At this point, the Italian helmet brand Kask is probably best known in the U.S. as the helmet sponsor of Team Sky. Now on their 10th anniversary, the company has 6 different helmet divisions including skiing, mountaineering, climbing, equestrian, rescue teams, and work safety, with cycling accounting for 40% of their business. Available in the U.S. through Highway 2, Kask is looking to increase their presence stateside with more helmets including a forthcoming model for Enduro that actually looks really good.
Clip into the details next…
Called the REX, the helmets on display were still very early 3D models of what the actual helmets may look like but they’re still a ways off. Aimed towards XC, Trail,and Enduro the helmet will offer substantial protection for the back of the head and should provide excellent fit through the Kask Octofit system. Unlike most helmets that have 3 vertical positions for the cradle system, the Octofit system has a long strip with substantially more adjustment, while the dial and floating pads provide a fit for any head shape according to Kask.
Still in development, we do know that the REX will likely have a clip system for cameras and lights, as well as a clean goggle strap retention system. We’re told by Mountain Bike Hall of Famer and new Kask North American Brand Manager Nat Ross that the helmet may be ready as early as March.
Thanks to the rise in commuters and e-bikes, the Kask Lifestyle is making its way to the U.S. Currently, the four colors shown above are the models Kask plans to make available here, though if there is enough demand for other colors that may change.
Equipped with a flip down visor, the somewhat retro styled Lifestyle features a sile-screen polycarbonate shell with polystyrene inner. The eco-leather straps are sort of a Kask hallmark, while Coolmax padding and four horizontal vents are designed to keep the rider cool. U.S. price is TBD.
Kask’s shape shifting Infinity will be offered here as well. The helmet features a mechanical vent closure to change from full aero to ventilated with the flick of a switch. U.S. retail prices is set at $250.
First spotted at the tour, the Protone is what Kask calls their most advanced helmet to date. Developed with Team Sky, we’re told that the Jaguar team cars were fitted with cameras to monitor where the riders were placing their heads during actually riding and racing in order to create the best blend of heat dissipation and aerodynamics.
The Protone comes in at 230g and uses 5mm thick Coolmax 3D padding which combined with the vents on the helmet supposedly results in 70% less contact with the skin. Also equipped with the Octofit system, the helmet uses a self-adjusting lateral divider for improved fit. Available in February, the Protone will be sold in M 52-58cm, and L 59-62cm for $299.95.
