Best Toddler Helmet

Best Toddler Helmet

Rank:

Photo:

Model:

Rating:

More Info:

#1

Best Toddler Helmet 1

BEST OVERALL

Radio Flyer Helmet

#2

Best Toddler Helmet 2

XJD Kids Bike Helmet

#3

Best Toddler Helmet 3

Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet

#4

Best Toddler Helmet 4

Ouwoer Kids Multi-Sport Helmet

#5

Best Toddler Helmet 5

Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet

Teaching your kids to ride a bike is one of the best ways to keep them healthy and fit from a young age. Once they’re steady on their wheels, they can have all the fun they want with their friends outdoors.

However, the benefits of cycling come with a few dangers, such as falls and injuries.

Just as adults need bike helmets to keep us safe, our kids, too, need high-quality, safety-rated well-fitting toddler bike helmets for protection while riding.

If you’re on the hunt for the best toddler helmet out there, we’ve rounded up a list of our favorites. This handy guide for toddler riding helmets will make it easier for you to find the best fit for your kid.

These toddler helmets are excellent when it comes to providing safety. They also look cool and stylish and will make your little one want to wear them all day long!

They can be used for other purposes, too, such as skateboarding, scooter riding, or if you’re traveling with your toddler in a trailer.

Read on to learn everything about our top five helmet picks, along with helpful helmet-buying tips and advice.

Best overall: Radio Flyer Helmet

Best overall: Radio Flyer Helmet

This is hands-down our number one for the best bike helmet for toddlers. First, it passes the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets with flying colors, so you can rest assured that it’s safe for kids.

Second of all, it comes from the house of Radio Flyer. Radio Flyer is a trusted brand in the kids’ toys space, and it is known for its top-rated scooters, bikes, trikes, wagons, and other ride-ons. This means you can be sure that their helmets are of excellent quality and build.

This helmet is made of durable acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic with a soft and comfortable expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam interior padding. The interior and the chin strap are adjustable, so you can easily loosen or tighten them for a snug, secure fit.

The helmet’s safety buckle keeps it in place so that it won’t shift or fall off while riding. And the beautiful, sleek, sturdy design that features a red exterior and two white stripes will make your kid fall in love with the helmet and wear it whenever he or she goes out riding.

These helmets were designed for toddlers aged 2 to 5, but they can also fit slightly older kids depending on their head size. This means your kid can wear this helmet for years before you need to replace it.

Specs

  • Material: ABS plastic outer shell and EPS foam inner shell
  • Weight: 1 pound
  • Size: 48 to 54 centimeters

Pros

  • Sturdy and durable
  • Stylish and sleek design
  • Comfortable, secure fit
  • Adjustable interior padding and chin strap
  • Easy-to-use safety buckle
  • Excellent value for money
  • One year warranty against manufacturing defects

Cons

  • The helmet must be removed to adjust the fit
  • It may be too big for some toddlers’ heads
  • Comes in only on size

Runner Up: XJD Kids Bike Helmet

Runner Up: XJD Kids Bike Helmet

Next on our list of the best toddler bike helmets is XJD’s kids’ bike helmet designed for 1 to 8-year-olds.

This helmet can be used when riding bikes, trikes, bike trailers, ride-on cars, and scooters. It can also be used for protection during rollerblading, roller skating, skateboarding, longboarding, pogoing, and other moving activities.

Its sturdy injection-molded outer shell and shock-absorbing EPS foam inner shell provide maximum impact resistance and protect your kid from falls and injuries. It has an extended visor for added protection against the sun’s harsh rays.

The comfortable, adjustable chin strap and fit dial ensure the helmet remains in place at all times. Its button closure is easy to undo and fasten. The helmet also has a soft velcro chin padding for extra comfort for your little one’s delicate chin.

The XJD Kids’ bike helmet also ranks high on style and comfort. It has a classy, lightweight design and comes in two sizes and five attractive colors.

It also comes with 14 air vents and an integrated bug mesh in the front vents to keep toddlers cool and sweat-free while riding.

