Bicycle Helmets for Big Heads: 12 Certified XL Picks
Bicycle helmets for big heads are XL and XXL models built for head circumferences above 61cm. Standard adult bike helmets typically max out at 58 to 61cm. Brands like Giro, Smith, Trek, and Lazer offer certified options up to 65/66cm (~ 25-26 inches).
Size measurements vary between brands, so a ‘Large’ from one manufacturer can differ considerably from another. Head shape also matters, since round and oval heads need different helmet shell profiles. And, be sure to look for helmets meeting CPSC or EN 1078 safety standards regardless of size.
Rotational impact technologies such as MIPS, WaveCel and KinetiCore are also available in several XL helmets. These systems are designed to manage certain forces during an impact, but correct helmet fit remains one of the most important considerations when choosing a bike helmet.
P2R A20 MIPS
- Up to 64cm (25.2″)
- 5 Star Virg. Tech Rating
- CPSC, CE & GB Certified
- MIPS
Lumos Ultra Smart
- Up to 65cm (25.6″)
- 2 Star Virg. Tech Rating
- CPSC & CE EN 1078 Certified
- MIPS
TREK Starvos Wavecel
- Up to 66cm (26″)
- CPSC & CE EN 1078 Certified
- Wavecel
- Crash Replacement Guarantee
- Headmaster fit system
Lazer Coyote Kineticore
- Up to 64cm (25.2″)
- 4 Star Virg. Tech Rating
- CPSC & CE EN 1078 Certified
- Kineticore
Trek Quantum Wavecel
- Up to 66cm (26″)
- 4 Star Virg. Tech Rating
- CPSC & CE Certified
- Crash Replacement Guarantee
Smith Optics Signal MIPS
- Up to 65cm (25.6″)
- 3 Star Virg. Tech Rating
- CPSC, EN 1078 & AS/NZS Certified
- MIPS + Koroyd
Lazer Tonic Kineticore
- Up to 64cm (25.2″)
- 3 Star Virg. Tech Rating
- CPSC & EN Certified
- Kineticore
Smith Optics Pilot MIPS
- Up to 65cm (25.6″)
- 3 Star Virg. Tech Rating
- CPSC, EN 1078 & AS/NZS Certified
- MIPS
Smith Optics Transit MIPS
- Up to 65cm (25.6″)
- CPSC, EN 1078 & AS/NZS Certified
- MIPS
- 18 Vents
Giro Register MIPS II
- Up to 65cm (25.6″)
- CPSC & CE EN 1078 Certified
- MIPS Evolve Core
- 19 Vents
- Dedicated XL Shell
Giro Artex MIPS
- Up to 65cm (25.6″)
- CPSC & CE EN 1078 Certified
- MIPS
- Roc Loc 5 Air MIPS Fit
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Disclosure Statement.
Before you start looking for an oversized helmet to fit your head, please be sure about your head size. See our article ‘How To Know Your Helmet Size’ to learn more about getting the correct size for your head. Or, better still, scroll down and watch our video How To Measure For A Bike Helmet.
VIDEO: How To Measure For A Bike Helmet
A properly fitted helmet is the most important aspect of head safety. A helmet that is too loose or too tight will not be comfortable and may not protect your head adequately if you have an accident.
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Best XXL Bicycle Helmets for Big Heads
P2R A20 MIPS Bike Helmet
Best For: Big-headed riders who want 5-star Virginia Tech safety with MIPS at a budget price, in sizes up to 64 cm (25.2).
The P2R A20 stands out as a strong value option, earning a 5-star Virginia Tech rating with a STAR score of 8.14. That places it among the top-performing helmets in Virginia Tech’s testing, despite costing around $60. Its XL size fits heads up to 64 cm (25.2 inches), making it a useful option for larger-headed riders looking for a MIPS-equipped helmet.
It uses an in-mold polycarbonate shell with an EPS liner and weighs about 230g in size Medium. A 360-degree rear dial, adjustable strap dividers, and removable padding help fine-tune the fit. A USB-rechargeable magnetic rear LED light with three modes is also included.
