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The Vector Tech Pilot from Alpinestars is a comfortable and reasonably well-ventilated lid. It’s equipped with MIPS and has some neat little aids if you’re full enduro and use goggles,but it’s just a touch on the heavy side.

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On the Vector Tech, you get 19 vents with one pretty sizeable one on the forehead. There’s a fully adjustable retention system and the lid is reinforced with an embedded frame. There’s also a carry bag in the box, a really nice touch. And then of course there’s a MIPS liner for a bit of extra protection.

Coverage on the Vector Tech is rather impressive. It’s built with a pair of temple guards at the sides and the rear of the helmet is dropped sufficiently. It’s certified to EN, CPSC, and AS standard too.

A medium helmet weighs in at 390g, and in use it’s clear it’s a weighty boy. It’s certainly not excessive, but when compared to helmets like the mega breezy Specialized Ambush, you can feel the extra weight. However, that extra bulk doesn’t stop the Vector from being comfortable.

This helmet is designed for use with eyewear, and as such the visor has an awful lot of adjustment based around three clicks. The first two either get the visor out of the way or lower it for a bit of rain or shade protection. Push it right back into the third click and it offers plenty of space to park goggles.

Adding to the eyewear-centric design, the rear is really well shaped for a goggle strap. If you’re a goggle user you’ll be pleased, as this helmet holds onto them very securely.

I find the Vector Tech sits quite low on my head, so every now and then (maybe once a ride) the brow will knock the top of my glasses. It makes goggles sit a little lower on my face than I’m used to, too, even with the height adjustment maxed out.

While airflow is certainly good enough, it’s not quite up there with the greats.

Noticeably, this lid is finished very nicely, and while there is some exposed EPS foam, it’s lacquered over with gloss.

The Alpinestars Vector Tech MIPS is a great high-end trail helmet with the promise of excellent protection. It's comfortable, accomodating for goggles or glasses, and offers a good deal of coverage. If the slightly high weight doesn't concern you, it's a great choice.

• www.alpinestars.com

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