The helmet has a detachable inner lining, making it easy to clean. You can remove the lining and wash it to eliminate sweat and odors that can accumulate after a long day under the sun.

Overall, the helmet’s clever mix of practical features makes it an excellent choice as a bike helmet for toddlers.

Specs

  • Material: ABS outer shell and EPS inner shell
  • Weight: 12 ounces
  • Size: Extra small (46 to 51 centimeters) and small (52 to 56 centimeters)

Pros

  • Multipurpose
  • Provides high impact resistance
  • Extended visor for added safety and sun protection
  • Strong and durable
  • Adjustable chin strap and fit dial for a snug fit
  • Soft chin padding for extra comfort
  • Provides maximum ventilation through special aerodynamic design
  • Lightweight
  • Comes with a safety buckle
  • Easy to clean
  • Excellent value for money
  • Available in two sizes and five colors

Cons

  • Easily scratched
  • It may be slightly large for 1-year-olds

Alternative: Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet

Alternative: Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet

Let us start by telling you that the Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet may not last for as many years as the others on this list. It may break or crack on impact.

But it still meets the US CPSC safety standards and keeps your kid’s head protected in case of falls.

The helmet’s extended sun visor protects kids’ delicate eyes from the sun. It can also act as a shield for the forehead and face when your kid falls off his or her bike.

This helmet can be used for a range of outdoor activities like riding bikes, trikes, bike trailers, ride-on cars, scooters, roller skating, skateboarding, and so on.

The helmet is suitable for kids aged 1 to 9, and it can be easily adjusted as your kid grows with the help of the fit dial and chin strap. It also comes in two sizes that should fit most toddlers’ heads.

One unique feature of the chin strap is that it is equipped with a pinch guard. This prevents pinches and chafed skin on the chin and neck and provides enhanced comfort.

The helmet has 14 air vents with sweat-wicking pads that make it breathable and keep young ones’ heads cool even in the hot sun. Its integrated bug mesh in the front vents keeps bugs away so that your kids can enjoy a smooth riding experience.

The helmet is also available in seven fun and vibrant colors. So choose your kids’ favorite color and let them enjoy a safe, fun ride every time.

Specs

  • Weight: 8 ounces
  • Size: Extra small/small (47 to 52 centimeters), small/medium (52 to 56 centimeters)

Pros

  • Great quality
  • Good price
  • Available in two sizes
  • Adjustable fit dial and chin strap for a secure fit
  • Pinch guard on the chin strap to prevent chafing
  • Built-in visor for protection from head injuries and the sun
  • Excellent ventilation
  • Integrated bug mesh in the front vents to keep bugs away
  • Lightweight
  • Multipurpose
  • Comes in 7 fun colors

Cons

  • Not very durable and long-lasting
  • Small visor
  • May be small for 2-year-olds and older kids with big heads

Alternative: Ouwoer Kids Multi-Sport Helmet

Alternative: Ouwoer Kids Multi-Sport Helmet

If you need a helmet for toddlers that can be used for different kinds of sports and outdoor activities, check this one out.

This multipurpose helmet is suitable for cycling, scooter riding, roller skating, skateboarding, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

It complies with the safety standards of the CPSC and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International). Its ABS shell provides good impact resistance, and its high-quality EPS foam adequately absorbs shock.

The helmet comes in three sizes, suitable for multiple age groups and head sizes. It is also fully adjustable and provides a comfortable fit from all sides.

There is a crank adjustment dial in its rear, along with two sets of removable velcro inner pads with varying thicknesses, and soft, adjustable chin straps. Your toddler can use one helmet for many years.

The removable pads make the helmet easy to clean and prevent odor, dust, and bacteria from accumulating. They also absorb shock and sweat.

Along with the 11 top and side vents, they help keep your child cool and comfortable even when biking on hot days.

The strap buckle is easy to release and fasten.

Overall, this helmet is an excellent option considering its affordable price.

