Scott's Watu’s price tag might give the impression that it’s just for leisure cyclists, but it can definitely cut the mustard if you’re looking for a MTB lid on a budget.
The 16 vents do a good job of encouraging airflow through the helmet, and while the internal channelling might look rudimentary, it works well, drawing air to the large exhaust vents at the back. The anti-bug netting does restrict airflow a touch, but a Stanley knife would see that away. It lacks full in-moulding under the rim, meaning the EPS foam is vulnerable to knocks and dings, but that’s acceptable at this price.
The short, stubby, non-adjustable visor never got in the way of vision, but it’s removable anyway. Although the straps feel cheap, they’re comfortable on the skin, and easy to adjust. With the straps originating inside the shell in the middle, they do sit against your face, but they don’t absorb sweat too readily.
The internal shape is good, and the one-size-fits-all retention system’s padded cradle, and temple mounting points do a good job of securing it to your head. With only one size on offer, those with heads at the extremes of size might find the helmet doesn’t fit as well as size-specific rivals. The thick and comfortable padding inside soaks up a fair bit of sweat, but seems to dry quickly.
