Proviz Triton LED Helmet

Don't be mislead by the 'Urban' tag, the Pro-Viz Triton helmet is every bit as good for touring and trail duties courtesy of ample ventilation, moderate weight and decent build quality. On the flip side, with some of the big brands offer integrated lighting and similarly swish stuff as standard on their urban lids, and I was disappointed by a lack of insect netting that would've eliminated momentary panic when an insurgent wasp flew straight into my thatch.

Conforming to CE1078, we've the obligatory in mould construction-where the EPS foam liner is blown simultaneously inside the polycarbonate shell as it forms allowing greater ventilation for the same, or indeed less weight without compromising strength or crucially protection. Finish is no less exacting, the shell beautifully executed while the detachable peak can be plugged in and out in seconds depending on whether you're joining the chain gang for a fast-fifty or blazing a trail through sweeping forest tracks at the end of a hard day's toil.

The softer contours not only mean a more flattering look worn with looser cut cycling and street threads but also provides a very stable platform for helmet mounted lighting systems such as Light & Motions Viz360. Not that you'd need worry about being seen thanks to those acres of super thick Scotchlite and dinky LEDs integrated within the head-ring. Build up some speed and the capacious vents scoop cooling air through the scalp without inciting painful ice-cream headaches in bracing winds or prolonged descents. Hotter commutes see the body's natural coolants intervene faster but the anti bacterial pads guzzle this effortlessly so you'll arrive looking poised and purposeful

Day-glow yellow just has the edge in fog but the 360-degree Scotchlite is literally brilliant against the gloss black shell when hit by street and vehicle headlamps without any loss of street cred during daylight. Some obvious overlap on our sample suggested it might lift with everyday carelessness but thus far it's stuck firm. For all their virtues, peaks can intrude slightly, requiring more exaggerated movements when preparing to turn or joining the flow of traffic, although the Triton's stops just shy of this without comprising protection from the sun, wind, rain and dust particles blown up by passing trucks and busses.

Verdict

Versatile and extremely practical everyday helmet with some great touches.