Few modern cycle helmets pass the independent American Snell tests. If it’s important that your lid meets that high safety standard then Specialized’s range is perhaps the best place to look.
The race-inspired Propero weighs in at 256g – very decent for the price – and comes with Snell B90A accreditation as well as the usual European, US and Australasian safety standards.
Its retention system resembles Giro’s Roc Loc – a ratcheted system that requires two hands to lock, but then stays secure – and it’s also possible to adjust the height of the cradle using a couple of studs on the inside of the helmet, something we found handy for making this lid perfectly comfortable. It’s also extremely easy to adjust the length of the straps.
On the road, it’s a reasonably well vented helmet, with the numerous small vents and large ‘rear exhaust ports’ doing a good job of channelling cool air over your head.
The Propero comes in three colours (red/black/white, black/grey and white/silver), two sizes and – like all Specialized helmets – comes with a detachable peak.
