Ozmo Sidekick ebike Helmet for Kids Review
The Ozmo Sidekick Helmet is a game-changer in kids’ bike safety. As the only kid-sized eBike-certified helmet (NTA-8776) available, it provides an extra layer of protection for young passengers riding at higher speeds on their parents’ eBikes. If your family commutes by eBike, or even rides then recreationally, you should definatley look into the Ozmo Sidekick.
Over the past 15 years, we have tested over 100 different kids’ helmets—some great, some not so great. From construction quality to fit and features, we can confidently say the Ozmo Sidekick is not only eBike-certified but also an exceptionally well-designed and well-built helmet that meets the demands of higher-speed riding.
From fit to features, here’s everything you need to know about the Ozmo Sidekick.
Ozmo Sidekick Helmet
MSRP: $99
BEST FOR: Kids who reguarly ride as passengers on ebikes
SIZES: XXS (45-49cm), XS (49-53cm)
ADJUSTMENT STYLE: Dial adjust
BUCKLE: FidLock Magnetic
ADDITIONAL SPECIFICATIONS
VENTS: 9 large vents
STRAPS: Soft straps with locking slider
VISOR: Foam built-in, plastic covered for durability
WEIGHT: XXS: 350g, XS: 420g
Cons:
Ozmo Sidekick Helmet: Do you Need One?
The Ozmo Sidekick is not your typical kids’ helmet, and in this case, that’s a good thing. With a thick outer shell and a dense foam core, the Sidekick is built for serious protection. From the moment you pick it up, its heavier weight, sturdy construction, and minimal exposed foam make it clear that this helmet is designed with safety and durability in mind.
But does your child need an eBike helmet? Below are a few key questions to help you decide.
Who is Ozmo?
Founded in Brooklyn, New York, Ozmo is a new bike helmet company focused on keeping urban families safe while riding eBikes. Although the company was established in 2022, it officially launched the Ozmo Sidekick on Kickstarter in March 2025.
Ozmo’s founders include Casey Charron, a mechanical engineer who previously worked at the renowned Virginia Tech Helmet Lab—an institution that has played a key role in advancing helmet safety standards across multiple sports.
What is NTA-8776 eBike Helmet Certification?
The NTA-8776 certification is what truly sets the Ozmo Sidekick apart.
While standard bike helmets (CPSC-certified in the U.S.) are designed for impact speeds of 14 mph and considered effective up to 20 mph, eBikes frequently exceed 20 mph, increasing the risk of severe injuries.
To address this gap in safety, the Dutch developed the NTA-8776 standard, which requires helmets to withstand higher-impact forces. Since the U.S. and EU do not yet have an equivalent standard, NTA-8776 remains the best option for eBike riders.
All NTA-8776-certified helmets also meet CPSC bike helmet standards, so they can be safely used for standard biking as well.
Does My Child Need an NTA-8776 Helmet for eBiking?
If your child regularly rides as a passenger on your eBike at speeds over 20 mph, we strongly recommend an NTA-8776-certified helmet like the Ozmo Sidekick.
This is especially important if you frequently ride in traffic, where cars travel at even higher speeds.
The Ozmo Sidekick is the first for kids ebike helmet in the US, but as a parent, you should also considering upgrading your helmet. While we have not tested them, the Giro Camden and Smith Dispatch ebike helmets get good reviews across the board.
Can My Child Wear the Ozmo Sidekick on a Regular Bike?
Yes. The Ozmo Sidekick is CPSC-certified for standard bikes and scooters, meaning it is safe for regular riding.
However, it is heavier than most traditional kids’ helmets, so for longer rides, a lighter CPSC-certified helmet may be a better option for comfort.
Ozmo Sidekick: What we Learned from Testing
We tested the Ozmo Sidekick on three different riders: an 18-month-old and two three-year-olds, all using the XS size (49-53 cm).
Fit & Sizing
Regardless of certification, a helmet can only protect if it fits properly, so it’s essential to get the right fit. The Ozmo Sidekick comes in two sizes:
- XXS (45-49 cm)
- XS (49-53 cm)
In our testing, however, we found that the XS Sidekick we tested ran a bit bigger than its stated size.
The XS (49-53 cm) fit well on our 3-year-old with a 52cm head (child on the balance bike above), but it was also a great fit on other 3-year-old tester with a 53.5cm head shown below. Although his head should technically be too big for the helmet, it was a great fit with no pinch points or uncomfortable spots.
The same XS helmet (49-53 cm), however, was too big for our almost 2-year-old with a 49 cm head (shown below). Even with the dial fully tightened, the helmet slid around on his head and was much too big. As a result, we do think the XS Sidekick’s true fit range is a bit larger than stated and closer to 50-54cm.
In addition to being larger fit wise, the Ozmo is a noticeably larger and deeper helmet than the same size Giro Scamp II MIPS (49-53cm). The blue Ozmo of the left covers much more of the rear and sides of the child’s head and also has a larger visor than the black and orange Scamp on the right.
