10 Best Arborist Helmet (Safety and Comfort) in 2023

Hold up! Arborists don’t deserve normal helmets. Apart from long working hours, they have to endure a lot. Be it the scorching heat of the sun or the non-step sweat, the arborists have to go through a lot. 

That’s why they need a different class of helmets for themselves. Here, the arborist helmets protect them from fallen branches and logs. As if that’s not enough, these helmets even protect your head when you experience slips. 

Hence, you’d want the best arborist helmet by your side, at all times. This is why we’ve experimented with different helmets from the market. After getting our hands busy with them, we’re able to choose the best 10. 

That’s not all, the research team provided some important information. We’ve included those points in the latter part of the article. 

So, let’s just begin with the comparison table and give you an idea on what we’ve worked on- 

• Best Overall: Fusion meka work climbing helmet
• Editor’s Choice: Petzl vertex helmet
• Most Comfortable: Kask super plasma work helmet
• Best Adjustability: Black diamond climbing helmet
• Best Heavyweight: Tr industrial forestry safety helmet

1. Fusion Meka Work Climbing Helmet

• Color: Orange, Black
• Dimension: 6.25″ H x 10.3″ L x 8.25″ W
• Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Service Type: Adventure Tourer
• Inner Material: EPS
• Outer Material: Polycarbonate

Leading at the top of our list is the climbing helmet from the brand- Fusion Climb. We love this helmet for no reason. Obviously, there are features that our team loved. So, let’s introduce you to those. 

The USP of this helmet is the weight factor. Yes, it’s the lightest helmet on the list. Here, you won’t find anything lighter on the list. The lightweight helmet makes it easy for you to carry it around. Plus, you won’t feel the additional weight with you when climbing around. 

Even though it’s the lightest on the list, it still comes with tremendous durability. Here, the polycarbonate outer material ensures that it’s tough all the time. 

This gives you confidence when climbing up higher trees. Also, the polycarbonate material is lightweight too. So, it doesn’t add up to the weight of the helmet. 

Now, climbing helmets need to be lightweight. In general, we believe, the arborist helmets shouldn’t carry much weight with them. Hence, this option brings quite the benefits. 

Another great thing about the polycarbonate material is that it’s UV-resistant. So, the harmful rays of the sun are reflected back. 

Added to that, the helmet comes with sufficient airflow maintenance inside of it. Here, the added 10 areas of ventilation ensure air passing in and out.

Also, it doesn’t cause any bit of overheating at all. So, your head won’t sweat easily and you can work for long hours. 

Another bonus point goes for the slots available on the sides. You can mount the hearing protectors on the two slots. These protectors make it easier for you when you’re working in a noisy environment. 

Besides, comfort is one of the key things in a helmet. And, yes, the helmet comes with foam paddings inside. So, the discomfort will never be an issue whatsoever. Plus, the suspension straps allow you to adjust the right fit. 

Speaking of foam paddings, these come with anti-microbial features. So, bacterias won’t attack your inner paddings anytime. 

In the end, the helmet is perfect for you as it provides comfort and durability. Plus, the lower weight makes it easier for you to maneuver the helmet around. All in all, it’s a great option for the offered price.

But, if we were to complain about a factor. We wished it had holes to attach the visor in the helmet. That could’ve added more options to work with. 

2. Petzl Vertex Helmet

• Size: One-Size
• Color: Black
• Weight: 16 ounces
• Inner Material: Polyester 
• Outer Material: ABS, Polycarbonate

Second up, we have the Petzl Vertex Helmet. Honestly, we loved everything about this helmet. But, there’s a lot to focus on. Starting off, we have to talk about the matte black finish. 

Even though arborists don’t prefer aesthetics, some do. And, trust me, this helmet looks wonderful! There’s just something about that matte black finish. Overall, it looks and feels wonderful. 

When it comes to the unique standpoint of this product, we have to talk about the strong chinstrap. Here, the company claims that it’s greater than 50 daN. We tested it. And, yes, it’s pretty durable and tough! Another unique thing is the outer shell’s deformation. This feature ensures incredible shock absorption.  

