I’ve always had an IRH helmet. I believe the most recent version of my helmet is the IRH Elite, but it’s time to replace it. I love the fit and how much it covers my head, and I love the harness style and that there is extra harness material past the bottom of the helmet in the back. I went to Dover yesterday to look for a new one, and was told they’ve ended business with IRH.
Tried a few other styles but they didn’t have much in stock. I didn’t like the OneK helmet I tried. I also tried a Tipperary but I can’t stand the dial system it had.
I’ve found a few of the IRH helmets on Amazon and the person who helped me at Dover said she was also an IRH fan and she also hasn’t found any other brand that fits in a similar way.
There are two styles I’m considering, the IR4G and the IR4G XLT. The IR4G has a lower price tag but it appears to be an older model and I’m a little concerned about the lifetime of the helmet since I know the materials start to degrade after some time. I have also found my original model, but again concern with the age of the helmet due to the manufacturing date.
Does anyone have either of these helmets and have an opinion on how the fit compares to an older IRH? Alternately, if anyone has any other recommendations they are gladly welcome. I do like the new technology that some helmets have (I think TraumaVoid is one?) but I’m not sure how those fit. All the local tack shops near me (and Dover and smartpak online) seem to be out of nearly all their size M / 7” helmet options with no expected restock date.
My preferences are:
-black or navy
-has the leather harness
-lower profile
-no dial system
-matte finish (but micro suede is what I have now and I’m open to this finish if the helmet fits all the other areas)
-would like to stay under $300, and the closer to $150-$200 the better but I won’t compromise fit for price
Thank you!!
