I've got a Met helmet which is very good, i've already put it to the test since i fell straight on my back and the helmet stopped it from becoming very dangerous. The good thing about the XC style helmet is that they are light weight and airy. The skate style helmet (which I have used before) move around your head and make your head hot and uncomfortable. I would recommend mine, i think it cost me £27.99 from a bike shop in Brighton. Just in case you choose a met, mines black with like a red flame on one side, it also has a peak thing on the front. Joe