As a result of the stronger shock absorption and durability, your helmet won’t break easily. So, it’ll remain secure all day long. Speaking of security, you won’t have to worry about falling down from higher altitudes. 

On the other hand, the comfort factor in this helmet is impressive too. As we tested it ourselves, the team was happy with the 6-point suspension. Here, the textile suspensions allow the helmet to fit in properly. 

For this reason, you can attach the helmet as the shape of your head. This makes it easier for you to keep the helmet at the center of the head. And, the vent holes will allow sufficient airflow to take place. 

Another impressive part about the vent holes in the sliding shutters. This feature allows you to adjust ventilation as you want. So, there won’t be too much airflow possibility inside your helmet anytime. 

We’ve exaggerated about the comfort for quite some time now. But, why shouldn’t we? The company added two separate sizes of foam to the headband. As a result, the headlamps will never provide fatigue! 

Besides, the headlamps come with elastic adjustment. So, you can adjust them as you want. Also, there is room for attaching protective shields and even hearing protection. 

Now, moving to the security factor. This helmet is made of polycarbonate like the previous product. So, it’ll be durable and tough all the time. Also, it’s made of ABS material too.

The blend of these two features will make the helmet last for a while. 

But, one thing you need to keep in consideration before using this helmet. It’s heavy! Yes, it’s not lightweight at all. Now, it isn’t the heaviest on the list. 

This added weight could be a problem for some people. That’s why you need to consider the weight factor. Another thing that could be improved is that it doesn’t come with electric hazard protection. So, keep that into consideration! 

3. Kask Super Plasma Work Helmet

• Size: 16 x 16 x 13″
• Weight: 13.4 ounces
• Color: Black
• Outer Material: ABS

Comfort is important to most people! Yes, we know safety and security stands as the most needed factor. But, you need comfort. Especially when you’re working for a long time, fatigue can take place quickly. 

That’s why the company built this helmet by adding in 10 air intake channels. As a result, the air internal and external outflow is maintained all the time. For this reason, the breathability inside the helmet is improved to quite some extent. 

But, the helmet isn’t about air intake only. At times, debris gets inside the helmets through these holes. And, this can be a problem. 

To solve this issue, the manufacturers introduced an anti-intrusion grille. This feature will ensure that debris doesn’t enter into the helmet.

It’ll even prevent the entry of insects inside the helmets. And, the best part is that it’ll do that while maintaining breathability, at all times. 

Other than that, the helmet has Dry fabrics inside of it. As the name suggests, this fabric will ensure that your fabric will dry out quickly.

This will disperse the moisture of the outer surface. After that, the surface will have a fresh pleasant feeling. 

As adjustability is quite important in a helmet, there’s plenty in here. The helmet comes with chin straps attached to it. Using these straps, you can adjust the helmet as you want. 

On top of this, the helmet comes with Earmuffs fitting, visor fitting, and even a bayonet attachment. These options make it easier to wear the product around. 

Lastly, the helmet isn’t as heavy as the previous one. So, you can easily wear it around all day long without carrying in added weight. 

The thing this helmet lacks is sufficient protection. Here, you won’t get any side impact protection. So, that can be improved. Along with that, the inner linings need to be washed frequently as well. 

4. Black Diamond Climbing Helmet

• Size: 9.45 x 7.09 x 9.45 inches
• Color: Slate 
• Weight: 11.99 Ounces
• Inner Material: EPS
• Department: Unisex

Introducing the first synthetic product on our list. Our team loved this product for the weight factor and the comfort. Well, almost all of the helmets on our list are comfortable. This one does handle the durability well enough too. 

Yes, the unique factor is the synthetic build. Even though the helmet has EPS inner material, it’s still made from synthetic. The fabric provides enough comfort. Most importantly, it doesn’t add much weight to the helmet. Hence, this helmet is lightweight and comfortable.

