I prefer trying on before buying to see how it fits and how adjustable it is for my head. Isn’t there a REI in the twin cities? If so and if you haven’t already looked there you might want to. For online shopping Competitive Cyclist will send a prepaid return label for $6.99. Colorado Cyclist does the same. With REI you can order on line and return it to a store for free. They also have free shipping on items over $50, good if you know it fits and don't need to return it.
Personally I like my brain enough to get a helmet with a mips protection system too. Even though it’s a small advantage a mips helmet can help in protecting the brain in some falls. A mips helmet can be bought for around 100 now, Giro and others.
‘The negative feelings we all have can be addictive…just as the positive…it’s up to
us to decide which ones we want to choose and feed”… Pema Chodron