The inner design of the Vanish-R is unlike most helmets we’ve come across, with a rounded forward section and an almost flat back. It’s comfortable, if it suits your head. We particularly like the sculpting of the EPS foam core. This leaves plenty of open space between your head and most of the helmet, allowing for the large vents to flow air through, keeping you cool.
Weight is impressively low for a helmet at this price, at just 249g for a large (claimed 270g). The Vanish-R is only bettered in the lightweight stakes by top-end lids from the likes of Specialized, Giro and Limar, all of which cost considerably more.
With 24 vents – actually more like 17, as the full-length vents are split by a slim reinforcing bar which will help maintain the integrity of the helmet in the event of a crash – it’s easy to see how weight has been minimised. Add into this ultra-thin silk-like web straps and a minimal cradle with a one-handed rotating adjuster.
The hard shell is in-moulded and overlaps the edge of the EPS core. This offers some protection from day-to-day accidental damage. Ideally we’d prefer a bit more coverage of the EPS, though.
The inner dimensions of 215mm long by 178mm at the widest point are generous for a size large helmet. The squared-off rear is unusual but didn’t pose any problems fit wise. The supporting rear cradle doesn’t offer any vertical adjustment but it’s well positioned and can be cinched in with the rotating adjuster for a secure fit.
The super-thin web straps are in a fixed position, with the clasp offset to the right-hand side, keeping it out of the way. Despite the minimal adjustment we still found it easy to get a comfortable fit.
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus magazine.
