MET Helmets now offer a complete range of helmets for the mountain biker, at a price point to suit most wallets. The most recent addition is the MET Terranova, an open face helmet for trail riding, that sits between the budget-friendly Echo and the higher-end Roam. Offered with and without MIPS-C2, the Terranova will set you back $140 or $120, respectively. We got the latter in for review to see how it checks out.
All photos by Mary Macleod
Tried & Tested: The MET Terranova
The word tested is a little strong, given that we haven’t hit the deck with our heads during this review period. Life is good. So is this helmet, and all its features that we have been able to test. The Terranova’s safety features comprise a standard shock absorbing polystyrene inner shell, with an in-mould outer shell construction which extends right around and underneath the helmet for added coverage. The version we tested is without MIPS, but MET do offer a MIPS-C2 version which provides additional protection from rotational impacts. Let’s talk about fit.
Adjustability is everything in a helmet. Beyond getting a custom-made HEXR helmet, most good quality helmets these days will offer adjustability of multiple parameters, so you can get the best possible fit for your uniquely shaped skull. The MET Terranova is one such helmet. It utilizes the Safe-T DUO fitment system which cinches down on your head to create a secure fit. The rear dial offers many clicks of adjustment and, incidentally, is compatible with MET’s USB LED light.
While the Roam helmet offers lateral adjustment of the rear cradle, the Terranova does not. It does however feature vertical adjustment, if you need to extend the cradle down to cup the back of your head more securely. Personally, I found the helmet to fit snuggly at the front and back but did leave it a little gap at the temple. This probably wouldn’t be an issue for those with a rounder shaped head. That said, I will concede that my head is at the smaller end of the 52cm-56cm range.
The MET Terranova visor slides continuously throughout its range, rather than into specific indexed positions. It just about goes high enough to store some MTB goggles underneath. That said, the Terranova doesn’t offer quite as much room for goggles as the Parachute does. For actually using goggles, rather than storing them, we can say that the Terranova is perfectly compatible with our Smith Squad goggles.
The Terranova is a well ventilated mountain bike helmet, with no fewer than 17 vents with internal air-channeling. Not that we have at all needed ventilation in deepest winter. The comfort liner pads are removable and hand washable.
The Bottom Line
The MET Terranova is a quality MTB helmet. It’s adjustability and ventilation make it worthy of consideration. It’s only drawback is its price. $120 (£80) for a non-MIPS helmet is a little steep, especially as it doesn’t offer an alternate mechanism for protection against rotational impacts. The Terranova is CE certified in the US and AU/NZ. It is available now from selected MET dealers.
