Folding Helmet: Everything You Need to Know For Your Life on the Go

Introduction to Folding Helmets

Wether you are a van lifer, a digital nomad, an avid cycler, or just a weekend pleasure bike rider, it’s important to wear your helmet! Being safe while you’re on the road should always be a priority!

With fuel prices what they are more and more people are turning to alternative means of transportation.

Imagine you’re out enjoying the freedom of the open road on your beloved bike. The breeze blows through your hair and the sun warms your face, but then it hits you – you forgot your helmet!

Normally, this would be a problem. Helmets can be bulky, inconvenient to carry, and take up valuable space. But fear not, because there’s a solution: foldable helmets! These nifty inventions are perfect for Van lifers and nomads, as they save space, offer excellent protection, and are highly portable and easy to use.

If you’re someone who loves to bike but hates dealing with bulky, ugly, awkward traditional helmets, consider getting a folding helmet. Your head (and your tiny living space) will be much happier for it! We are going to dive in to the variety of folding helmets on the market in this article, read on!p

Best Folding Helmets: 6 Awesome Compact Bike Helmets in 2023

larger images below itemized list.

Discontinued or Recalled Brands

1. Brooks England: NO longer available at the time of psoting
2. Morpher: Recalled not able to pass Amercian Standards testing 

Before and After Fold Images

Closca Loop:

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Fend One:

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Overade Plixi:

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Lid Plico

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Hedkayse

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Why Folding Helmets Make Nomad Sense

These helmets are designed to easily fold up for compact storage, making them ideal for people who have limited space in their mode of transportation or want to carry them conveniently in a backpack, rucksack or purse. One of the biggest advantages of a helmet that folds is its portability.

You can easily carry it with you wherever you go and not have to worry about it taking up too much space. This means that you can commute to work or travel with your helmet, ensuring that you always have it when you need it. Another advantage of a bike helmet that folds is that they are typically lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Many models are made of flexible materials that conform to the shape of your head and are designed to provide adequate protection in the event of an accident. If you’re living in a van or travelling frequently, a folding helmet can be a valuable addition to your gear. It’s a practical and easy-to-use option that doesn’t take up too much space but still offers the protection you need on the road. 

I don’t want to put the helmet before the bike, or the cart before the horse rather. If you are also interested in learning more about the best e-bikes for compact living you should read our blog post about it!

1. Space-saving: One of the biggest advantages of bike helmet that folds is that they can be easily compacted down when not in use. This is particularly important for people living in small spaces, such as vans or other types of tiny homes. Foldable bike helmets take up much less space than traditional helmets, making them a more practical option for those with limited storage space.
2. Portability: Folding helmets are also highly portable. They can be easily transported from one place to another, whether it’s on your head or in a backpack. This is especially useful for people who are constantly on the move, such as Van lifers and nomads.
3. Protection: Despite their compact size, helmets that fold offer the same level of protection as traditional helmets. They are designed to meet the same safety codes as non-folding helmets and can protect your head in the event of an accident.
4. Convenience: Folding helmets are also more convenient to use than traditional helmets. They can be easily unfolded to put on and taken off, and they often come with features such as straps with adjustable buckle and ventilation systems to make them more comfortable to wear.

Are Foldable Helmets Safe?

Folding helmets can be safe as long as they meet the same safety codes as traditional helmets. In fact, many foldable helmets on the market today are designed to meet or exceed standards of safety such as CPSC standard (US Consumer Product Safety Commission), CE (European Conformity), and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials).

The key to ensuring that a foldable bike helmet is safe is to look for a certification sticker or label on the helmet that indicates it meets the relevant safety standards. You should also make sure that the helmet fits properly and is comfortable to wear, as a poorly fitting helmet can be dangerous even if it meets the proper codes.

It’s important to note that while portable compact bicycle helmets can be just as safe as traditional helmets, they may not be suitable for all types of cycling activities. For example, if you’re planning to engage in high-speed or off-road cycling, you may need a more robust helmet that offers additional protection.

Overall, if you’re considering a bike helmet, make sure to do your research and choose a reputable brand that meets safety standards.  Make sure the helmet is appropriate for your head size and has good ventilation.  

Pros and Cons of Helmets

Compact bike helmets, also known as foldable helmets, have become increasingly popular in recent years as a more portable and space-saving alternative to traditional helmets. Here are some pros and cons to consider before deciding if a compact folding helmet is right for you:

Pros:

1. Portability: helmets are much easier to transport than traditional helmets. They can be easily folded up and stored in a backpack, purse, or small bag, making them ideal for commuters, travellers, and people who don’t want to carry a bulky helmet around with them.
2. Space-saving: helmets take up much less space than traditional helmets, making them a great option for people with limited storage space. They can be easily stored in a drawer, on a shelf, or in a small bag when not in use.
3. Comfort: Many folding helmets are designed with features such as flexible straps, ventilation systems, and soft padding to make them more comfortable to wear. This can be particularly important for people who wear helmets for extended periods of time.

Cons:

1. Protection: While portable helmets can be just as safe as traditional helmets, some people may be concerned that the folding mechanism could compromise the helmet’s ability to absorb impact in the event of an accident. It’s important to choose a reputable brand that meets safety standards and to ensure that the helmet fits properly.
2. Durability: Some collapsible helmets may not be as durable as traditional helmets and may be more prone to wear and tear. However, this can vary depending on the specific brand and model of helmet.
3. Price: Collapsible helmets can be more expensive than traditional helmets, particularly if they are made with high-quality materials and advanced features. However, this can vary widely depending on the brand and model.

Overall, collapsible helmets can be a great option for people who value portability and space-saving, as well as comfort and style.

How to Choose a Foldable Helmet

Choosing a any type of helmet, it can seem overwhelming with so many options available on the market. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a folding helmet:

1. Safety: The most important consideration when choosing a helmet, whether it’s foldable or not, is safety. Make sure the helmet you choose meets the relevant standards of safety, such as CPSC (US Consumer Product Safety Commission), CE (European Conformity), and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials). Look for a certification sticker or label on the helmet to ensure that it has been tested and approved.
2. Fit: A helmet that doesn’t fit properly can compromise your safety, so it’s essential to choose a helmet that fits snugly and comfortably on your head. Look for helmets with flexible straps and a dial-fit system that allows you to customize the fit. Consider trying on helmets in person to find the best fit for your head shape and size.
3. Comfort: A comfortable helmet can encourage you to wear it more often, which is essential for your safety. Look for helmets with features such as ventilation, padding, and movable straps that make them more comfortable to wear.
4. Durability: A helmet that falls apart or becomes damaged quickly won’t offer the protection you need. Look for helmets made with durable materials that can withstand regular use and potential impacts.
5. Style: While safety and comfort should be the primary considerations when choosing a helmet, style can also be a factor. Look for helmets that fit your personal style and preferences, whether that means a bold color or a minimalist design.
6. Brand and Price: Finally, consider the brand and price of the helmet. Look for reputable brands that have a track record of producing high-quality helmets. While price shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, it’s important to find a helmet that fits within your budget.

Fashionable Functional Folding Helmet Choices

As someone who lives a “tiny lifestyle”, I’m always looking for the most compact and portable items. I have an inflatable paddle board you can read about here. I have made the mistake of riding a bike without a helmet in the past, with the right bicycle helmet option I would be much more likely to wear it.  I want a helmet that folds but also fashionable.  Don’t we all?!  I have a compact folding bike, why wouldn’t I also have a compact folding helmet?  

I am ordering the Closca based on price and looks. At the time of posting amazon has it on sale and an extra 10$ off. I have clicked buy and will post an in dept review when I get it.