The main trade-off is that P2R is a lesser-known brand with more limited retail availability than larger manufacturers. Even so, the combination of independent test performance, larger sizing, useful features, and low price makes the A20 a compelling choice.
Pros
- 5-Star Virginia Tech rating at a budget price
- XL size fits up to 64cm (25.2 in)
- MIPS rotational impact protection
- USB-rechargeable magnetic rear LED light
- Lightweight at 230g (Size M) with 23 vents
Cons
- Newer brand with limited retail and color availabilty
- Standard polycarbonate shell, not premium composite
- Road-oriented design may not suit all riding styles
Pick up the P2R A20 MIPS Bike Helmet from one of these vendors.
Lumos Ultra Smart Bike Helmet
Best For: Big-headed commuters who ride in low-light conditions and want integrated 360° LED lighting, turn signals, and brake lights built into a MIPS helmet.
The Lumos Ultra is a smart commuter helmet with built-in 360° LED lighting visible from up to 1,475 feet. It uses 30 white front LEDs and 64 red/orange rear LEDs, plus app-controlled turn signals and automatic brake lights. Signals can be activated with the included handlebar remote or an Apple Watch. The XL fits heads up to 65 cm (25.6 in) and includes MIPS.
It is IPX6 waterproof, USB-C rechargeable, and provides around 4–10 hours of battery life depending on settings. The Lumos app handles light customization and battery monitoring, while Strava integration and Team Sync add extra connectivity.
The trade-offs are weight and ventilation. At 450 g in XL, it is heavy, and nine vents provide less airflow than most road helmets. It also has a 2-star Virginia Tech rating. For commuters riding in traffic or low light, however, the integrated lighting is its strongest feature.
Pros
- XL fits up to 65 cm (25.6 in) with MIPS included
- Integrated 360° LEDs visible up to 1,475 ft
- Turn signals and automatic brake lights
- IPX6 waterproof with USB-C charging
- All 4 colors available in XL
Cons
- Heaviest in this roundup at 450 g (XL MIPS)
- Only 9 vents — limited airflow for warm weather
Pick up the Lumos Ultra Smart Bike Helmet from one of these vendors.
Trek Starvos WaveCel Cycling Helmet
Best For: Big-headed riders who need a true XL fit up to 66cm (26 in) with WaveCel rotational impact protection from a major brand.
The Trek Starvos WaveCel offers the largest XL fit in this roundup, accommodating heads up to 66cm (26 inches). That is about 2cm more than many competing XL helmets, making it a useful option for riders who struggle with standard sizing. Its WaveCel cellular liner is designed to flex, crumple, and move during an impact to help manage linear and rotational forces.
The in-mold construction also provides extended rear coverage for road, commuting, and light trail use. The Headmaster fit system adjusts height and circumference with one hand, while LockDown strap dividers help keep the straps positioned correctly. Trek also provides a Crash Replacement Guarantee during the first year.
A Round Fit version is available for rounder head shapes, but only up to 61cm (24 inches). At around $115, it costs more than budget MIPS helmets, but the extra sizing range and strong brand support make it a solid choice for larger heads.
Pros
- XL fits up to 66cm (26 inch)
- WaveCel rotational impact protection
- Free Crash Replacement Guarantee in first year
- Round Fit version available (up to 61cm)
Cons
- Not in the latest Virginia Tech ratings
- WaveCel liner adds weight vs standard EPS helmets
- Higher price at $115 than budget MIPS options
Pick up the Trek Starvos WaveCel Cycling Helmet from one of these vendors.
Lazer Coyote KinetiCore Bike Helmet
Best For: Big-headed trail riders who want solid KinetiCore protection with a magnetic buckle and goggle-compatible visor.
The Lazer Coyote KinetiCore is a trail focused helmet that uses KinetiCore instead of MIPS. The technology builds controlled crumple zones into the EPS foam to help manage direct and rotational impact forces without a separate slip-plane liner. This also helps reduce weight and improve airflow through the helmet’s 21 vents. It holds a 4-Star Virginia Tech rating, while Consumer Reports rates its impact absorption as Excellent.
