#4 on this list
Meteor
Petzl
The Petzl Meteor strikes a highly effective middle ground between ultralight minimalism and everyday practical protection. Constructed using an in-mold expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam core bound permanently to a low-profile polycarbonate outer shell, the Meteor delivers reliable shock absorption at a very manageable 7.9 ounces. It is designed for multi-pitch rock climbers, mountaineers, and ski tourers seeking a single lid for diverse seasons. In field use, the Meteor stands out for its low-bulk silhouette and broad usability. It features Petzl’s enhanced top and side protection rating, wrapping down lower over the temple and occipital regions than classic alpine helmets. Furthermore, it holds CE certification for ski touring, featuring ventilation channels positioned to manage heat on ski ascents and hardware designed to integrate smoothly with ski goggles. The soft webbing harness wraps comfortably around the head without creating hard pressure points. The primary concession with the Meteor is long-term shell resilience. Because its inner EPS foam crushes on impact to disperse force, any major overhead rockfall or significant tumble requires taking the helmet out of service immediately. The thin polycarbonate shell also dents more easily under transport loads than thick ABS alternatives. **Highlights** - Dual-certified for climbing and ski touring (CE EN 12492 / PCSR-001) - In-mold polycarbonate and EPS construction - Generous venting optimized for high aerobic output - Low-profile headlamp and ski goggle attachment points - Moderate weight around 7.9 ounces **Watch-outs** - EPS foam crushes permanently upon severe impact - Polycarbonate shell requires care when packing tightly
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#5 on this list
Wall Rider MIPS Helmet
Mammut
The Mammut Wall Rider MIPS brings advanced rotational-impact mitigation into technical climbing terrain. Climbing helmets have traditionally guarded only against straight-line linear impacts from falling rock. By integrating a MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) low-friction layer, this helmet allows 10 to 15 millimeters of relative movement during angled impacts, significantly reducing rotational forces transferred to the brain during awkward, tumbling falls. The helmet’s foundation is an ultralight EPP foam body capped with a robust hard-shell plate across the top. This hybrid geometry ensures reliable deflection of jagged overhead rockfall while keeping total weight between 7.9 and 8.8 ounces depending on shell size. A minimalist webbing adjustment system secures the base of the skull, and large cutouts along the sides and rear maintain airflow on strenuous pitches. Price and fit customization are the chief considerations. The addition of the MIPS slip-plane elevates the cost significantly above standard climbing helmets. Moreover, the minimalist webbing harness, while effective at saving pack space, lacks the instant micro-adjustability of a traditional plastic dial wheel, requiring precise manual strap fitting before setting off up a wall. **Highlights** - Integrated MIPS rotational impact protection layer - Lightweight shock-absorbing EPP body with hard-shell crown plate - Excellent vent layout for high-output climbs - Compact webbing cradle reduces pack volume - Reinforced front clips for headlamp attachment **Watch-outs** - Premium pricing driven by MIPS technology - Webbing suspension requires deliberate manual adjustment
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Meteor | Wall Rider MIPS Helmet |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.9 oz (225 g) for size S/M | 225–250 g (7.94–8.82 oz) |
| Price | Approx. $115 | — |
| Shell Type | In-mold polycarbonate over expanded polystyrene (EPS) | — |
| Certifications | CE EN 12492, CE PCSR-001 (ski touring), UKCA, UIAA | — |
| Fit System | Flexible webbing harness with dual lateral push tabs | — |
| Optics Fit | Dual front clips and rear elastic band for goggles/lamps | — |
| Impact Tech | — | MIPS low-friction slip plane |
| Core Foam | — | Expanded polypropylene (EPP) |
| Crown Shell | — | Rigid polymer hard-shell plate |
| Available Sizes | — | 52–57 cm and 56–61 cm |
| Retention System | — | Minimalist adjustable webbing |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Meteor
- Dual-certified for standard mountaineering and backcountry ski touring
- Generous ventilation channels effectively manage heat on high-output ascents
- Soft webbing harness folds completely flat into the shell for pack loading
- Noticeably lower profile and better rear coverage than older EPS designs
- Polycarbonate shell is prone to cosmetic denting under careless pack loading
- Webbing push-button adjusters are harder to operate with gloves than dial wheels
- EPS foam compresses permanently upon major impact, requiring immediate replacement
Wall Rider MIPS Helmet
- Integrated MIPS liner reduces rotational forces from angled climbing impacts.
- EPP foam construction resists minor handling bumps better than pure EPS.
- Hard-shell crown plate provides dependable deflection against falling debris.
- Webbing harness packs flat, taking up minimal volume inside a climbing pack.
- Substantially more expensive than standard climbing helmets without MIPS.
- Webbing adjustment lacks the fast micro-tuning of a traditional dial wheel.
- Exposed lower EPP foam can get scuffed or gouged by careless packing.
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