Product Review: Scott Assault Helmet
Quality Melon Protection that won’t Assault your Wallet
By: Jason Giacchino
Helmets are difficult to review because of the uniqueness of the head-shapes of riders the world-over. We have on multiple occasions fallen in love with a lid that the guy next door despises and conversely heard rave reviews about other models only to discover they were uncomfortable, ill fitting, or too heavy.
The general rule of thumb, at least as far as we are concerned, is to make your way to the closest dealer if in doubt and try on the helmet(s) you are considering before purchase (even if you plan to order it from the Internet).
That said, we recently had an opportunity to sample Scott’s Affordable Assault helmet and came away quite impressed with how many features the company was able to include in a helmet that retails for 9.99
Specs:
Construction:
• Alloy injection moled PC shell
• Impact absorbing dual density EPS liner
• EPS liner extends into the chin bar
Features:
• Dual vent intakes and multi-vent exhausts provide excellent cooling
• Removable and washable liner and cheek pads
• Adjustable visor (No tools reqiured)
• Stainless steel mouth vent
• Color coordinated eye-port gaskets
• Color matching comfort liner
• Superb fit with all SCOTT goggles
• Exceeds DOT/SNELL standards and AMA racing approved (US models)
Our size M weighed in at 3.3 pounds.
Options:
As far as we can tell, the Assault helmet line is broken down into three different categories, all of which are identical in construction/ features. The difference between them lies in graphical treatment (and price accordingly). We actually spent time with the Assault Dimension package (9.95) which is available in three colors: Blue, gray and red.
Customers also have the option of choosing the 9.95 Vapor scheme (also available in red, blue and silver) or the 9.95 Gambler motif (in white trim or black).
The Ride:
Our medium-sized unit actually felt a little snug in the cheek-region when we first slipped the helmet on, which was surprising considering the rest of the interior padding seemed to hug our melons perfectly. However, initial squawks were quickly silenced through the combination of slipping the lid on and off through the course of a week and actually popping the cheek pads out to have at the pliable polystyrene foam below.
With a little compressing we were able to create a fantastic fit in all areas. Venting was adequate but considering our test was performed in subzero temperatures, we were more concerned with keeping cold air out than allowing it in!
The eye-port is generous and spacious and though Scott insists it is custom designed to work flawlessly with their branded goggles (it does), we were able to slap offerings from both Smith and Pro Grip onto the Assault without hitch.
Conclusion:
A few years ago, quality full-face off-road helmets couldn’t be had for under 0. We don’t miss those days. The Scott Assault Dimension (all of the Assault models for that matter) offers excellent protection, sharp looks and customizable comfort at a very reasonable asking price. Even still, should you decide this is the lid for you, consider trying before buying.
Contact:
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