There are few pieces of kit that are imperative if cycling is to be taken seriously and a helmet is one of them. In some countries you can incur a hefty fine for neglecting to protect your noggin, Australia, for instance. Earlier this week an Australian study was released, drawing on data from more than 64,000 cyclists worldwide, concluding that helmet use reduces the risk of serious head injury by 70%.
The wearing of helmets in professional cycling has been compulsory since 2003 and helmet manufacturers have seen some of the fastest accelerating success in the industry as demand for innovation and aerodynamics build year on year. Over the years, Specialized helmets have accompanied some of the most successful riders to wins in all sorts of races including grand tours, classics and world championships.
You too can enjoy the splendour and comfort that comes hand in hand with the Specialized label in the revamped 2017 range.
Airnet
The super-stylish Airnet is a perfect marriage of functionality and performance that is ideal for both adventure and speed. The height adjustable micro-dial fit system and merino pads for sweat and temperature management combine for maximum comfort and the perfect fit. Its neat venting pattern allows for supreme ventilation and incorporates grippers at the front for storage of eyewear. The reflective decals increasing visibility in lowlight round off one very versatile piece of gear for ultimate versatility and peace of mind.
Prevail II
The previous model of the Prevail has been a familiar sight in pro races, particularly when the road tilts skywards, with its open front and vents arranged in neat cornrows. The new Prevail II, quietly released during the 2016 Tour de France, keeps the same look but with a reduced bulk, lower profile, lighter weight, and even improved acoustics, muffling the wind noise that has let down previous models. Its 10g weight reduction represents a 5% weight saving, pandering to the desires of the ‘marginal gains’ obsessed cycling community, while not sacrificing its protective capability, featuring the patented Energy Optimised Multi-Density EPS construction to manage impact energy.
S-Works Evade
The Evade boasts all the aerodynamic benefits of a TT helmet without sacrificing fit or ventilation. The shape of the helmet, very similar to that of the TT, results in a drastic decrease in drag making it the obvious choice for sprinters and fast-men. The Evade will save 46 seconds over 40km compared to the Prevail so it is understandably the go-to helmet on flat and sprint stages and one-day races, or for amateur riders looking to maximise their performance.
Look good, stay safe and enjoy cycling with peace of mind.
