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Kayaking can be as exhilarating or peaceful as you like depending on how you approach it. Regardless of conditions, a personal flotation device and helmet is highly recommended. However, when you take on Class IV and V whitewater, protection becomes a paramount concern. The chance of seriously whacking your head in the rapids or a waterfall is no casual consideration. For that reason, a good helmet is a sound investment.
Fortunately, there are many excellent helmets available on the market today specifically designed to meet the challenges faced in kayaking. To help in your selection process, some of the best in the range available are reviewed below. Starting with a comparison table, there are key features, photos, and videos presented to create a clear view of the options, followed by a basic buying guide.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know in the comments section at the bottom.
For more reviews of kayaks, boats, and accessories, please check out these popular posts:
Kayak Wetsuits Kayak Roof Racks Kayak Carts Kayak Drysuit Review Kayak Paddles Kayak Life Vests Women Kayak Life Vests Marine VHF Radios Small Outboard Motors Kayak Trolling Motors Kayak Fish Finders Marine GPS Marine Binoculars Women’s Kayaks Touring Kayaks Tandem Kayaks Whitewater Kayaks for Beginners Lake Kayaks Ocean Kayaks Fishing Kayaks Beginner Kayaks Recreational Kayaks Inflatable Kayaks Inflatable Boats Canoes
Best Kayak Helmets
- Sweet Protection Rocker Fullface Kayak Helmet
- Sweet Protection Rocker Paddle Kayak Helmet
- Bern Unlimited Watts EPS Kayak Helmet
- NRS WRSI Trident Composite Kayak Helmet
- Tontron Adult Whitewater Kayak Helmet
- Sweet Protection Wanderer Kayak Helmet
- NRS Chaos Side Cut Kayak Helmet
- Pro-Tec Ace Water Kayak Helmet
- Predator Shiznit Kayak Helmet
- Triple Eight Sweatsaver Halo Kayak Helmet
Best Kayak Helmets Comparison Table
| Helmet | Photo | Weight | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Protection Rocker Fullface Helmet |   | 1.87 pounds | Full-Face | $$$ |
| Sweet Protection Rocker Paddle Helmet |   | 1.17 pounds | Full-Cut | $$$ |
| Bern Unlimited Watts EPS Kayak Helmet |   | 1.06 pounds | Half-Cut | $$ |
| NRS WRSI Trident Composite Kayak Helmet |   | 1.45 pounds | Half-Cut | $$$ |
| Tontron Adult Whitewater Kayak Helmet |   | .91 pounds | Half-Cut | $ |
| Sweet Protection Wanderer Kayak Helmet |   | 1.21 pounds | Half-Cut | $$ |
| NRS Chaos Side Cut Kayak Helmet |   | 1.1 pounds | Half-Cut | $ |
| Pro-Tec Ace Water Kayak Helmet |   | 1.1 pounds | Half-Cut | $ |
| Predator Shiznit Kayak Helmet |   | 1.1 pounds | Half-Cut | $ |
| Triple Eight Sweatsaver Halo Kayak Helmet |   | unlisted | Half-Cut | $ |
| Helmet | Photo | Weight | Type | Price |
Sweet Protection Rocker Fullface Kayak Helmet
Best Full Face Whitewater Protection
The Sweet Protection Rocker Fullface Kayak Helmet is designed for the most extreme whitewater conditions. The durable ABS and carbon fiber shell with a composite jaw guard and shatterproof visor team with a shock-absorbing EPS liner to provide maximum protection against the multiple low energy blows possible when kayaking. At the same time, there is an adjustable individualized fit with moisture-wicking and heat ventilation to keep you comfortable. This is perhaps the best model for attacking Class V rapids on the market. It is pretty expensive, however.
