SHOEI VFX WR / EVO

Of our million pieces of off-road gear there are but a few parts that I really do care about, where I always look out for the best product (or at least trustable) – but that’s the case with helmets and boots. With helmets there are seemingly hundreds of brands vying for our attention and indeed some of these brands have beautiful, light and tempting models. But I seek safety and function ahead of form. 

So I wouldn’t say that this Shoei VFX-WR looks the most modern helmet but it is still a beautiful, good looking design and the colourways of this Zinger TC-10 model are striking. So while there are flashier helmets I’m still super-happy with the VFX. In fact this is my second Shoei VFX and I think given the performance of my first one, and this, I will keep using Shoei. 

It’s not the lightest helmet but I prefer to have something solid protecting my head. Given the security of the high-end MultiPly Matrix AIM+ shell constriction, the MEDS system (like MIPS, this is about reducing the effects of rotational acceleration energy in a crash), and the comfort of the 3D Max-Dry interior system, I’m happy to accept a small weight penalty. 

And this tech works – I have been riding with this helmet on tours for more than eight hours a day and the fact is that whenever I stop I don’t feel the need to take off the helmet because it’s so comfortable, breathable and well ventilated. When trail riding is your job as well as your joy, performance like this is much valued. The quality also means I won’t be having to replace the helmet too soon.  

Looking inside the helmet and in taking out the padding (which is easy to do and easy to clean) you’ll notice how careful and precise are the assemblies, right down to the stitching, so I know – as before with my old VFX which lasted four years of constant use – that this attention to detail definitely gives a longer life to the helmet. 

The VFX-WR is a higher-priced helmet, but the protection I don’t doubt to be top-notch and the durability means it’s not so expensive once you factor in its extended working life. In short it’s a great helmet, and one I implicitly trust.

Pedro Matos