Cycling Helmet Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2025 - 2030)

Global Cycling Helmet Market Trends and Insights

Rising awareness of cycling safety

Heightened global awareness of cycling safety is driving a surge in helmet demand. Key players like government regulations and advocacy campaigns are at the forefront. Take the Netherlands’ Bicycle Helmet Day initiative: a public health program, bolstered by the Ministry of Infrastructure and medical associations, catapulted hospital helmet use from a mere 3% to 15%. Road safety advocates, emphasizing that helmets can slash fatal head injuries by up to 70%, are rallying campaigns. They're urging older riders and e-bike users—like Dutch neurologist Myrthe Boss—to prioritize brain protection. This blend of regulatory push and cultural shift is prompting manufacturers to elevate both safety and aesthetics. The result? Cutting-edge product innovations in 2024 and 2025. A case in point: Woolf Helmets launched its smart folding helmet on Kickstarter in 2025. This helmet, designed for urban commuters, boasts compact portability, energy-reduction padding, and integrated brake lights and turn signals. Such advancements, alongside government initiatives, safety standards, and public awareness drives, underscore a transformative shift in the helmet market, fueled by innovation, regulation, and education.

Technological advancements in helmet design

Rapid technological advancements in helmet design are propelling the global cycling helmet market, prioritizing safety, comfort, and functionality. Regulatory standards, such as the EU's EN 1078 and ratings from Virginia Tech Helmet Lab, compel manufacturers to adopt advanced protective technologies. These include MIPS, non-Newtonian liners, and KOROYD's energy-absorbing materials. In 2024, MET unveiled its Revo helmet, featuring MIPS AIR for enhanced protection against both linear and rotational impacts. Wind-tunnel tests showcased a notable 23.5% boost in cooling efficiency. POC, in 2025, rolled out the Cytal and Cularis helmets, which not only topped Virginia Tech's safety charts but also boasted EPS liners fine-tuned through computational fluid dynamics. These helmets integrated MIPS Air Node systems and utilized Venturi-effect ventilation. In a parallel move, smart-helmet innovations are gaining momentum. Newlane, a UK-based firm, is poised to debut the first foldable helmet with integrated MIPS in 2025, emphasizing urban portability without sacrificing safety. These collective innovations, spurred by rigorous safety mandates, industry standards, and heightened consumer demand, have transformed the market landscape, underscoring technological differentiation as a pivotal growth driver.

Growth of cycling as a sport and recreation

As cycling gains traction both as a sport and a leisure activity, the global cycling helmet market is witnessing a robust upswing, fueled by a growing user base and a demand for varied helmet designs. This momentum is bolstered by significant investments, such as Paris's commitment of EUR 2 billion towards cycling infrastructure from 2023 to 2027, aimed at promoting both commuter and recreational biking. Additionally, the spotlight on cycling has intensified with milestones like achieving full gender parity for the sport at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Highlighting the sport's popularity, the Sports and Fitness Industry Association reported that in 2024, over 56 million Americans engaged in outdoor cycling, with road cycling emerging as the frontrunner, attracting more than 42 million enthusiasts^{[1]Sports and Fitness Industry Association, "2025 Sports, Fitness, and Leisure Activities Topline Participation Report", www.sfia.users.membersuite.com}. In response to this burgeoning interest, helmet manufacturers are broadening their offerings in 2024-25 to cater to a wider array of cycling styles. For instance, the MET Revo (2024) boasts integrated MIPS Air and enhanced airflow, tailored for road cyclists. Meanwhile, POC's Cytal team editions (2025), endorsed by professional teams and lauded with top ratings from Virginia Tech, prioritize high-level protection and ventilation.

Expansion of urban cycling infrastructure

Global cycling helmet sales are surging, fueled by cities worldwide bolstering their cycling infrastructure. Investments in dedicated bike lanes, safeguarded cycle tracks, and urban "road diets" are making cycling not only safer but also more inviting. A case in point: a 2024 evaluation by the U.S. Department of Transportation highlighted that protected bike lanes led to a 44% drop in fatalities and a 50% reduction in serious injuries. Echoing this trend, Statistics Korea reported in 2023 that South Korea boasted approximately 3,763 kilometers of bike-exclusive lanes^{[2]Statistics Korea, "Status of bicycle roads", www.index.go.kr}. European cities are at the forefront of this movement. Paris, for instance, is rolling out its "Plan Vélo 2021–2026," backed by a national commitment of EUR 2 billion (with an additional EUR 6 billion at the regional level) to enhance cycling infrastructure by 2027. These initiatives have not only spurred weekday ridership but also amplified the emphasis on safety gear. Consequently, there's been a notable uptick in demand for helmets, particularly models tailored for commuters prioritizing comfort and daily use.