On the other hand, the helmet comes with impact foams on it. As a result, your head won’t get a direct impact if you take a fall. Here, the impact foams will absorb the shock all the time. 

Plus, the durable ABS shell on the outer will take care of the toughness always. Hence, the helmet will last through any bit of physical abuse. 

On top of this, the durable upper and comfortable inners ensure a great combination. Another great thing about this helmet is the adjustable chin straps. 

By using this feature, you can ensure the perfect fit. Hence, the helmet won’t loosely hang from the head. We believe this is a great addition and it deserves a point! 

But, the thing we didn’t like is the non-availability of ventilation holes. Yes, the non-availability of these holes means that airflow circulation isn’t great. So, the helmet can easily have overheating issues. 

This means you’ll face discomfort when you’re wearing the helmet for a long time. So, you need to consider whether you want this or not! 

5. Tr Industrial Forestry Safety Helmet

• Size: ‎12 x 9 x 6.5 inches
• Weight: 40.8 Ounces
• Color: Orange
• Circumference Length: 20 – 24.5 inches
• Pattern: Protection

Be it comfort, durability, and adjustability- this helmet from ‎TR Industrial has it all. And, the best part about this product is the value it provides. For the price, it provides a lot of interesting features. So, let’s begin- 

First things first, the unique standpoint of this product is the weight! Now, this one’s a heavy-boy. No kidding, it comes in a weight of 40.8 ounces. While this weight could be a problem for most people, some admire it. They believe the added weight promotes toughness and durability. 

And, yes, the helmet is made for providing tons of security. Let us explain how. It comes with plastic and mesh visors. They’ll ensure that debris and insects won’t enter the helmet anytime. 

Another great thing about these plastic and mesh visors is that they’ll protect your face from splinters. When you’re working with chainsaws, small objects can fly to your face. 

This will cause burns and small cuts that you don’t want. God forbade, you can even get an unwanted injury. Hence, these visors are quite important for providing protection. 

On the other hand, the adjustable earmuffs provide all the hearing protection you’ll need. So, the background noises will be cleared off. You can even work with chainsaws now as they’ll cancel the sound. 

To be precise, the earmuffs have a noise reduction rating of 22dB. So, it works! 

Moving on, the adjustability of this helmet is top-notch. Here, the adjustable ratchet allows you to change the circumference of the helmet. As a result, you can wear it on 20 or 24.5 inches. This allows the right fit for any face. That’s quite the bonus for everyone. 

But, the problem is that this helmet doesn’t come with a chin strap. As a result, it won’t be great when you’re climbing trees. Also, groundwork problems arise with that as well. 

Also, the added weight will be a matter of concern for many people. Other than that, this product is a solid win for the price it offers. And, if you want the benefits, give it a try! 

6. Petzl Arborist Helmet

• Size: 15 x 10 x 7 inches
• Weight: 5.997 Ounces
• Color: Black
• Department: Unisex
• Inner Material: EPS
• Outer Material: Polycarbonate

Say hello to the lightest helmet on the list- Petzl Arborist Helmet. The manufacturers have designed the helmet to be extremely lightweight. 

So, yes, the main selling point is the weight factor. To be precise, it comes in only 5.99 Ounces. This means you won’t even feel like you’re wearing a helmet. Plus, you can easily carry it around when you want to. 

The lower weight doesn’t add any pressure on your head and neck. Here, it’ll make sure you won’t feel any discomfort whatsoever. Another great thing is the EPP foams on the side. 

Here, the foams will provide comfort from all sides and reduce fatigue to some extent. As a result, you can wear the helmets for long hours. Also, the ventilation holes will provide sufficient airflow all the time. It’ll keep the head cool as well. 

But, don’t you think it’s fragile in any way. Here, the Polycarbonate outer and the EPS inner make sure the helmet will survive every fall. Also, it’ll provide protection in the neck and in the overhead. 

