Helmets

The Aether MIPS is a great helmet if it fits you well. Helmets are somewhat like saddles. You have to find the right shape/size for your head and various brands are different. For me Giro has always fit well and I have had several. I worked my way up to the Aether and currently own two. I'm back buying another with the current sale. For me the Aether is lightweight and comfortable. I put it on and forget about it. Like saddles, if you are thinking about it during a ride it probably isn't right. If you ride without ever thinking about it and forget it's there then it's working for you. It also holds my glasses - either Oakley or Rudy Project very securely when not on my face.

I did have the pads wear out in mine over time but I found replacements available for order. A second set of pads should get me to the "expiration date" of helmet when retirement is due.

I was debating between the Bell Super Air R and the Bell Super DH and after talking with the Western Bike Works Customer Support, I went with the Super Air R. The CS rep took the time to talk about my local conditions, type of riding, and provided great answers to all my questions. After the fantastic help from CS, I went with the Super Air R and feel like the CS rep's advice was perfect. The helmet has been great, being able to remove the chin guard while climbing is perfect for the SoCal heat. The large number of air vents are well positioned to allow great airflow with and without the chin guard installed. The helmet ships with a thin set of cheek pads installed and a slightly thicker set in the box to allow you to dial in the fit. Sunglasses fit well for days when you don't feel like wearing goggles.

My well-used six year old Scott ARX MIPS helmet was due for replacement recently and this Bell Stratus fit the bill nicely. I knew that that the Bell brand would provide good crash protection . I ride in a hot, humid climate and good ventilation in a helmet is required. The Bell Stratus does a good job of directing the air flow to where it’s needed. My only nitpick with this helmet is the small size of the chin strap snap closures, time will tell if the hold up but so far so good! I would definitely purchase this helmet again at a future date

I bought this mainly for the MIPS protection because I wouldn't be able to live with myself if my kid got a terrible skull injury that could have been prevented by spending an extra $20-40 on a helmet. I'm very pleased with the quality. My 7-yo son has been riding and scootering with the helmet pretty frequently for over a year and it's holding together very nicely. And definitely not because he's gentle with it :).