Quote Originally Posted by tzvia View Post
The main thing is to try on many brands/models as the helmet shape varies by manufacturer. Generally, as you go up in price, you get better air venting/cooling, and lighter weight. They will all have to conform to minimum safety standards so don't think the cheaper ones don't protect as well. The helmet needs to fit well to protect well. That being said, there are some new helmet types, like POC, that can withstand multiple crashes, but appear to be geared for MTB riding and don't have as many cooling vents.

Where I ride, it can get really hot so superior venting is worth the $$ to me and after trying a bunch of helmets I ended up with the Specialized Prevail. And it turns out, after years with Giro and L.A.S., the Specialized shape fits me better. My head is not as much roundish as it is kinda flat on the sides and more long, front to back. Giro, Bell, Lazer, Louis Garneau, Mavic and L.A.S. are more round and just not as comfortable. I had used the sizing pads on the sides of my L.A.S. to snug up the fit, I don't have to monkey with anything to get the Specialized to fit me.

Helmets have changed a lot in 11 years. They are much lighter, cool better, and with all the brands out there you should be able to get a good fit. Oh, try not to wait 11 years between helmets, they do age, the materials break down from UV, sweat and being banged around. Most manufacturers advise 3~5 years average lifespan, if they have not been crashed.
+1 on this. They should all meet the same crash standards. In the higher end ones, you are paying for the ability to provide the protection with less weight and more venting. Living in Oregon, that last part may not make as much difference as it does to me, living in Texas. I do not begrudge the money spent on a really light, super venting helmet here.

Personally, I like the way the Bell helmets dial in their fit. I have the Bell Volt - very happy with the very light weight and the superior venting.

And, yes, they should be replaced every 3-5 years, depending on use and where you store them (not in a hot Texas garage, that's for sure). Of course, once you crash with one, it goes without saying that you need a new one. My brother-in-law had to replace 2 this year due to crashes (one MTB and one skiing). Ouch. But without one.....Ugh.