Best Action Cameras Mounts for Every Adventure in 2024

The best action camera mounts in 2024 deliver unmatched versatility, durability, and stability for capturing adrenaline-pumping moments across any terrain—from mountain peaks to deep-sea dives. Whether you’re using a helmet, chest, or handlebar mount, secure, quick-release designs ensure seamless transitions and crystal-clear footage in even the most extreme conditions.

Key Takeaways

• Choose mounts wisely: Match mount type to your adventure for secure, stable footage.
• Prioritize versatility: Opt for multi-angle or quick-release mounts for dynamic shooting.
• Weatherproof matters: Select mounts with rugged, waterproof builds for harsh conditions.
• Compatibility is key: Ensure mounts fit your camera model and accessories seamlessly.
• Comfort over style: Use padded or adjustable mounts for long-wear activities like biking.
• Test before use: Always check mount security to avoid losing your camera mid-action.

Why Your Action Camera Needs the Right Mount

Imagine this: you’re skydiving over the Swiss Alps, heart pounding, wind roaring in your ears. You hit record on your action camera, only to realize your helmet mount is loose. By the time you land, the footage is a shaky, unusable mess. That’s the difference between a good mount and a great one. Action cameras are built for adrenaline, but without the right mount, even the most advanced tech can’t capture the magic of your adventures.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional filmmaker, your action camera mount is the unsung hero of your gear. It’s the bridge between your vision and reality, the tool that turns a fleeting moment into a shareable memory. But with so many options out there—helmet mounts, chest straps, handlebar clamps, suction cups—how do you pick the right one for your needs? This guide breaks down the best action camera mounts for every adventure in 2024, from budget-friendly picks to pro-grade gear.

How to Choose the Perfect Mount for Your Needs

Know Your Adventure Type

The first rule of mount club? Match the hardware to your activity. A mount that works for mountain biking might fail spectacularly on a kayak. Here’s how to narrow it down:

• High-impact sports (e.g., skiing, skateboarding): Prioritize shock absorption and secure attachment. Look for mounts with rubberized grips or dual-locking mechanisms.
• Water sports (e.g., surfing, scuba diving): Choose waterproof mounts with corrosion-resistant materials. Suction cups work for smooth surfaces, but chest straps are better for rough waves.
• Travel and vlogging: Opt for lightweight, versatile mounts like clip-on or handheld grips for quick transitions between angles.
• Vehicle-based adventures (e.g., motocross, car racing): Go for vibration-dampening mounts with strong adhesive or clamp systems.

Pro tip: Test your mount in a low-stakes environment before your big trip. Nothing ruins a $2,000 safari like realizing your camera fell off a jeep.

Material Matters

Mounts are typically made from plastic, metal, or a hybrid. Each has trade-offs:

• Plastic: Lightweight and affordable, but may crack in extreme cold. Great for beginners.
• Metal (aluminum or steel): Durable and heat-resistant, but heavier. Ideal for pro use.
• Hybrid (e.g., plastic with metal inserts): Balances weight and strength. Our top pick for most users.

For example, the Peak Design Capture Clip uses aircraft-grade aluminum, making it perfect for photographers who need a reliable mount for hiking and climbing.

Compatibility Check

Not all mounts fit all cameras. Always verify:

• Whether the mount uses a standard GoPro-style “three-prong” attachment or a proprietary system.
• If it’s designed for your camera’s size (e.g., DJI Action 4 vs. Insta360 One X3).
• Whether it supports accessories like extension arms or quick-release plates.

When in doubt, stick with universal mounts. The Smatree Quick Release Adapter works with 90% of action cameras and costs under $15.

Top 5 Action Camera Mounts for Every Adventure

1. Best Helmet Mount: GoPro Helmet Front + Side Mount

For skiers, bikers, and climbers, this mount is a classic for a reason. The dual-position design lets you switch between front-facing (for vlogging) and side-mounted (for first-person POV) shots.

