Yes, I realize this is an odd helmet question. Here’s what I’m looking for . . .
a road bike helmet (not a time trial helmet)that’s aero (because I don’t have an aero helmet)that doesn’t need much ventilation (because I will be wearing it, most of the time, at temps between 20* and 60*F)that, if it has a visor, the visor is clear (because I will be wearing it in the dark, a lot)
In short, I’m looking for a helmet that will double as (1) my aero helmet for the occasional sprint race, and (2) a helmet I can wear comfortably during the dark, cold rides between November and February. Do any helmets come to mind?
The Smith Aero road helmet is nice. But also, you can just ride with any helmet in cold temperatures, but need a skullcap or a balaclava underneath. I ride in all weather in Alaska with that and I am fine.
If you’re going to be riding in the dark a lot I wouldn’t prioritize one with a visor. When I used to do 70% of my training at 10pm in NYC, I found that using some yellow lenses was hugely beneficial to my awareness. In my general research of aero road helmets it seems like most companies really prioritize ventilation and cooling at this point, but I have heard that the MET Manta runs a bit warm. I think it looks decent, though basic, but it doesn’t have MIPS which would be a dealbreaker for me personally. Otherwise the Bontrager Ballista MIPS is pretty much a perfect helmet in my opinion.
I’ve been happy with my Bolle The One helmet. It has removal covers to switch between aero and conventional road helmet. Also comes with a removable visor for mountain biking and a fitted liner for cold weather (although I’ve found it to be overkill for anything but extremely cold conditions, like below freezing). I also like how any brand of sunglasses will fit in the “sunglasses garage” so you can have them readily accessible. I doubt it’s the most aerodynamic helmet out there but it’s pretty versatile, and you can usually find good deals on-line (currently $125usd on Amazon). Biggest cons are that it’s on the heavier side and not MIPS.
I didn’t bring it up, but a couple of you have . . . I don’t like MIPS. I prefer a helmet not to have it. So, it’s definitely not a negative in my mind if a helmet doesn’t have MIPS.
Lazer Tardiz 2–you can swap out the center vent/water port for a solid insert.
I knew somebody with a Bell Star Pro for most of the reasons you discuss above.
Yes, I realize this is an odd helmet question.
Not at all. Poorly-ventilated aero helmets make tons of sense in the winter. Besides the warmth benefits, the aero doesn’t hurt when you’re trying to plow through that dense cold air!
Bell Star Pro got me through a few cold Canadian winters. Seems to check all of your boxes - and its cheap, too.
John
Kask Infinity. You can have it completely closed, or open it up a bit with a slidable cover for the front vent. Works extremely well in colder climate and gives you an option if you need to start “warm”, but finish “cold”.