There’s just something about the freedom and exhilaration of riding a bike that makes a rider want to take to the air. It makes perfect sense. Riding a bike feels like flying, so naturally bikes probably also actually fly.
Well, they do. But if you’re me, they sometimes have trouble landing properly. Which is why it’s a decent idea to put on some pads if you’re going to huck that sweet lip. Unfortunately, safety is occasionally at odds with fashion, but brands like Triple 8 out of NYC are doing what they can to blur that line.
The helmet at right is the Compass model, with an EPS (Expanded PolyStyrene) liner. Of course, it has its CPSC certification, and it will MSRP at $79. Interestingly, the Triple 8 site calls the Compass a “lightweight” helmet, but doesn’t list the claimed weight.
We’ll just have to take their word for it. I held one at Interbike, though, and it did feel pretty light, but I’m a human. I’m built for makin’ sweet, sweet love. Not for accurately guessing the weight of things based on holding them.
If you’re more DH or DJ than XC, you might prefer Triple 8’s Invader helmet, about which the manufacturer has this to say:
Perfect for hitting jumps, killing ramps, and bombing hills or trails, the Invader offers Full Face protection with classic Triple Eight style.
The Invader comes in two colors: white and black. If I were on the Triple 8 team, I’d have pushed to have them called “Darth” and “Stormtrooper.” But that’s probably how you get sued. And also probably why no one’s asked me to be on their helmet naming committee.
The Invader goes for $129, and is certified by both the CPSC and the ASTM. It should be noted that this is a step further than helmet manufacturers are required to go. They’re only required to get certified by CPSC, which is the 6 foot drop test. Triple 8’s Invader also has the ASTM cert, which you can read about here.
By no means does it stop there for Triple 8, however. They have all manner of pads and lids to protect your body should you have a bicycling oopsie.
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