That's why in this week's product evaluation, I go in search of a helmet that will keep your brains intact in the off-chance your body goes flying in directions unintended. Arai happens to make just such a product.Arai has been crafting helmets for over 60 years in their Japan-based factory. Their lids have been a part of so many world and national championships it's too hard for this journalist to add them all up.
At the top of their motocross/off-road lineup sits the Arai VX Pro-3. A helmet that's been around for a number of years but has only recently seen some major design improvements. Arai was kind enough to send out a lid in the popular Akira Red graphic and we've had about two months worth of track days to evaluate it.
The Pro 3 benefits from a new emergency release cheekpad design, top mount ventilation diffuser, rounded chinbar and other great functional improvements.
In use, the helmet fits very comfortably, molding to ones head as should be expected for such a high-end brain bucket. Arai's exclusive Dry- cool liner does a fine job of wicking away sweat from a hot rider and moving it towards open vents where cooling air enters the helmet. The "window pane" is wide, and unlike previous Arai models is open enough to accommodate even the largest set of goggles (sans those with large nose guards). The chinbar has only been rolled down 11mm with this new model, but it seems a world of difference when trying to ensure proper goggle fitment.
In total, the Arai VX-Pro3 is the rider's choice for premium helmet attire. Multiple graphics and colorways are available from the Japanese manufacturer and can be found, of course, in our online store.
More info: http://www.araiamericas.com