Even though the product is a bit expensive, you’ll certainly enjoy tons of benefits with this one. Also, it doesn’t have any mesh on the vents. So, it’ll get dirty and you’ll need to clean it. 

7. Petzl Climbing Helmet

• Size: 22.83 x 22.83 x 8.66 inches
• Weight: 9.88 Ounces
• Color: Gray
• Material: Polyester
• Inner Material: EPS
• Outer Material: Polycarbonate

Another product from the brand- PETZL. Well, this particular one is a bit heavier than the previous one. But, it’s still a lightweight helmet. In fact, it’s the 2nd lightest product on the list. 

Here, the USP of the product is the weight as well. It comes at just 9.88 ounces! Hence, it takes away all the pressure from your head and neck. Well, it’s still a tad heavier than the previous one. But, it’s cheaper as well. So, you’ll get the light helmet at a lower price too.

Starting off, the helmet comes with EPS foams and an outer thin polycarbonate shell. So, right out of the box, it’ll protect your head when you take a fall.

The polycarbonate shell cancels out additional weight too. So, you won’t feel added pressure anytime. 

Now, the brand introduced many comfortable cushions in this helmet. As a result, you won’t feel discomfort at all. The softer foam pads will even take the impact from the fall. This will protect your head too. 

But, the backside lacks a bit of foam. So, your head could hit that place. Hence, we’d give a minus point here. 

Even though the lightweight design makes us love this product, it has similar problems to the previous one. The lack of mesh in the vents and the magnetic buckle clogs up dirt in the helmet.

Thus, you’d need to clean it and it’ll be a time-consuming matter. 

8. Husqvarna Arborist Helmet

• Size: 6.5 x 9.25 x 12 inches
• Weight: 27.2 Ounces
• Color: Orange

We’re down to the eighth product on our list. And, this one is from the brand- Husqvarna. Even though we’re down at the top of the list, there’s still a lot of great features. Let’s check them out- 

Starting off, the product provides protection against sunlight and UV rays. This makes us love this product. We’ve tested it and yes, it does provide benefits! This protection from the UV rays makes the helmet last for a bit long. But, surely it won’t last a lifetime.

Other than that, the product is all about providing protection. Here, the mesh will protect your face from splinters and foreign objects. So, you’ll be safe eventually. 

On the other hand, the earmuffs of this helmet will provide all the hearing protection you’ll need. So, background noises will be canceled out. 

But, the helmet lacks air vents. As it’s an E-class helmet, you won’t get many vents. So, the ventilation and airflow circulation problem will be noticed. It won’t even keep the head cool too. 

9. Oregon Chainsaw Helmet

• Size: 12 x 9 x 7 inches
• Weight: 35.2 Ounces
• Color: Yellow

While the previous product lacked ventilation holes, this one certainly doesn’t! Welcoming the 9th product of our list- Oregon Chainsaw Helmet. 

The best part about this helmet is the stainless-steel mesh Visors. Because of this, the splinters can never damage your eyes or head. So, the helmet will protect you from the sawdust. Also, the visor won’t corrode or glare as it’s coated in epoxy.

But it doesn’t end there! The earmuff of this helmet protects you from the louder noises as well. Here, it’s equipped with 22dB hearing protectors. So, it’ll reduce and cancel out the background noises all the time. 

We’ve told you there are ventilation holes in this helmet. To be exact, there are 6 holes. These holes will ensure breathability. And, it’ll keep the head cool as well. 

The complaint we’d provide for this helmet is that the earmuffs can’t be adjusted. So, you’ll have to use them just the way they come in a box. 

10. Stihl Arborist Helmet

• Size: 11.1 x 9.29 x 7.17 inches
• Weight: 32 Ounces
• Color: Orange, Black

It’s time to say goodbye. But, let’s welcome the last product- Stihl Arborist Helmet. So, what’s different here? 

Well, the product comes with a full face shield. Yes, we mean a proper-sized large face shield. So, it’ll protect your face and eyes from any splinters or foreign small objects. And, the best part about this shield is that it’s epoxy coated. So, it won’t glare out or get corroded. 

