At the most basic level, mountain bike helmets are comprised of two parts: an inner foam layer (usually EPS foam) and an outer polycarbonate shell. Combined, these layers provide a protective layer that takes the brunt of an impact.

Our mountain bike helmet review team consists of Jeremy Benson and Zach Wick. Jeremy is our Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor and a gravel and mountain bike racer who has been riding for three decades and has seen the progression of helmet technology over that time.

MET’s Roam might be a more obscure choice than the popular options from Giro, Troy Lee, or POC. But this is a great trail helmet that’s competitive with the best in the category. This well-made helmet has a well-integrated MIPS liner, and slightly extended coverage at the temples and down the back of the head.

The most durable road helmets have a protective polycarbonate shell that extends down around the base of the foam liner, leaving very little of the liner exposed. Helmets with this type of full-wrap shell tend to get banged up less during everyday use. However, many helmet manufacturers choose weight savings over enhanced shell coverage.