Full Face vs Convertible MTB Helmets: The Helmet Gurus’ Manual

Helmet Gurus know best, as we are passionate mountain bikers. It can be difficult to find the right helmet because of the many options available. When you come to full face or convertibles, downhill and enduro riders have narrowed down their choices.

But which one is for you? Let’s get into it and discuss the good and bad about each type.

Convertible Helmets: Versatility Meets Protection

Imagine you are preparing for a day on the trails. Although some gnarly descents are in your plan, there may be some easy sections where you would like a little more air flow. This is exactly where convertible helmets excel.

For instance, consider MET Parachute MCR. With this revolutionary helmet, you can change between full-face and half-shell modes quickly depending on what part of the trail you are facing. Additionally, when it comes to technical descents or bike park stints simply attach the chin bar to provide extra safety. Therefore, if you want to ride in a relaxed way without challenging terrains or enjoying an easy-going ride along simple paths remove the chin bar while riding.

And do not be deceived by this convertible design; these helmets can withstand serious impacts. Parachute MCR has both shell and chin bar that is ASTM certified implying that they have undergone through tough tests so as to ascertain their endurance during enduro rides which involves rough and tumbles.

Other notable features include:

1. Adjustable visor with two positions providing more protection against sunlight and debris from the trail

2. MIPS C2 technology for minimizing brain rotation after an accident

3. Light but strong shell made using in-mold construction technique

4. 360-degree belt micrometric vertical adjustability ensuring precise fitting

To get all these advantages implies that the Parachute MCR will cost $375 approximately at retail shops. However, it is a worthy investment for riders who want to have the alternative of full face protection yet they do not wish to purchase different helmets for each kind of ride.

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Full-Face Helmets: Uncompromising Protection for Racers

However, if you are a committed downhill or enduro racer, then you might value traditional full-face helmets with their unyielding protection the most.

Such is Bluegrass Vanguard Core. Like the Parachute MCR, it is ASTM certified providing serious protection. Going further than this, however, NTA certification ensures that it can cope with even higher impact velocities and has more coverage around the back and temples – areas which are crucial in protecting your brain from injury.

Convertible helmets, for example, can transform into simple full-face helmets like the Vanguard Core, which are usually lighter and better ventilated, something that is a big benefit when racing against time. Here are some of the key features of the Vanguard Core:

1. C-shaped cheek pads for improved ventilation and comfort

2. Detachable mud grill to keep dirt and debris away from your face

3. A safety-release visor that breaks away in an accident to diminish rotational forces

4. Lightweight carbon fiber shell for optimum strength-to-weight ratio

The Vanguard Core also comes with a price tag of approximately $355, a figure similar to that of the Parachute MCR. However, riders who spend most of their time pushing themselves on challenging terrains might find it beneficial to have extra protection and performance characteristics.

Tech That Matters

Like Helmet Gurus we understand there are several must-have features for any mountain bike helmet; whether you go for convertible or full-face:

MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) or another system that mitigates brain rotation during crashes.

Stirrups/straps/dials & paddings adjustable positions providing snug fit and comfortability.

Adequate vents that ensure coolness and prevent overheating

Certifications such as ASTM or NTA mean that this helmet has been extensively tested and complies with high safety standards.

Moreover, it would be useful trying several models on until you find out which one suits your head shape best because if you do not get a proper fitting helmet it will not protect you as much as well-fitting one does.

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Conclusion

At the end of it all, the best helmet is one that suits your riding style, finances as well as personal preferences. In case one enjoys being able to ride both gnarly descents as well as casual trails then he/she should try wearing a convertible helmet like MET Parachute MCR. In case you are a dedicated racer who’s more concerned with lightness, ventilation and maximum protection, then I can advise you to go for traditional full-face models like Bluegrass Vanguard Core instead.

One way or another, there is one thing that needs to be kept in mind - that the helmet is the most important accessory of all. Don’t compromise on safety—purchase a good quality helmet that meets your requirements and fits properly. Your brain will be thankful for it.

Helmet Gurus could help in selecting the right helmet based on your riding style, feel free to ask questions or find out more about our full range of helmets reviewed here which might suit your choice for a mountain bike ride.