Helmet

Bike helmet: ride protected, top brands at the best price

The bike helmet is a non-negotiable accessory. An ordinary journey, a car door opening, braking on wet ground, and it's the helmet that takes the hit for you. Wearing a bike helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious head injury, and no other piece of equipment does that. At Léon & Gaston, Gaston unearths the best helmets from top brands in clearance and end-of-series sales across Europe, and Léon checks each item. Safety, comfort, and style, at the best price.

Why wear a bike helmet

Cycling in the city means sharing the road with cars, buses, and unexpected events. In case of a fall, the head is the most exposed and vulnerable area. A bike helmet absorbs a large part of the energy of an impact thanks to its shell and foam, greatly reducing the severity of head trauma. On an electric bike, where average speeds are higher than on a classic bike, the helmet becomes even more important: you ride faster, longer, so you expose yourself more. Choosing a good bike helmet and wearing it on every ride, even short ones, is the number one safety reflex for urban cyclists.

How to choose your bike helmet?

The right bike helmet is one that is the correct size, compliant with standards, and comfortable enough for you to actually wear it on every journey.

Size and adjustment

A bike helmet should first be chosen in the correct size. Measure your head circumference with a tape measure, just above your eyebrows, and refer to the brand's size guide. Aim for a helmet with an adjustment dial at the back, which refines the fit for an adjustment that is neither too tight nor too loose. Properly adjusted, the helmet sits horizontally, covers the forehead, and doesn't move when you shake your head.

Safety standard

Always check for the European standard EN 1078: this is proof that the bike helmet has passed shock absorption and resistance tests. This is non-negotiable, regardless of the price. For best practices and cycling regulations, the Road Safety authority remains the official reference.

Comfort and ventilation

A helmet you find uncomfortable is a helmet you'll eventually leave at home. Look at the weight, the quality of the padding, the strap system, and especially the ventilation. For commuting and daily rides, a well-ventilated urban bike helmet prevents you from sweating on warm days and remains comfortable all year round.

Type of helmet

The urban bike helmet focuses on a sober look, good coverage, and city-specific features. The road helmet, lighter and very well ventilated, aims for performance. The mountain bike helmet adds a visor and reinforced rear protection. For urban and commuting use, the city helmet is the most relevant.

Options that change city life

Some helmets integrate a rear LED light to be seen from a distance, a visor against rain and sun, or a foldable format that slips into a bag once you arrive. On a connected bike helmet, you can even find turn signals or fall sensors. All these details make journeys safer and more practical.

Helmet for children

For transporting little ones in a seat or cargo bike, a child's bike helmet is mandatory and must be perfectly adjusted, with a fine dial and soft straps. Check that it covers the back of the skull well, an area often exposed in children.

How to maintain and replace your bike helmet

A bike helmet should be replaced after any significant impact, even without visible damage: the internal foam compresses only once and then loses its absorption capacity. As a precaution, it is also recommended to change your helmet approximately every five years, as materials degrade over time. Clean it with warm soapy water, avoid solvents, and do not store it in direct sunlight or in an overheated car.

Why buy your bike helmet from Léon & Gaston?

Clearance sales, the great deal of an overstocked market

Top brand helmets in clearance and end-of-series, new and guaranteed. Gaston finds the good equipment, Léon checks it, and you get a quality bike helmet, compliant with standards, at a price well below its original cost.

Payment in instalments and delivery across Europe

You can pay for your order in 2, 3 or 4 interest-free instalments with Alma. Small parcel delivery throughout Europe (Mondial Relay, Chronopost), free returns within 14 days, with no hidden fees. Collection possible by appointment in Clichy (92).

Bike helmet FAQ

Is wearing a bike helmet mandatory?

In France, it is mandatory for children under 12, whether they are riding or are passengers. For adults, it is not mandatory but highly recommended, especially on electric bikes where speeds are higher.

How do I know if my bike helmet is the right size?

Properly adjusted, it sits horizontally, covers the forehead, and doesn't move when you shake your head, with the dial tightened without compressing. If you can easily slide it forwards or backwards, it is too large or poorly adjusted.

Should I change my helmet after a fall?

Yes. Even without visible cracks, the internal foam will have absorbed the impact and will no longer protect correctly. A helmet that has sustained a significant impact must be replaced.

Which helmet for an electric bike?

An urban helmet compliant with EN 1078, well-ventilated and ideally equipped with a rear light. Since you ride faster on an e-bike, prioritize good coverage and an impeccable fit.