When it comes to looks and style, the top-of-the-line Fox V3 helmet is as cool as anything out there. It has great graphics, a light weight and all the features. The problem is the V3 doesn't fit me. The head shape is too narrow, and I feel like it is squishing my head. I mentioned this to Fox's Warren Johnson, and he said the $199.95 mid-line V2 helmet is made with a more rounded head form, so I tried one.
The V2 is clearly on the snug side, and if you (like me) are sort of between sizes, then you'll surely want the larger size. I wear an XL in most helmets, but a large in some. The V2 is snug as an XL for me, but it still goes on easier than the V3, and once on is quite comfortable.
Some helmets get floppy on my head once I start to sweat, but the V2 stays rock solid. In spite of the snug fit, the helmet still vents well, and my large-frame over-the-glasses goggles fit easily in the eyeport. As long as I'm wearing the helmet it is perfectly comfortable and effective though it is almost overly snug in the cheek area. The helmet has two venting channels in the shell and others in the cheek pad area in addition to the "Aerocool" liner that is supposed to aid moisture control. It felt like the vents in the cheek pad did most of the cooling.
Like all Fox helmets, the shape and graphics are crisp and stylish with striking patterns and colors. The only negative is that the lid is a little hard on the ears when going on and coming off. For any normal riding day it isn't a problem, but it wouldn't be my first choice for a long day on the trail with lots of helmet-off stops.
-Karel Kramer
| GEAR | 91.0 |
| Style | 18/20 |
| Comfort | 8/10 |
| Function | 47/50 |
| Wash/care | 9/10 |
| Price | 9/10 |