Aero Helmet Fit - Cover Ears?

Triathlon Forum
1

After years of just doing XTerra, I’m going back to the IM/HIM grind (actually, I missed it).

I’ve been shopping for Aero helmets, and many seem to fit, but come down half way on my ears (Vorttice, Wingspan). In some cases (LG) the next size up is way too big.

I noted some images online, where these helmets fit some people that way, but in others they cover the ears. It seems like having the helmet flaps rub on the ears could be annoying.

Is it a bad move to get a helmet that fits this way, or not?

2

I had the same issue with my LG helmet. It comes half-way down my ears but the next size was too big. It took a little while to get used to the fit but I don’t notice it any more.

3

I am pretty sure that I read and interview with Cobb about the development for the wingspan where he said that they tested both versions (full over the ears and half) and since there was no aerodynamic advantage they went with the half since you can hear your surroundings better that way

So as long as they don’t rub I wouldn’t worry about it.

Jakob

P.s. I have the wingspan and am very happy with it. I couldn’t even get most other helmets over my ears because they were too narrow.

4

It’s not bad but can be uncomfortable in some cases. Not something you want to have happen over a long race. I have always personally preferred the covered ears as it drowns out wind noise which always makes me feel like I am going faster… Go placebo effect.

5

Maybe it’s my Dumbo ears but I often get my ear folded over when I put my helmet on in a T1 hurry. Not painful but annoying. If pary of my ear was exposed I would have a better chance of straightening things out as I ride.

6

I often get my ear folded over when I put my helmet on in a T1 hurry. Not painful but annoying.

+1

I use a Spiuk Kronos which I really like other than this problem. The part that covers the ear are not very flexible and it slows me down trying to put it on without “bunching up” my ears in T1. Otherwise it is comfortable. I used it for a 60 mile bike leg in 80ish degrees a while back and had no problem with overheating, comfort, or not being able to hear.