SixSixOne EVO AM Helmet 2016
Reviews / Helmets
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At A Glance
The EVO AM is the progression from the classic Recon and comes with all the features you'd expect from an all-mountain lid. It features Contigo foam which is claimed to do a better job of absorbing impacts, thus keeping your bonce safer. We've got the standard one on test here, but it's also available in a MIPS version and all other features remain the same. Good coverage round the back of the head keeps it on trend, along with a two position peak, a BOA ratchet retention system and a 'Fidlock' magnetic chin strap clip. The styling is modern and multiple colours are available with a mixture of gloss and matt finishes.
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On The Trail
The quality of construction is great on this lid, with the plastic over-shell meeting very neatly with the exposed foam sections giving a very tidy finish. The fit for me was very secure in the XL/XXL size, even though I found myself at the middle to lower range of the size. The BOA retention system feels solid and confidently clicks into place as the dial is spun in, giving tension all around the head, not just at the back. The 'Fidlock' system is a nice touch with a magnetic slider making it super easy to fasten and release with gloves on and can even be done one-handed. The two pieces slide together and feel as secure as any other closure system. The adjustable peak is a clip-in type, so no adjustment on the fly, but it's a solid system. Once set up and installed, I found the helmet to be a firm fit, and needed to release the BOA every time to get it off my head, which is a sure sign of a solid system. Venting is pretty standard, whilst not trying to be the lightest helmet (396g to 438g) there is enough air space to keep things cool and the peak is nicely shaped to help draw air through the front three vents. The finish on this test helmet was a matt black, which although looked good initially, I found it very difficult to keep clean and scratch free - the finish just seems to show up every mark, scratch or greasy finger print. That being said, it's a mountain bike helmet and not a crystal vase so that's par for the course after all! Other colours are available however, so if you like your gear looking box-fresh for longer then perhaps consider choosing a shiny finished version.
Overall
The EVO AM is a solid and well made helmet in the all-mountain style. Good materials and excellent construction give a real sense of quality. It's got some neat features, looks good, fits well and ultimately is a fine head protector.
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By Ewen Turner
Ewen Turner is a self-confessed bike geek from Kendal in the Lake District of England. He runs a coaching and guiding business up there and has a plethora of knowledge about bikes with an analytical approach to testing. His passion for bicycles is infectious, and he’s a ripper on the trails who prefers to fit his working life around his time on the bike.
