My current helmet is due to be replaced, and I’m wondering what helmets people are liking right now. I’ve always had Charles Owen helmets (their Ayr8 models) and I’ve always been happy with them, but their current Ayr8 helmets don’t have the new MIPS technology (which I’ve heard is a good thing to have in a helmet?)
I might still just end up going with a new version of my current helmet, but I thought I’d look into my other options before spending close to $1000!
I also loved my AYR8 and recently got the CO Halo with MIPS. It’s a very similar fit, however I did have to go up a full size (7 1/8 to 7 1/4).
I tried the CO MyPS, but it was bit too round for my head shape. If it fits you, it’s significantly lower priced.
I’ve seen the Halo CO, but I just don’t like the look quite as much. I might have to find a local tack store that carries them to try one on.
On another note, how many people here actually replace their helmets every 5 years (as recommended)?
I do! My brain needs all the protection it can get. My simple calculation is: Brain = job = paycheck = horses. 
Uvex all the way.
Love the dial fit, so comfortable. The ventilation also cannot be beat, I can feel breeze in my hair! I have both schooling (daily) helmets as well as broader brimmed showing helmets.
(And yes, replace every 5 years as sweat, sun, heat etc. takes a toll on them - you only have 1 melon!)
I just bought the One K with MIPS a few months ago and have been happy with it. It’s very comfortable. They offer both round and long oval shapes so it’s more likely there will be one to fit any head.
I do tend to replace about every 5 years. Usually by that point it’s getting a little bit gross or worn out anyway. This time the harness on my old helmet was peeling.
Myself and another friend who both rode in CO Hamptons have switched to the OneK with MIPS. In a sample size of two, it is a helmet that works well for former CO wearers!
I try to replace my helmets when they either hit the age limit or I have had a fall, but quite honestly, I lose track of how long I’ve had them and am sometimes stunned when I check the tag inside.
After doing some research it seems like Charles Owen helmets consistently outperform other brands (as far as safety tests go) - in particular their new Halo and Luna models.
Unfortunately it doesn’t seem like any of my local stores carry these models.
Does anyone know how the fit of the Halo differs from the Ayr8? (I know there is one comment above that found they run small)
I was also a devoted wearer of Charles Owen’s Ayr8. Last year I was due to replace it (after 5 years, which is something I’ve done religiously), and I didn’t like how CO’s Myps fit. So I went with the OneK Mips.
I actually took a fall in the OneK Mips and am happy to report that my brain is intact! I was impressed enough that I replaced it with exactly the same model.
I’ve only had one CO, an older velvet hunter type cap. But I’ve had a few OneK’s. Now I’m wearing the TraumaVoid Lynx and find the fit is comparable. I’d guess my head is more round than oval, as my temples tend to get squeezed. I did try a OneK MIPS helmet, and bought a large, as I thought that is what my non MIPS OneK’s were, but it was too large to work, and I ended up moving it on.
Helmet age: I have been known to wait longer to toss out a show helmet that’s lived a life of leisure boxed up in the house. But the ones that are used daily and living in a tack room, I replace at more like 3 years.
I switched from a CO skull cap to the One K with MIPS and have been very happy with it!
I haven’t tried a CO helmet but swear by my Tipperary Windsor with the wide brim. MIPS and additional sun protection for the win!
I’m a devotee of the CO Ary8, but want to upgrade to MIPS. Tried the CO MyPS, way too round for me. Tried the Halo and still a bit on the round side compared to the Ary8. There were definite gaps at the temples that are not there in the Ary8. After additional research I may go back and try it with a different liner to see if it makes a difference. I would love a CO because of the additional safety testing, but if I can’t get one with MIPS to fit I’ll go with a OneK. They fit me well when I tried them at the tack shop.
*raises hand.
I want my next one to be a MIPS one
A new helmet was on my radar for a while; no falls but definitely have had it over 5 years now. I just picked up a Tipperary Devon Wide Brim Sparkle Top Helmet with MIPS and was able to get it for 20% off with Memorial Day! I love the wide brim!
I have an oval head and found the CO Halo works with some padding adjustment, and it looks better in some of the colors/trims. I like the navy one with a wider brim. I have a couple of other helmets and like the One K and the Back on Track Lynx, and the Champion Ventair models.
Another vote for the OneK MIPS helmet.
I always replace mine 5 years after the MANUFACTURE date which, quite surprisingly, is often less than 5 years after I buy it. Make sure you check the tag on the inside of the helmet for that date, especially if you’re buying a helmet that is on sale. They often are on sale because they have much older dates. Once, I was looking at a fancy show helmet that was only one year from expiring. No wonder it was half price.
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