Besides, it comes with an NRR 22 hearing protection too. Now, we tested this feature out. And, it’s decent. It’ll reduce background noises to some extent. But, it isn’t the best in the market. 

It’s a tad bit lighter than the previous product. So, kudos there. But, it’s still heavier than most helmets we’ve tested in the list. 

There’s an option for proper ventilation in this helmet. But, it could get dirty so you’ll need to clean it out too. 

What is an Arborist Helmet? 

Yeah, yeah. We know most of you will know the obvious definition of an arborist helmet. But, there are people out there who won’t. And, we’re not only serving the masses in this article. 

So, basically, these helmets are like the normal ones. But, the main difference between this one and the other conventional ones is the design. 

Here, the arborist helmet is designed for climbing up the trees. So, the tree climbers use this helmet. As it’s designed for this purpose, you’ll get better durability and overall toughness. 

Added to that, they’re a bit lightweight. Serving different purposes means this will provide different benefits. That’s all you need to know until this point. 

Types/Classes of Arborist Helmets

Well, if you’ve followed our review section, you would’ve noticed the different classes. Basically, these classes of helmets determine the level of safety you’ll get from them. 

And, yes, this makes the buying decision easier. After all, safety is the reason you’re getting these helmets, right? So, let’s dwell on the classes of these helmets. 

Class C

Starting off, let’s talk about the class C helmets. Well, there isn’t much to focus on here. All you need to know is that these will protect against minor impacts. And, that does the job in most scenarios. 

That said, these helmets have ventilation holes installed on them. As a result, there’s sufficient airflow inside the helmet. But, you might think the holes allow the insects to enter into the helmet. 

Well, that won’t happen because there are mesh vents inside the helmet as well. This will prevent the insects and debris from entering. 

Class G

Unlike the C class, these helmets don’t have holes for ventilation. But, this doesn’t mean your head will sweat all the time. 

Lack of ventilation could be a minus point, from our end. But, the helmets work great as they can provide superior protection against lower-voltage conductors. To be precise, they can protect upto 2200 volts. 

Class E

Now, on to the most secured helmet class. Yes, the E class is the king of providing security. These magnificent helmets can offer maximum protection against higher voltage conductors and electricity. 

To be precise, they can offer better resistance against 20000 volts. So, that’s an amazing thing to have when you’re working on electric poles. This does provide options for using this helmet. 

But, similar to the G class, this doesn’t have ventilation holes inside of it. That said, you might prefer added security over airflow. 

Benefits of Using an Arborist Safety Helmet

Well, we’ve provided you an idea about the types and definitions of these bad boys. But, what about their benefits? I mean, what exactly do these helmets provide? 

Apart from providing safety in your head, these come with tons of benefits. So, let’s check them out- 

1. Protection Against Branches/Struck-Bys

According to a survey, arborists get the most injuries from broken branches and fallen trees. These injuries cause them to go out of work and other mishaps. 

And, it’s certainly not the thing you’d want when working long hours. Well, injuries could be part of what you do. But, these helmets are designed to provide protection all the time. 

While safety gear is considered the number one priority, you need the right set of helmets. 

The arborist helmet will offer protection from the fallen trees, branches, and even from the logs lying around. And, yes, the helmets prove to be a complete angel as they serve protection against accidental falls. 

2. Protection Against Slips

That’s right! You’ll experience minor slips here and there. God forbade, if you don’t have safety gear, major injuries can take place. 

So, it’s more than important to have an arborist helmet with you when you’re climbing. This will give you that sigh of relief as the helmet will protect you at the time of accidental slips. 

3. Additional Benefits to the Eyes and Ears

Well, the best part about having an arborist helmet with you is the additional benefits you get. After all, it’s not about safety only. 

Here, the helmets come with earmuffs, visor, headlamps. These features have their separate benefits. So, let’s take a look at them- 

Bluetooth Earmuffs

This feature inside the arborist helmet allows you to get better communication. Through this feature, you can communicate easily and effectively. 

