Best list of team helmets Tour de France 2025
The helmets of all teams of the 2025 Tour de France
Hardly anyone rides a bike without a helmet these days – including professional athletes, of course. Mandatory helmet use in racing was the result of tragic accidents and was initially quite controversial. Today, the cycling scene has accepted head protection as a lifesaver, aerodynamic tool, and advertising tool – and the industry can generate significant revenue, especially from the helmets of successful professional cyclists.
We have them all, the helmets of the 2025 Tour de France teams – although probably no one has them all, including us. There are too many design variations, special features, individual solutions, aero and time trial helmets – a complete collection would be beyond our capabilities. On top of that, some of the exclusive team versions aren't even available on the market. For this reason, we didn't insist that the manufacturers send us the team editions; rather, we wanted to show which versions are actually available out there. Manufacturers like Abus, Uvex, Giro, and POC offer the team designs of their helmets for sale, while others don't, which may come as a surprise.
A helmet for every occasion
Gone are the days when the entire team wore exactly the same helmet for three weeks. Special designs for the wearers of the classification jerseys are now almost standard, but the models also vary depending on the route profile: Lightweight and well-ventilated helmets are worn on hot days in the high mountains, while closed aero helmets are used for flat stages with average speeds well over 40 km/h. Then there are the special time trial helmets for the race against the clock. With the 23 teams in the Tour de France, that would bring the total to 69 different models, with some manufacturers equipping two teams at once.
What are the differences between modern cycling helmets?
As already mentioned, different models are used in touring and racing in general, focusing on either ventilation or aerodynamics. Each manufacturer weighs the two aspects: For some standard helmets, aerodynamics is not an issue at all; for others, the product developers have attempted to consider both aspects equally. There are also special designs such as helmets with closed shells or small lids designed to close off the ventilation openings and reduce air resistance.
Ventilation vs. aerodynamics
One thing is clear: the larger the openings, the better the ventilation should be; conversely, smooth, closed models are expected to glide through the wind more smoothly. But does the helmet's aerodynamics make any difference at all? Yes, it does – to a similar extent as aerodynamic wheels. At 40 km/h, the difference between a good and a bad helmet can easily be as much as 12 watts of power – making a road aero helmet an inexpensive way to save power while racing. However, only independent wind tunnel tests can determine how aerodynamically effective a particular helmet is.
The weight
Fortunately, there are no longer weight competitions for cycling helmets. Back then, the lightest helmet in the world certainly wasn't the safest, and 50 grams less on your head is probably not noticeable, but it could be crucial for the helmet's stability. Currently, helmets range between 250 and 350 grams, and you can live with both. Weight should be a secondary consideration when choosing a helmet, behind fit, ventilation, and aerodynamics.
Price and security
Since bicycle helmets must be tested according to strict standards, you can assume that even a cheap helmet will provide a high level of protection. Helmets with the MIPS system offer additional protection against head movement during impact—so the higher price of these models is entirely justified.
The safety of helmets is also checked by independent institutions, such as the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab. Its ranking shows that even inexpensive helmets can perform very well and that there is generally a high level of safety.
As with sports bikes themselves, the weight of a helmet affects the price, and last but not least, the reputation and self-image of the manufacturer, the place and method of production, and the distribution channel all play a role in the calculation.
Closures and adjustment options
Almost every bicycle helmet has an internal retention system that's adjustable in height and width, adapting to the head so that the helmet fits snugly, but not tightly, and securely. Adjustment is generally done via a dial on the back. Differences lie in the design of the straps and fasteners, although there's no one-size-fits-all solution, but there aren't any extreme differences either.
What helmet rules must be followed in racing?
In professional cycling, strict regulations apply to helmet wearing. Since 2003, the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) has required the wearing of helmets at all races – from the start to the official finish. Helmets may not be removed during the race, even in extreme heat or on seemingly safe sections. An exception is made only if there is an immediate threat to health or safety – for example, if a bee becomes caught in the helmet. In such cases, the helmet may be briefly loosened or removed, but must be fitted correctly again as quickly as possible.
In addition, all helmets used in professional sports must meet certain requirements. The European standard EN 1078, which regulates shock absorption and structural safety, is fundamental. In addition, the UCI checks whether the shape, construction, and materials of aero and time trial helmets comply with the regulations. Unapproved or tampered with helmets will result in a ban from the start. UCI commissaires check before the race to ensure that the helmet fits correctly, is properly closed, and securely covers the head.