- Shell Material: ABS thermoplastic with TLC (thermoplastic laminated carbon fiber) reinforcement
- EPP shock-absorbing liner reinforced with EVA
- Adjustable 2-way Occigrip mechanism with fit pads for an on-the-fly personalized fit
- Adjustable shatter-resistant visor
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Vents for water and heat
- Fullface with composite jaw guard
- Weight: 1.87 pounds
- Sizes: M/L, L/XL
- Currently available in gloss white (several other colors are produced)
- Expensive
View More From Sweet Protection
Sweet Protection Rocker Paddle Kayak Helmet
High-Performance & Durable
The Sweet Protection Rocker Kayak Helmet is another high-performance, extra durable model like the full face version above only without the jaw guard. It has the same injection-molded thermoplastic shell reinforced with carbon fiber, and a shock-absorbing EPP foam liner, along with moisture-wicking, ventilation, and personalized, adjustable fit. It is a little more lightweight and comes in a variety of attractive colors.
- Shell Material: ABS thermoplastic with TLC (thermoplastic laminated carbon fiber) reinforcement
- EPP shock-absorbing foam liner
- Adjustable 2-way Occigrip mechanism with fit pads for an on-the-fly personalized fit
- Adjustable shatter-resistant visor
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Vents for water and heat
- Weight: 1.17 pounds
- Sizes: M/L, L/XL
- Comes in gloss white, race blue, dirt black, and earth red/scorch red
- Moderately expensive
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Bern Unlimited Watts EPS Kayak Helmet
Versatile, All-Season Protection
The Bern Watts Unlimited Helmet is a versatile model suitable for year-round paddling. It has a durable ABS shell with hard EPS inner foam for head-trauma resistance and replaceable warm or cool weather lining for seasonal options. A crank-dial fit system assures a reliable, snug fit for this helmet that is also approved for snow, ski, bike, and skating use. Styled with a short baseball-like visor, it comes in 7 eye-catching colors at a reasonable price.
- Shell Material: ABS
- EPS hard foam inner construction
- Low-profile design
- Crank-dial fit system
- Hard, baseball-inspired visor
- Air vents
- Replaceable warm and cold weather linings
- Meets snow, skiing, bike, and skating helmet standards, as well
- Weight: 1.06 pounds
- Sizes: S, M, L
- Comes in 7 colors
- Reasonably priced
NRS WRSI Trident Composite Kayak Helmet
Solid Whitewater Performer
The NSR WRSI (Whitewater Research and Safety Institute) Trident is another rugged helmet designed to meet the challenge of rigorous whitewater kayaking. It is set up with a durable carbon composite shell with a polyurethane sub-shell, and EVA foam liner to effectively handle the possible impacts inherent in kayaking. Available in 5 lively colors and 3 sizes it has a removable, replaceable liner for a snug fit and a special interconnected retention system that uses hydraulics to hold it in place as you bounce around through the rapids.
- Shell Material: carbon composite, PU sub-shell
- EVA foam liner
- Removable, replaceable padded liner
- Self-adjusting interconnected retention system to keep the helmet in place
- Visor
- Weight: 1.45 pounds
- Sizes: S/M, M/L, L/XL
- Comes in 5 colors
Tontron Adult Whitewater Kayak Helmet
Sturdy & Budget Priced
The Tontron Adult Whitewater Kayak Helmet is extremely lightweight, durable, and suitable for several water sports aside from kayaking. It has a sturdy ABS shell and fast-drying EVA liner and comes in a huge range of vibrant colors. 11 air vents keep it breathing and an adjustable head dial and retention strap system give you a nice fit. It comes with removable ear protection pads and floats if it somehow becomes submerged separately. With all this, to top it off, it comes at a bargain price.