Counterfeit and non-certified products

Counterfeit and non-certified cycling helmets are undermining the global helmet market, eroding consumer trust, endangering riders, and hurting legitimate manufacturers. In New Delhi, road safety experts at the 2025 National Summit on Road Safety flagged nearly 70% of sold helmets as fakes, failing basic impact tests and dubbing them “death traps.” These counterfeit helmets, typically priced 30–50% lower, not only jeopardize user safety but also disrupt market dynamics, slashing revenues for certified manufacturers and stifling R&D investments. In a bid to combat this, authentic helmet brands are ramping up innovations in anti-counterfeit and safety features. Starting in 2024, manufacturers began integrating unique serial numbers, QR codes, and holographic/IoT verification tags into premium models, allowing for real-time consumer verification at retail outlets. Regulatory recalls, like Reebok’s folding helmets and kids' helmets from Temu in early 2024 due to non-compliance, highlight the steep financial and reputational stakes of non-certified gear. Overall, the counterfeit helmet issue is stunting market growth by jeopardizing consumer safety, triggering regulatory actions, and escalating compliance costs.

Durability and replacement cycles

Concerns over durability and mandated replacement cycles are curbing the global cycling helmet market, driving up lifetime costs for consumers and influencing their buying choices. Manufacturers, alongside standards organizations like the Snell Memorial Foundation and regulatory bodies, typically advocate for helmet replacements every 3–5 years—or right after a crash. This recommendation is crucial to ensure material efficacy, given that expanded polystyrene foam and plastics can degrade due to UV exposure, sweat, and minor impacts. From a manufacturing standpoint, the emphasis on replacement cycles has shifted R&D and marketing efforts towards developing longevity-enhancing materials and modular designs. These designs facilitate part replacements, such as adjustable straps and pad kits, with the goal of extending the helmet's usable life. In 2024–25, several brands introduced helmets featuring easily replaceable components and robust materials like carbon-fiber shells and advanced polycarbonate. They also rolled out integrated repair services, aiming to minimize full-helmet replacements. These moves underscore a strategy to bolster customer retention while tackling durability challenges. However, until genuinely sustainable, long-life, or refillable helmet models gain widespread acceptance, the mandated replacement cycles are likely to continue hindering market growth. This is due to the recurring costs they impose on consumers and the resultant fragmentation of brand loyalty.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: MTB dominance drives technical innovation

Mountain bike models held the largest slice of the cycling helmet market at 38.20% revenue in 2024, and road and recreational helmets will pace the fastest growth at 7.82% CAGR to 2030. According to the International Mountain Bicycling Association, over 85% of regular riders now adopt mountain bike helmet models. These helmets command higher average selling prices, with about 65% incorporating MIPS or similar systems. For instance, the Sports and Fitness Industry Association reported that in 2024, around 9.24 million individuals in the U.S. engaged in mountain biking^{[3]Sports and Fitness Industry Association, "2025 Sports, Fitness, and Leisure Activities Topline Participation Report", www.sfia.users.membersuite.com}. Designed to counter the heightened crash risks of mountain biking, these helmets often boast features like extended rear protection, reinforced shells, adjustable visors, and built-in camera mounts, fueling the segment's expansion.

On the other hand, road and recreational helmets are witnessing the swiftest growth, spurred by a global surge in commuter and fitness cycling. For instance, the Sports and Fitness Industry Association noted that in 2024, about 42.5 million people in the U.S. took part in road cycling, up from 42.2 million the year prior. Moreover, innovations in road helmets—such as better ventilation, aerodynamic designs, and Virginia Tech-rated safety features—have driven their popularity. This is evident in 2025's top-rated models, like the Specialized Evade III and Giro Eclipse Spherical, which prioritize maximum comfort and protection.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By End User: Adult segment stability contrasts kids' growth

In 2024, adults accounted for 78.02% of the revenue, but the kids' segment is emerging as a dynamic growth area, projected to expand at a CAGR of 8.27% through 2030. The adult segment's growth is fueled by heightened awareness of cycling safety and a growing trend of cycling for transportation and fitness. This segment boasts a diverse range of products, from high-performance racing helmets to designs tailored for casual commuters, catering to varied styles and safety preferences.

