Average Joe Reviews the Fox Rampage Helmet

Buying your first full face is a bit of a daunting process. Unless you are a XC mincer who feels the need to buy one for their trail riding, the reason you are buying one is because you are considering stepping up to DH and more aggressive riding. Obviously if you are in anyway bothered about your looks/brain cells/need to use your arms and legs in the future, you will be interested in buying something that actually protects the noggin. Looks are important on any item you are going to spend £100+ on as is weight. It seems that in the past helmet manufacturers have taken one of two routes with increased protection for the head, they either go for a slimmed down MX helmet or a beefed up bike helmet. Thankfully the likes of Troy Lee and THE have produced products that offer a more specialised approach but then neither have been cheap. Cue the hardcore who will argue ‘how much is your head worth’ and they are probably right but if you can find something for half the price then why not consider it. The rampage isn’t the lightest helmet out there and definitely is a scaled down MX helmet but is a solid beast which really does feel very comfy right from the start. While a little heavier than most of its competitors, it really does make you feel safe. The D ring vs quick release debate rumbles on but for taking your helmet off after every dual run at Chicksands, the quick release rules. Even under crash conditions, it doesn’t show any sign of breaking loose. The liner is really easy to remove and wash which is essential in the summer as helmets very quickly become unpleasant after an uplift day and unlike some liners, it goes back in place as before. There are no need for added pads or any adjustment, you buy it and simply put it on your head! The styling of the helmet is excellent in red/black or silver/grey but the matt finish on the black is a bit of marmite moment. I personally love it and like the fact that it scratches a bit as I've never liked equipment to look shiny for long as it implies you don't use it (re all the gear and no idea). If you don’t want the scratches then the gloss silver version is your choice. So when your head hits the ground, does it work?. I'm not in the habit of going that far deliberately for moredirt but I can confirm that after a few heavy knocks on downhill stacks, that the helmet stands up well and the visor doesn't break (although it can be replaced if need be). Obviously if you hit your head you should get the helmet checked and replace it if in any doubt, but this model will offer you the confidence of protecting your brains in a high energy crash. An all round winner. www.chainreactioncycles.com