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The Leatt MTB 3.0 AllMtn V21 helmet is a trail and enduro lid that combines an interesting rotational impact system with unique styling and great airflow. The smallest size is still quite big, though, and it sits low on your head. It's also neither the lightest or  cheapest for this kind of lid.

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Made for hard riding, the MTB 3.0 offers deep rear coverage and a sturdy build, feels made to last, and has proved itself tough on test.

The unique looks are matched by a unique take on rotation impact safety, too.

The system consists of 10 little discs connected to the EPS layer and embedded in the padding. Made from Armourgel – which its creator describes as a 'smart shock-absorbing gel' – the squishy discs turn independently and, as a non-Newtonian substance, stiffen under impact (presumably in a smooth and controlled fashion) to reduce peak g-forces on your head.

Leatt dubs this system 360 ̊ Turbine Technology, and it has the same intent as the famous MIPS.

The discs are unobtrusive, but I do wonder how much they contribute to the not-insignificant 380g bulk in this size small.

The lid also gets 18 vents, and the front ones really channel the air through onto your forehead well. If you like to feel a breeze you'll like the MTB 3.0, but if you feel the chill in winter, you need to steer clear!

At the rear the deep coverage looks and feels protective. It's pretty solid and, thanks to the strong ventilation, elsewhere, it's not too hot. 

The visor is adjustable and you can just about get goggles up under it on this, the smallest version. I left the visor in its uppermost position – any lower and it's in your field of view when you ride. 

Inside the helmet is an adjustable cradle with a wide range of movement, and the dial is easy to grip. The chin straps are adjustable via a slider on the rearmost strap, and the design of the 'splitter' means that the straps lie neatly against your face. The Fidlock clasp is neat, too, though it's a little bulky under the chin.

Personally, I find the size small MTB 3.0 a little large, despite having a 53cm head that's well within its stated 51-55cm range.

Technically it fits, but it sits low enough on my brow that I can see the bottom edge, which is annoying. The cradle also sits low enough over my ears to press into soft tissue there.

Overall

If you like the style, the Leatt MTB 3.0 AllMtn lid is a tough trail or enduro lid with good ventilation, and it's not super expensive either, slotting in alongside the likes of the Troy Lee Designs A2 MIPS and the Giro Montara. The fit and comfort, however, may be questionable if your head is on the smaller side.

• www.leatt.com

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