For professional road cyclists, the helmet is not only mandatory equipment, but a safety-relevant piece of equipment that must not be neglected at any stage of the race.
How do I know if a helmet fits me safely?
A road bike helmet fits properly when it sits firmly without pinching and doesn't shift even when moving. It's important that the helmet sits horizontally on your head—not too far back on your neck or forehead. There should be about a finger's worth of space between your chin and the strap. Side straps should ideally form a Y below your ear. Many manufacturers offer different shell sizes and adjustment systems so the helmet can be optimally adapted to your head shape. A good fit is crucial for effective protection—even the best high-end helmet is only effective if worn correctly.
What does MIPS mean?
MIPS is a special safety system for bicycle helmets that provides additional protection in angled or side impacts. Developed in Sweden, it features a movable inner shell that moves slightly during an impact. This reduces dangerous rotational forces that can strain the brain—a common cause of concussions.
MIPS is not developed by helmet manufacturers themselves, but is offered as a licensed technology by an independent company. Numerous brands integrate the system into their helmets – similar to other modular technologies in the sports sector. Those who value added safety should specifically look for helmets with MIPS.
Does MIPS also have disadvantages?
MIPS offers additional protection in angled falls, but also has a few minor disadvantages. Due to the integrated movable inner shell, a helmet with MIPS is generally somewhat heavier than a comparable model without this system. The price is also usually somewhat higher, as the technology is licensed and technically more complex to implement. Some users also report that MIPS helmets feel slightly different when put on or are slightly audible. Nevertheless, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages: Especially in angled impacts, MIPS can help reduce rotational forces on the brain – a crucial safety advantage that has long been standard in professional sports.
Is an expensive helmet safer?
An expensive helmet isn't automatically safer – all helmets sold in Europe must comply with the EN 1078 standard and therefore offer good protection. The price difference between a €100 and a €400 helmet is usually due to other factors: Higher-priced models are often lighter, better ventilated, aerodynamically optimized, and equipped with additional features such as MIPS, internal reinforcements, or high-quality adjustment and padding systems. The design, materials, and, above all, a manufacturer's brand positioning and pricing policy also play a major role. As our overview shows, the professional peloton includes helmets for €119, such as those from Van Rysel, and helmets for €375 from Kask – in terms of safety, neither is worse.
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Intermarché-Wanty – Uvex Surge Aero Mips
Uvex Surge Aero Mips: Two in one with subtle styling. The Uvex Surge Aero Mips was introduced during the 2024 Tour de France and immediately worn by Biniam Girmay to two stage wins and the green jersey for best sprinter. Uvex offers two helmets in one, so to speak: The head protection itself comes with an aero cover that […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Movistar – Abus Gamechanger 2.0
Abus Gamechanger 2.0: Many colors and good aerodynamics. The Abus Gamechanger was presented at Eurobike 2017 and was a real aerodynamic success, as wind tunnel tests showed. One goal during its development was to reduce the influence of head position on air resistance – noticeable, for example, in the way wind noise changes when moving the head, [...]
All Tour de France team helmets: The aero helmet from Red Bull–Bora–hansgrohe and Soudal–Quick-Step – Specialized S-Works Evade 3
Specialized S-Works Evade 3: Aero helmet with good ventilation. With front intake vents and a rear diffuser designed to prevent airflow, the Specialized S-Works Evade 3 aims to simultaneously improve aerodynamics and ventilation. The front vents aren't particularly large; however, air can also enter above the forehead, which then flows through the channels along the head and through the […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe and Soudal-Quick-Step: Specialized S-Works Prevail 3
Specialized S-Works Prevail 3: Well-ventilated and extremely safe. In the Specialized range, the Prevail 3 is the counterpart to the Evade 3: While the Evade XNUMX focuses on aerodynamics, the Prevail's primary goal is optimal ventilation. Viewed from the front, the Specialized's camber ring design is striking: four tall ribs with wide gaps between them [...]
