2016 Holiday Gift Guide

Helmets have changed a lot in the last couple years, adding a range of usable features that ramp up safety to a new level. Here are the Mtbr favorites for this holiday season.

Bell Super 3R MIPS

The new 3R has improved fit to create more room around the temples and it has added a Float Fit retention system that incorporates MIPS slip plane technology. There are 23 vents, plus an additional 6 in the chinbar. Safety certification is for standard bicycle use, not DH. There are six color options and sizes S, M, L to ensure plenty of choices. Price: $230 | More info at www.bellhelmets.com

6D ATB-1T Helmet

6D ATB-1T Helmet

Helmet maker 6D is a company with motocross background using new science and manufacturing to cushion our heads against even soft blows. They float the helmet with a ODSTM layer that can take three dimensions of impact, forward/backward, left/right, and up/down. That initial blow is absorbed by the suspension layer so the head is buffered from the entire force of the impact. Price: $269 | More info at www.6dhelmets.com

Giro Montaro

Giro Montaro

This year, Giro introduced the Montaro helmet for men and Montara for women to fill out their helmet line with a high-end offering. Giro sought to deliver the best qualities for trail and all mountain riding with a multitude of features such as MIPS, improved ventilation, enhanced moisture absorption, and seamless goggle compatibility. It has been one of our favorite helmets with outstanding fit, looks, and performance. Price: $150 | More info at www.giro.com

Smith Forefront

Smith Forefront MIPS

The Smith helmet merges two of the most advanced helmet safety innovations today, Koroyd impact materials and MIPS anti-rotation system. A unique look, a staggering selection of colors, and first-rate construction finish off this premier safety product. Price: $250 | More info at www.smithoptics.com

Leatt

Leatt DBX 6.0

Leatt revolutionized neck protection in mountain biking. Now they're seeking to do the same with helmets. Starting with full-face helmets, they've incorporated Armourgel turbine units to decrease the rotational force and impact force to the head. Price: $499 | More info at www.leatt.com

Kali Interceptor

Kali Interceptor

Kali has always had great protection technology with their advanced EPS foam technology. But with the Interceptor, they put it all together with full coverage, great fit and ventilation, and dashing good looks. The addition of low density layer strips in key contact zones reduce the shock transferred to the head. Price: $180 | More info at kaliprotectives.com

This article is part of Mtbr's 2016 Holiday Gift Guide. For more gift ideas and holiday guides, CLICK HERE.