When the Rail SX MIPS half shell from Big arrived, my fast thought was “this helmet seems to be gentle.” The exterior plastic shell stops wanting masking the decrease edge, leaving among the foam EPS layer uncovered, and the chin strap latches closed with a easy “trident” model clicker as a substitute of the glove-friendly Fidlock that a lot of the competitors is utilizing. Alas, at 410g (dimension giant) it’s a reasonably common weight lid with some cool options to notice.

On the security entrance, the Rail SX features a MIPS insert to assist redirect rotational influence forces, alongside what Big calls “Optimized low-density EPS” foam to soak up the direct hits. As is frequent in MIPS-equipped helmets, there’s a constantly audible creaking between the layers whereas driving which will agitate some of us. It’s definitely not as nice because the calm crackle of leaves underneath tread that almost all of us have grown to like.

A snug layer of anti-microbial padding traces the inside entrance half, working with the eighteen consumption and exhaust vents to maintain your head dry and odor-free. I might love to listen to how some alopecic or clean-shaven riders really feel about these trendy helmets that solely have padding within the entrance half. I’ve seen that a variety of these riders have a sequence of sharp traces on the again of their scalps when the helmet comes off, however is that problematic or painful whereas pedaling?

For my heinously thick-haired scalp the Rail SX has a cushty match, and the vents appear to dry sweat pretty effectively. This isn’t the best nor breeziest lid for summer time driving, and it’s additionally removed from the most popular.

The general match of this half shell is spot on with the Big dimension chart, and it falls into the “forgettably comfy” bin on longer journey outings. The angle of the retention system is micro-adjustable between 5 completely different positions, which ought to assist anybody dial it in to their distinctive face and dome form. The adjustable ratcheting ring wraps the whole circumference of the helmet, stopping undesirable sharp spots when it’s tightened down. I’ve skilled some problem maintaining the Rail SX from sliding ahead whereas descending, however a fast tightening of the ratchet wheel on the high and loosening on the backside solved that.

The visor is infinitely adjustable via about 4 inches of journey, and tightens in place with a pair of hex bolts on both aspect that may also be finger tightened. I initially thought the visor seemed flimsy, nevertheless it has been banged round usually and stays in place, functioning correctly. The 2 retention bolts might be adjusted individually, and except you desire a lopsided invoice it’s best to set it and neglect it.

There may be area to mount an motion digicam underneath the visor, however given the problems I had with the shell sliding ahead, I didn’t wish to add weight to the entrance finish. There’s a large spot within the top-center that’s probably the most effective place to connect lights and cameras for motion.

Lastly, what about my goggles? Big has included a snap system on the rear finish to maintain a goggle strap in place. It shortly snaps on and off with one gloved hand and has been sturdy sufficient to maintain my goggles planted all day. It may also work effectively to carry a headlamp battery wire in place for nighttime enjoyable.

The Giant Rail SX MIPS is available in gray, pink, black, and blue, and retails for $165. Obtainable online at Amazon.

Because of Big for sending the Rail SX MIPS over for testing and overview.