KASK Protone was available to buy in stores at the start of 2015
I'll reiterate the purpose of these bike helmet reviews as I have done on past posts. My goal in this post is to provide information unavailable in other reviews, particularly around fit as so much of a cyclist's experience is impacted by the fit. Perceptions of overall comfort and helmet sizing will naturally vary. However, ventilation and wind noise will also vary based on the air gap between a cyclist's head and the helmet. If a cyclist fits in on the smaller side of the range in a helmet's circumference range, there is more room for air flow around the head, for example.
The safety and protection of a cyclist is also impacted, no pun intended. The industry emphasizes oblique impacts and angular accelerations during those impacts. And while it's difficult to quantify, it's straightforward to imagine how a looser fitting helmet allows the helmet to pivot on your head easier than a tightly coupled one. In fact MIPS depends on a tight fitting helmet to produce its results as the impact tests are done on a rubberized head form.
Aerodynamics is the final area impacted by fit. If a cyclist is in-between sizes and has to upsize, than the larger frontal surface area creates more drag. Since drag is defined as the drag coefficient multiple by the frontal surface area, the additional effect is predictable and linear. In any circumstance other than a custom fit helmet, there is some additional drag associated with using an off the shelf, injection molded helmet.
What's new in this helmet?
More to come
How's the helmet on the bike?
More to come
How's the helmet fit and sizing?
More to come
What do other reviewers say about this helmet?
The following are some reviews of the Kask Protone bike helmet from various publications. To provide unbiased results, I analyze and summarize the top three Google results for the "Kask Protone review." I avoided reviews that were merely imitations of press releases from manufacturers rather than actual tests the helmet had undergone. I don't distinguish between the cycling media and the mainstream press, given that anyone who can ride a bike can give a good review.
CyclingWeekly gave the Kask Protone bike helmet 4 out of 5 stars and commented: "It's expensive, but it is comfortable and impressively light. The ventilation may not be on par with a fully vented option, but this a very good helmet and a great hybrid for those looking for a semi-aero option.” They cited that the helmet is to fill the gap between totally aerodynamic and fully ventilated helmets. Additionally, they commented that it is one of the best-fitting bike helmets. They appreciated its shape and size and snug fit. It is as well light for a semi-aero lid. Concerning the ventilation, the Kask Protone helmet was very good, but perhaps not ideal enough when cycling on the hottest days. Despite its high price, the helmet is a decent choice for those seeking aero benefits with a little more ventilation.
On CyclistsHub, a rider who tested the Kask Protone bike helmet wrote, "My overall impressions of this helmet are predominantly positive. I believe Protone belongs among the best road bike helmets.” In his article, he commented that Kask helmets "offer a unique fit,” and that it compliments people of diverse face shapes and suit women particularly.” It is also among the most ventilated helmets, making it the best road bike helmet for hot summer days, although unsuitable for use during the winter. Its main benefits are the semi-aero design, detachable padding, leather chin strap, and its compatibility with cycling sunglasses. The cons are the lack of additional padding in the box, the poor transition between the two outer shells, and the absence of MIPS.
CyclingNews ranked the Kask Protone helmet 4 out of 5 stars and stated: “With a dialed fit and good ventilation, it's not a surprise that the Protone is still at the top of the pile.” The main points of their review is how the bike helmet gives a feeling of secure fit and comfort. They added that the retention system has enough space to accommodate those with ponytails. However, the helmet didn't work well with over-ear headwear because the Octo Fit system, which sits quite low, made it impossible for the retention system to lay comfortably behind the ear. They also cited that the ventilation is great, but hotter weather conditions may expose some ventilation flaws. They encountered a problem with the sunglass storage while cycling on the road as well; it only functions properly with sunglasses that have thinner arm stems. They claim that its shortcomings include no storage for sunglasses, a low head retention that can conflict with headbands and casquettes, and a high price considering the age of design of the helmet (been around for 5 years now).
Overall the press praised the helmet's comfortable and secure fit with the main concern being its expensive price considering its age of design. The challenge with any helmet is finding one that securely and properly fits every head size and shape. Also, finding a helmet that is standard for both gender (male and female). There is both positive and negative feedback regarding the sunglass storage. But, any cyclist who evaluates a helmet will always have their view and point out benefits and downsides, especially concerning the helmet's design, adjustments, size, and shape.
What are the helmet specifications?
Coming soon.
How's it feel after extended ride testing?
This is a placeholder for future helmet testing of this model.
Is the POC Ventral MIPS the best bike helmet for you?
As I always say, the best bike helmet is the one that fits you. The Best Bike Helmet Finder is a good place to start. Helmets are a very personal decision both for reasons of sizing and fit but also style and performance preferences. You aren't going to ride with it if it's uncomfortable.
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