Specs

  • Material: ABS outer shell and EPS foam inner shell
  • Weight: 12 ounces
  • Size: Small (48 to 54 centimeters), medium (54 to 57 centimeters), large (57 to 61 centimeters)

Pros

  • Good build quality
  • Resists impact
  • Attractive design
  • Multipurpose
  • Comes with an easy-to-use safety buckle for added protection
  • Adjustable
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Affordable
  • Easy to clean
  • Available in three sizes and different colors

Cons

  • May have issues with fit

Alternative: Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet

Alternative: Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet

If you’re looking for a cool and quirky bike helmet that will delight your toddler, these helmets, with their cute and playful 3D designs, certainly fit the bill!

Young children will love these helmets that come in the shape of a puppy, unicorn, teddy bear, a fireman’s helmet, or even a police hat.

Designed for toddlers aged 1 to 3, the Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet has a unique dial fit system with 360° adjustability. This helps it fit different head sizes and provide a good level of safety and comfort.

Moreover, the helmet complies with the US CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets. Its full coverage micro-shell and interior padding offer adequate safety and protection while riding.

Its built-in visor also protects against falls, injuries, and harsh sun rays.

The helmet’s unique design provides multiple airstream ventilation for much-needed airflow during summer rides.

Its plastic construction makes it lightweight and affordable.

All helmets come with a 1-year limited warranty that you can fall back on in case of manufacturing issues.

Specs

  • Material: Plastic
  • Weight: 295 grams
  • Size: 44 to 50 centimeters

Pros

  • Cute 3D designs, including a panda, dog, unicorn, fireman, teddy bear, and more
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to adjust and provides an excellent fit
  • Vented design for better airflow
  • Equipped with a built-in visor
  • Low price point
  • Comes with a 1-year limited warranty

Cons

  • No safety buckles
  • May have sizing issues

Best Toddler Helmet FAQs

Should a 2-year-old wear a helmet?

Should a 2-year-old wear a helmet?

Every time your kids ride a bike, trike, scooter, or wagon, or go skateboarding, longboarding, roller skating, pogoing, or even travel with you in a trailer, it is best to put a helmet on on them.

No matter their age, they should wear head protection when they are in an open-air moving object or vehicle.

In fact, the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends kids older than one-year-old to wear a bike helmet as they have enough neck strength to support the weight of a helmet.

If you feel that your two-year-old’s neck may still be too delicate to support a hard shell helmet, get a soft shell, lightweight helmet instead.

Teach your children the “no helmet, no ride” rule on the very first day you take them out for a ride on a toddler wagon or a tiny trike. When they learn this rule early on, they will follow it even when he or she is older.

Instill in them the idea that bike helmets are not just cute accessories. They are crucial tools that will significantly reduce damage in the event of a fall, keeping them safe at all times.

What size helmet does a 2-year-old need?

The average helmet size for a two-year-old is around 48 to 50 centimeters. But your toddler may have a bigger or smaller head, so it is best to measure its circumference to determine the exact helmet size he or she needs.

Simply take a measuring tape and wrap it around your child’s head about an inch above their eyebrows. This basic measurement will tell you what size you need to buy.

Bike helmet listings often include size ranges, so parents can easily find the right fit for their children. The toddler helmets on our list come with adjustable straps to ensure that they sit snugly on kids’ heads. 

How do you choose a helmet for a toddler?

How do you choose a helmet for a toddler?

When shopping for a helmet for your toddler, consider the following:

Size

All bike helmets manufactured in the United States must comply with CPSC bike helmet standards, so you do not need to be worried about safety issues.

You must make sure that the helmet fits your kid’s head properly, or else it won’t be able to fully protect them in the event of a fall.

The CPSC states that the helmet should have a secure and comfortable fit. It should not shift or move in any direction while riding. It should sit level on the head, and the chin straps must be fastened properly so that it doesn’t slide off on impact.

