There’s much to be said for full-face helmets. For the annual trip to the Alps, a session at your local shore or anywhere that you’re likely to be pushing your limits, the increased protection that they offer to your face/chin/noggin is nice to have. Typically, though, full-face lids verge on the heavy side and can’t help being a sweaty mess by the time you’ve finished riding.
Specialized’s Deviant Carbon aims to address this, being both lightweight and well ventilated. The carbon shell keeps the weight down to 899g, noticeably lighter than other helmets we’re currently testing. There’s a fibreglass-shelled version too, if you’d rather spend less money – it’s a bit heavier, of course. The 22 vents contribute to the low weight, but also deliver a level of coolness not commonly associated with helmets of this type. It’s not like you’ll forget you’re wearing it, but you won’t want to tear it off your head within five seconds of starting to pedal either.
It’s comfortable too, with lots of deep soft padding and the same PRO Fit 2 retention system found on Specialized’s XC lids offering a good fit. Vertical adjustment further adds to the range of heads it’ll cater for. Not so easy to use though was the motorbike-style buckle arrangement. We’re used to quick and simple clip buckles, so having to carefully thread the strap through the two D-loops takes a while to get familiar with. It’s a secure setup once done, though.
Available in Small, Medium and Large and in an ever-increasing array of colours.
Positives:
Low weight, great looks, comfortable
Negatives:
Buckle system is fiddly
Verdict
We’re gradually becoming fans of full-face helmets as we venture into more adventurous riding, and for trips to the Alps or the local shore park, a full-face is becoming a necessary addition to our kitbag when loading the car. The Specialized, while probably not offering the same levels of safety as less ventilated helmets, is ideal for those that probably aren’t hucking 40’ gaps every Sunday afternoon. It’s light, well ventilated and looks great.
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