The XL fits heads from 61-64 cm, and the TurnSys system adjusts both height and circumference. A magnetic buckle is easy to operate with one hand, while the three position visor works with goggles or can be moved out of the way.
Optional accessories include an LED light mount and Winter Kit liner. At around $120, it offers strong trail features, although XL color choices are limited and the exposed KinetiCore foam can be damaged by rough handling.
Pros
- 4-Star Virginia Tech rating with KinetiCore protection
- XL fits up to 64cm (25.2 in)
- Magnetic buckle for easy one-hand, gloves-on use
- Adjustable 3-position visor with goggle compatibility
- Optional LED light mount and Winter Kit accessories
Cons
- XL only available in Matte Black and White
- KinetiCore crumple zones can be fragile with rough handling
- Trail/MTB profile may look bulky for road cyclists
Pick up the Lazer Coyote KinetiCore Bike Helmet from one of these vendors.
Trek Quantum WaveCel MTB Helmet
Best For: Big-headed riders who want an XL MTB helmet up to 66cm (26 in) with next-gen WaveCel, extended rear coverage, and built-in sunglasses storage.
The Trek Quantum WaveCel is a redesigned MTB helmet using Trek’s latest WaveCel liner, with 10% larger cells intended to improve airflow and reduce weight. The XL fits heads up to 66 cm (26 inches), tying it for the largest size in this roundup. Extended rear coverage also provides more protection around the back of the head than a typical road helmet.
The Headmaster III system adjusts height and circumference with one hand, while lay-flat camlock straps help reduce twisting. A three position visor and dedicated sunglasses storage add useful trail features. Overall, its ease of use, fit adjustment and impact absorption make it an excellent choice.
Trek also includes its Crash Replacement Guarantee for the first year. At around $135, it sits between budget and premium MTB helmets, offering good features without the BOA fit system or Blendr mounts found on Trek’s higher priced Rally.
Pros
- 4-Star Virginia Tech rating
- XL size fits up to 66cm (26 inch)
- Updated WaveCel with 10% larger cells for better airflow
- Lightweight at 330g (M)
- Free Crash Replacement Guarantee in first year
Cons
- Standard buckle (not magnetic like some competitors
- No Blendr mount or goggle strap gripper
Pick up the Trek Quantum WaveCel MTB Helmet from one of these vendors.
Smith Signal MIPS Adult Bike Helmet
Best For: Big-headed riders who want a lightweight road/commuter helmet with MIPS, Koroyd, and seamless glasses integration to match their Smith Optics sunnies.
The Smith Signal MIPS combines MIPS with Zonal Koroyd, giving it two different impact management technologies in a road and commuter helmet weighing about 300g in the Medium size. The XL fits heads up to 65cm (25.6 inches), while the VaporFit system provides 270 degree adjustment and allows the cradle position to be fine tuned for different head shapes.
Smith’s AirEvac ventilation system is designed to work with Smith eyewear by directing airflow around the lenses to help reduce fogging. Built-in eyewear channels also provide convenient sunglasses storage.
The Signal carries CPSC, CE EN 1078, and AS/NZ certification, giving it broad international coverage. At around $95, it is competitively priced for a MIPS and Koroyd helmet. It currently holds a 3-Star Virginia Tech rating, yet XL color choices are limited.
Pros
- XL fits up to 65cm (25.6 in)
- Dual protection MIPS + Koroyd
- Lightweight at 300g (M) with 21 vents
- AirEvac ventilation
- Triple certified: CPSC, CE EN1078, AS/NZS
Cons
- 3-star Virginia Tech rating
- Limited XL color options
- Road/commuter style – no visor or extended rear coverage
Pick up the Smith Signal MIPS Adult Bike Helmet from one of these vendors.
Lazer Tonic KinetiCore Bike Helmet
Best For: Budget-conscious big-headed riders who want an ultralight road helmet with KinetiCore protection and don’t need trail-specific features.
The Lazer Tonic KinetiCore is one of the lightest and most affordable helmets in this roundup. It weighs about 240g in size Medium and has an MSRP of around $80. Like the Coyote it uses Lazer’s KinetiCore crumple zones built directly into the EPS foam, avoiding a separate MIPS liner and helping keep weight down while allowing airflow through 28 vents. Its XL fits heads from 61-64cm (25.2 inches).