To ensure a secure and snug fit, do a helmet fit test. The 2-V-1 method is one of the best ways to do so. Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Put the helmet on your child. The helmet’s rim should cover the top of the forehead and rest about two finger-widths above the eyebrows. It should sit level at the front and rear and should not be slung or tilted back. Tilting it at one angle will expose the forehead and leave it vulnerable to injuries.
  • The helmet’s straps should form a V-shape just below the ears when buckled. The strap buckles must fit right under the ear and be snug and comfortable.
  • You should be able to fit one finger between your kid’s chin and the chin straps. It should not move around more than an inch in any direction, but your child should be able to open his or her mouth, drink, or talk while wearing the helmet. If the helmet does not hug the head when your child opens their mouth, tighten the straps further and ensure the strap buckle lies flat against their skin.

Activity

The helmet you buy should be designed for the purpose it will be used for. For example, you need to get a bike helmet for cycling.

But if you plan to use it for other sports and high-intensity outdoor activities like scooter riding, roller skating, skateboarding, pogoing, and so on, get a multi-use helmet.

Such helmets are designed for different activities and can withstand the impact of collision better than a regular bike helmet.

Fortunately, many of the bike helmets mentioned on this list are multipurpose, so your adventurous toddler will be protected no matter what he or she chooses to do.

Helmet Shell Type

The type of helmet shell also matters when providing safety for your child. There are three types that you can choose from: in-mold, hardshell, and soft shell helmets.

  • In-mold Helmet: The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute (BHSI) states that this type of helmet’s outer shell is bonded to the inner foam layer by putting foam beads and the inner shell together. A polycarbonate outer shell is bonded to an inner layer of shock-absorbing EPS foam, making one piece. Many high-end helmets often feature these shell designs as they offer a superior level of safety and a good amount of ventilation. However, they are also usually bulkier and a bit costlier than other designs. 
  • Hardshell Helmet: The outer surface of a hardshell helmet is often made of durable hard plastic, fiberglass, or other sturdy materials. This helmet style disperses the force of the impact in the event of a fall or collision. This type of shell is made by casting the EPS foam separately from the outer shell. The two parts are laminated together to form a single piece. Hardshell helmets are usually affordable, but they may wear down a bit more quickly than in-mold helmets—the two layers can separate over time.
  • SoftShell Helmet: Softshell helmets are made with a thick layer of polystyrene covered with a cloth or surface coating. The cover is key to soft shell construction and must be worn to keep the helmet together. Softshell helmets are usually more lightweight than the other shell types, and they are not as durable.

How fast do toddler heads grow?

Toddler growth rates are very different, and they depend largely on their age group, genetics, environment, and many other factors. While there are average head sizes at each age, your toddler may have a smaller or bigger one at any point in time.

On average, kids’ heads grow by 1 centimeter per month during their first year of life.

By the time they are two years old, the growth of their head circumference will begin to slow—a meager 3.5 centimeters over the next two years.

So when you buy a bike helmet for your two-year-old, you will not need to replace it for a few years.

Conclusion

A well-designed bike helmet that offers superior protection is a must-have whenever your kid goes out for a ride.

It should also look attractive so that your little ones feel motivated to wear it on their own without you having to lecture them on the importance of a bike helmet.

Our list of bike helmet options will help you find the best toddler helmet that your kid will love and proudly flaunt on every ride—even during other sports and outdoor activities!

You can just sit back and relax while they explore the world around them.

If you liked this article and found it helpful, check out our website for more such guides and blog posts on biking. Happy reading and riding!

Resources:


Best Toddler Helmet 6

Matthew Carpenter

Matthew Carpenter began riding bicycles later in life than most, but when the wheels started turning, he took off and never looked back. Destined to find you the best way to use a leisurely, commuting, or athletic bicycle to better your lives and reduce your carbon footprint in the process, Matthew tears through popular bike brands, bike models, and reviews them all to give you the best bang for your buck. Getting a high-quality bicycle has more working gears to it than people think: Matthew has the scoop for you.

