Petzl Boreo Helmet

You’ll never see climbers rocking helmets at the gym, and some climbers even choose to forgo a helmet outside as well. However, we’re big fans of helmets when climbing outside, because, frankly, head injuries are zero fun. That’s why we recommend that you keep your noggin safe with this affordable hybrid helmet from Petzl. The Boreo has a form-fitting inner liner that’s comfortable even when sweaty. The tough ABS outer shell protects the EPP and EPS foam liners from being damaged by daily use so that they’re in good shape should a serious impact occur. 

Our tester noted that she felt secure in the Boreo, especially with regards to impacts that come from the rear, commenting that the coverage felt more significant than helmets she’d tried in the past. Dig into the Boreo’s technical specifications and it turns out that she was on to something: the Boreo actually sports Petzl’s Top and Side protection, meaning that it’s designed to handle fallen rock as well as unforeseen lateral impacts. All climbing helmets are designed to handle rock falling from above, but they don’t necessarily offer sufficient protection if you’re taking a fall and slam your head into the wall at a different angle. 

Bottom Line: The Boreo offers multi-directional protection, at an affordable price. The lightweight helmet can be used climbing and mountaineering, among other activities, and it’s a piece of gear that’s well worth the investment.