We did wince at the price, but if you’re looking to combine light weight with greater protection and easy fitting, this is a worthwhile investment. The Pheos LE is a wide shallow style, with a carbon monocoque for extra protection at no extra weight. Generous vents give it a barely-there feel on even the longest and hottest trail days.
The fit dial is easy to use and the retention band at the back pivots so that you can get it into the perfect position. It’s a simple thing, but it’s hard to overstate the comfort it adds. The straps are well placed and hard to tangle, and once you’ve set your fit, the easy-to-use sliding ratchet and padded chinstrap are fast to fix and don’t irritate.