Padding/other features
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Padding should be removable and machine washable
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While there's no legal requirement to wear a helmet, the majority of road cyclists do
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Some manufacturers use an internal cage to increase the strength of the helmet while reducing weight
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Fit is absolutely vital when buying a new helmet (Pic: Sirotti)
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Each brand has its own version of a retention system but they largely do the same job
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The POC Octal weighs just 200g, but it also costs £225
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Alberto Contador has been wearing Specialized's aero road helmet, the Evade, at the Giro d'Italia (Pic: Sirotti)
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Internal channels in the helmet can also help improve ventilation
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Padding should be removable and machine washable
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While there's no legal requirement to wear a helmet, the majority of road cyclists do
Padding/other features
Providing you’ve got the right shaped helmet in the right size you should only need to use minimal padding to get the helmet comfortable.
The padding should be easily removable and washable. If you need to use thick pieces of padding, the helmet could well be the wrong size or shape. Velcro is usually used to hold it in place and this means it can easily be taken out and washed when needed. You do remove the padding and wash it on a regular basis, don’t you? You should be doing so because not only does the padding serve to make the helmet that little bit more comfortable, it will also soak up a lot of sweat.
Although not a common sight yet, a trend that is beginning to appear is lighting built into the helmet’s shell. Current options include the Proviz Saturn and Torch T1. While the Saturn wouldn’t look out of place on a club run, the T1 is definitely aimed at the commuter market. It is doubtful that the idea will go mainstream just yet as the market currently demands low weight and the addition of the LEDs and associated batteries does nothing for that. At the end of the day you pay your money and make your choice.
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