If you were a fan of pro cycling in the early 2000s, you’re probably familiar with the Catlike Whisper.
And if that name doesn’t ring a bell, just cast your mind back to the distinctive, holey helmet worn by the Cervélo TestTeam among others.
With its 39 vents and bubbly appearance, the original Catlike Whisper was launched in 2006 and is probably more distinctive than any road cycling helmet before or since.
Now the helmet is back – in name, at least – with the Catlike Whisper II adopting a more conservative appearance.
Instead of those round vents, the new version of the Whisper is similar in appearance to the POC Ventral with the tail chopped off.
But Catlike says the new Whisper delivers on the same promise as the original, with its vents providing “exceptional ventilation”.
The Spanish brand also says the Whisper II retains the same value proposition that made the original a success.
Costing €137.49, the helmet is only slightly more expensive than when we reviewed the original in 2008 and a bit less than the 2012 Whisper Deluxe.
New safety features
Beyond a refresh in the looks department, Catlike says the Whisper II has several new safety features.
The helmet has an internal polymer structure to distribute the energy generated during an impact across the entire helmet.
Catlike says this feature “also helps keep the helmet intact in the event of a collision, ensuring greater protection for the rider”.
The Whisper II is also fitted with a MIPS Air Node layer. This minimal protection layer from the Swedish helmet safety technology company is said to help “reduce the risk of brain injury by allowing the helmet to move slightly upon impact, absorbing and redirecting the energy away from the head”.
Catlike says the Air Node layer does this while maintaining the helmet’s lightweight design, weighing 255g in a size medium.
Comfort fit
The Catlike Whisper II also has new fit and strap systems, which are said to aid comfort.
Catlike says the VPS (Vertical Position System) Oval fit system works better with a ponytail and offers support in the occipital area – or the back of the head.
“This innovative design allows riders with longer hair to wear the helmet comfortably, without compromising the fit or performance,” Catlike says.
New straps are said to improve comfort by providing better alignment with your head. Catlike says the straps enhance the helmet’s stability and adapt to your head shape.
The helmet is available in four colours: white, black, green and red.
