Pro enduro riders wear full-face helmets that offer maximum protection and safety on the most technical and intense trails. Enduro mountain biking is one of the most intense and exciting forms of mountain biking, which requires professional riders to wear appropriate protective gear.
Among all the safety gear, helmets are undoubtedly the most vital protective equipment that these riders should wear. However, not all helmets are suitable for enduro mountain biking, and professional riders get specialized full-face helmets that provide the highest level of protection.
These helmets are designed to cover the entire head and chin, offering protection during severe crashes and impacts. In this article, we will give you more information on the type of helmets that pro enduro riders wear.
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Protection Vs. Comfort: Striking A Balance With Helmet Design
Pro enduro riders spend a lot of time researching and selecting helmets that offer the best combination of protection and comfort. In this section, we’ll discuss the key features of a good enduro helmet design and different types of helmets that pro riders wear.
The Different Types Of Helmets And Their Strengths And Weaknesses
There are different types of helmets available for enduro riding, and each has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of the most commonly used helmet types by pro enduro riders:
- Full-face helmet: The full-face helmet provides the highest level of protection, covering the entire head and face. This helmet type is suitable for aggressive riding and offers excellent protection against crashes. However, it can be heavy and bulky, which can affect comfort and ventilation, especially during warm weather or long rides.
- Open-face helmet: An open-face helmet, also known as a three-quarter helmet, provides good protection for the head, but not for the face. This helmet type is less bulky and more ventilated than a full-face helmet, making it a suitable option for riders who want good protection and comfort.
- Half-shell helmet: A half-shell helmet offers minimal protection, covering only the top of the head. This helmet type is lightweight and well-ventilated, making it an excellent choice for cross-country riding. However, it does not provide adequate protection for aggressive enduro riding.
Discussion Of The Key Features Of A Good Enduro Helmet
Enduro riders prioritize safety, but they also need a helmet that offers comfort and ventilation. Here are some critical features that a good enduro helmet must have:
- Ventilation: The helmet must have sufficient air vents to keep the rider’s head cool during hot weather and long rides.
- Weight: A good enduro helmet must be lightweight to reduce fatigue during long rides.
- Durability: The helmet material must be durable and able to withstand impact and daily use.
- Fit: The helmet must fit the rider’s head snugly to provide optimal protection and comfort.
- Visor: A visor is vital for protecting the rider’s eyes from sun, wind, and debris during rides.
Case Studies Of Pro Riders And Their Helmet Design Choices
Here are two case studies of pro riders and the helmet design choices they make:
- Richie rude: Richie rude, a two-time enduro world series champion, wears a full-face helmet that offers maximum protection. However, he prefers a well-ventilated helmet to keep his head cool and comfortable while riding.
- Isabeau courdurier: Isabeau courdurier, an eight-time enduro world series winner, wears an open-face helmet that provides good protection for her head. However, she prioritizes comfort and ventilation in her helmet choice to maintain her focus and energy during long rides.
A good enduro helmet must balance protection and comfort. A well-ventilated, lightweight, and durable helmet that fits the rider’s head snugly is critical for optimal safety and comfort during enduro rides.
Breaking Down The Best Enduro Helmets On The Market
In-Depth Reviews Of The Top Enduro Helmets Currently Available
Choosing the right helmet is crucial when it comes to enduro riding. Here are some in-depth reviews of the top enduro helmets in 2021 to help you make an informed decision.
- Bell super air r mips: This helmet offers excellent ventilation, thanks to its 18 vents, and its lightweight design ensures it won’t weigh you down. The mips technology also enhances safety by reducing rotational forces during an impact. However, it may not be the most comfortable fit for everyone due to its shape.
- Giro switchblade mips: This helmet features a removable chin guard, making it a versatile option for both enduro and downhill riding. The adjustable fit provides a snug, secure fit, and the deep coverage offers extra protection. However, some riders find the ventilation to be lacking compared to other options on the market.
- Fox proframe mips: The fox proframe boasts superior breathability thanks to its 24 big bore vents. It’s also one of the lightest full-face helmets on the market, providing maximum comfort for long rides. The mips technology and full-face design ensure optimal safety, but it may not be suitable for riders who prefer a traditional helmet design.
Comparison Of Key Features, Such As Weight, Ventilation, And Impact Resistance
When looking for an enduro helmet, it’s essential to consider factors such as weight, ventilation, and impact resistance. Here’s a breakdown of each feature to help you find the perfect helmet for your needs.
- Weight: A lightweight helmet is crucial to prevent fatigue during long rides. The bell super air r mips and fox proframe mips are some of the lightest helmets available, weighing in at only 771g and 750g, respectively.
- Ventilation: Good ventilation helps regulate body temperature, reducing the risk of overheating. The fox proframe mips and bell super air r mips helmets offer excellent ventilation with 24 and 18 vents, respectively.
- Impact resistance: High-quality helmets should provide superior protection in the event of an impact. The giro switchblade mips and fox proframe mips helmets offer full-face protection, while the bell super air r mips provides superior impact resistance with its mips technology.
No matter which helmet you choose, prioritize safety, fit, and comfort above all else. Stay safe on the trails and enjoy the ride!
The Top Enduro Helmets Of 2021: Which One Is Right For You?
When it comes to enduro riding, a high-quality helmet is a must-have for safety and performance. Consider the weight, ventilation, and impact resistance of each helmet to make an informed decision. Whether you choose the lightweight bell super air r mips, versatile giro switchblade mips, or breathable fox proframe mips, you can ride with confidence knowing you’re protected by the best.
Frequently Asked Questions On What Helmets Do Pro Enduro Riders Wear
What Are The Benefits Of Full-Face Helmets In Enduro Racing?
Full-face helmets provide better protection to the face and chin whilst descending challenging trails.
Can Enduro Riders Wear Open-Face Helmets?
Yes, but they may opt for full-face helmets for more challenging and technical trails.
What Features To Look For When Purchasing An Enduro Helmet?
Look for features such as a snug fit, adjustable visor, ventilation, and mips technology.
How Should An Enduro Helmet Fit?
An enduro helmet should fit snugly without any movement and be comfortable for long rides.
Conclusion
It is clear that professional enduro riders take their helmets very seriously and choose the best equipment to protect themselves while competing. From the lightweight and aerodynamic helmets worn by racers to the more heavy-duty options favored by freeriders, there is a helmet out there to suit every rider’s needs.
It is important to remember that, while style and looks are important, safety should always be the number one priority when choosing a helmet. Factors such as helmet weight, ventilation, comfort, and fit should also be taken into consideration when making this important purchase.
By investing in a high-quality helmet that meets your individual needs and properly protecting yourself, you can ensure that you will have a safer and more enjoyable ride. Remember, your helmet is your most important piece of protective gear, so choose wisely to ride another day.