Oakley ARO3 MIPS

OAKLEY’S ARO3 IS BIG ON

ventilation. Also available without MIPS as the ARO3 Lite (£102), the MIPSequipped ARO3 tested here comes in three sizes and thirteen colours.

The Large 56-60cm size weighs 296g, which is reasonable. The EPS foam inner is mostly covered by an intricately shaped two-part outer shell, with only the vulnerable underside of the helmet, and the internal vent recesses exposed.

There are three large vertical vents at the front, linked by deep internal channels to three dorsal vents. Channels behind the smaller triangular vents on each side (that also act as an eyewear dock when you’re not wearing your glasses) exit just behind each ear, and the rear of the helmet has two small exhaust vents, but they’re covered by the internal MIPS cap, making them rather ineffective. Otherwise, the MIPS cap matches the helmet’s vents.

The BOA 360° fit system has a conventional rear cradle, which can be positioned at one of three heights, and has a reasonably large central opening that may fit a ponytail. Support at the back of the head is very generous, and controlled by the interwoven straps and thin BOA lace. This soft, braided lace passes around the flexible plastic strip which runs from temple to temple and helps support the front of the MIPS cap and antibacterial X-Static brow pad. Adjusting it via the rear BOA dial acts evenly all around the helmet, and helps give a secure fit. The lightweight straps have broad Y-shaped guides to avoid ear clashes, and sit flat against your skin.

Ventilation is very good, even at slow speeds in hot weather. Just be aware that the ARO3’s maximum size is 60cm and the shape’s not as round as some other brands. As someone with a round head, on the cusp of the helmet’s size range, the shell pressed lightly, but not uncomfortably, on the sides of the crown of my head.