MXA TEAM TESTED: FOX V3 HELMET

On Jul 19, 2015 Last updated Nov 14, 2018

WHAT IS IT? The V3 helmet is Fox’s latest offering. It shares a lot of the same great features as the Fox V4 helmet, but at a lower price point.

WHAT’S IT COST? $449.95.

CONTACT? www.foxhead.com or (888) 369-7223.

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Fox V3 helmet.

(1) V3 vs. V4. Considering the $100 difference between the V3 and V4, there are not a whole lot of differences between the two. Here’s a quick list. (a) The V4 has a carbon fiber shell, while the V3 is a multi-material composite. Amazingly, the V3 is only 12 grams heavier than the V4 (about one-third of an ounce). (b) The V4 comes in four different-size shells, while the V3 has three different shells. The V4 has the potential to offer a more precise fit. (c) The V4 has 15 intake and 8 exhaust vents, while the V3 has 14 intake and 4 exhaust vents. At speed, there was hardly any difference. (d) The curvature of the V3’s styling has a sharper look to it than the V4. We think that it makes the helmet look more pronounced. (e) The chin bar is slightly longer on the V3 than the V4.

(2) MIPS. MIPS is short for “Multi-Directional Impact Protection System.” What is MIPS? It is a slippery liner that is placed between the EPS foam and helmet liner that allows your head to slide away from the point of impact. The movement of the MIPS liner lessens rotational injuries to the brain. We thought that the helmet would move around on our heads more when riding, but the MIPS requires significant force to bring it to play.

(3) Comfort. The Dri Lex comfort liner is exactly that—comfortable. We did notice that the V3 had a more compact fit and sat a bit lower on the test riders’ heads. This could be due to the MIPS system or the fact there are only three different shell sizes. Regardless, most test riders like the lower fit.

(4) Safety. The Fox V3 helmet incorporates many safety features to ensure your head is protected. Apart from MIPS, the V3 helmet passes Snell 2010 and DOT certifications.

(5) Options. The Fox V3 helmet comes in 10 different colorways, and sizing from small to extra large.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? The visor has a limited range of adjustment, and some test riders, especially those with long necks, felt that the chin bar left their chins exposed.

MXA RATING?

MIPS has been around for several years as a method for dealing with rotational head injuries. Kudos to Fox for incorporating it into their helmets.