All Tour de France team helmets: The Bahrain Victorious – Rudy Project Rebel helmet
Rudy Project Rebel: Classic shapes and soft padding. With its carbon fiber look, the new Rudy Project Rebel appears to be out of date; even the tapered sections at the rear were seen in a similar form ten years ago. Of course, that doesn't stop Team Bahrain Victorious from relying on the Rebel's protective properties, [...]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from EF Education–EasyPost – POC Cytal
POC Cytal: High safety and clear shapes Founded over 20 years ago, POC first entered the skiing market with strictly scientifically developed helmets before launching its first cycling products in 2008. From the very beginning, the brand's helmets stood out from the crowd with their clear shapes; the brand promise was to offer not only optimal protection but also ventilation [...]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Uno-X-Mobility: Sweet Protection Falconer Aero 2Vi
Sweet Protection Falconer Aero 2Vi: Faster with "Aero Covers" The Norwegian manufacturer offers the helmet in two versions: the Falconer without (€249) and the Sweet Protection Falconer Aero 2Vi with the "Aero Covers" (€299), which are held in place by magnets and fit precisely into the helmet. The surcharge for the four [...]
All Tour de France team helmets: The aero helmet from Uno-X-Mobility: Sweet Protection Tucker 2Vi
Sweet Protection Tucker 2Vi: Heavy Aero Helmet with Improved Ventilation At 434 grams (size L/XL), the Sweet Protection Tucker 2Vi is a real heavyweight, but that certainly doesn't stop Uno-X-Mobility riders from wearing it in competitions. Unlike its predecessor, which was almost completely closed, the new model from the Norwegian manufacturer is […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Visma – Lease-a-bike – Giro Aries Spherical
Giro Aries Spherical: Optimal ventilation and a proven adjustment system. Giro winner Simon Yates rides a Giro helmet – the Giro Aries Spherical. It's immediately apparent that the US manufacturer's top-of-the-line model is designed for optimal ventilation: Wide openings run lengthwise across the helmet; the ribs between them are held together by integrated reinforcing bridges made of transparent plastic. […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Jumbo – Lease-a-bike – Giro Eclipse Spherical
Giro Eclipse Spherical: Aero helmet with good ventilation. The cycling helmet pioneer is providing Team Visma–Lease-a-Bike with two helmets for road stages: the Giro Eclipse Spherical and the Aries. The former focuses on aerodynamics, the latter on ventilation. According to the manufacturer, both models weigh almost exactly the same; however, the editorial team weighs 308 (Eclipse) to […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The Tudor helmet: Oakley Velo Mach
Oakley Velo Mach: Sleek shapes from the eyewear specialist. The brand-new Team Tudor helmet is currently only available in the red team version on Oakley's website; however, our matte black test sample shows that there are, and will be, other versions available. Helmets have been available from the US eyewear specialist for some time, and they're definitely not a "me-too" product. [...]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet of Ineos Grenadiers – Kask Elemento
Kask Elemento: Safety with Multipod Padding Kask's top-of-the-line model was developed in collaboration with Team Ineos and is designed to offer an optimal balance of aerodynamics and ventilation – the manufacturer gives its flagship five out of five points in both areas. The Italian helmet specialist also promises high safety for the Kask Elemento thanks to proprietary technologies. The helmet shell is made of […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet of XDS–Astana – Limar Air Atlas
Limar Air Atlas: Magnetic closure and removable UFO. The XDS-Astana helmet, shown here, stands out with its somewhat old-fashioned look, featuring a grid pattern and glossy black side panels. There are also much more understated versions, such as the one entirely in matte white. A striking feature of the Limar Air Atlas is the removable "UFO" panel on the […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Picnic–PostNL – Lazer Z1 KinetiCore
Lazer Z1 KinetiCore: High safety and good ventilation. The Z1 is a true classic, which was already on the market in a very similar form ten years ago. The Lazer Z1 KinetiCore offers a version with optimized safety: densely packed foam blocks are positioned on the inside of the EPS body to absorb shear forces and thus provide […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The helmet from Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale – Van Rysel RCR-F Aero
Van Rysel RCR-F Aero: Affordable and well-equipped. The sporting goods giant entices with unrivaled prices – at €120, the team helmet is unbeatably affordable, even though it's equipped with the MIPS liner. And the French brand's helmet also impresses in other ways: The Van Rysel RCR-F Aero's construction is high-quality, its shape harmonious and overall well-designed; plus […]
All Tour de France team helmets: The aero helmet from Ineos Grenadiers – Kask Nirvana
Kask Nirvana: Large aero helmet in beautiful colors. With the Nirvana, Kask offers an aero helmet that looks large on the Velomotion dummy head, but is actually quite compact. At 297 grams in size L, it's also comparatively light considering its largely closed shell and its teardrop shape. Four vents in the front and […]