Met Trenta Mips

The Met Trenta Mips is an excellent helmet that combines comfort, ventilation, and style. The low-profile fit looks good and it’s easy to adjust, and the balance between aerodynamics and cooling makes it a versatile choice for everything from fast group rides to long climbs in the heat.

To achieve this balance between aerodynamics and ventilation, the Trenta MIPS has a whopping 19 vents to aid airflow and keep your head cool. Interestingly, it’s designed so only 30% of your head touches the helmet; the other 70% will benefit from uninterrupted airflow. At speed, you can feel warm air flow out through the rear vents.

I tested this during the unbelievably warm weather of the UK summer and also during a trip to the Alps, where I climbed lots of big mountains in hot weather. The ventilation worked well, and the helmet didn’t get overly sweaty, even on some epic rides in the heat.

The padding is very comfortable. I’ve worn this on rides of up to 10 hours in hot conditions, and it stayed that way throughout. A group of us created our own version of the PPP Dave did, but on the hottest weekend of the year, and the Trenta performed admirably. The padding is easily removable and hand-washable, something highly needed this summer.

Met claims the helmet offers a 7% reduction in drag compared with a “traditional” helmet (though it’s not clear what counts as traditional), and says it’s optimised for the slipstream of group riding. I couldn’t test the aero performance myself, but I didn’t get dropped on any chain gangs while wearing it, so I’ll take that as a win.

Since I enjoy training in hot weather, I prefer the balance of ventilation and aerodynamics of the Trenta over a dedicated aero road helmet.

Fit & adjustability

The fit is optimised through Met’s cradle and dial system at the rear. The cradle runs around in a 360-degree head belt for an even, pressure-free fit, and you can adjust both the height and how it supports the back of your head.

I did all my testing in summer, usually wearing it with a cycling cap, though sometimes without on cooler days. It was quick and easy to tweak for a perfect fit, no matter what I had on my head.

The helmet sits a little lower than some I’ve used (minimising any mushroom look), which I like. It gives a sleeker profile without interfering with sunglasses or bone-conduction headphones.

I tried the Trenta with several pairs of sunglasses, and all worked well. When storing glasses mid-ride, the ‘sunglasses port’ in the front vents worked best with the frames upside-down. Although they felt secure and I never worried about them falling out, some rubber grippers might have provided extra reassurance.

The straps are standard Y-straps with a conventional buckle, and I found them comfortable throughout long rides.

Safety

The Trenta features the latest Mips technology. Mips stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection and is designed to reduce rotational energies in the event of an impact, energies that would otherwise be transferred to your head. (You can read more about it in our feature, All you need to know about Mips.)

The system is light, discreet, and doesn’t affect the fit or block any of the helmet’s vents, so you still get full airflow. It’s easy to forget it’s even there until you need the added protection.

At 260g, the Trenta is on a par with many of its rivals; I found it comfortable on rides of all durations. There is also the Met Trenta 3k carbon version that Tadej Pogacar wears if you want something lighter.

The Trenta MIPS comes in three sizes. I tested the medium, which was in line with the size guide and other helmet brands. There’s no XL or wide-fit option, so if you have a larger or broader head you might want to try before you buy.

I like the look of the Matt Black/Gloss White on test (although I imagine it will get dirty easily in winter), but the helmet is available in four other colours so you should be able to find one that matches your kit/bike.

Value

At £229.99, this is in line with other excellent Mips helmets we have tested here at road.cc.

George was impressed with the Lazer Z1 KinetiCore Helmet, which is the same price as the Trenta at £229.99. And Emma thought the Uvex Surge Aero MIPS was excellent and that’s £10 cheaper at £219.99.

The Abus GameChanger 2.0 MIPS Helmet looks great and received a very good review from Josh. It comes in at £260, although it is a bit more aero-focused.

You can get much cheaper Mips helmets, though, such as the Van Rysel RCR MIPS, which received a very good review and is only £79.99.

Check out more options in our guide to the best cycling helmets.

Conclusion

The Met Trenta MIPS is an excellent helmet, ideal for warm days with great airflow to keep you cool. The low-profile design looks good, it’s very comfortable, and easy to adjust. Overall, a versatile and lightweight helmet, suited for racing, training, or a café ride.

Verdict

Comfortable, versatile and lightweight lid with a low-profile fit and excellent ventilation

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