Last Updated on July 28, 2023 by Danijel Cakalic

About The Author

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Best Toddler Helmet

Best Toddler Helmet

Rank:

Photo:

Model:

Rating:

More Info:

#1

Best Toddler Helmet 7

BEST OVERALL

Radio Flyer Helmet

#2

Best Toddler Helmet 8

XJD Kids Bike Helmet

#3

Best Toddler Helmet 9

Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet

#4

Best Toddler Helmet 10

Ouwoer Kids Multi-Sport Helmet

#5

Best Toddler Helmet 11

Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet

Teaching your kids to ride a bike is one of the best ways to keep them healthy and fit from a young age. Once they’re steady on their wheels, they can have all the fun they want with their friends outdoors.

However, the benefits of cycling come with a few dangers, such as falls and injuries.

Just as adults need bike helmets to keep us safe, our kids, too, need high-quality, safety-rated well-fitting toddler bike helmets for protection while riding.

If you’re on the hunt for the best toddler helmet out there, we’ve rounded up a list of our favorites. This handy guide for toddler riding helmets will make it easier for you to find the best fit for your kid.

These toddler helmets are excellent when it comes to providing safety. They also look cool and stylish and will make your little one want to wear them all day long!

They can be used for other purposes, too, such as skateboarding, scooter riding, or if you’re traveling with your toddler in a trailer.

Read on to learn everything about our top five helmet picks, along with helpful helmet-buying tips and advice.

Best overall: Radio Flyer Helmet

Best overall: Radio Flyer Helmet

This is hands-down our number one for the best bike helmet for toddlers. First, it passes the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets with flying colors, so you can rest assured that it’s safe for kids.

Second of all, it comes from the house of Radio Flyer. Radio Flyer is a trusted brand in the kids’ toys space, and it is known for its top-rated scooters, bikes, trikes, wagons, and other ride-ons. This means you can be sure that their helmets are of excellent quality and build.

This helmet is made of durable acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic with a soft and comfortable expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam interior padding. The interior and the chin strap are adjustable, so you can easily loosen or tighten them for a snug, secure fit.

The helmet’s safety buckle keeps it in place so that it won’t shift or fall off while riding. And the beautiful, sleek, sturdy design that features a red exterior and two white stripes will make your kid fall in love with the helmet and wear it whenever he or she goes out riding.

These helmets were designed for toddlers aged 2 to 5, but they can also fit slightly older kids depending on their head size. This means your kid can wear this helmet for years before you need to replace it.

Specs

  • Material: ABS plastic outer shell and EPS foam inner shell
  • Weight: 1 pound
  • Size: 48 to 54 centimeters

Pros

  • Sturdy and durable
  • Stylish and sleek design
  • Comfortable, secure fit
  • Adjustable interior padding and chin strap
  • Easy-to-use safety buckle
  • Excellent value for money
  • One year warranty against manufacturing defects

Cons

  • The helmet must be removed to adjust the fit
  • It may be too big for some toddlers’ heads
  • Comes in only on size

Runner Up: XJD Kids Bike Helmet

Runner Up: XJD Kids Bike Helmet

Next on our list of the best toddler bike helmets is XJD’s kids’ bike helmet designed for 1 to 8-year-olds.

This helmet can be used when riding bikes, trikes, bike trailers, ride-on cars, and scooters. It can also be used for protection during rollerblading, roller skating, skateboarding, longboarding, pogoing, and other moving activities.

Its sturdy injection-molded outer shell and shock-absorbing EPS foam inner shell provide maximum impact resistance and protect your kid from falls and injuries. It has an extended visor for added protection against the sun’s harsh rays.

The comfortable, adjustable chin strap and fit dial ensure the helmet remains in place at all times. Its button closure is easy to undo and fasten. The helmet also has a soft velcro chin padding for extra comfort for your little one’s delicate chin.

The XJD Kids’ bike helmet also ranks high on style and comfort. It has a classy, lightweight design and comes in two sizes and five attractive colors.

It also comes with 14 air vents and an integrated bug mesh in the front vents to keep toddlers cool and sweat-free while riding.