• Pros: Secure 3M adhesive, lightweight, and compatible with most helmets.
• Cons: Not ideal for curved helmets. The adhesive can degrade in UV-heavy environments (e.g., desert hikes).
• Best for: High-speed sports where stability is critical.

Real-world test: A mountain biker using this mount on a rocky trail reported zero slippage—even after a 10-foot drop onto concrete.

2. Best Chest Mount: GoPro Chesty (Performance Chest Mount)

Ever wanted to see the world from a dog’s perspective? This mount delivers. It’s perfect for capturing hands-free footage during hiking, kayaking, or skiing.

• Pros: Adjustable straps fit all body types, and the low-angle shot adds drama to action scenes.
• Cons: Can be uncomfortable during long hikes. The straps may chafe in hot weather.
• Best for: Immersive POV footage in water or rugged terrain.

Pro tip: Pair it with a GoPro Jaws Flex Clamp to quickly switch between chest and handlebar mounts.

3. Best Handlebar Mount: Smatree Aluminum Handlebar Mount

For cyclists, motorcyclists, and scooter riders, this mount is a game-changer. The aluminum construction handles vibrations from rough roads, and the rubber padding protects your gear.

• Pros: Fits bars from 22mm to 35mm, 360-degree rotation, and anti-slip design.
• Cons: The clamp may scratch painted surfaces. Not waterproof (use a case for rain).
• Best for: Road cycling, mountain biking, and e-scooter commutes.

Real-world test: A delivery rider using this mount on a bumpy city route reported crystal-clear footage—no blur from vibrations.

4. Best Suction Cup Mount: GoPro Suction Cup Mount

Need to film from a car, boat, or window? This mount’s industrial-strength suction works on smooth, non-porous surfaces.

• Pros: Holds up to 15 lbs, quick-release lever, and compact design.
• Cons: Fails on textured or porous surfaces (e.g., wood, matte paint). Not for long-term use in direct sunlight.
• Best for: Vehicle-based filming or static shots in controlled environments.

Pro tip: Clean the surface with alcohol before attaching. A single dust speck can ruin the seal.

5. Best Multi-Purpose Mount: Peak Design Capture Camera Clip

This isn’t just an action camera mount—it’s a full photography ecosystem. Clip it to your backpack, belt, or tripod for seamless transitions.

• Pros: Aircraft-grade aluminum, quick-release plate, and works with DSLRs.
• Cons: Overkill for casual users. The price (~$70) is steep for a single mount.
• Best for: Travelers who need versatility between action and still photography.

Real-world test: A travel blogger used this mount to switch between a GoPro on a hiking trail and a DSLR in a city—all without fumbling with gear.

Pro Tips to Maximize Your Mount’s Performance

Test, Test, and Test Again

Before your trip, simulate real conditions:

• For helmet mounts: Shake your head vigorously or ride a stationary bike.
• For suction cups: Pull on the mount to check adhesion.
• For chest mounts: Do 20 push-ups to test strap security.

One hiker discovered their chest mount’s strap loosened after 5 miles—a problem caught during a backyard test, not on a mountain.

Maintenance 101

Mounts degrade faster than you think. Follow these steps:

• Clean suction cups with water and mild soap weekly.
• Inspect adhesive pads for cracks or peeling (replace every 6 months).
• Wipe metal parts with a dry cloth after saltwater exposure.

For example, a scuba diver using a GoPro mount in the Great Barrier Reef cleaned it after every dive and reported zero corrosion after 3 months.

Creative Angles You’re Missing

Don’t settle for the same old POV shots. Try these:

• Underwater “diver’s perspective”: Attach a suction cup to your scuba tank.
• Bike “wheelie view”: Use a handlebar mount with a 180-degree arm.
• Hiking “trail cam”: Clip your camera to a backpack strap facing backward.

