Tour de France: A Look at Top Bike Helmet Brands

The Tour de France is not just any cycling race - it's the pinnacle of cycling where the world's best cyclists compete for glory, and where the best cycling gear is put to the test. One of the most important pieces of gear for any cyclist is their helmet, which not only provides protection but also plays a crucial role in performance. It's the difference between a close call and a nasty spill, between a good day and a great one. That's why Huace Sports are excited to take a closer look at the helmets worn by professional cyclists in this year's Tour de France.

As a bike helmet manufacturer, HuaceSports is committed to providing cyclists with top-of-the-line helmets that not only provide superior protection but also enhance their performance. Our team of designers and engineers are constantly working to improve our helmets, incorporating the latest technology and innovations to ensure that our helmets are among the best on the market. We're proud to be a part of the cycling community and to contribute to the safety and performance of cyclists around the world. So, whether you're a professional cyclist or a weekend warrior, make sure you're using the best gear to achieve your goals and stay safe on the road.

In this post, we'll explore some of the popular brands and models that have made their way onto the heads of professional cyclists, and the technology and innovation that sets them apart. So, whether you're a seasoned cyclist or simply a fan of the sport, read on to discover the Tour de France's top cycling helmets.

 

Ekoi

 

Ekoi tour de france helmets

 

Ekoi is the most commonly found helmet manufacturer in this year's Tour de France, supporting no less than four teams representing the French brand. They are also a long-termed working partner with HuaceSports, a bike helmet manufacturer dedicated to details and design. Their AR14 helmet is the one that most riders have opted for, with its aerodynamic design paired with small vents up-front for breathability. The AR14 was worn by Caleb Ewan in that stage 3 crash, as well as by stage 4's breakaway nearly man, Brent van Moer of Lotto Soudal. EKOI continues to support professional cycling teams and athletes, including Warren Barguil of Team Arkéa Samsic. As one of the best French climbers, Barguil trusts the EKOI AR14 and EKOI GARA helmets to protect him during intense competitions. This was evident in his impressive win at the 2022 Gran Premio Miguel Indurain and 1st place finish in the 5th stage of the Tirreno-Adriatico. As the Tour de France approaches in 2023, we can expect to see more EKOI gear on display as top riders rely on the brand's quality and performance to give them an edge in the world's most prestigious cycling event. Ekoi's Gara and Legende helmets have also been seen on professional cyclists in the race. The Legende replicates the retro hairnet style with modern and safe materials, while the Gara features a streamlined design for optimal performance. 

 

HJC
 

Souce: Cyclingnews

 

HJC is a Korean brand that has recently entered the cycling market and gained the sponsorship of professional cyclists such as Chris Froome who claims to take part in the 2023 Tour de France and Greg Van Avermaet. And same as Ekoi, HJC is also a long termed partner with Huacesports who provide cyclists with top-of-the-line helmets that meet their needs. Most of the team has been using the IBEX 2.0, but for maximum aerodynamics, riders have been switching to the Furion 2.0. On time trial days, riders switch to the Adwatt, which offers maximum aerodynamics and ventilation for optimal performance.

 

Kask

 Souce: Cyclingnews

Kask is an Italian brand that has gained significant popularity in the Tour de France in recent years. Their helmets are known for their lightweight and comfortable design, which provides excellent ventilation and superior protection. KASK has a long-standing association with the Tour de France, and for the 2022 race, the brand has unveiled its limited edition Valegro Tour de France helmet. This helmet features a unique graphic, with seven parallel yellow lines that represent the seven Tour victories achieved by KASK riders. Only 3,328 pieces of this special helmet have been produced, with each helmet bearing a progressive number at the back to signify a cyclist's personal kilometre of the 2022 race. 

 

Specialized

 

Specialized tour de france helmets

 

Specialized is a leading brand in the cycling industry, known for its high-quality helmets that are designed to offer maximum comfort and safety. Specialized helmets have become a staple in the Tour de France with their exclusive use by Specialized-sponsored teams in recent years. The teams riding Specialized bikes also use their helmets, shoes, tires, and wheels, such as the Roval. Fans of the race have seen the current Road World Champion, Julian Alaphilippe, lighting up the race in the S-Works Prevail 2 while Peter Sagan, a three-time champion, will be donning the S-Works Evade. The S-Works Prevail 2 is known for its regular fit, while the S-Works Evade is aerodynamic. The teams wearing these helmets in the 2022 tour de France race include BORA Hansgrohe, QuickStep Alpha Vinyl Team, and Total Energies. Fans can get their hands on these helmets at Competitive Cyclist and Jenson USA.

 

Giro

 

Giro tour de france helmets

 

Giro is another popular brand that has been present in the Tour de France for many years. Their helmets are a well-known brand among the pro peloton, with a history dating back to pre-2000. This year, three teams in the 2022 Tour de France will be wearing Giro helmets, including Groupama-FDJ. Cyclists will have the option to choose from three Giro helmets; the Giro Aether Spherical, Giro Vanquish MIPS, and Giro Aerohead MIPS helmets. The Giro Aerohead MIPS helmet will be used by Trek-Segafredo riders for time trials as their helmet supplier, Bontrager, does not produce a TT helmet.

 

POC

 

POC tour de france helmets

 

POC is a Swedish brand that has revolutionized bike helmets with their patented SPIN safety technology. The unique light blue liner in all POC helmets today is indicative of the SPIN system which protects riders against rotational forces in the event of an impact. Their helmets are also among the most stylish in the pro peloton and this year, the EF Education Nippo team will be sporting the pink POC Ventral SPIN Air helmets. These helmets feature an aerodynamic design and are sure to catch the eye of spectators watching the Tour de France.

 

Bell

 

Bell tour de france helmets

 

Bell is an iconic brand in the cycling industry, with over 60 years of experience in crafting high-quality helmets that are built to last. Their helmets are renowned for their durability and superior construction, making them a popular choice among cyclists. In the 2021 Tour de France, the Bell Z20 was a top pick among riders, thanks to its aerodynamic design that delivers exceptional performance in any condition. Its advanced ventilation system keeps cyclists cool and comfortable during long rides. It's unfortunate to note that Bell helmets did not make an appearance in the 2022 Tour de France, leaving fans and riders alike to wonder what happened to this classic brand.

 

The 2022 Tour de France showcases a total of 16 different bike helmet brands. The top two helmet brands with the most presence in the race are Ekoi and Specialized with three teams each, followed by Abus and HJC with two teams. Bell, a classic brand that has been present in the race for over 60 years, did not show up in the race this year. It is interesting to note that some of the teams choose to wear helmets from brands other than their bike sponsor's brand.

 

2022 bike helmet brands present at the Tour de France

 

 

In Conlusion

 

In conclusion, the Tour de France continues to push the boundaries of cycling technology, and the helmets worn by the pros are no exception. With the constant evolution of aerodynamics, ventilation, and safety features, it's no wonder that helmet brands are eager to showcase their products in the race. As fans and spectators, we can appreciate the commitment of the teams and riders to the sport, as well as the dedication of the helmet manufacturers to push the limits of helmet technology. Ultimately, the Tour de France is an exciting and inspiring display of the best cycling has to offer, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for helmet innovation in the race.