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Budget MTB Helmets I Use and Recommend (Half Shell & Full Face)
Looking for a safe, affordable mountain bike helmet? Here’s my honest review of the BATFOX half shell and the Demon United Podium full face — fit, comfort, protection, and why they’ve worked for me on trails and at the bike park.
10/5/20252 min read
Budget MTB Helmets I Actually Use (Half Shell & Full Face)
Finding safe, comfortable helmets without spending a fortune can be tough when you’re starting out. I’ve tried a lot of gear over the years and tend to stay budget-minded — I’d rather put money toward bike trips and upgrades than overpriced lids. These are the two helmets I ride with now and recommend if you’re looking for affordable protection.
BATFOX Half Shell Helmet (Trail/Everyday Riding)
I picked up the BATFOX a few months ago as my everyday trail helmet. For under $50, it’s been surprisingly solid:
Fit: Large fits my 57–59cm head well; the dial adjuster is easy to fine-tune.
Comfort & Ventilation: Light, good airflow even on long climbs.
Safety: EPS foam + outer shell, plenty for trail/all-mountain riding.
Price: ~$45 at the time I bought it — great value compared to bigger brands.
Why I like it: It’s comfortable enough that I forget I’m wearing it, and the coverage is decent for aggressive trail riding. After a few months it’s holding up well.
Demon United Podium Full Face (Bike Park / Jumps)
I’ve had the Demon United Podium full face for about three years, and it’s still in great shape after multiple seasons of bike park trips and jump sessions.
Protection: Full chin bar and deep coverage — gives peace of mind when hitting bigger features.
Breathability: 13 vents; not as airy as a half shell, but rides cooler than some heavy DH helmets.
Weight: Lightweight for a full face; I don’t feel neck strain.
Durability: Foam and pads have held up surprisingly well; visor still adjusts fine.
Why I like it: Reliable and affordable. Around $80 when I bought it, and I haven’t felt a need to upgrade.
Tips for New Riders
Start with what fits & feels safe. Fancy brands aren’t necessary for solid protection.
If you’re doing bike parks or bigger jumps, go full face. For everyday trail rides, a half shell like the BATFOX is fine.
Consider goggles with a full face. I use a budget pair of MTB goggles (add affiliate link if you want here) — they help with dust and keep the wind out.
Links
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I use and trust.
Final Thoughts
If you’re trying to gear up without breaking the bank, these two helmets have served me well. I feel safe riding trails and park, and the price point lets me save for trips and bike upgrades. They’re great entry options if you’re getting into MTB and not sure what to buy.
