6 chic helmets New York cyclists love

The long-awaited launch of Citi Bike has spurred lots of excitement, and also controversies. Among them is the accusation that many riders, a large number of whom are new to pedaling the city’s streets, are doing so without helmets.

To this we say: Really?! It may not be the law for adults in the city, and it may be inconvenient to tote one, but it’s just plain stupid to go without in a city where you’re sharing lanes with zooming cabs, iPhone-focused pedestrians, and so many more potential obstacles.

Experienced cyclists, of course, know this. So we reached out to some of the city’s coolest, chicest, most-influential female bike commuters to find out what they wear to protect their pretty heads.

Here are six helmets that these New York cyclists love and that you can wear on your Citi Bike. —Lisa Elaine Held

Mariana ChambersFounder, GiveLoveCycle

I love the Bern helmets because they are sleek, light, and use the latest technology to ensure that the right parts of your head are protected. They come in an array of colors and finishes—I alternate between the Lenox ($64.99) in matte black with a pink rim (pictured) and the Berkeley ($79.99) in shiny white with removable rim.

Tanya QuickFounder, Language Dept.

I love my Kask Urban Lifestyle ($249.95) helmet. Mine is black without the script writing. [But this photo gives you an idea of the chicness.] I love it because the flip-down visor means I can ride unfettered by any weather, and the Daft Punk feel is just plain fun to wear.

Susi WunschFounder, Velojoy.com

The Lazer Cityzen ($57) in black is one of my favorites—it reminds me of an equestrian helmet. Its classic good looks go with everything. It’s also super-light and contains 16 vents that help you keep a cool head.

Caroline SamponaroDirector of Bicycle Advocacy, Transportation Alternatives

My favorite helmet is my BikeNYC.org & Transportation Alternatives branded white Giro Reverb ($60) helmet. It makes me stand out and I already getting stopped by tons of Citi Bike riders asking where they can pick one up (you can buy the branded version at Sid’s Bike Shop or Danny’s Cycles). It’s not sporty and it matches all of my outfits, too!

Kym PerfettoInstructor, SoulCycle

I use a Giro Atmos ($145) in Matte Black (visor removed). It’s a smaller shape, super lightweight, and black goes with everything!

Amanda Rose WalshPersonal trainer, instructor at Uplift Studios

My favorite helmet is the Bern Brentwood ($79.99) because it feels good, looks good and protects my head without interfering with my vision.  Also, it has a removable inside piece that becomes a little visor and keeps me warm in winter. Amazing!

More Reading

Cyclofemme: A global women’s biking movementCiti Bike stations create controversy around the cityCycling Fever: A new online hub centralizes all-things-biking in New York