dhb iOn Cycle Helmet

The iON from Wiggle's in-house brand, dhb is aimed at the entry level end of the category. At £40 you'd still expect to get a decent lid but perhaps without all the bells and whistles. This helmet is designed to do it all at the entry level pricing.

Helmets can have something of a Marmite effect on their wearers or admirers. Ultimately for the wearer it is about comfort, styling and in a worst case scenario, safety. The sign of a good helmet is when you're wearing it you forget it's there and the ventilation does its job, although during these cooler climes that's a moot point.

To enable helmets to achieve the 'I'm not really here effect' they need to be light but retain a tough construction. The iON is made using an in-mould process which fuses a robust polycarbonate outer shell with the impact-absorbing foam liner. The reason for helmets being made in this way is that it allows dhb to sculpt better ventilation systems thus making the finished products lighter and cooler than traditional versions.

The first point, the weight. It certainly feels light but the claimed weight for the medium version I tested is still 340g. Not a behemoth but not as light as some of the competition. The ventilation aspect is achieved through 24 vents that are narrow but effective. However once on the iON does the trick of providing a nice, snug fit. Adjustments can be made to the fit using the ratchet wheel at the back of the helmet. It isn't the most advanced system you will find but it does the job.

Inside, you have less padding than on some models but it is in the right places, on the crown and around the forehead area of the helmet. The pads are removable so can be washed. These proved to be surprisingly comfortable.

There is a removable visor, but taking it off does leave two attachment points on either side which will perhaps not appeal to everyone.

The white/silver finish is nicely done. The polycarbonate outer shell provides a smooth matt look which cleans well.

Another impressive feature is the chin strap. It is easy to adjust and can be opened or closed while wearing full finger gloves. It comes with what dhb call a cam-lock, which is basically a clasp that allows you to easily adjust the length of the strap and then lock it place. Simple but effective so far.

The only slight disappointment is the strap divider at the back of the helmet. In a lot of helmets the strap is integral to the body at the back. In the iON it is kept in place by a piece of plastic that can be felt on the back of the head.

Given the right size the helmet will offer plenty of comfort and value. The iON is deemed suitable for both road and mountain bike use. Overall you get a decent helmet that looks good and does the job.

Verdict

An inexpensive helmet that offers style and comfort.