LAZER JACKAL KINETICORE
RRP: $329
Sizes (tested): S, (M), L
Verified weight: 358g
Rotational impact protection: Kineti Core crumple zones
Accessory mount: Yes
Goggle compatible: Yes
Ponytail compatible: Yes
Virginia Tech Rating: 5 star
From: Shimano Australia
The Lazer Jackal trail helmet has been updated for 2022 with the KinetiCore design, replacing the MIPS slip liner for less weight and greater airflow thanks to all the channels it creates through the crumple zones in the foam. It has extended coverage and an easy to use, highly adjustable retention system. The helmet works well with sunglasses or goggles, with a rubberised gripper to hold a goggle strap in place. You can even park your sunglasses securely under the visor.
Lazer use high quality straps with easy adjustments. The strap splitters do tend to drift down so keep an eye on them to keep your fit spot on. The straps dry fast and the magnetic buckle is easy to use. On the trail, the ventilation is immediately noticeable compared to other helmets tested, even in the low 20s. The three position visor is well-placed, although some may prefer a more solid click. Still, it stayed in place and easily pushed up when storing your goggles below the visor.
Thanks to the ventilation and therefore comfort, along with excellent coverage and a 5 star Virginia Tech safety rating, this is a very easy helmet to recommend for anyone looking for a trail helmet with great coverage and excellent safety features.
FOX MAINFRAME
RRP: $139.95
Sizes (tested): S, (M), L
Verified weight: 387g
Rotational impact protection: MIPS
Accessory mount: No
Goggle compatible: Not really
Ponytail compatible: No
Virgina Tech rating: 5 star
From: PSI Cycling
The Fox Mainframe brings the Fox helmet aesthetic to a very competitive price, while still including a MIPS slip liner. The helmet has a fixed position visor and an adjustable retention system alongside generous venting and slightly extended rear coverage. With the vertical adjustment of the retention system sitting in the middle, it means long hair needs to sit very low. The three sizes offer a good fit range and the retention system has four heights to make sure it’s snug. The straps are soft but have limited adjustment at the splitters. The offset buckle is a nice touch for comfort sitting to the side of your throat. The padding is light and keeps the MIPS away from your hair at the front of the helmet.
On the trail, the Mainframe a very stable helmet with
