7 Full-Face Helmets For Downhill Longboarding For Pros

When you are hitting speeds that push past forty miles per hour on a narrow mountain pass, the choice of helmet becomes the most critical decision in your kit. Downhill longboarding demands a unique blend of aerodynamic efficiency, impact protection, and peripheral visibility that standard skate helmets simply cannot provide. Selecting the right full-face protection ensures that you remain focused on the apex of the next corner rather than the risks beneath your wheels.

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TSG Pass Pro: The Gold Standard for Pro Riders

The TSG Pass Pro is widely regarded as the benchmark in the downhill scene for a reason. Its carbon fiber construction provides exceptional strength while keeping weight low, preventing neck fatigue during long technical runs. The iconic “pass” shape is specifically engineered to minimize drag, making it a favorite for riders focused on high-speed tuck positions.

The standout feature is the spherical visor, which is distortion-free and offers a wide peripheral view, essential for tracking competitors or scanning road hazards. The helmet also features two visor options—clear and tinted—allowing for quick swaps based on light conditions. If professional-grade aerodynamics and proven reliability are the top priorities, this helmet is the definitive choice.

Predator DH6-X: Unbeatable Field of Vision

When your riding style relies on extreme tucks and tight line choices, the Predator DH6-X stands in a league of its own. It utilizes a unique chin bar and visor design that creates an incredibly wide horizontal field of vision. This allows riders to maintain a clear line of sight even when looking through sharp, technical hairpins.

The shell is constructed from a high-impact fiberglass composite, which is both durable and forgiving. The interior is highly customizable, featuring different foam thicknesses to ensure a locked-in feel regardless of head shape. If claustrophobia or limited peripheral awareness has plagued past experiences with full-face gear, the DH6-X solves these issues decisively.

New Olders Avitar: Custom Fit, Brazilian Style

New Olders has built a cult following by treating every helmet as a piece of functional art. The Avitar is crafted with a meticulous focus on custom sizing, ensuring that the helmet fits the specific contours of the user’s head perfectly. This level of personalization significantly enhances safety by eliminating the “wobble” often found in mass-produced alternatives.

Beyond the custom fit, the aesthetics are highly customizable, allowing riders to choose unique colorways and finishes. However, the true value lies in the rigid, aerodynamic shell that cuts through the wind with ease. For the rider who views their gear as an extension of their identity and demands a fit that feels bespoke, New Olders is the premium path forward.

S1 Lifer Fullface: Certified Multi-Impact Safety

Not every downhill run ends on a pristine piece of tarmac, and the S1 Lifer Fullface is built for the reality of hard impacts. Unlike many lightweight racing helmets, it utilizes a proprietary EPS fusion foam that is ASTM certified for multiple impacts. This makes it an ideal choice for riders who push their limits in varied terrain where minor spills are more frequent.

The design is slightly more robust and heavier than pure race-focused shells, but that weight trades off directly into higher durability. The ventilation channels are surprisingly effective for a multi-impact helmet, preventing the overheated, stifled feeling common in heavy-duty gear. This is the ultimate pick for the aggressive freerider who needs a helmet as tough as their riding style.

Triple 8 Racer II: A Lightweight Speed Demon

The Triple 8 Racer II is the definition of a “set it and forget it” piece of kit. It features an incredibly aerodynamic, low-profile design that minimizes the wind resistance riders encounter on long, straight descents. Because it sits close to the head, it reduces the “bobblehead” effect often caused by excessive bulk in the chin area.

The shell is crafted from hand-laid carbon fiber, striking an impressive balance between structural integrity and minimal mass. While it lacks some of the advanced ventilation seen in MTB-crossover helmets, it remains cool enough for most race settings due to its streamlined airflow. For the dedicated downhill racer looking to shed every possible ounce for a competitive edge, this helmet is a primary contender.

Bell Sanction 2: The Best Value Full-Face Pick

If you are just beginning your journey into downhill longboarding, the Bell Sanction 2 is the most accessible entry point. It brings mountain bike technology to the pavement, offering a lightweight build that doesn’t sacrifice the essential protection needed for high-speed slides. It is significantly more budget-friendly than carbon-fiber race models, making it the perfect choice for someone building their first complete setup.

The ventilation is excellent, which is a major advantage for riders spending long afternoons lapping a hill in hot, humid weather. While it may not offer the same aerodynamic benefits as the TSG or Triple 8, it provides a confidence-inspiring fit for learning proper form. For those who want reliable protection without the high cost of pro-level racing gear, the Sanction 2 is the smart, pragmatic choice.

Fox Proframe RS: MTB Tech for Maximum Airflow

While technically designed for enduro mountain biking, the Fox Proframe RS has gained significant traction among downhill longboarders, especially in regions with intense heat. Its massive vent system offers unrivaled airflow, keeping the rider cool during strenuous climbs or long, sun-exposed sessions. The MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) integration provides an added layer of safety against rotational forces during a crash.

The helmet uses a BOA fit system, allowing for micro-adjustments on the fly to ensure a secure fit. It is light, breathable, and offers a wider field of view than many traditional skate-style full-faces. For riders who prioritize cooling and modern safety tech over pure aerodynamic shaping, the Proframe RS offers a sophisticated, highly functional alternative.

Safety Certifications: What You Need to Know

Understanding safety ratings is non-negotiable when selecting gear for downhill speeds. Always look for ASTM F1952 certification, which is the specific standard for downhill mountain bike helmets. This ensures the helmet has undergone rigorous testing for chin bar strength and impact coverage in areas traditional skate helmets often neglect.

While CPSC certifications are a good baseline for general cycling, they are insufficient for the unique risks of downhill longboarding. Always check the inside of the helmet for the stamped certification stickers. Prioritize gear that matches the intensity of the riding: if you are hitting speeds over 30 mph, never settle for a helmet that lacks a downhill-specific rating.

Nailing the Perfect Fit for Maximum Protection

A helmet is only as effective as its fit. Start by measuring the circumference of the head about one inch above the eyebrows, then cross-reference this with the manufacturer’s sizing chart. A proper-fitting helmet should feel snug against the cheeks and forehead without creating painful pressure points.

When putting the helmet on, shake your head from side to side; if the helmet moves independently of your head, the fit is too loose. The chin strap must be tightened until only one or two fingers can fit between the strap and your jaw. Never compromise on fit for the sake of aesthetics, as a shifting helmet can become a dangerous distraction during a high-speed maneuver.

Visor Tints and Care for High-Speed Clarity

A scratched or foggy visor can be a major liability when navigating technical sections at speed. Always clean the visor with a dedicated plastic cleaner or mild soap and water, avoiding abrasive paper towels that cause micro-scratches. If a visor becomes heavily pitted from road debris, replace it immediately to prevent light refraction from blinding your vision during sunset runs.

Choose your tints based on the typical lighting conditions of the riding location. A clear visor is essential for evening sessions or overcast days, while a dark smoke or mirrored tint is superior for midday sessions on reflective asphalt. Keeping a spare visor in your bag is a small habit that ensures you never have to ride with impaired vision.

Safety and performance in downhill longboarding are inextricably linked to your equipment choices. Invest in the gear that best matches your riding terrain, maintain it with diligence, and prioritize a proper fit above all else. With the right helmet secured, the focus remains where it belongs: on the road ahead and the next perfect line.