Sometimes, inspiration hits you when you least expect it. That seems to be the case for Kali Helmets Founder & Lead Engineer, Brad Waldron. For the latest Kali helmet, Waldron drew inspiration from his kid’s hockey helmets over 10 years ago.
Looking at the titanium face masks, Waldron thought, “Why don’t we build a full-face bike helmet like that?”
Now that light weight full-face helmets have become the norm, it seems like the perfect time for the Kali Kru – a helmet that’s part MTB, part hockey (or looks that way, at least…).
The Kru features a 360° integrated titanium chin bar – a construction approach the company claims is a first in the category. Rather than attaching a chin bar as a post-mold component via mechanical fasteners, Kali engineered a continuous titanium structure incorporated directly into the molding process. This required precise titanium tolerances to maintain structural integrity without relying on joints, resulting in a chin bar geometry the company describes as geometrically unobtrusive.
Perhaps most impressively, the Kru meets ASTM F1952 downhill certification alongside CPSC and EN 1078 standards. True to form, Kali reports conducting additional internal multi-directional impact testing beyond mandated certification protocols (basically just repeatedly smashing the chin bar in the same place).
The helmet’s construction incorporates Composite Fusion shell technology and an ERT (Energy Return Technology) low-density liner layer, targeting both impact and rotation mitigation and keeping the weight down. Finished weights are just 650g (S/M) and 680g (L/XL), very competitive figures for a certified downhill full-face helmet.
Fit is addressed through Kali’s Frequency Fit System with supplemental pad sets for size customization, available across two shell sizes: S/M and L/XL. Colorways at launch are limited to Solid Black and Solid White. The Kru’s UK market introduction is being handled through Oxford Products, with the product debuted at Ard Rock.
The Kru will begin shipping on August 3rd, and will sell for $460. I can say that we really want to try this out – the concept is sound, and Kali has made great helmets in the past. The real question is probably whether the off-the-wall looks of the Kru will keep riders from adopting the design.
- 360° Titanium Chin Bar – A continuous titanium structure integrated into the helmet for exceptional strength, ventilation, and protection.
- ERT Low Density Layer – Absorbs low-g and rotational impact energies.
- Composite Fusion – Fused shell and EPS construction for a stronger, more durable helmet.
- Certification – ASTM F1952, CPSC, EN1078
- Kali Kool Draft Pads – All-day comfort that stays cool and dry
- Three Sets Pads – Lock in your perfect fit
- Adjustable, Moto-Style Visor – Shields sun and debris, boosts visibility
- Fidlock – Magnetic, pinch-free buckle for easy on/off
- Helmet Sock + Premium Helmet Bag
- Sizes – XS-M (55-61CM) / L-XXL (60-63CM)
- Weight: 650g (XS-M) / 680g (L-XXL)
