Convertible MTB Helmets: 7 Removable Chin Bar Models from $220 to $485 Compared
A convertible MTB helmet is a mountain bike helmet with a removable chin bar that changes it from full-face to open-face mode. It suits trail, enduro, and downhill mountain biking where riders use it to balance protection, ventilation, and versatility across varying terrain and speeds. Most models weigh-in around 700–900 grams.
Mountain bike helmets with removable chin bars have grown in popularity among newbie and intermediate riders who value the importance of extra protection and versatility. The detachable chin bar is a very handy innovation for any rider who explores variable terrains and conditions.
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Although convertible MTB helmets are suitable for all mountain bike riders, they are especially suitable for racers who may want to switch out their helmet depending on their current race conditions.
Convertible MTB Helmets Comparison
| Model | Certification | Shell Material | Weight (with bar) | MSRP* USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bell Super DH Spherical | ASTM DH, BMX, CPSC | Fusion In-Mold Polycarbonate | 860g | $350 |
| Bell Super Air R Spherical | CPSC | Fusion In-Mold Polycarbonate | 640g | $330 |
| MET Parachute MCR MIPS | ASTM DH, CPSC, EN1078 | In-Mold Polycarbonate | 833g | $485 |
| Leatt MTB Enduro 2.0 | CPSC, EN1078 | Lightweight Polymer | 690g | $220 |
| Leatt MTB Enduro 3.0 | ASTM DH, CPSC, EN1078, AS/NZS 2063 | Lightweight Polymer | 872g | $330 |
| Leatt MTB Enduro 4.0 | ASTM DH, CPSC, EN1078, NTA 8776 | DH Polycarbonate | 810g | $384 |
| Sweet Protection Arbitrator Mips | ASTM DH, CPSC, EN1078 | 4-Piece Carbon Fiber | 980g | $350 |
| * Prices shown are manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and may differ from retailer pricing. | ||||
A helmet that doesn’t fit properly won’t protect you when you need it the most. That helmet that you have your eye on sure looks great, and it’s within your budget. But you’re wasting your money unless you measure your head. See our video below for a quick how-to!
VIDEO: How To Measure For A Bike Helmet
MTB Helmet with Removable Chin Guard for 2026
Bell Super DH Spherical Helmet
The Super DH Spherical elevates Bell’s convertible design with ball-and-socket MIPS technology and full ASTM downhill certification at just 860g. The Fidlock magnetic buckle and Float Fit DH system deliver premium features, though the three-lever chin bar attachment can be fiddly with gloves and the price is comparable with similar convertible helmets.
Pros
- Ball-and-socket MIPS Spherical for comprehensive protection
- Full ASTM DH and BMX certification
- Fidlock magnetic buckle for easy one-handed operation
- Progressive layering with dual-density EPS foam
- Superior ventilation even as full-face (19 vents + 4 chin bar vents)
Cons
- Three-lever chin bar system is fiddly
- Difficult to attach chin bar with gloves on
- Heavier than ultra-light enduro options
Related Article: Mountain Bike Helmets For Big Heads
Bell Super Air R Spherical Helmet
The Super Air R represents Bell’s lightest convertible at 640g, featuring an innovative 2-click chin bar system and advanced Spherical MIPS technology. Its 22% weight reduction and superior ventilation make it ideal for all-mountain riding, though the thinner chin bar lacks DH certification and the premium features command top-tier pricing.
Pros
- Lightest convertible option at 640g
- Easy 2-click chin bar attachment system
- Exceptional ventilation with Overbrow ports
- Premium Spherical MIPS ball-and-socket design
- True half-shell feel without chin bar
Cons
- NOT ASTM downhill certified
- Thinner, less protective chin bar
- Premium pricing without DH certification
- Difficult to attach chin bar while wearing helmet
MET Parachute MCR MIPS Helmet
The Parachute MCR features Fidlock’s revolutionary Magnetic Chinbar Release system for quick conversions and stands out with the best ventilation in the category through 21 large vents. Its ASTM DH certification and BOA 360 fit system deliver serious protection at 833g, though the magnetic attachment is nearly impossible to engage while wearing the helmet. Design & Innovation Award winner.