The helmet has a detachable inner lining, making it easy to clean. You can remove the lining and wash it to eliminate sweat and odors that can accumulate after a long day under the sun.

Overall, the helmet’s clever mix of practical features makes it an excellent choice as a bike helmet for toddlers.

Specs

  • Material: ABS outer shell and EPS inner shell
  • Weight: 12 ounces
  • Size: Extra small (46 to 51 centimeters) and small (52 to 56 centimeters)

Pros

  • Multipurpose
  • Provides high impact resistance
  • Extended visor for added safety and sun protection
  • Strong and durable
  • Adjustable chin strap and fit dial for a snug fit
  • Soft chin padding for extra comfort
  • Provides maximum ventilation through special aerodynamic design
  • Lightweight
  • Comes with a safety buckle
  • Easy to clean
  • Excellent value for money
  • Available in two sizes and five colors

Cons

  • Easily scratched
  • It may be slightly large for 1-year-olds

Alternative: Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet

Alternative: Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet

Let us start by telling you that the Joovy Noodle Toddler Helmet may not last for as many years as the others on this list. It may break or crack on impact.

But it still meets the US CPSC safety standards and keeps your kid’s head protected in case of falls.

The helmet’s extended sun visor protects kids’ delicate eyes from the sun. It can also act as a shield for the forehead and face when your kid falls off his or her bike.

This helmet can be used for a range of outdoor activities like riding bikes, trikes, bike trailers, ride-on cars, scooters, roller skating, skateboarding, and so on.

The helmet is suitable for kids aged 1 to 9, and it can be easily adjusted as your kid grows with the help of the fit dial and chin strap. It also comes in two sizes that should fit most toddlers’ heads.

One unique feature of the chin strap is that it is equipped with a pinch guard. This prevents pinches and chafed skin on the chin and neck and provides enhanced comfort.

The helmet has 14 air vents with sweat-wicking pads that make it breathable and keep young ones’ heads cool even in the hot sun. Its integrated bug mesh in the front vents keeps bugs away so that your kids can enjoy a smooth riding experience.

The helmet is also available in seven fun and vibrant colors. So choose your kids’ favorite color and let them enjoy a safe, fun ride every time.

Specs

  • Weight: 8 ounces
  • Size: Extra small/small (47 to 52 centimeters), small/medium (52 to 56 centimeters)

Pros

  • Great quality
  • Good price
  • Available in two sizes
  • Adjustable fit dial and chin strap for a secure fit
  • Pinch guard on the chin strap to prevent chafing
  • Built-in visor for protection from head injuries and the sun
  • Excellent ventilation
  • Integrated bug mesh in the front vents to keep bugs away
  • Lightweight
  • Multipurpose
  • Comes in 7 fun colors

Cons

  • Not very durable and long-lasting
  • Small visor
  • May be small for 2-year-olds and older kids with big heads

Alternative: Ouwoer Kids Multi-Sport Helmet

Alternative: Ouwoer Kids Multi-Sport Helmet

If you need a helmet for toddlers that can be used for different kinds of sports and outdoor activities, check this one out.

This multipurpose helmet is suitable for cycling, scooter riding, roller skating, skateboarding, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

It complies with the safety standards of the CPSC and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International). Its ABS shell provides good impact resistance, and its high-quality EPS foam adequately absorbs shock.

The helmet comes in three sizes, suitable for multiple age groups and head sizes. It is also fully adjustable and provides a comfortable fit from all sides.

There is a crank adjustment dial in its rear, along with two sets of removable velcro inner pads with varying thicknesses, and soft, adjustable chin straps. Your toddler can use one helmet for many years.

The removable pads make the helmet easy to clean and prevent odor, dust, and bacteria from accumulating. They also absorb shock and sweat.

Along with the 11 top and side vents, they help keep your child cool and comfortable even when biking on hot days.

The strap buckle is easy to release and fasten.

Overall, this helmet is an excellent option considering its affordable price.