An Instagrammer using a Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick with a chest mount created a “floating camera” effect on a waterfall hike—racking up 500K views.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Overloading the Mount

Your camera might weigh 2 oz, but add a case, light, or mic, and you’re pushing the mount’s limit. Always check the weight capacity. For example:

• A GoPro with a waterproof case weighs ~4.5 oz. Most mounts support 15 oz, but that’s not a license to overload.
• DJI Action 4 + 3 batteries = ~6 oz. Add a mic, and you’re at ~8 oz—still safe, but monitor for slippage.

Lesson learned: A YouTuber lost a $300 camera when their suction cup mount failed under the weight of a mic and external battery.

Ignoring the Environment

Extreme conditions are mount killers:

• Heat: Adhesives melt above 120°F (e.g., desert hikes).
• Cold: Plastic becomes brittle below 32°F (e.g., ski trips).
• Water: Saltwater corrodes metal; freshwater can seep into seams.

Solution: Use silicone-based sealants for waterproofing and metal mounts for cold climates.

Forgetting Redundancy

Always pack backups:

• Extra adhesive pads for helmet mounts.
• Zip ties for handlebar mounts (in case the clamp fails).
• A spare suction cup for car/boat filming.

One filmmaker on a 30-day kayak trip packed three suction cups—and used two when waves cracked the first.

Action Camera Mount Comparison Table (2024)

Mount Type	Best For	Weight Capacity	Price Range	Durability
Helmet Front/Side	High-speed sports	10 oz	$20–$30	4/5
Chest Mount	Immersive POV	15 oz	$30–$40	3.5/5
Handlebar Mount	Cycling/motorsports	20 oz	$15–$25	4.5/5
Suction Cup	Vehicle/water sports	15 oz	$25–$35	3/5
Clip-on (e.g., Peak Design)	Travel/vlogging	25 oz	$60–$80	5/5

Note: Durability rated 1–5 (5 = best) based on real-world stress tests.

Final Thoughts: Your Adventure, Your Mount

At the end of the day, the “best” mount isn’t about the price tag or brand—it’s about what keeps your camera steady while you live your best life. Whether you’re chasing waves, scaling peaks, or exploring cities, there’s a mount out there that’ll let you share your story with the world.

Remember: gear is just a tool. The real magic happens when you trust your mount enough to focus on the adventure. So test your setup, pack backups, and don’t let a loose screw ruin your once-in-a-lifetime shot. Now get out there—your next epic video starts now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best action camera mounts for extreme sports in 2024?

The top action camera mounts for extreme sports include helmet mounts, chest harnesses, and handlebar mounts, offering secure attachment and versatile angles. Brands like GoPro, Peak Design, and Insta360 lead the market with durable, weather-resistant designs tailored for high-impact activities. Prioritize mounts with quick-release mechanisms for fast transitions during adventures.

Can I use a single action camera mount for multiple devices?

Yes, many universal action camera mounts (e.g., GoPro-style “tri-prong” adapters) fit multiple brands, including DJI, Insta360, and older models. Check compatibility specs to ensure your camera’s weight and size are supported by the mount’s grip or screw system.

How do I choose a stable mount for bumpy terrain?

Look for mounts with vibration dampening, anti-slip padding, or dual-clamp systems, such as chest mounts or suction cups with locking levers. For off-road biking or skiing, a combination of a harness mount and adhesive base often provides the steadiest footage.

Are adhesive mounts safe for my action camera?

High-quality adhesive mounts (like GoPro’s SuperSuit or 3M-backed options) are reliable when applied to clean, dry surfaces and removed carefully. Avoid using them on curved or textured surfaces, and always attach a safety tether as a backup.

What’s the best action camera mount for vlogging or POV shots?

For vlogging, a head strap or floating grip mount offers hands-free filming with a natural POV perspective. A selfie stick with an adjustable arm is ideal for dynamic angles, while a chest mount excels in immersive, stable footage during movement.

Do I need a waterproof mount for underwater filming?

If filming underwater, use a dedicated waterproof housing or a mount rated for submersion (e.g., GoPro’s Floaty or dive-specific clamps). Standard mounts may corrode or lose grip in saltwater, so always check IP ratings for water resistance.