MXA TEAM TESTED: EVS SPORTS T7 HELMET

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the EVS Sports T7 helmet.

(1) Shell. Let’s face it, most people don’t want to spend more than a couple hundred dollars on a new helmet. However, MXA strongly encourages riders not to skimp on this important piece of equipment. EVS Sports is targeting riders looking to save money without compromising safety. EVS kept costs down on the T7 by using a polycarbonate shell. This material offers protection, but it is not exactly lightweight. A size medium T7 weighs just under 3-1/2 pounds, whereas many expensive helmets tip the scales at just over 3 pounds. The single-density foam interior provides a layer of cushion between the shell and the liner.  

(2) Liner . We were elated to discover that the T7 has a three-piece liner that’s breathable, moisture-wicking and removable. MXA test riders are put-off by helmets that don’t have removable liners, since the lining can’t be washed. EVS’ helmet liner snaps in place with ease and is machine washable. Our only complaint is that the cheek pads are rather dense, and it takes several hours to pr taktoperly break them in and soften them up. Test riders complained of having chipmunk cheeks from the thick pads.

(3) Sizing. EVS Sports developed the high-end Takt helmet several years ago. While the Takt had cutting-edge styling and an unorthodox angle on safety (the base of the helmet was soft to prevent the shell from causing harm), it didn’t fit well. The Takt was not a success. That’s not the case with the T7. The all-new shell/liner configuration comfortably surrounds the skull without causing hot spots or pressure points. The sizing is spot on, and we especially liked the overly large eye port. The T7 is available in extra-small to extra-extra large and in a host of different colors. We like the Digi Red graphic (shown).

(4) Cooling. EVS boasts that the T7 has “RAM Air,” which makes us think of the Ford Thunderbird. However, the T7 actually flows air quite well through the four intake and six exhaust ports. This lid isn’t the coolest that we’ve worn, but it does a decent job. The very large mouthpiece has a mesh screen that prevents roost from entering the rider’s mouth. We only wish that the vent holes on the chin bar were larger to provide greater airflow.  

(5) Safety rating. The T7 helmet is Snell 2010 approved and also ECE compliant (the ECE helmet is only available in Europe). The T7 is manufactured in China.  

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? We have several complaints: (1) The cheek pads are very dense and uncomfortable until broken in. (2) We wish that the mouthpiece allowed for greater airflow.

When it comes to a helmet, you get what you pay for. With the EVS Sports T7, you get a little more than what you pay for. This is a good helmet for the weekend warrior or beginner on a budget.