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Head-to-head · Best Bike Helmets

Giro Aries Spherical vs Joovy Noodle Kids Toddler Bike Helmet S-M

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Giro Aries Spherical comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.7 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about serious cyclists seeking maximum performance — read the strengths below before deciding.

Giro Aries Spherical
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Bike Helmets
Giro Aries Spherical
$349.95as of Jul 8

The Giro Aries Spherical represents the pinnacle of road racing helmet technology, according to Contender Bicycles, with Virginia Tech lab tests showing it tops all other bike helmets in safety ratings. The helmet features Giro's proprietary Spherical MIPS system combined with 24 vents and AURA II Reinforcement Arch for optimal breathability and protection. YouTube tester Guy Kesterman praised it as the lightest, fastest, and safest helmet ever made by the brand, weighing just 265 grams for medium size. While it excels in safety and comfort, its compact design may not suit all head shapes, and its premium features come with a higher price tag. This helmet is ideal for serious cyclists seeking maximum protection and performance.

Strengths
  • — Top safety rating from Virginia Tech labs, outperforming all other bike helmets in every category
  • — 24 vents with deep internal channeling for superior breathability and cooling
  • — Spherical MIPS system with Progressive Layering Nanobead EPS foam for enhanced impact protection
Watch-outs
  • — More compact design may not suit all head shapes or sizes
  • — Higher price point due to advanced safety and ventilation technologies
$349.95 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Joovy Noodle Kids Toddler Bike Helmet S-M
Ranked #6 in Best Bike Helmets
Joovy Noodle Kids Toddler Bike Helmet S-M
$14as of Jul 8

The Joovy Noodle Kids Toddler Bike Helmet S-M received positive feedback for its ease of adjustment and comfort, with reviewers praising the dial fit system and lightweight design at 224 grams. Parents appreciated the 14 air vents with integrated mesh screens and built-in extended visor for sun protection. However, some reviewers noted it may not fit children with larger heads, as it's designed for 18.5-20.5 inch head sizes. The helmet lacks MIPS technology, which some parents may want for additional rotational impact protection. It's recommended for toddlers aged 1-4 years and comes in multiple color options.

Strengths
  • — Easy-to-use adjustable fit dial on the back that provides audible clicks to indicate when the helmet is snugly secured
  • — Lightweight at 224 grams, suitable for toddlers with less neck strength
  • — 14 air vents with integrated bug mesh in front vents for protection from insects during hot days
Watch-outs
  • — May be too small for children with larger head circumferences (head size 18.5-20.5 inches recommended)
  • — Lacks MIPS technology found in higher-end toddler helmets for additional rotational impact protection
$14 · Buy at toddler.bicyclesi.comFull review →

How they stack up

Giro Aries Spherical

The Giro Aries Spherical outperforms the Trek Starvos WaveCel helmet in safety ratings and ventilation, with a lighter weight and more advanced Spherical MIPS system. While the Starvos offers impact protection, the Aries Spherical provides superior breathability and a more aerodynamic fit, making it ideal for serious cyclists.

Joovy Noodle Kids Toddler Bike Helmet S-M

The Joovy Noodle Kids Toddler Helmet offers a more child-specific fit and lightweight design compared to the Giro Tremor MIPS child helmet, but lacks MIPS technology and advanced adjustability. While the Giro provides better ventilation and safety features, the Joovy is more affordable and easier to adjust for toddlers, though it's limited in size range and lacks rotational impact protection.

Specs side-by-side

SpecGiro Aries SphericalJoovy Noodle Kids Toddler Bike Helmet S-M
Weight265 grams (medium)224 grams
Ventilation24 vents with deep internal channeling14 air vents with integrated bug mesh
SizeS, M, LS-M
Safety TechnologyVirginia Tech top safety rating—
ConstructionIn-mold with DryCore sweat management—
Safety CertificationCE EN 1078—
Adjustment SystemRoc Loc 5+ Air fit system—
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