off-road.cc

The Kali Pace is an entry-level lid that feels like it costs a lot more, and offers boosted protection via a ‘Low Density Layer’ that claims to reduce rotational forces. It's light, sharply styled, offers a traditional 'XC' rather than deep-dish 'enduro' sort of fit, and is pretty well-ventilated. There's a lot to like.

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Kali's desire to make helmets better at isolating riders' heads from impact forces has led them to create what they call LDL, or a Low Density Layer.

The interior is coated with this soft, shock-absorbing material to better soak up real-world impacts (as opposed to super-high testing-standard impacts) and, while I didn't headbutt any trails to test how concussed I got, I can confirm it's comfy and reduces the chances of pressure points. In fact, I found it usefully more comfortable than a lot of others in this price range.

The rest of the lid is the common hard-shelled, EPS Foam inner style. The plastic outer wraps round the base of the lid, so keeps the foam better protected. It took the usual knocks and bumps of testing happily, when in the van or being carried about.

The retention system easy to adjust and comfortable, with enough room for a cap underneath when riding in cold weather. The Pace comes in Small-Medium and Large-Extra Large, and with the range of cradle adjustment you should have no trouble finding a good fit. The pads are antibacterial and the straps and clips are well-made.

The peak is a good size and will break away in a crash, while 13 large vents provide acceptable, if not particularly efficient cooling. The peak is supposedly shaped to channel air into the front three vents, but I never felt a strong flow with it.

The Pace is perfect for general trail riding, though hard efforts can create a decent level of warmth and sweat build up (though not much more than anything else in the price range). Whilst riding I didn't notice the Pace, which I always feel is a good thing. The LDL adds security as well as comfort – it's a nice lid to wear.

The full-cover shell and the LDL padding – plus the decent styling and quality feel – make the Pace an entry-level helmet to seek out. Whilst not offering the protection of a deeper ‘Enduro’ lid, it still has a good coverage and a great fit. There are several other colours available too, should this one not ring your bell.

• www.kaliprotectives.com

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