- Shell Material: ABS
- Fast-drying EVA liner
- 11 vents for airflow and drainage
- Removable ear protection
- Adjustable back of the head dial to accommodate minor head size differences
- Retention strap system
- Floating
- Weight: .91 pounds
- Sizes: S, M, L
- Comes in 13 colors (among them several wild designs)
- Low-priced
Sweet Protection Wanderer Kayak Helmet
Recreation & Class IV Whitewater
The Sweet Protection Wanderer Helmet has a carbon fiber reinforced ABS shell rated for whitewater up to the Class IV level but great for all-around recreational kayaking. Comfortable and lightweight, it has interchangeable fit pads and their Occigrip system for a secure fit that can be adjusted on the go. Vents in the top allow airflow and water drainage if needed. There are 4 sizes and 5 colors to choose from and a moderate level of pricing compared to the top Sweet Protection whitewater helmets.
- Shell Material: ABS reinforced with carbon fiber
- EPS liner with EPP gate shields
- Occigrip system for a secure and comfortable fit
- Vents on top (for air and water)
- Small sun visor
- Interchangeable fit pads included
- Soft helmet bag included
- Certified for Class I-IV whitewater
- Weight: 1.21 pounds
- Sizes: S, S/M, M/L, L/XL
- Comes in 5 colors
View More From Sweet Protection
NRS Chaos Side Cut Kayak Helmet
Versatile & Reasonably Priced
The NRS Chaos Side Cut Helmet has durable, lightweight ABS construction great for SUP, rafting, and canoeing, as well as kayaking in whitewater up to Class IV. With a dual-density EVA foam liner and BOA dial-fit adjustment on the go, it has a comfortable customized fit. Removable ear pads give some extra protection and 8 ventilation ports provide breathability for a hot day and drainage when it gets wet. It comes in 5 colors and sizes and best of all at a very reasonable price.
- Shell Material: ABS
- Dual-density EVA foam liner
- BOA dial-fit dial ratchet and adjustable chin strap for a customized fit
- Removable ear pads
- 8 ventilation and drainage ports
- Certified for Class I-IV whitewater
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Comes in 5 colors
- Reasonably priced
Pro-Tec Ace Water Kayak Helmet
Airy & Versatile, Budget Priced
The Pro-Tec Ace Water helmet is great for all levels of kayakers and is popular with wakeboarders and kite surfers, as well. The durable ABS shell and EVA foam liner protect you well from bumps and collisions no matter what the sport. 6 helmet sizes and an interior fit system with soft nylon straps create a comfortable customized feel and 15 vents provide as much airflow and drainage as you’ll ever need. It is ultra-lightweight at 1.1 pounds and has a super-low budget price.
- Shell Material: ABS
- Dual-density waterproof EVA foam liner
- Full surround interior fit system
- Soft nylon webbed straps
- 15 vents for air circulation and drainage
- Certified for Class I-IV whitewater
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Sizes: 3 sizes of shell for 6 helmet sizes – XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Comes in red, gloss red, black, and orange
- Low-priced
Functional & Stylish, Reasonably Priced
With a low-profile style and medium-length visor, the Predator Shiznit has a distinctive look to match the effective protection capability of the Ralvek thermoplastic shell and EVA foam liner. It comes in 6 sizes and has a Croc-Lok dial-fit adjustment system to achieve a customized fit, and a durable chin strap and webbing to hold it securely in place. There are no vents for drainage and ventilation but the visor does a good job of keeping the sun out of your eyes. It comes in 5 colors and the pricing is reasonable.
- Shell Material: Ralek thermoplastic
- Closed-cell EVA foam liner
- Low-profile styling
- Visor for sun protection
- Durable webbing and chin strap
- Croc-Lok dial fit-adjuster
- Certified for Class I-IV whitewater
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Comes in black, blue, green, grey, and white
- Reasonably priced
Triple Eight Sweatsaver Halo Kayak Helmet
Bargain-Priced & Safe
The Triple Eight Sweatsaver Halo has a half-cut design certified safe for whitewater that is also popular in wakeboarding. Made of durable ABS, it has a comfortable plush-wrapped 3-layer moisture-wicking EVA foam lining which can be removed easily for machine washing. Ventilation holes provide airflow and drainage, it comes in a range of sizes to fit all comers and has a great budget price, the lowest on this page.
