Friday, August 24, 2012

The Helmet Debate (No, Not That One)

Today, we debate not the importance (or lack thereof) of helmets, but rather to ask for some opinions on which helmet to wear.  If you have thoughts that are beneficial, I would love to hear 'em.  During the upcoming ride I'm participating in, it is required that all cyclists wear a helmet. The question has become which helmet to wear. I don't really want to go out and purchase yet another, so I've narrowed it down to two choices I have here at home, and thought I would lay it out to see what makes the most sense.

Option #1: Lazer helmet

The Pros -
It's cuter than the other option
Since I will be riding a non-typical "race" bike, this helmet might fit with the bike better

The Cons -
It's heavier than the alternative (enough to notice)
It doesn't have many air vents (potentially making it hotter - though there are more vents than shown here)
I look like I have a mushroom head

Option #2: Bell helmet

The Pros -
It has more vent holes throughout, likely making it cooler for the ride
It's lighter weight than the alternative

The Cons -
I look like a space freak (with a visor, no less - though this is removable)
It looks more like a helmet for a "real" road bike (perhaps it doesn't fit with what I'll be riding)
It's not particularly attractive

I'm certain there are other things that I could take in to consideration, but I'm wondering what you would do - or rather, which one you would wear if given the choice? Putting aside the idiotic looks on my face in the photos, and instead focusing on what makes the most sense, do you have a favorite based on the functionality of the two? Thoughts and opinions are welcomed!

7 comments:

  1. Functionally, I vote for the bell, but without the visor (optional). However, the Lazer is better looking!

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    1. I think the Bell is definitely winning out... but, you're right, the Lazer does look better (at least without my giant noggin' in it.

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  2. I'm voting for the Bell for the venting alone. It seems that you run cooler than I do, but if you're out for several hours, I think you'll want a helmet with better airflow. The weight difference could become pretty significant with the number of miles you're planning to ride as well. And personally, I like visors (even if they're goofy looking) for the additional sunshade they provide.

    (I have a Bern which is SO MUCH prettier than my Specialized and Giro helmets, but I can wear it only in the winter because otherwise I overheat. Ironically, the Bern is the only one with a visor.)

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    1. I think I am in agreement with you on the venting. While it's not forecasted to be quite as warm as it normally is, it will still be warm, and no need to make it even hotter. I also like the visor (not the look of it, but the functionality). It seems to keep the sun out of my eyes when it's in that awkward place in the sky.

      By the way, I also have a Bern with a visor. I haven't worn that one for quite a bit, but it is one to be worn in much cooler temps. I think it has a way to change it so that it's cooler for the summer (maybe I've just imagined this - not sure), but I'm not sure it would do any good due to the vents anyway.

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  3. Bell helmet! Function over fashion. Space freaks are cool. :)

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  4. visors seem unpopular for some reason. i like mine, especially when it's raining. it doesn't do much in terms of sun-shielding. mushroom-style helmets look adorable, but when it's the middle of the summer it leaves your hair plastered with sweat. so i just go for my vented space alien helmet. i figure i only wear it for the hour i'm on a bike, more important to have dry hair! save the cute helmet for fall/winter!

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