Riot Helmet : Review

When I received the Strike Shift gear a month ago, I also received the Shift Riot Helmet to do a little review on.  Since I have worn Fox helmets for the past five years, I was a little hesitant to try something new.  After taking the helmet out of the box and started testing it the first day, I instantly fell in love with this helmet and happily retired my Fox helmet.

Style/Looks: 3.5 of 5

The Shift Riot looks nothing like anything I have worn before.  It has a wide face and has skulls on it.  After having the helmet around for the past few weeks, the look has grown on me.  The wide front of the helmet actually has a function, as it lets more air in.  I’m not a big fan of skulls; but, these would be the ones I would run.

Function/Fit: 4 of 5

From the first first time putting on the helmet to the last, it has fit perfectly snug and comfortable. With the wide front, air flows inside the helmet like no other helmet I have ever worn. In the Arizona heat it really helps to get air flow.  Even though I haven’t crashed in the helmet yet, it does exceed Snell & DOT safety standards.  The only concern I have  is the visor, it’s a little small and looks like in a crash it could get pretty tore up.

Wear & Tear: 4 of 5

It’s a black helmet.  What can you expect?  You will see scratches on this helmet, but that doesn’t mean it messes anything up.  With the riding and washing I have done on the helmet, we have to give it a 4 out of 5.

Overall: 4 of 5

Overall this helmet does it’s job and added a little spunk with the wide face front. I only received a black version, but after looking through the catalog I saw so many other colors I would like to add to my collection; especially the Double By Pass that looks like a giant cheese burger. I know it sounds strange, but I want that strange, off the hook style to go with my Orange and Yellow Strike gear.  Probably one of the best positive points about this helmet is, it;s only $179.95.  Which means you can get a sweet helmet with good functionality without breaking your little piggy bank.  For more info and how to order : Go to www.shiftracing.com or Call 1-888-SHIFT-IT

The helmet being put to the test!  Photo: JMetzger