The new Kask Rex is the described by the Italian brand as the “best MTB helmet possible” with a design that includes 20 vents, full cranial coverage, low 290g weight, a ratcheting visor and a built-in action cam mount.
Developed for aggressive trail riding, enduro and XC racing, the Rex will be out in the US and Europe by Christmas. While Kask features the visor-equipped version of its Vertigo road helmet as an MTB lid, the Rex is the brand’s first attempt at a helmet designed specifically for off-road use.
The Rex uses Kask’s multi in-moulding process, which involves creating a polycarbonate outer shell that’s bonded to the inner polystyrene cap. The resulting strength of this process is complemented by greater coverage at the front and back, with the rear section reaching down to the lower occipital bone – the bony prominence at the base of the skull – for maximum protection.
Twenty vents are designed to optimise airflow at slower speeds while Kask also touts padding that uses new technologies to “encourage efficient sweat evaporation” for temperature management, though details of how this works are yet to be confirmed.
The Rex incorporates Kask’s Octo-fit retention system – giving a precise, secure fit – along with the usual leather chinstrap. At the front there’s a removable multi-position ratcheting visor secured by alloy bolts. Plastic polymer goggle clips at the rear are designed to keep everything in place in the toughest conditions.
The top of the helmet features a built-in action cam mount. We’re chasing Kask for full compatibility, but we’d bet on this being optimised for GoPro cameras.
Kask's general manager Diego Zambon said: “We are proud to introduce the new Rex helmet. To make this we have undertaken extensive research and testing in laboratory conditions and out on the trail. We are trying to do the same kind of job in the MTB discipline as we did with Team Sky on the road helmets.
"We have also taken feedback from high-level mountain bikers from around the world and across the disciplines; they have all contributed to enhancements and developments to make the best MTB helmet possible,” he added.
The helmet will be available in four bold hues: lime; light blue; red and white, and in two sizes: medium (52-58cm); large (59-62cm). Check out the gallery above for detail shots.