FOX PROFRAME RS FULL-FACE HELMET
£309.99 http://foxracing.co.uk
When Fox released the Proframe in 2017 it was one of the first lightweight full-face helmets. Aimed squarely at the burgeoning enduro market, it offered DH-certified protection for riders who had to pedal all day – and that hasn’t changed on the updated Proframe RS.
The new lid boasts a range of aspirational technologies. A Fidlock magnetic buckle fastens the chin strap, while the retention system tightens with BOA’s ratcheted pulley system. There’s also a MIPS slip-plane, not between the shell and cradle, but between two parts of the shell. This is designed to offer the same protection from rotational forces in the event of a crash, while allowing different shell materials to be used, to better dissipate other forces. It should also contribute to a more secure fit, as the cradle no longer ‘floats’.
An action-camera mount is included, and fits under the three-position peak – a welcome upgrade from the fixed version on the previous model. The adjustable retention system is new for this helmet, too, with five mounting positions so you can fine-tune the fit. Also supplied are a second set of cheek pads and a cloth bag for storage.
The Proframe RS is available in three sizes and seven colourways, all heavily moto-inspired. Its styling also draws heavily on Fox’s roots, from the large, angular chin bar to the pronounced and useful goggle-strap channel. Where mountain bike influence comes in is with the 23 large, well-placed vents, none of which can be fouled by the aforementioned goggle strap.
When pulling the lid on, we found we had to hold the retention cradle in place, or it would fold up and drag hair across our faces. The sizing is odd, too. Although the medium helmet we tested was labelled as 55-59cm, it was looser than ideal on a head measuring 56cm, even when cranked up as tight as it would go. Switching to the thicker cheek pads and wearing goggles helped a little, but even without any big sends, the lid still crept down to an uncomfortable position over the course of a single run.
Its performance when pedalling back up couldn’t be a more different story, though. With no high-frequency trail feedback to send the helmet wriggling forwards, we were able to enjoy the Proframe RS’s glorious ventilation on the climbs. It’s also sufficiently light, at 864g, to remain comfortable enough to keep on all day. Will P
A good helmet, but make sure to try one on before you buy to ensure you get the right size