Earmuffs

Similar to the Bluetooth earmuffs, this feature helps as well. But, how? Well, these little devices cancel out the outside noises when you’re working. As a result, your ears are protected all the time. 

You might want to invest in noise-canceling ones. They work the best at canceling out background noises. 

Visors

When you’re working with sawdust, you’ll need protection in the eyes. That’s because the dust or any minor objects can hurt the eyes and face. As a result, you might suffer short-term or long-term blindness. 

Hence, the devices are introduced in the helmets. This will protect the eyes and will prevent any dust/minor objects from entering. 

Headlamps

This feature allows you to see way better in the dark. Because of this added visibility, you’ll feel more comfortable and you can even work effectively. 

4. Keeping the Head Cool

The life of an arborist isn’t easy, right? All day-everyday, you’ll need to work non-stop on the trees. This scorching heat does cause a lot of discomfort. And, you won’t be able to work for a long time. 

So, the helmets are designed in such a way that the airflow is maintained. Here, the sufficiently placed air vents cause cool air to enter the helmets.

As a result, the head remains cool and it’ll reduce fatigue. Plus, it’ll reduce the chances of having a heatstroke as well. 

Right, Fit Equals to Comfort?: Why? 

That’s correct! Before even buying a helmet, it’s better you wear it on your head. Pacing the helmet at the front, measure whether it sticks tightly to the forehead or not. 

Well, the idea here is that you won’t have to tightly put it against your skin. That said, a loose fit won’t provide comfort as well. 

The right balance here should be the ability to tilt the head. After wearing the helmet, check whether you’re able to tilt your head! Then, use the straps and tighten them in the helmet. By adjusting the straps, you can adjust the helmets as well. 

The right fit would occur when the helmet is tighter to the neck and the forehead. But, you’ll need to check whether it’s causing irritation to your skin or not. 

Here, we’d advise you to go for leather straps. They’re more comfortable compared to the nylon ones. 

By ensuring the right fit, you’ll ensure the helmet is tightly onto you all the time. This will provide comfort too. On the other hand, loose helmets provide discomfort and aren’t that effective. 

The Right Weight

People always wonder what’s the right weight for the arborist helmets! To be precise, these helmets shouldn’t weigh more than 500 grams. Otherwise, they’ll be harder to carry. 

Certainly, when you’re working with trees, the last thing you want is to carry additional weight. There are people who believe the more the weight, the more durable the helmet is! 

While that statement is true to some extent, we believe the lightweight ones are better! Not only are the lightweight ones easy to carry but you can also get sufficient durability from them. 

Also, we’ve found durable yet lightweight options in the market too when we conducted the research! We’ve added some of them in our review section. So, you can check them out. 

But, if you wanted a precise calculation, the average arborist helmet should weigh around 300-500 grams. So, it’s better if you’re at this range. 

Answers to Some Simple Questions

Question: How long do arborist helmets last?

Answer: The helmets can last up to 5 years. But exposure to UV, temperature fluctuation, it’s best to replace it after 2 years.

Question: Can I wash my arborist helmet?

Answer: Yes, you can wash your helmet using lukewarm soapy water and rinse with a cloth. But, don’t use solvents or stain removers as they can damage the shell.

Question: Should I replace the helmet after a crash?

Answer: Yes, you’ll need to replace them after a crash. No matter how sturdy the helmet looks and feels, it should be replaced. Even if there is no visible damage as it can impair the capacity to absorb damage.

Final Words

It wasn’t easy to differentiate all these helmets. But, we did it so that you can understand them better. On that note, we’re at the end of this article. It’s been a wild ride! But, we’re happy to finish it off. 

Here, we didn’t just only talk about the best arborist helmet. There were informative points so that you can clear any confusion. But, we’re not saints here. 

So, if you believe we missed out on anything, comment below! We’d love to interact with you and read the comments. That’s all, adios!