On the other hand, the surge in the children's segment can be linked to a rise in children's cycling activities, a growing emphasis on child safety, and the enforcement of helmet laws in numerous areas. With governments and organizations championing helmet use through educational campaigns, the demand for children's helmets has seen a notable uptick. A case in point: In March 2025, Central Oregon witnessed over 2,000 third graders engaging in the "Train Your Brain" initiative. This program, emphasizing helmet use importance, not only educated students but also distributed free multi-sport helmets. Spearheaded by local athletic trainers and backed by St. Charles Health System, this initiative has been a consistent effort for 15 years, distributing over 1,000 helmets annually, all with the goal of embedding lifelong safety habits in young minds.

By Category: Smart helmets disrupt conventional dominance

While conventional designs account for 96.49% of the revenue, smart helmets are projected to grow at a robust 15.20% CAGR. Conventional cycling helmets dominate the global market, thanks to their affordability, simplicity, and widespread availability. Meeting basic safety standards, these helmets are favored by recreational cyclists, commuters, and children alike, driving robust sales. Their straightforward design and manufacturing processes keep production costs low, leading to competitive retail prices. This affordability makes them particularly appealing in price-sensitive markets and developing regions.

In contrast, smart helmets are emerging as the fastest-growing segment. Technological advancements have integrated features like Bluetooth connectivity, GPS navigation, crash detection, and LED lighting, making them especially attractive to urban cyclists and tech enthusiasts. For example, in April 2024, Ather Energy unveiled its Ather Halo smart helmet series, boasting features like seamless pairing, music and call management, and a rider-pillion intercom, all while upholding stringent safety standards. The rising demand for smart helmets is further underscored by the growing adoption of MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), signaling a clear shift towards helmets that not only prioritize safety but also offer enhanced functionalities, aligning with the evolving preferences of cyclists.

By Distribution Channel: Digital transformation accelerates

In 2024, offline retail dominated with 56.31% of sales, while online outlets are projected to grow at a 9.59% CAGR. Thanks to their established presence, personalized service, and tactile shopping experience, offline retail stores command the largest share of the global cycling helmet market. This hands-on shopping approach is especially crucial for customers buying helmets for children or those in search of premium models boasting advanced safety features. Furthermore, offline stores, bolstered by strong ties to cycling communities, have earned trust as reliable sources for high-quality products, solidifying their market dominance.

On the other hand, online retail is the fastest-growing segment. The allure of shopping from home, coupled with the ease of comparing prices and features across brands and accessing customer reviews, has fueled the rise of online purchases. E-commerce giants like Amazon, REI, and Chain Reaction Cycles entice consumers with their extensive product ranges, competitive pricing, and enticing discounts. Additionally, with advancements in augmented reality (AR) technology, customers can virtually try on helmets, significantly enhancing the online shopping experience and alleviating concerns about purchasing without a physical trial.

Geography Analysis

Europe led the cycling helmet market in 2024 with 38.67% revenue, thanks to dense cycling networks, rigorous CE certification, and high disposable incomes. For instance, the European Union's EN 1078 safety standard mandates rigorous testing for bike helmets, ensuring high-quality products. Similarly, in 2024, over 85% of bike helmets sold in Europe were certified under EN 1078, underscoring the region's commitment to safety and quality. Spain’s 2025 rules and the Dutch adoption campaign will further lift penetration. Sustainability resonates strongly, giving cork-lined models an edge in design-conscious markets.

Asia-Pacific will post the fastest regional CAGR at 8.92% by 2030. Governmental pushes for active transport, particularly in China’s megacities and Australian capitals, combine with rising middle-class leisure spending. Harmonised standards, such as Australia’s 2024 update that references six global norms, simplify cross-border supply chains. Furthermore, countries like China, India, and Japan are experiencing a surge in cycling activities, both for commuting and recreational purposes, leading to a heightened demand for cycling helmets. 

North America remains influential, driven by a robust cycling culture and vigilant enforcement. The US CPSC continues to monitor recalls, prodding brands to strengthen quality controls. Heavy investment in protected lanes, typified by Los Angeles’ USD 3.1 billion Mobility Plan, sustains unit growth. Canadian policy advocates and insurers equally endorse mandatory helmet adoption, broadening the addressable pool.