Specs

  • Material: ABS outer shell and EPS foam inner shell
  • Weight: 12 ounces
  • Size: Small (48 to 54 centimeters), medium (54 to 57 centimeters), large (57 to 61 centimeters)

Pros

  • Good build quality
  • Resists impact
  • Attractive design
  • Multipurpose
  • Comes with an easy-to-use safety buckle for added protection
  • Adjustable
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Affordable
  • Easy to clean
  • Available in three sizes and different colors

Cons

  • May have issues with fit

Alternative: Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet

Alternative: Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet

If you’re looking for a cool and quirky bike helmet that will delight your toddler, these helmets, with their cute and playful 3D designs, certainly fit the bill!

Young children will love these helmets that come in the shape of a puppy, unicorn, teddy bear, a fireman’s helmet, or even a police hat.

Designed for toddlers aged 1 to 3, the Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet has a unique dial fit system with 360° adjustability. This helps it fit different head sizes and provide a good level of safety and comfort.

Moreover, the helmet complies with the US CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets. Its full coverage micro-shell and interior padding offer adequate safety and protection while riding.

Its built-in visor also protects against falls, injuries, and harsh sun rays.

The helmet’s unique design provides multiple airstream ventilation for much-needed airflow during summer rides.

Its plastic construction makes it lightweight and affordable.

All helmets come with a 1-year limited warranty that you can fall back on in case of manufacturing issues.

Specs

  • Material: Plastic
  • Weight: 295 grams
  • Size: 44 to 50 centimeters

Pros

  • Cute 3D designs, including a panda, dog, unicorn, fireman, teddy bear, and more
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to adjust and provides an excellent fit
  • Vented design for better airflow
  • Equipped with a built-in visor
  • Low price point
  • Comes with a 1-year limited warranty

Cons

  • No safety buckles
  • May have sizing issues

Best Toddler Helmet FAQs

Should a 2-year-old wear a helmet?

Should a 2-year-old wear a helmet?

Every time your kids ride a bike, trike, scooter, or wagon, or go skateboarding, longboarding, roller skating, pogoing, or even travel with you in a trailer, it is best to put a helmet on on them.

No matter their age, they should wear head protection when they are in an open-air moving object or vehicle.

In fact, the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends kids older than one-year-old to wear a bike helmet as they have enough neck strength to support the weight of a helmet.

If you feel that your two-year-old’s neck may still be too delicate to support a hard shell helmet, get a soft shell, lightweight helmet instead.

Teach your children the “no helmet, no ride” rule on the very first day you take them out for a ride on a toddler wagon or a tiny trike. When they learn this rule early on, they will follow it even when he or she is older.

Instill in them the idea that bike helmets are not just cute accessories. They are crucial tools that will significantly reduce damage in the event of a fall, keeping them safe at all times.

What size helmet does a 2-year-old need?

The average helmet size for a two-year-old is around 48 to 50 centimeters. But your toddler may have a bigger or smaller head, so it is best to measure its circumference to determine the exact helmet size he or she needs.

Simply take a measuring tape and wrap it around your child’s head about an inch above their eyebrows. This basic measurement will tell you what size you need to buy.

Bike helmet listings often include size ranges, so parents can easily find the right fit for their children. The toddler helmets on our list come with adjustable straps to ensure that they sit snugly on kids’ heads. 

How do you choose a helmet for a toddler?

How do you choose a helmet for a toddler?

When shopping for a helmet for your toddler, consider the following:

Size

All bike helmets manufactured in the United States must comply with CPSC bike helmet standards, so you do not need to be worried about safety issues.

You must make sure that the helmet fits your kid’s head properly, or else it won’t be able to fully protect them in the event of a fall.

The CPSC states that the helmet should have a secure and comfortable fit. It should not shift or move in any direction while riding. It should sit level on the head, and the chin straps must be fastened properly so that it doesn’t slide off on impact.

