aero helmets and heat
Initally posted this on the main site and being new was advised to question here. Did not want to jump in on the previous aero helmet discussion since mine was of a different nature and trying to have some etiquette. Question is regarding use of aero helmets and heat. I have no previous experience with them and was thinking of getting one for 2012. My concern was using them in hot races. Eman and IMLOU are my A races this year. I have raced the last 2 years at Eman and am very familiar with that heat. Do you guys use them during hot races or have you found them too hot and not worth it? Thanks.
0
Comments
Just for laughs I will admit that I (without knowing it) raced the whole KS 70.3 last year wearing my swim cap under my aero helmet.
Yes, I felt a little warm that day...
Wm
Thanks everyone for your feedback. All this really helps.
I'm still in the market for a new lid since my Rudy Project Syton Open helmet is a little dated. Upon research the Vortice, Wingspan and Tardiz all get excellent marks for performance in hot weather. Prices below are retail, but you can beat any of them with a little shopping. Throw out money and it appears that the Wingspan is best unless you have a large head or very small head because it only comes in one size. It is far and away the lightest and was the most used helmet at Kona this year. The sizes below are what I targeted for my own 57cm noggin. Key thing about a helmet is that it has to fit, and that criteria can change the results. My guess is that from an aero standpoint, there isn't a whole lot of difference between the three so the Tardiz is probably the best value. For looks, I have to put the Vortice at the bottom...it looks plain silly. But silly is good if it helps you win!
Rudy Wingspan - $300, 260 grams, No integrated visor, cooling airchannels, 54-59cm in Small/Medium, Designed by John Cobb
Lazer Tardiz - $180, 395 grams, Optional visor, cooling air channels, 52-57cm in Small/Medium, Aquavent Port, Rollsys Fit system
LG Vortice - $250, 426 grams, Integrated Visor, cooling air channels, 56-59cm in Medium, looks silly
@Elizabeth and Paul - I have the Wingspan and I am very happy with it. I have used it for a June HIM here in Middle Georgia (which was HOT), IMLoo, and then KONA. I had no issues with overheating at all. The only thing that is sub-optimal is trying to get water on your head as you go through an aid station. I found that to be problematic and a challenge to my 'Keep Myself Cool' plan at all three of those races.
I have an email from Rudy Project that I can forward you that will knock the price down to just under $200 (40% off).
EDIT - If you can figure out a way to become a member of ProMotive, they have a 50% off deal. If you want to PM me with your email, I will send an invite.
@ Paul - I think all of the helmets you mention are great products and can be equally aero. I'm no expert but I think the key is the helmet/rider's-position interaction. The key to selection might be the shape of the helmet and the other factors (vents/cooling/looks of course).
I bought mine last year on one of those 40 or 50% off deals. I think I also signed up for their newsletter or free VIP customer status or something to get an additional 10% off. I actually liked the helmet so much that for Christmas I went ahead and bought one of their road helmets to replace my other one.