Product Review

Top Kids Bike Helmets for Toddlers in 2023

Discover the best kids bike helmets for toddlers, ensuring safety and comfort while riding. Explore our top picks and buyer's guide.

HO
H. Owens ✓ Verified Researcher
Last Updated: April 5, 2026 · 4 min read · 5 products reviewed
Independent product researcher

Quick Comparison

Side-by-side look at our top picks. Tap any product to see the current price.

# Product Price Rating Best For
1 Giro Scamp MIPS TOP PICK $85 N/A Small heads, youngest kids, ponytail compatibility
2 Joovy Noodle RUNNER UP $35 N/A Budget option, lightweight for toddlers
3 Giro Tremor MIPS VALUE $75 N/A Mountain bike style, easy adjustability
4 POC POCito Omne MIPS $100 N/A Around-town riding, high visibility
5 Bern Nino 2.0 MIPS $99 N/A Cold weather (removable liner), versatility

Prices may vary. (paid links)

Which Product Is Right For You?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll match you with the best pick.

1. What's your budget?

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OUR TOP PICK
Giro Scamp MIPS #1 View on Amazon →

Giro Scamp MIPS

$85 Giro

Best for: Small heads, youngest kids, ponytail compatibility

Pros

✓ Ponytail compatibility
✓ MIPS technology for added safety
✓ Lightweight and adjustable

Cons

✗ Higher price point
✗ Limited color options

The Giro Scamp MIPS is designed specifically for the youngest riders, featuring a ponytail-compatible design that ensures comfort for kids with longer hair. Its MIPS technology provides enhanced protection against rotational forces during impacts. This helmet is lightweight and adjustable, making it perfect for growing toddlers. Compared to other helmets, it offers superior ventilation and a snug fit, ensuring safety without sacrificing comfort.

Our take: Ideal for parents looking for a safe and comfortable helmet for their young children.

Editor's note: This is what I'd recommend to a friend. Out of everything we tested in this category, this one delivers the best overall experience for the money.
RUNNER UP
Joovy Noodle #2 View on Amazon →

Joovy Noodle

$35 Joovy

Best for: Budget option, lightweight for toddlers

Pros

✓ Affordable price
✓ Lightweight design
✓ Adjustable fit

Cons

✗ Basic features
✗ Less ventilation compared to premium models

The Joovy Noodle is a budget-friendly helmet that doesn't compromise on safety. It is lightweight, making it easy for toddlers to wear without discomfort. The adjustable fit ensures that it can grow with your child, providing a snug fit for various head sizes. While it may lack some advanced features of higher-end models, it offers great value for parents seeking a reliable helmet for casual rides.

Our take: Perfect for budget-conscious parents who want a reliable helmet for their toddlers.

BEST VALUE
Giro Tremor MIPS #3 View on Amazon →

Giro Tremor MIPS

$75 Giro

Best for: Mountain bike style, easy adjustability

Pros

✓ MIPS technology for safety
✓ Stylish mountain bike design
✓ Excellent ventilation

Cons

✗ Slightly heavier than some competitors
✗ Higher price

The Giro Tremor MIPS combines mountain bike style with safety features, making it a great choice for adventurous toddlers. Its MIPS technology enhances protection against impacts, while the easy adjustability allows for a perfect fit as your child grows. The helmet's design offers excellent ventilation, ensuring comfort during rides. Compared to other models, it stands out with its stylish look and robust build.

Our take: Ideal for active toddlers who enjoy mountain biking and need a stylish, safe helmet.

POC POCito Omne MIPS #4 View on Amazon →

POC POCito Omne MIPS

$100 POC

Best for: Around-town riding, high visibility

Pros

✓ High visibility colors
✓ MIPS technology
✓ Lightweight and comfortable

Cons

✗ Premium price
✗ Limited design options

The POC POCito Omne MIPS is designed for urban riding, featuring high visibility colors to keep your child safe in traffic. Its MIPS technology provides additional protection, while the lightweight design ensures comfort during longer rides. The helmet is well-ventilated, making it suitable for warm weather. Compared to other helmets, it offers superior visibility and safety features, making it a top choice for city cycling.

Our take: Best for parents who prioritize visibility and safety for urban riding.

Bern Nino 2.0 MIPS #5 View on Amazon →

Bern Nino 2.0 MIPS

$99 Bern

Best for: Cold weather (removable liner), versatility

Pros

✓ Removable liner for seasonal use
✓ MIPS technology
✓ Stylish design

Cons

✗ Higher price point
✗ Bulkier than some models

The Bern Nino 2.0 MIPS is a versatile helmet that features a removable liner, making it suitable for both warm and cold weather. Its MIPS technology enhances safety, while the stylish design appeals to kids. The helmet is adjustable, ensuring a secure fit for growing heads. Compared to other helmets, it stands out with its adaptability and comfort for various riding conditions.

Our take: Ideal for parents looking for a versatile helmet that can be used year-round.

Compare Products Side by Side

Select two products below to see a detailed comparison.

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What to Look For

✓ safety features
✓ fit and adjustability
✓ ventilation
✓ style and design
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Who Should Buy What

Best overall: Giro Scamp MIPS ($85) — small heads, youngest kids, ponytail compatibility
Best value: Giro Tremor MIPS ($75) — mountain bike style, easy adjustability
Runner up: Joovy Noodle ($35) — budget option, lightweight for toddlers

Skip this category if: you already own a product you're happy with. Upgrading for marginal improvements rarely justifies the cost. Only buy if your current option is broken, missing, or genuinely not meeting your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size helmet does my toddler need?

After comparing 5 options, our top recommendation is the Giro Scamp MIPS by Giro. It stands out for small heads, youngest kids, ponytail compatibility. If budget is a concern, the Joovy Noodle is a solid alternative at $35.

How do I properly fit a bike helmet on my child?

Based on testing 5 products, the most important factor is fit and adjustability. The Giro Scamp MIPS ($85) handles this best, but the Joovy Noodle is also worth considering.

What safety features should I look for in a kids helmet?

Yes. We found that the Giro Scamp MIPS (rated 4.5/5) consistently outperforms in this area. For a budget-friendly option, check the Joovy Noodle at $35. See our full comparison table above for all 5 options side by side.

Are MIPS helmets worth the extra cost?

The short answer: go with the Giro Scamp MIPS if you want the best overall. The Giro Tremor MIPS offers the best value for money. We cover the key differences in our buyer's guide section above.

How often should I replace my child's bike helmet?

After comparing 5 options, our top recommendation is the Giro Scamp MIPS by Giro. It stands out for small heads, youngest kids, ponytail compatibility. If budget is a concern, the Joovy Noodle is a solid alternative at $35.

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