To ensure a secure and snug fit, do a helmet fit test. The 2-V-1 method is one of the best ways to do so. Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Put the helmet on your child. The helmet’s rim should cover the top of the forehead and rest about two finger-widths above the eyebrows. It should sit level at the front and rear and should not be slung or tilted back. Tilting it at one angle will expose the forehead and leave it vulnerable to injuries.
  • The helmet’s straps should form a V-shape just below the ears when buckled. The strap buckles must fit right under the ear and be snug and comfortable.
  • You should be able to fit one finger between your kid’s chin and the chin straps. It should not move around more than an inch in any direction, but your child should be able to open his or her mouth, drink, or talk while wearing the helmet. If the helmet does not hug the head when your child opens their mouth, tighten the straps further and ensure the strap buckle lies flat against their skin.

Activity

The helmet you buy should be designed for the purpose it will be used for. For example, you need to get a bike helmet for cycling.

But if you plan to use it for other sports and high-intensity outdoor activities like scooter riding, roller skating, skateboarding, pogoing, and so on, get a multi-use helmet.

Such helmets are designed for different activities and can withstand the impact of collision better than a regular bike helmet.

Fortunately, many of the bike helmets mentioned on this list are multipurpose, so your adventurous toddler will be protected no matter what he or she chooses to do.

Helmet Shell Type

The type of helmet shell also matters when providing safety for your child. There are three types that you can choose from: in-mold, hardshell, and soft shell helmets.

  • In-mold Helmet: The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute (BHSI) states that this type of helmet’s outer shell is bonded to the inner foam layer by putting foam beads and the inner shell together. A polycarbonate outer shell is bonded to an inner layer of shock-absorbing EPS foam, making one piece. Many high-end helmets often feature these shell designs as they offer a superior level of safety and a good amount of ventilation. However, they are also usually bulkier and a bit costlier than other designs. 
  • Hardshell Helmet: The outer surface of a hardshell helmet is often made of durable hard plastic, fiberglass, or other sturdy materials. This helmet style disperses the force of the impact in the event of a fall or collision. This type of shell is made by casting the EPS foam separately from the outer shell. The two parts are laminated together to form a single piece. Hardshell helmets are usually affordable, but they may wear down a bit more quickly than in-mold helmets—the two layers can separate over time.
  • SoftShell Helmet: Softshell helmets are made with a thick layer of polystyrene covered with a cloth or surface coating. The cover is key to soft shell construction and must be worn to keep the helmet together. Softshell helmets are usually more lightweight than the other shell types, and they are not as durable.

How fast do toddler heads grow?

Toddler growth rates are very different, and they depend largely on their age group, genetics, environment, and many other factors. While there are average head sizes at each age, your toddler may have a smaller or bigger one at any point in time.

On average, kids’ heads grow by 1 centimeter per month during their first year of life.

By the time they are two years old, the growth of their head circumference will begin to slow—a meager 3.5 centimeters over the next two years.

So when you buy a bike helmet for your two-year-old, you will not need to replace it for a few years.

Conclusion

A well-designed bike helmet that offers superior protection is a must-have whenever your kid goes out for a ride.

It should also look attractive so that your little ones feel motivated to wear it on their own without you having to lecture them on the importance of a bike helmet.

Our list of bike helmet options will help you find the best toddler helmet that your kid will love and proudly flaunt on every ride—even during other sports and outdoor activities!

You can just sit back and relax while they explore the world around them.

If you liked this article and found it helpful, check out our website for more such guides and blog posts on biking. Happy reading and riding!

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Best Toddler Helmet 12

Matthew Carpenter

Matthew Carpenter began riding bicycles later in life than most, but when the wheels started turning, he took off and never looked back. Destined to find you the best way to use a leisurely, commuting, or athletic bicycle to better your lives and reduce your carbon footprint in the process, Matthew tears through popular bike brands, bike models, and reviews them all to give you the best bang for your buck. Getting a high-quality bicycle has more working gears to it than people think: Matthew has the scoop for you.

Last Updated on July 27, 2023 by Danijel Cakalic

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