The Best Climbing and Mountaineering Helmets of 2025

Our Selection of the Best Climbing Helmets for Men, Women and Children

With over 50 models available and in stock, Glisshop offers a wide range of personal protective equipment, from entry-level helmets to top-of-the-range models designed for the most demanding climbers. For men, women and children, you're sure to find the right helmet for you at Glisshop. And to make things easier, we've put together this buying guide to help you understand the differences between the various models.

EN 12492 Standard: The Benchmark in the Mountains

The CE EN 12492 standard is a European norm that defines the safety requirements for helmets used in mountaineering and climbing. It ensures that helmets meet strict criteria for protection against impacts and penetration by sharp objects, primarily falling from above. To obtain this certification, helmets must undergo a series of rigorous tests, including impact resistance tests on the top and sides of the helmet, as well as penetration tests to ensure they effectively protect the user's head. The standard also includes requirements regarding the helmet's stability on the head, the strength of the chin strap, and the durability of the materials used. By complying with the EN 12492 standard, manufacturers ensure their products provide an optimal level of safety for users engaging in mountain activities.

Lightweight PPE suitable for mountaineering and via ferrata

All helmets sold for climbing are CE EN 12492 certified. This standard also covers mountaineering as well as via ferrata, as the risk of falling rocks is the same.

How to choose the right helmet based on your skill level? Which one is best?

It’s fair to say that the range of climbing helmets is quite extensive, with models starting at around £30 and premium versions costing over £120.

This price difference is mainly due to the design, which directly affects the weight of the helmet. Entry-level helmets are made of hard plastic, while the more technical models feature expanded polystyrene with strategically placed minimalist reinforcements on the top of the shell.

Before making an investment, you should therefore identify your needs:

• Are you a beginner? An entry-level helmet will be more than enough to get you started with single-pitch climbing on crags.
• Are you a keen climber who enjoys multi-pitch routes and mountaineering? In that case, an ultra-light helmet will be a real asset to reduce fatigue during long days on the wall.

Petzl Sirocco

The Petzl Sirocco helmet is an ideal option for demanding climbers and mountaineers. Ultra-light at just 170 grams, it offers outstanding comfort without compromising on safety. Its construction, combining EPP foam and a polycarbonate shell, provides optimal protection against impacts and falling rocks. The Sirocco is also equipped with an easy and precise adjustment system, ensuring a perfect fit for all head shapes. Its efficient ventilation system guarantees a pleasant experience, even during the most intense climbs.

Petzl Meteor

The Petzl Meteor helmet is an essential piece of protective equipment for climbing enthusiasts and those working at height. Designed to offer optimal comfort, it is lightweight and well-ventilated, thanks to numerous vents that allow effective airflow. Its polycarbonate shell ensures impact resistance, while the adjustable chin strap guarantees a perfect fit. The Meteor is also compatible with Petzl head torches, making night-time activities easier. Its versatility and durability make it an ideal choice for demanding adventurers.

Petzl Boreo

The Petzl Boreo helmet is a versatile and budget-friendly model. It’s ideal for beginners taking their first steps in outdoor activities such as climbing and via ferrata. Its hybrid design combines a rigid shell for optimal impact protection with foam padding for enhanced comfort. Lightweight and well-ventilated, it ensures effective airflow thanks to its large openings. The Boreo is also fitted with an adjustable chin strap and an easy-to-use adjustment system, allowing for a quick and precise fit.

Black Diamond Capitan

The Black Diamond Capitan helmet is a robust piece of protective equipment, designed for mountaineers, climbers, and those working at height. Its ABS shell offers excellent resistance to shocks and impacts, while the EPS foam absorbs impacts for enhanced safety. The Capitan stands out for its lightweight, well-ventilated design, providing optimal comfort even on the hottest days. Its adjustable chin strap and tightening system allow for a quick, precise fit and secure hold in all conditions.

Black Diamond Vision

The Black Diamond Vision helmet is an innovative model, specially designed for demanding mountaineers and climbers. Its ABS shell and EPS foam provide optimal protection against impacts while remaining lightweight. The Vision stands out for its aerodynamic design and large openings that ensure effective ventilation, guaranteeing maximum comfort even during the most intense climbs. Equipped with an adjustable chin strap and an easy-to-use tightening system, it offers a perfect fit for all head shapes. Compatible with head torches, it is ideal for night-time expeditions and high-altitude routes. Its durability and versatility make it a first-class choice for adventurers seeking performance and safety.

Black Diamond Vapor

The Black Diamond Vapor helmet is a premium ultra-lightweight model, designed for demanding mountaineers and climbers looking for both performance and comfort. Its polycarbonate shell and EPS foam provide optimal protection against impacts while keeping weight to a minimum. The Vapor represents the pinnacle of Black Diamond’s climbing helmet range. Its lightness and durability make it a top choice for adventurers who care about their gear and are looking for one of the lightest options on the market.

Camp Rockstar

The Camp Rockstar helmet is an entry-level model, ideal for occasional climbers and mountaineers. Its polycarbonate shell provides robust 360° protection against impacts, while the inner foam ensures optimal comfort. The Rockstar stands out for its compact design and, above all, its very affordable price, making it a perfect first helmet.

Yet, despite its unbeatable value for money, this helmet is still equipped with a simple but effective sliding size adjustment system. It is also compatible with all head torches on the market thanks to its elastic strap.

Camp Ikon

The Camp Ikon helmet is a versatile model with a hybrid construction. Its ABS shell provides robust protection against impacts, while the inner foam ensures optimal comfort. The Ikon stands out for its ergonomic design and 18 vents that promote effective cooling, making it ideal for summer climbs. The size can be easily adjusted thanks to a rear adjustment dial.

Mammut Crag Sender

The Mammut Crag Sender helmet is a lightweight and robust model designed with In-Mould technology, combining an EPS core with Kevlar reinforcements. It stands out for its aerodynamic design and numerous openings that ensure effective ventilation, essential during long climbs. Mammut has successfully combined full head protection with minimal weight—a remarkable achievement worth highlighting.

Looking for a children’s helmet?

Has your child developed a passion for climbing and you’re planning to take them to the crag? Then you’ll definitely need to invest in a junior helmet that fits properly. At Glisshop, we offer the best children’s climbing helmets on the market so that young climbers can enjoy themselves just like the grown-ups — and who knows, maybe even become future champions.