Cool Helmets

Helmets, should we be wearing them for cycling? It's an emotive subject and not one that I want to attempt to tackle without doing plenty of research first. One thing is for sure though, I would rather take my chances in a crash wearing a helmet than without.

For me wearing a helmet is a necessary evil. I mean nobody really likes wearing a helmet do they? Over the past few years I've started wearing one more and more, I'd like to think I wear one at least 95% of the time these days with the odd foray to the pub or ride to the local grocery store being the exception.

Helmets used to be so ugly and heavy there was no way I was going to put one on my head. My increased usage of a helmet probably coincided with improvements in its weight and design.
I've picked 3 helmets here that I consider to be cool helmets from a purely aesthetic view. I'm sure they all pass certain safety tests but have absolutely no idea which ones are the safest.

I was eyeing up the Catlike Whisper Plus, as worn by the Euskaltel and Cervelo Test team, for a while until finally I took the plunge purchasing one a few weeks back. Although it's chunkier than my previous Giro Atmos the size large weight of 290grams is only a few grams heavier. UK retail price £119.95.

The Giro Ionos is Giro's latest offering and looks to me like a newer version of the classic Atmos. Having worn the Atmos for many years I can personally vouch for it by saying it's lightweight, comfortable and excellent in hot weather due its many vents. I haven't worn the Ionos but if it improves on the Atmos then it has to be one hell of a fine helmet. UK retail price £119.99.

I've picked the Specialized S-Works 2D because in some twisted way I think it actually looks pretty cool. I also know that most top end products specialized produce are of the highest quality. Also a couple of my cycling friends own this helmet and swear by it. I was very close to buying one myself before deciding to opt for the Catlike. Hey if it's good enough for Cancellara... UK retail price £109.99.