Stylish pop-up solution

The new Colsca Fuga helmet looks similar to a riding hat from the world of equestrian sports. However, this stylish helmet — available in black or white — can fold up and fit neatly into a bag thanks to its retractable design. The helmet comprises three mobile concentric rings hinged together with two stable positions. This patented design reduces the helmet’s volume by more than 50%. The innovative Fuga helmet sells for $140 and bagged a Red Dot Design Award in 2015.

Customizable folding helmet

This small, lightweight helmet (480g) from French brand Overade has a sporty, urban look. Once folded, the Plixi’s volume is divided by three (21cm wide x 11cm tall x 16cm). Optional extras include a visor and a rain cover, taking the form of a colored strip covering the top of the helmet. The helmet sells for €75 (approx. $84) with the visor and rain cover priced €15 each (approx. $17).

Fashionable feminine designs

Japanese architect Sawako Furuno’s eponymous line of cycle helmets come customized with spray paint, stickers and other motifs. Helmets are adorned with leopard print, crocodile effects and Japanese flowers, for example. This extremely lightweight helmet is equipped with a visor and air vents for different riding conditions. The helmets sell for $100-$130.

Haute couture helmet

Finished with leather, linen fibers and scratchproof varnish, these stylish helmets are almost too good to wear. Rather than offering sporty performances, Egide’s water-repellent and anti-UV helmets are genuine luxury items, with finishes borrowed from the world of high-end leather goods. The French brand’s helmets are currently available through 35 sales points in six European countries (France, Belgium, UK, Spain, Switzerland and Germany) selling for €250 (approx. $280).