cm and upwards, although there are a select few like the Giro Scamp and the Schwinn infant helmet, which start all the way down at 44 and 45cm for the tiniest heads.
Weight
The necks of toddlers and infants are still usually at the development stage. You do not want to add something that would overwhelm their already delicate necks and heads.
If you’re having trouble getting your child to keep their helmet on, you might want to consider whether it’s too heavy for them.
Construction
Basically, the helmet can entail either a hard shell or in-mold construction.
For hard-shell baby helmets, the EPS foam and outer shell are usually separate combined to form the helmet.
On the other hand, in-mold constructed helmets are created when the protective EPS foam layer is molded/bonded with the polycarbonate outer shell to form a single layer.
There is no distinctive proof that one is extremely safer than the other, although in-mold constructed helmets tend to be lighter and usually offer better ventilation.
The only downside to hard-shell helmets is that they are more likely to wear faster as the two layers can separate with time. They are, however, cheaper than in-mold helmets.
Ventilation
Airflow is of the essence, especially when the child will be on the bike on their own. The risk of over-sweating is discomfort at the minor level and fainting in extreme overheating.
You want to ensure that the helmet you choose has sufficient vent holes for accurate air circulation.
Buckle Type
The buckle should be easy to manipulate; and shouldn’t especially pinch on the chin.
Some helmets have magnetic-style buckles that are pinch-proof; these are the best, in our opinion.
Fit And Adjustment System
Some helmets usually feature removable pads to make them fit snugly. This way, the same helmet can serve one child for a long period while also providing an accurate fit for their head size.
Others usually comprise an internal adjustment system such as a dial-adjust to fine-tune the helmet size with just one turn.
Comfort
Lastly, and equally important, you want to consider the comfort features that a helmet avail. Typically, the average helmet should have some type of padding to ensure the sensitive noggins are not scratched from friction with the helmet’s shell.
Some helmets also feature visors and bug meshes to keep the sun and bugs from causing discomfort. Together, these features ensure that the interior is cozy.
The helmet should also be certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to prove that it is approved as safe for use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do toddlers need cycling helmets? Should a toddler wear a helmet on a balance bike?
- How do I know the right fit?
Kids’ helmets are not a one-size-fits-all; so, the right fit varies from head size to head size.
Measure the child’s head circumference with the use of a tape measure. You want to get the dimensions of the toddler’s head from just above their eyebrows (usually two finger-widths above) all the way around.
Use the company’s size chart or size indications for the helmet to determine which helmet is best for your child. Be careful as helmet construction usually varies from company to company.
- What is the correct way to wear a helmet?
There a few key indicators that the helmet has been worn correctly.
For starters, the helmet should never sit below their eyebrows.
Aside from the helmet leaving some space above the child’s eyebrows, you want to ensure that the side straps form a ‘V-shape’ below your toddler’s ears.
The buckle should be centered under the child’s chin, with the chin strap leaving enough space for a finger or two to be inserted.
To ensure the fit is accurate, have them open their mouth wide and see whether the helmet moves around or slides down. If it does, then you should tighten the straps.
If the fit is too tight, simply loosen it.
- What is MIPS?
MIPS stands for “multi-directional Impact Protection System.”
Some helmets incorporate MIPS technology, which basically means that they have an added layer/ internal “cage-like” structure between the helmet and the head. This layer allows relative movement to counter the rotational forces of impact. The neutralization, in turn, reduces the severity of a concussion or injury to the head in the event of a crash.
- When is the best time to replace a helmet, and how often?
Another crucial thing that most people don’t know is that helmets are designed to withstand a single impact. After that, their protective features are compromised, and wearing them again pretty much puts the child in a riskier position.
So, if a crash or collision where the helmet does its protective role, you need to replace the helmet IMMEDIATELY.
Aside from that, once the child outgrows the helmet, you should definitely get a replacement.
Wrap Up
Although there are many options in the market today, you definitely want to go for the perfect helmet for your child.
In our opinion, the ideal helmet ticks off all the recommendations from our buying guide. Keep your little one geared up with a preferred choice from our list, and we assure you of ultimate protection.
The higher the protective and comfort feature, the better the helmet. Just don’t forget to go for the color and style they’ll like, and you’ll be good to go.
Above all, remember that kids’ helmets are not an option; they are mandatory for safety!
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