Originally posted by bfra1
I'm looking at buying a new helmet (road riding), possibly the Met Ippogriffo and was wondering if anyone has any feedback or recommendations.
Currently my decision is based on appearance of the helmet, and I realise that this probably isn't the best way to base a decision on something will will be on my head for long periods.
Any feedback would be appreciated.
Well, I can only testify to helmets available in the US (most common among them Giro, Bell, Limar, Louis Garneu, and Specialized) -- every helmet on store shelves, whether they be stocked in a discount store or a high-end bike shop, meet the same basic safety standards.
In fact, in terms of pure impact resistance, a lot of the cheapest models on the market out-do the pro-models in tests. The bottom line? Where practicality is concerned,
fit and
price are just about all that matter. Pricier lids tend to sport more ventilation, but interestingly, are often heavier than the cheapies.
Given that, you're right to be going by looks, assuming you've covered he two bases mentioned above. You want that baby to give you a good feeling when you strap it on and roll out into the world. I'm a big advocate of making sure that your cycling stuff excites you on some level.
You certainly can't go wrong with a Giro Pneumo or Atmos for that Team ONCE or USPS look, or a Bell Ghisallo (my current lid; comparable to the Pneumo at a better price). The Specialized S1 is a tough-looking pro helmet as well. Limar makes particularly classy helmets; if I had to buy a new one right now, I'd buy a Limar F111.
Makes like Met and Catlike, less popular or outright unavailable in the States, seem quite nice.
Have fun choosing!