The TurnSys system adjusts both height and circumference, while built-in eyewear docking ports provide a convenient place to store sunglasses. It is also compatible with Lazer’s optional Universal LED light and Winter Kit liner.
The trade-offs are a 3-Star Virginia Tech rating, an exposed EPS rim that can pick up surface damage, and a standard buckle rather than a magnetic one. For riders focused on low weight and value, it remains a strong option.
Pros
- Ultralight at 240g (M)
- Budget-friendly at $80 MSRP
- XL fits up to 64cm (25.2 inch)
- 28 vents for excellent airflow
- KinetiCore rotational protection built in
Cons
- 3-star Virginia Tech rating
- Exposed EPS rim prone to surface damage
- Standard quick-snap buckle (not magnetic)
Pick up the Lazer Tonic KinetiCore Bike Helmet from one of these vendors.
Giro Syntax MIPS Bike Helmet
Best For: Big-headed riders who want a slim, low-profile road helmet with MIPS, excellent ventilation, and a Giro pedigree at a reasonable price point.
The Giro Syntax MIPS is a road bike helmet with a slim profile that avoids the bulky look sometimes seen in larger sizes. Its XL fits heads up to 65cm (25.6 inches). The Roc Loc 5 Air MIPS system holds the helmet slightly away from the head, creating space for airflow, while 25 vents and internal channels help move heat out.
MIPS is integrated into the Roc Loc 5 Air cradle, which helps keep the helmet profile relatively low. IONIC+ padding uses silver-infused fibers to help control odor, which is useful for commuters and frequent riders.
At around $160, it is one of the more expensive options in this roundup. Some may call the 3-Star Virginia Tech rating a drawback, but it’s still better than a 2 or 1 Star rating, so I wouldn’t be too quick to write it off. The fit can run large, so some riders may need to consider sizing down.
Pros
- XL fits up to 65cm (25.6 in)
- MIPS with Roc Loc 5 Air for ventilation and adjustability
- Slim, low-profile design
- Excellent ventilation with 23 vents
- IONIC+ anti-odor padding
Cons
- 3-star Virginia Tech rating
- Sizing can run large
- No visor or extended trail coverage
Pick up the Giro Syntax MIPS Bike Helmet from one of these vendors.
Smith Pilot MIPS MTB Helmet
Best For: Big-headed trail riders who want a no-fuss Smith MTB helmet with MIPS, a removable visor, and eyewear integration under $100.
The Smith Pilot MIPS is Smith’s most affordable mountain bike helmet, priced at around $95. Its XL fits heads up to 65cm (25.6 inches), while the in-mold polycarbonate shell and EPS liner keep weight to about 370g. The MIPS system is designed to help manage rotational motion during an impact, and Smith’s AirEvac channels work with compatible eyewear to help reduce fogging. Front vent pads also provide a secure place to store sunglasses.
The visor is removable, although it does not offer multiple angle positions. The dial fit system provides a secure hold, and the helmet carries CPSC, CE EN 1078, and AS/NZ certification.
The trade-offs are a standard plastic buckle, no Virginia Tech rating on file, and only 13 vents. Even so, it covers the essentials well for larger headed riders wanting an entry level Smith MTB helmet.
Pros
- XL fits up to 65cm (25.6 in)
- MIPS protection at a budget friendly $95
- Smith eyewear integration with AirEvac ventilation
- Fixed visor is removable for a cleaner look
- Triple certified: CPSC, CE EN1078, AS/NZS
Cons
- Only 13 vents – less airflow than higher end options
- Standard plastic buckle (not magnetic)
Pick up the Smith Pilot MIPS MTB Helmet from one of these vendors.
Smith Transit MIPS Bike Helmet
Best For: Big-headed commuters who want a lightweight MIPS helmet with a dedicated rear light mount and U-lock compatible vents for daily riding.
