Airoh ST 701 Helmet

Reviewed by: Ross Mowbray // RRP: £399.99 // Colours: a wide range of colours and designs //Sizes: XS – 2XL

Italian helmet manufacturer Airoh has long since been a stalwart of the off-road world, with its top quality helmets keeping dirt enthusiasts safe for many years – but its fantastic range of road helmets has only just made it across to British shores, so I got my hands on a new Airoh ST 701 ACU Gold approved full face helmet to see how well it held up.

The Airoh ST 701 is undoubtedly a good looking helmet – I opted for one in red, white and blue – and I’ve received many compliments, and answered many questions about the latest offering from Airoh on my more recent travels.

Now, let’s get down to the specifics. The outer shell is made up of a multi-axial system and uses mostly carbon fibre, so it’s pretty light-weight (about 1400 grams) – one of the lightest when taking into account both price and technical specification, in fact. In addition, the EPS inner shell has been subjected to some pretty intense testing, with the use of four different densities guaranteeing the highest safety standards (according to Airoh and the ACU).

It features evolved aerodynamics and a pretty impressive three-pronged internal ventilation system – plus an additional nose deflector to push air and humidity down and out of the helmet. There’s also an internal drop down retractable sun visor, and a quick release Pinlock anti-fog racing visor (which is pretty much impossible to fog up, and is complemented by a really wide field of vision).

The helmet comes in two different shell sizes – to ensure the best fit, no matter the size of your head. While all inner linings are hypoallergenic, fully removable and washable.

Designed for both sports and touring use, this helmet was as comfortable on the track as it was taking on some (admittedly light) trails in deepest, darkest Lincolnshire. Yes, it comes in at just (and only just) under £400 – but it’s a really well equipped helmet that can stand side by side with much more expensive kit. It is phenomenally light, feels really well balanced once on, and cuts through the air with very little turbulence – and with being ACU Gold approved, it is pretty much guaranteed to keep you safe. Ultimately, I would wholeheartedly recommend the new Airoh ST 701 helmet.

For more information visit: www.bikeittrade.com