We were really impatient to test this very well-designed helmet that uses the Boa system. Once out riding on long trips we were a little less enthusiastic.
Let’s start with the good points. The AR03 is well-ventilated, very efficient for summer excursions and on hard climbs when your heart rate is up.
The Boa system adjusts quickly and precisely.
We liked the chin strap adjustment, once you get the hang of it, you can adjust the tension perfectly.
But, this is where we get tough, on long distances comfort is lacking. There isn’t enough foam padding, particularly at the back of the head; we even wondered if the manufacturer had by mistake forgotten to put it in. At the front there is a foam band that works well. On the sides of the head the Boa cable system is noticeable and to adjust the height you need top precision, there are three notches, make sure you clip it down onto the notch correctly. The plastic seems fragile but there were no breakages (after one month’s use). The rear top part of your head touches the helmet’s structure, which is uncomfortable.
Once you are wearing the helmet it stays in place and you don’t feel the 290g weight We didn’t notice any noise, or squeaking that can be irritating when pedaling hard.
Do make sure you poke away the extra strap length into the specially designed little elastic loop.
The AR03 is delivered with a ventilated storage sack (with one side made from mesh) the tightening system is fast but then you need to do a knot.
This Oakley helmet is designed with MIPS technology in mind to protect against cerebral damage.
A helmet that needs more comfort to really be able to make the most of it on long rides.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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