The Smith Transit MIPS is built specifically for commuting and everyday urban riding. Its standout feature is a dedicated rear vent for the rechargeable Smith Transit Light, sold separately, which gives the helmet a cleaner integrated setup than a strap-on light. U-lock compatible vents, reflective webbing, and reflective logos also add practical commuter value.
The XL fits heads up to 65cm (25.6 inches), while the in-mold polycarbonate construction keeps weight to about 309g. Eighteen vents, a dial-adjust fit system, and a removable fabric visor cover the basics well.
At around $95, it trades some of the Signal’s performance oriented features for commuter focused extras. One drawback is the fixed strap length, and some riders may find the straps too short.
Pros
- XL fits up to 65cm (25.6 in)
- Lightweight at 309g with reflective webbing
- Triple certified: CPSC, CE EN1078, AS/NZS
- U-lock compatible vents for bike-parking convenience
- Dedicated rear light mount for Transit Light
Cons
- Strap length is not adjustable – may run short for some
- Transit Light sold separately
Pick up the Smith Transit MIPS Bike Helmet from one of these vendors.
Giro Register MIPS II XL Helmet
Best For: Big-headed recreational riders who want a trusted brand with MIPS at a budget price, in a dedicated XL shell built specifically for larger heads.
The Giro Register MIPS II XL is built specifically for larger heads, with a Universal XL fit range of 58-65cm (22.8-25.6 inches). Rather than stretching a standard shell, Giro uses dedicated XL sizing with its Roc Loc Sport dial system to provide a secure fit across a broad range of head sizes. The MIPS Evolve Core liner is designed to help manage rotational motion during an impact.
Its two piece Hardbody in-mold construction combines a durable outer shell with a polycarbonate lower wrap fused to the EPS liner. Weight is about 340g.
Other features include a Quick Link removable visor, reflective rear decals, and 19 vents with internal channels. At around $80, it is one of the cheaper helmets in this roundup. The main limitation is the single XL size, so riders near either end of the fit range may find sizing less forgiving.
Pros
- Dedicated Universal XL shell for big heads (58-65cm)
- MIPS Evolve Core rotational protection
- Budget friendly price
- Quick Link removable visor
Cons
- Not in Virginia Tech ratings
- Standard buckle (not magnetic)
Pick up the Giro Register MIPS II XL Helmet from one of these vendors.
Giro Artex MIPS Bicycle Helmet
Best For: Big-headed riders who split time between road, gravel, and trail and want Giro’s premium Roc Loc 5 Air MIPS fit system with 25 vent cooling.
The Giro Artex MIPS is the premium option in this roundup, combining a compact road style profile with extra rear coverage for gravel and light trail use. Its Quick Link removable visor leaves a clean look when removed, making the helmet suitable for several riding styles. The Roc Loc 5 Air MIPS system suspends the helmet slightly off the head to improve airflow while integrating MIPS into the fit cradle. Twenty five Wind Tunnel vents with internal channels provide strong ventilation.
The XL fits heads from 61-65cm (25.6 inches). Full Hardbody construction wraps the EPS liner with a durable polycarbonate shell, while Coolfit padding helps manage sweat and odor.
At around $170, it is the most expensive helmet here. You are paying for premium fit, ventilation, and versatility, although there is no Virginia Tech rating currently listed.
Pros
- XL fits up to 65cm (25.6 in)
- Roc Loc 5 Air MIPS
- 25 Wind Tunnel vents for excellent airflow
- Compact road-race profile with trail level coverage
- Full Hardbody wrap for ding resistance
Cons
- Not in Virginia Tech ratings
- Higher price point
- XL limited to two color options
Pick up the Giro Artex MIPS Bicycle Helmet from one of these vendors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What helmet size do I need for a big head?
Are WaveCel, MIPS, and KinetiCore all the same thing?
Do I really need rotational impact protection?
Why are larger helmet sizes heavier?
Can I use a road helmet for mountain biking if it fits my big head?
Do smart helmets with lights work as well as regular bike lights?
How do I know if a helmet will fit my head shape?
I hope we have covered the subject of ‘bike helmets for big heads’ to your satisfaction. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to leave a comment or question below. Thanks!
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