MATT BOTTRILL RILL

is a coach and a recordcordbreaking time triallist list

This is a question I get asked a lot and being fairly new to triathlon I’m amazed how often aero gains still get overlooked. Before you choose a helmet it’s worth considering that the rider is responsible for 80% of the drag generated as a bike is moving. As such, anyone who is looking to make time savings should first turn their attention towards their position and get a good bike fit.

In my opinion, there isn’t such thing as the fastest helmet in the world. It’s more about how a helmet fits you and your position. Head position and a correctly fitting helmet are the key elements you need if you’re going to go faster.

All aero helmets save time over a standard vented helmet, so what should you look for to ensure you pick the one that’s right for you? Firstly, make sure the fit is correct, and check the sizing according the brand’s guildelines. I’d always suggest testing a helmet out first, to make sure you can see clearly. Otherwise you’ll be constantly moving your head to see better, which will create drag. I’d also recommend selecting a helmet with a visor – there are watts to be saved there and if the weather’s poor you can always remove it.

An aero helmet is a sensitive thing but, without a shadow of doubt, it will make you faster – although how many watts it can can save totally depends on the rider. I’ve probably got one of the most aero positions out there and tested all the major helmets. The numbers I’ve found during my tests have ranged from a couple of watts up to 16 depending on the helmet, which goes to show how much the rider and their ability to hold their position can affect things.

From personal experience, I’d recommend wearing an aero helmet in all conditions, even more so when you start taking on long-course triathlons. Just think how much training you’d have to do to find 15-20 watts using a standard helmet!