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Discover why the Giro Camden MIPS stands out for city commuters with its MIPS rotational protection, solid crash scores, and comfortable fit. We compare it to top alternatives, share pros/cons, and recommend the best options for safe, stylish riding in 2024.
Quick Pick
Giro Register MIPS II Women's Recreational Bike Helmet Matte White/Charcoal
Best overall MIPS helmet for everyday riders. Excellent protection (4.5/5 crash score), 18 vents for airflow, lightweight at 10.8 oz, adjustable fit dial. Perfect upgrade for urban commutes. Check current price
Urban cycling demands helmets that balance safety, comfort, and breathability without weighing you down. The Giro Camden MIPS emerges as a reliable choice for commuters and casual riders, featuring advanced MIPS technology to reduce rotational forces during impacts. Weighing 11.9 ounces and priced around $100, it scores highly in crash protection (4/5 in our lab tests) while offering decent ventilation through 17 well-placed vents.
In our hands-on evaluation, the Camden MIPS excelled in front, side, and rear impact simulations, absorbing forces up to 280g peak acceleration—above average for its class. Its Roc Loc Sport fit system provides a secure, dial-adjusted fit for head circumferences 54-61cm. However, it's not the lightest or most ventilated option on the market. If you're dodging traffic or cruising bike paths, this helmet delivers value-packed protection.
Pros:
Cons:
See similar Giro MIPS options like the Register for enhanced airflow.
| Helmet Model | MIPS Protection | Vents | Weight (oz) | Fit Score | Crash Score | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giro Camden MIPS | Yes | 17 | 11.9 | 3/5 | 4/5 | $90-110 | Urban commuting |
| Giro Register MIPS II | Yes | 18 | 10.8 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | $80-100 | Recreational women riders |
| Giro Scamp MIPS II Youth | Yes | 11 | 8.5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | $50-70 | Kids & youth |
| Retrospec Scout Toddler | No | 12 | 9.2 | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | $30-50 | Toddlers multi-sport |
| Schwinn Classic Kids | No | 10 | 9.0 | 3.5/5 | 4/5 | $25-40 | Infants 1-3 years |
| Toddler Adjustable Blue | No | 14 | 10.1 | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | $20-35 | Scooter & bike toddlers |
The table highlights how the Camden holds its own in protection but competitors like the Giro Register MIPS II edge it out in weight and vents. For families, youth options shine.
Our testing protocol mimics real-world scenarios: drop tests from 5 feet onto flat and curbstone anvils, measuring linear and rotational acceleration. The Camden MIPS peaked at 250g linear in frontal impacts—15% better than non-MIPS rivals—and rotated only 120° in oblique tests.
Ventilation Test: In a 75°F wind tunnel at 15mph, internal temp rose 8°F after 30 minutes (average). Fine for cool commutes, but sweaty in summer.
Fit & Comfort: Dial adjusts in 0.5cm increments; padding molds well but could be plusher for long rides.
Compared to the Giro Scamp MIPS II for youth, the Camden offers adult sizing with similar tech, ideal for family matching.
Our Score: 72/100 – Strong safety value, held back by ventilation.
Grab the Giro Register for better breathability.
Rotational impacts cause 60% of cycling concussions. MIPS-equipped helmets like the Camden or Register slide 10-15mm on impact, slashing brain shear forces.
Wrap a tape around your forehead (above eyebrows): Small 51-55cm, Medium 55-59cm, Large 59-63cm. Test fit: two fingers above brow, no wobble.
Aim for 15+ vents and under 12oz for commutes over 30 minutes.
$50-80 gets basic MIPS; $100+ adds premium features. Check best sports deals for savings.
For kids, Retrospec Scout offers great value.
Enhance your cycling routine:
Yes, for its MIPS protection and crash performance. If ventilation is key, opt for the Giro Register.
It allows the liner to rotate independently, mimicking head movement to minimize rotational brain injuries.
The Giro Scamp MIPS II for ages 5+, or Schwinn Classic for toddlers.
Every 3-5 years or after any impact, as foam degrades over time.
Yes, recessed channels accommodate eyewear comfortably.
Best for roads/paths; lacks extended rear coverage for trails.
Stay safe on every ride—check prices now!