The 10 Best Bicycle Helmets For Urban Commuters

Helmets suck. They mess up your totally cool hairdo, add a little bit of extra weight to your ride, and totally take away the fun of just barrelling down the street on your bicycle like you're a kid racing around the cul-de-sac again. But they do have that whole life-saving function, so that's kind of rad.

Given that more people are getting to work with a little fun between their legs, protecting your neck (and the cabeza above it) has never been more important, because the only thing worse than showing up late for work is showing up dead. Thankfully, there are a lot of helmets out there with innovative designs that make them kinda stylish, or low-key, classic looks that any guy can rock without looking like he's one LIVESTRONG bracelet short of a Lance Armstrong. Here are The 10 Best Bicycle Helmets For Urban Commuters.

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Bell Faction helmets are pretty much the Levi's 501s of bike helmets. They're classically stylish, reliable, and haven't changed much over the years. Some people might have qualms about the obvious branding on the front, but they're affordable, reliable, and easily replaceable.

Buy It Now at Ted's Bell Store, $40

Specialized's take on the skate-style helmet combines a slim profile with a no-nonsense buckle and ventilation at the top, back, and front. It comes in a variety of solid matte colors like black, red, and gray. Its subtle style means you won't look like you're training for the Tour de France once you arrive in the office.

Buy It Now at Specialized, $40

Sure, the Lazer Armor helmet comes in subtler colors like matte black, but come on, how does this design and color not remind you of TRON? And who hasn't imagined themselves on a lightcycle while weaving through traffic? Sure, your bike might not leave a translucent neon wall of death in its wake, but at least with this thing strapped on, you can feel like you're fighting for the users.

Buy It Now at Bikeman, $64

Pro-Tec's Riot Street helmet combines tactical looks with practical protection. It definitely screams more "S.W.A.T. Team" than "skate rat," and its murdered-out color with a subtle visor results in a smooth silhouette that won't cramp your style.

Buy It Now at The-House, $90

Did you grow up liking The Specials wishing you could ride around the city on a scooter in your slimmest suit? Opt for this checkerboard patterned helmet from Nutcase and channel Mod style. Exercise extreme caution when attempting to do a faux British accent.

Buy It Now at R.E.I., $60

Combining elements from the worlds of racing, cycling, and luxury, Kask's lifestyle helmet is an example of functional elegance. Crafted in Italy, these helmets feature an optional flip-down visor, giving these a futuristic feel. It'll also make you look like a modern day superhero.

Buy It Now at Kask, $250

By itself, Yakkay's slim, simple helmets are sleek enough to not make you look like a dork. Super light with six vents, it'll also keep your cool. If you want to add to your cool, though, just get one of their breathable helmet covers, like the Milano, which is meant to look like an old-school Italian cycling cap.

Buy It Now at Yakkay, $161

Japanese-born designer Sawaka Furuno makes helmets for the ladies, and they only come in one size. If you're a guy with a smaller head, though, it might work. This wild helmet is covered with a patent leather leopard print, which makes it friendly to the streets and streetwear. Whether you wanna try it for yourself, or surprise your girl with a thoughtful gift, you better act fast. It's limited-edition like most of her pieces, so once it's gone, it's gone.

Buy It Now at Cycle Fashion UK, $136

Inspired by old school British style, this Casco Champ helmet wouldn't look out of place at a fox hunt. It also looks pretty dapper when paired with a well-cut suit. When paired with an equally elegant bike, people will know you mean business and aren't just out for a joyride.

Buy It Now at 50 Cycles, $218

Bern is known for its discreet helmet styles like the Macon, Baker, and Watts. They've reinterpreted them into a durable, classy carbon fiber silhouette. Yes, that makes them considerably pricier, but all the more luxurious. When the lightest material you can ride on is combined with technology and design made to keep you safe, it's a winning combination. The stylish design is just the icing on the life-saving cake.

Buy It Now at Bern, $200