Just opened up my brand new BRP XP-R Carbon Light Helmet and am now anxiously pacing my office in anticipation of my first ride.
Its shell is made from 100% carbon fiber composite and reinforced aramid fiber and my immediate impression is that I can’t believe how light this helmet is. There’s a noticeable difference between this lid and mine from last season. BRP’s claimed weight for this lid in a LARGE is plus or minus 1275 grams. I’ll be doing my own weights and comparing to other helmets in an upcoming report, but one thing’s for sure, it feels like I’m holding a handful of feathers.
Putting the XP-R Carbon Light on, it’s immediately comfortable and fits perfectly. Not that previous helmets have felt like a stack of bricks on my shoulders, but there’s absolutely no strain whatsoever to my neck as I sit here typing this (yes, I’m actually wearing the helmet while typing this).
Key to getting your helmet to fit right is to actually measure the circumference of your head and then compare it to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. Getting a good fit can be difficult when ordering online and you aren’t able to try the helmet on beforehand, as sizes will actually vary from brand to brand. However, following the fitment chart can resolve any discrepancies and will usually get your lid fitting right.
The padded cold-weather insert adds additional protection across my face (particularly my nose) and up the sides of my face. My only concern without actually field testing this helmet is that there’s quite a bit of space left unprotected from wind and cold on my forehead. Luckily I have an amazing balaclava and I’m fairly confident that when combined with the thick foam on my goggles, frostbite won’t be an issue whatsoever.
Bottom line, this is one of the coolest looking lids I’ve owned by far and I’m even more stoked to get out on the trails now. Stay tuned for a full report with more specs and opinions after the first big snowfall.
For more about this product visit store.ski-doo.com