- Shell Material: high-density ABS
- Dual-density closed-cell EVA foam head-liner and top crown
- Velcro removable sweat saver halo (for washing)
- Ventilation holes top, front, and back
- Snap-in earflaps available separately
- Certified safe for Class I-IV whitewater
- Weight: unlisted
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Currently available in black or white
- Low-priced
Best Kayak Helmets Buying Guide
Aside from providing a level of safety and protection, what are the main factors to consider in the selection of a kayak helmet?
Fit – Most manufacturers provide a range of sizes and adjustment options so that getting a good fit is not difficult. It’s important that it be snug and firm, yet comfortable so that it stays firmly in place when you move your head side to side. The point is that when you need your helmet to perform it must be in place to accept the impact.
Types of Helmets – Generally kayak helmets can be placed into three categories. The style you select will depend on the level of potential danger you can forecast. The greater the danger of head trauma, the more protective the coverage of the helmet should be.
- Half-Cut – These have the most minimal designs, cover the top of the head, and usually come down to just above the ears. Most don’t include a visor. This style can be suitable for a variety of watersports including recreational and whitewater kayaking.
- Full-Cut – This style offers more protection and coverage than a half-cut helmet by covering your whole head as well as your ears. These often offer a more secure fit than half-cut models and may also be beneficially warmer in cool conditions. Unfortunately, covered ears can impair hearing to a degree which may be a factor when you are in a group of paddlers.
- Full-Face – This style provides the maximum helmet protection that might be needed for the most extreme of whitewater kayaking. These helmets have a jaw guard and protect the head, ears, jaw, and face from traumatic impacts. One concern, though, is that this one, too, can impair hearing.
Outer Shell – This provides the first line of protection and is visible from the outside of the helmet. Look for an exceptionally durable material like ABS plastic, carbon fiber, or carbon composite.
Liner – Under the shell, the liner is an additional layer of insulation that helps absorb any impacts. Most commonly EVA foam is used due to its low weight, durability, and insulating characteristics.
Retention System/Harness – This is what holds your helmet in place in the proper position on your head. It consists of adjustable straps for a firm fit and often has a dial system to make the adjustment easy and possible on-the-fly.
Visor – This is similar to the bill or brim of a hat and works to block the sun from your eyes. Many models do not include one.
Drainage/Ventilation – Helmets designed specifically for kayaking and watersports often have holes or ports designed for water drainage should you become submerged or air circulation to allow cooling and moisture-wicking. There are, however, some highly regarded models that don’t have these ports.
Usage – When you select a helmet you should consider what level of protection is necessary. The most rigorous whitewater kayaking in Class V rapids will probably require a full-cut or full-face helmet. Most helmets have been tested and have a certification level to let you know if it is suitable for the activity you propose. Many of the models reviewed above have been rated for Class I to Class IV rapids.
There are some models that can be used for biking or other sports that may not have the best characteristics for water use. Some use materials that aren’t water-resistant, for example.
Visibility – Should you find yourself in a situation where you need assistance, how easily you can be seen is important, especially in low-light situations. Brightly colored helmets that don’t blend in with the background like yellow or electric green can be more easily distinguished. Another tactic is to use reflective decals or stickers that really stand out when light strikes them
For more reviews of kayaks, boats, and accessories, please check out these popular posts:
Kayak Wetsuits Kayak Roof Racks Kayak Carts Kayak Drysuit Review Kayak Paddles Kayak Life Vests Women Kayak Life Vests Marine VHF Radios Small Outboard Motors Kayak Trolling Motors Kayak Fish Finders Marine GPS Marine Binoculars Women’s Kayaks Touring Kayaks Tandem Kayaks Whitewater Kayaks for Beginners Lake Kayaks Ocean Kayaks Fishing Kayaks Beginner Kayaks Recreational Kayaks Inflatable Kayaks Inflatable Boats Canoes
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