Pros
- Best-in-class ventilation with 21 large vents
- Innovative magnetic Fidlock chin bar system
- Full ASTM downhill certification
- BOA 360 dial fit system
- Fidlock magnetic chin strap buckle
Cons
- Magnetic chin bar extremely difficult to attach while wearing
- Upper-tier pricing
- Heavier than ultra-light options (833g)
Related Article: How Should A Mountain Bike Helmet Fit?
Leatt MTB Enduro 2.0 Helmet
The Enduro 2.0 delivers Leatt’s 360° Turbine Technology at an accessible price point with excellent fit and a robust dial system. At 690g with 20 vents and easy push-button chin bar removal, it’s ideal for trail riders seeking extra protection, though it lacks full ASTM DH certification unlike its 4.0 sibling.
Pros
- Excellent value under $220
- 360° Turbine Technology reduces rotational forces by 40%
- Exceptionally sturdy dial retention system
- Easy push-button chin bar removal
- Fidlock magnetic buckle
Cons
- No DH-specific certifications
- Bulkier dimensions than competitors
- Basic feature set compared to premium options
Leatt MTB Enduro 3.0 Helmet
The Enduro 3.0 uniquely offers three configurations—full-face, 3/4 with ear protection, or half-shell—with full ASTM DH certification and PowerBridge construction. At 872g as a full-face it provides maximum versatility for travel riders, though the multiple snap-in components require practice to master and the visible seams between pieces may affect confidence.
Pros
- Three helmets in one: full-face, 3/4, and half-shell
- Full ASTM F1952-10 downhill certification
- PowerBridge construction for load distribution
- Removable ear covers with push-button system
- Excellent for travel riders needing versatility
Cons
- Heavier than competitors in any configuration
- Visible seams between components
- Multiple pieces to track and store
- Fiddly to attach/remove without taking helmet off
Related Article: Best Downhill Certified Mountain Bike Helmets
Leatt MTB Enduro 4.0 Helmet
The Enduro 4.0 represents Leatt’s premium convertible with full ASTM F1952-10 downhill and NTA 8776 e-bike certification at 810g. Its magnesium-lock chin bar system and dual-density EPS + EPO foam deliver confidence-inspiring protection for aggressive enduro racing, though some riders report the fit system dial can become loose after extended use.
Pros
- Full ASTM downhill and e-bike NTA 8776 certification
- Magnesium lock chin bar for strong attachment
- Dual-density EPS + EPO impact foam
- Removable mouthpiece for weather protection
- 18 vents effective even at low speeds
Cons
- Heavier than lightweight options (810g)
- Some users report dial system loosening over time
- Less breathable than MET or Bell Super Air R
- Premium pricing in Leatt’s range
Sweet Protection Arbitrator Mips Helmet
The Arbitrator features a unique carbon fiber chin bar that encircles the entire helmet for maximum strength and genuine DH-worthy protection at 980g. Its dual retention systems and STACC ventilation deliver premium performance, but the full-oval chin bar is impossible to attach while wearing and creates a bulky carry when detached.
Pros
- Carbon fiber chin bar for incredible strength-to-weight
- Full ASTM downhill certification
- Dual retention systems for trail and DH modes
- Premium build quality and materials
- Occigrip fit system for secure positioning
Cons
- Impossible to attach chin bar while wearing helmet
- Large full-oval chin bar awkward to carry
- Heaviest half-shell option at 550g
- Premium pricing ($400-500)
- Brow pads don’t manage sweat well
Related Article: What Is MIPS Helmet Technology?
FAQ About Convertible MTB Helmets
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What is the difference between mountain bike helmet and road bike helmet?
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