The Specialized Evade 3 was launched on 30 June 2022.
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 reviews from various publications that have tested the Specialized Evade 3. To prevent bias, I analyze, summarize, and add the top three Google results for the "Specialized Evade 3 review" not mentioning any reviews in which the helmet wasn't actually tested and was simply copied from the product manufacturer's press release. I don't differentiate between the mainstream press and the cycling media since anyone can ride a bike and provide a good review.
Road. cc gave the Specialized S-Works Evade 3 bike helmet a score of 4 out of 5 stars and commented: “Impressive airflow for an aero helmet, and an excellent fit, if you can stomach the price.” They also added, “It's one of the best cycling helmets in terms of performance, but that combination of comfort, venting, and aerodynamics doesn't come cheap.” They were impressed with the helmet's surprisingly good airflow for its small number of vents and excellent comfort, calling it one of the best aero road helmets. They also mentioned its cooling effect on the hottest days or steepest of climbs - the best choice for all kinds of riding. The only con comes from its expensive price.
CyclingWeekly gave the Specialized S-Works Evade 3 a score of 4.5 out of 5 stars and commented: “Specialized’s third-gen Evade is surprisingly cool for an aero lid and provides all-day comfort, turning this staff-favorite into the fastest choice for even more rides.” According to them, it is one of the best cycling helmets for MIPS-equipped helmets that provide aero benefits while also being comfortable in different weather conditions. The bike helmet is upgraded in comfort and airflow, making it the most comfortable and aerodynamic helmet yet. Some benefits they mentioned include excellent ventilation for minimal vents, high safety ratings, and an all-day comfort. However, it is pricey and not that light in weight.
Bikerumor tested the Specialized Evade 3 helmet and mostly highlighted its improvements over the previous design Evade II and stated: “At first glance, you don’t notice much difference, but after looking from the old to the new and back again, you’ll notice the Evade 3 has a slightly narrower shape.” They claimed that the ovalization shape enhances the aerodynamics of the bike helmet. They mentioned how the Evade 3 surpassed the Evade 2 in terms of performance, ventilation, weight reduction, updated fit, and oval shape. While cycling, they commented, “If the wind is blowing, the helmet is very comfortable and ventilated. The air passes through like a less aero-focused design. The only time I could feel the heat was slow goings at the top of steep climbs or in the woods on a humid day. By heat, I don’t mean uncomfortable; there was no air blowing.” They cited that the improved inner protective design and ventilation make the helmet better.
Overall, the publications expressed satisfaction and gave positive reviews, highlighting the product's excellent ventilation, performance, great fit, and top choice for all kinds of riding. However, given that it is a big investment, its high price is where most people have concerns. The bike helmet garnered more positive comments generally, although there are a few minor but unimportant criticisms about its weight.
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.
コメント