I would agree with most of the posters here who advise going to a bike shop and trying on some helmets. All helmets sold in the USA are required to meet a minimum set of safety standards. However that does noet mean that all helmets are equally safe. From all I have seen, the more expenisive, higher end helmets offer a (moderately) better degree of protection that their lower end counteparts. This may or may not mean anything to you or to others. As for me, I saw no reason to go out and spend $175+ on a helmet when for the type of riding I do a $50 helmet would protect my head just as well in all but the most serious accidents. As for what helmet I own, I own a 2006 Bell Influx. There may be lighter nore stylish helmets out there but this one fits me well and feels good on my head.

Cheers,

Brian