Bell Super Air R convertible helmet £274.95

The Super Air R is a slimmed-down version of Bell’s Super DH convertible full-face, and is aimed at trail riders who want extra protection for the descents but in a lighter package. In this regard it succeeds, weighing just 679g (M) and being so easy to breathe in that we often wouldn’t bother removing the chin-bar for climbs. If you’re thinking of using it for enduro it’s worth noting that, unlike the Super DH, it isn’t certified to downhill standards, which prevents its use in some races. Bell are known for their use of protective technologies and the Super Air R features a spherical MIPS layer sandwiched between two EPS liners of different densities to isolate your head from rotational forces and absorb impacts. The polycarbonate shell fully encloses the liner too. Goggle compatibility has been well considered, with three positions for the peak (which don’t obstruct vision) and mouldings to hold the strap in place. Pad contact around the head is excellent, and once the Float Fit adjuster on the cradle is dialled in, it feels snug all over. The chin-bar is light and breathable, and comes with two sets of cheek pads, but some of our testers complained that the fit around the jaw wasn’t as snug as it should be. This made them wonder how much benefit the chin-bar would be in a crash. However, if it suits your head shape and you’re not bothered about the lack of DH certification, the Super Air R is otherwise hard to fault. Ed www.zyrofisher.co.uk