Following an ownership change a couple of years ago Italian Vemar helmets have become known simply V Helmets and joining their more established product range is the new-for-2020 ‘EOLO’ touring lid.
Our first impressions of the EOLO must start with the three available matt colours – black, blackberry (red) and brown – and the subtle graphics which really need to be seen in the flesh (or should that be ‘carbon kevlar fibreglass tri-composite blend’) to be appreciated. The EOLO has definitely got a sporty soul and aggressive looks, but everyone can take advantage of ultralight technology that has been so extensively wind-tunnel tested to minimise turbulence and have the lowest possible aerodynamic resistance. I’m really quite taken by the striking overall appearance.
I’ve touched and worn an EOLO, but not ridden in one as there aren’t yet any stocks in the UK. Because of this – although I’ve ordered one – I can’t talk about how effective the chin and crown venting is but V Helmets are so taken with the de-fogging and air flow system they’ve created they even have a name for it;” the V-Klima System (VKS) assuring maximum air-flow and hot air exhausting”.
Just like the venting I can’t talk about how useful or annoying the lock-shut visor button might be, designed to further reduce windnoise, but I can vouch for the lovely finish inside and the terrific peripheral vision available through the Pinlock® equipped visor. There’s a chin curtain or skirt to further reduce noise and the headlining features a special blend of 85% Coolmax and 12% Lycra, which works in concert with the VKS to ensure a fresh, dry ride and there are quick-release chin pads. What’s striking though is the apparent quality of the stitching and finish.
This is their high-end touring helmet, retailing at £329.99, so there are two shell sizes to ensure comfortable fit (Small shell XS- M ; large shell L-XXL). They’ve really thought about the drop-down inner sun visor too, which offers comprehensive UV coverage but doesn’t hit my nose or even cause that sense of claustrophobia these internal visors sometimes can.
If however, you are a flip-front aficionado, V Helmets SHARKI offers true modular performance, because as well as opening at the front, it can be used an actual open face lid, with the extra kit each SHARKI is being supplied with now. That aside, the new SHARKI range, which has a competitive price of £169, comes in some really lovely muted colour designs for 2020 as well as black and white.
For the more hardcore adventure rider who needs a peak, the KONA helmet again has some interesting colour mixes executed as only the uber-cool Italians can. It also comes with pinlock visor and drop down inner and utilises a thermoplastic shell so is light and retails at just £149.99
See www.vhelmets.com/en for more details, stockists etc