Arai VX-PRO3 Helmet - Solid

Rating

10

Sizes

XS-XXL

Colors

COLORS: HAYES "JOLLY ROGER," OSBORNE WHITE, OSBORNE BLACK, AKIRA RED,AKIRA SILVER, AKIRA ORANGE, AKIRA BLUE, SAMURAI WHITE, SAMURAI BLACK

What It Is

The VX-Pro from Arai has been at the cranium safety forefront for years now. One of the major differences of the new Pro3 from the previous VX-Pro model is the redesign of an additional 11mm of forward tilt in the helmet's chassis. The latest VX-Pro3 also has a variety of new colorways to complement the road race inspired Top Diffuser ventilation system, removable/flexible rubber roost guard, removable/washable chinstrap covers, and, of course, Arai's distinctive rounded chin bar design. The VX-Pro3 also exceeds Snell 2005 and DOT standards.

Hits

Beyond Arai's reputation for premium quality and safety is the level of comfort in every helmet they produce. Sliding an Arai VX-Pro3 onto your noggin is much like slipping into a clean pair of sweatpants fresh out of the dryer. There are no pressure points to speak of, and the liner provides an even plush feeling. The eye port of the VX-Pro3 welcomes just about any goggle out there with ease, regardless of how bulky the frame design may be. I must say, too, that the new colorways are welcomed updates, even if they are superficial ones. If Arai has lacked anything, it may be keeping up with the contemporary graphic designs of their competitors. As for actual performance, I can attest to safety level of the VX-Pro3 firsthand. In a matter of a month and a half, I took two high-speed headers, taking the brunt of the impact to my dome. In the first crash, the dirt actually landed on my head after the initial impact. Short of a minor concussion in both instances, I walked away from both knowing it could have been far worse. I am confident the Arai saved me from potentially devastating injuries.

Misses

Dropping another $600-plus on a second VX-Pro3 after the first one did its job during a gnarly crash.

The Verdict

There shouldn't be a price limit on the safety of your head or neck, because you definitely get what you pay for. Make sure your head is in the best protection possible, and the Arai VX-Pro3 is one of the best out there.