Rear Pad Height Adjustment
To help dial in a proper fit, the Ozmo does have the ability to raise and lower the rear pad of the helmet. Lowering this pad allows you to better position the rear pad of the helmet just below the occipital bone. When lowered, the space above the rear pad can also be used to thread a pony tail through.
Easy to Use Dial Adjust Knob
Another great feature we loved on the Sidekick was the “star” shape of the dial adjust as compared to the standard circle. The unique star shape, makies it easier for kids to adjust themselves. However, parents should always check the fit to ensure proper tension.
Heavy Compared to Other Helmets
The Ozmo Sidekick is significantly heavier than traditional kids’ helmets, which is a trade-off for its increased protection (extended protection, thicker outer wall, covered foam).
| Helmet Model | Size Range | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Ozmo Sidekick XXS | 45-49 cm | 350g |
| Ozmo Sidekick XS | 49-53 cm | 420g |
| woom READY XS | 46-50 cm | 280g |
| Giro Scamp II MIPS Small | 49-53 cm | 260g |
For comparison, DOT-rated motorcycle helmets weigh over 1,500g, making the Sidekick much lighter than a motorcycle helmet but heavier than a standard bike helmet.
For younger riders, consult a pediatrician to ensure their neck muscles can support the extra weight.
Locking Ear Strap Dividers
Unlike most kids’ helmets, the Sidekick’s ear strap sliders lock into place, ensuring the straps don’t loosen over time. Properly adjusted ear straps prevent forward or backward tipping, especially with a heavier helmet.
Adjusting is simple—lift the tab to loosen, position it under the ear, and push the tab down to lock. Properly adjusting these is essential to ensuring the correct placement of the heavy Ozmo on the child’s head.
Damage Defense Shock Absorbers
A unique feature in kids’ helmets, the Sidekick includes rubber shock absorbers between the foam core and the hard outer shell. These shock absorbers not only help absorb impact but also create a small gap between the outer shell and the foam core, adding an extra layer of protection to prevent damage to the foam core.
The shock aborbers are the green rubber inserts that can be seen through the helmets air vents. The edges of these shock aborbers help to create the protective air gap between the hard outer shell and the helmets inner foam core.
MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System)
To reduce rotational impact forces, the Sidekick includes a MIPS layer—a thin, yellow plastic layer inside the helmet that allows slight movement during impact to reduce strain on the head and neck.
One downside is that the MIPS anchors are exposed, which can catch on longer hair. Tying hair back helps but may not fully prevent snagging.
Built-In Visor
A slightly longer visor (1.5 inches vs. 1 inch on most helmets) provides better sun and face protection.
Air Channels for Ventilation
Beneath the MIPS layer, air channels run front to back, connecting vents and improving airflow to keep kids cool. The air channels connect the air vents to allow for great air cooling through the helmet.
Fidlock Magnetic Buckle
The Fidlock magnetic buckle snaps together easily, preventing pinching. It is quick and easy for parents to fasten but can be tricky for kids to unbuckle on their own.
Large Rear Vents for U-Locks and Charm Slider
For families who commute on eBikes, the large rear vents allow the helmet to be locked up with a bike. Kids can also personalize their Sidekick with Croc-style charms (like the sunglasses charm shown below) that slide into the helmet’s built-in channels connected to the large rear vents.
Undercap Protection
An an extra leverl of protection to the inneer core of the helmet, the underside of the foam is cover by a protective plastic cap. This helps to prevent damages and dings that inevitable come to helmets over time.
Bug Nets in Front Vents
The front vents are covered in mesh, preventing bugs from flying inside during rides.
Optional Add-Ons
To keep little ears warm and eyes protected, the Ozmo Sidekick can be equipped with a winter liner with ear muffs as well as a flippable shield for the eyes.
These optional accessories can be added at any time and are not permanently attached to the helmet. All helmets come with built-in mounts—the flippable eye shield attaches to the red mounting points, while the ear muffs secure to the orange ports shown below.
Final Thoughts: Is the Ozmo Sidekick Worth It?
The Ozmo Sidekick is a top-notch kids’ helmet for eBike riding, offering NTA-8776 certification, extended protection, and high-quality construction.
Best for:
✔️ Kids riding on eBikes at speeds over 20 mph
✔️ Families commuting on eBikes
✔️ Riders who need more protection than a standard bike helmet
Not ideal for:
✖️ Small or petite toddlers, due to weight
✖️ Long traditional bike rides, where a lighter helmet is more comfortable
For families riding at higher speeds, the Sidekick is a top-tier safety investment—just be sure to get the correct size for a secure fit.
FTC Disclosure: Affiliate links are included in this review. No monetary compensation was provided for this review, however, the reviewed product was supplied by the manufacturer or distributor to help facilitate this review. All opinions and images are that of Two Wheeling Tots LLC. All content and images are copyrighted and should not be used or replicated in any way. View ourTerms of Use.
