The latest Fox open face helmet has damaged cowl, and it’s already attracting optimistic consideration – particularly from the testers at Virginia Tech. The brand new Fox Speedframe received’t even be out there till someday round mid-March, however they’ve already climbed to the highest of the newest bicycle helmet rankings from VT with the Speedframe RS taking the highest spot, and the Speedframe Professional taking #2 (extra on the variations under).
As talked about, the buyer launch for the brand new helmets received’t be till later this spring, however you’ll be seeing the Speedframe on Fox athletes quickly, so Fox has added it to their web site and have despatched out product samples. We ended up with one of many new Speedframe Professional fashions, and there’s loads to love (assuming the match works for you).
Why do the helmet fashions rank otherwise?
If you happen to’re questioning why two of the identical mannequin helmets would rank otherwise based mostly on the model, the reply appears to return right down to the MIPS variation utilized in every helmet. The highest ranked Speedframe RS makes use of the Mips Integra Cut up system (two totally different density shells with a low friction layer between them), whereas the Speedframe Professional makes use of the Mips Air Node, and the bottom mannequin Speedframe makes use of a normal Mips system.
Whereas all three Fox Speedframe helmets land a 5-star score from Virginia Tech, their general rating is calculated past the 5-star score with the bottom rating supposedly providing essentially the most safety. That’s how they got here up with the Speedframe RS within the prime spot with a 7.23 rating, whereas the Professional was shut behind in second with an 8.10.
As talked about, the bottom mannequin Speedframe nonetheless carries a 5-star score, however the precise rating of 13.39 lands it a lot additional down on the VT checklist at #137. That is attention-grabbing to us because it makes use of a Mips system that at one time was thought-about innovative. That appears to strengthen the truth that Mips has continued to evolve and create new and higher programs which will provide improved safety for the rider.
It’s price mentioning that it’s not simply the Mips system that’s seemingly answerable for the improved safety, however the inclusion of dual-density foam in each the RS and the Professional mannequin. The RS makes use of a two-shell system, every with totally different densities. The Professional makes use of their dual-density Varizorb EPS with the 2 densities molded into one shell. The bottom mannequin Speedframe seems to have a single density EPS shell which might seemingly account for the distinction in VT score. At present, solely the Speedframe RS mannequin states that it meets the NTA 8776 ebike commonplace, however we haven’t seen an official press equipment for the helmets but so which will change.
The highest two helmets additionally embody a extra premium match system with a BOA dial and a smooth twine rather than the everyday plastic band. The bottom mannequin makes use of Fox’s personal 360º match system.
Premium Options
Match qualms apart, the Speedframe RS and Professional are filled with premium options. You’ll discover a three place one-hand adjustable visor that truly stays put, built-in sunglass holder, and a Fidlock magnetic buckle. The highest two trims get ionic+ moisture wicking & antimicrobial padding, that’s detachable and washable. All fashions have ear piece adjusters which are fastened in size however might be adjusted fore/aft to place them round your ears.
Nonetheless Mild
Even with all these options, the Speedframe Professional continues to be a light-weight weight helmet with our medium pattern checking in at 348g. That’s proper on the cash for the claimed weight of 350g +/-35g. The RS has a claimed weight of 400g +/-40g for the medium due to the twin-shell design.
Pricing & Availability
Accessible seemingly round mid-March, the Speedframe helmet household will probably be out there within the Speedframe, Speedframe Professional, and Speedframe RS fashions for $109.95, $199.95, and $279.95 respectively.