iXS Sports Division Trail RS Helmet 2014
Reviews / Helmets
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Although a relative recent addition to the biking wardrobe, this style of helmet has become a familiar sight on our rides these days. With more coverage to the back of the head than traditional XC helmets, and generally providing more overall protection to your noggin, they are becoming a good all-round helmet. iXS, known for their excellent downhill and gravity protection products, launched their version earlier this year.
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The Trail RS has been made in collaboration with famous freerider Richie Schley, hence the ‘RS’ in the name, and the internal sticker proudly stating ‘Schleyer: Protective Gear Recommended’. The brief was to create a helmet that sat between current cross country and downhill specific lids, and would be a do-it-all number that you could happily wear all day. They hit the nail pretty much on the head (excuse the pun!) and the Trail RS has been well received since its launch.
The M/L size helmet we had on test came in at 358g, so they certainly got the lightweight box ticked nicely. When you initially check out the helmet in your hands this weight seems even more impressive considering how well built and finished it is.
Full in-mould external coverage, and a 360 degree in-mould shell on the underneath edge absorbed shocks and make the helmet more durable all round. It looks tidy as well which, let’s face it, is one of the criteria we all consider when buying a helmet, even if we pretend not to. It’s got quite a low profile, and the adjustable MX style visor adds to these good looks.
A great looking helmet providing spades of protection is redundant though if it doesn’t fit properly, or you don’t find it comfortable for riding. Fortunately the Trail RS has ticked this box too. No less than 22 spacious vents, coupled with internal air channels, keep things cool up top. The interior padding is well aligned and fully removable for washing when it needs a freshen up. We found the M/L sizing quite generous, it’s designed to fit a 58-62cm bonce which falls into the larger size category, so although it’s got a decent amount of adjustment it’s good to double check your size. Adjusting the size is very simple thanks to the ratchet wheel retention at the back and the 3 notch internal adjustment system.
Colour coordinated straps, a soft covering on the chin strap, crash release visor, four matt colourway options, it’s these extra touches that all add to our love of this helmet. It’s become a firm favourite of the test team, comfortable on even the longest of rides, it gives you the confidence and security of a more DH orientated rig, with all the assets of an XC one. All whilst looking rather good.
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This review was in Issue 26 of IMB.
For more information visit iXS Sports DivisionRelated
By Rou Chater
Rou Chater is the Publishing Editor of IMB Magazine; he’s a jack-of-all-trades and master of none, but his passion for bikes knows no bounds. His first mountain bike was a Trek 820, which he bought in 1990. It didn’t take him long to earn himself a trip to the hospital on it, and he’s never looked back since. These days he’s keeping it rubber side down, riding locally and overseas as much as possible.
