KASK REX HELMET REVIEW

Review by Alex Sardella
Photos by Vinnie Zacha-Herthel

KASK is an Italian helmet manufacturer based out of Northern Italy, who produces a range of high-end helmets for both road and mountain biking. KASK designs and manufacturers its products just south of the Italian Alps, which proves to be a world-class location for research and development. A couple of our testers have been putting KASK’s premium Trail and Enduro half-shell helmet , the Rex, through its paces on both sides of the Atlantic, and are ready to share their thoughts.

THE LAB
The Rex is one of the few MTB helmets in the KASK line, but the design and function will cover a wide range of needs. From XC, to trail, and of course Enduro, the Rex is a true all-rounder. To start, the helmet only weighs 310 grams at size medium, a comparable Smith Forefront 2 will weigh 380 grams at the same size. The benefits don’t stop there, the Rex features 20 vents throughout the helmet to keep you cool on the hottest of days, giving it quite a unique, road inspired look for a helmet that’s rated for some heavy hitting. In the rear, the helmet has KASK’s “Octo-Fit” adjustable system, which cinches down on two different points on the back of the head, opposed to a tradition ratchet that will cinch down just in the center. This Octo-Fit system features a large range of vertical adjustment to fit the most comfortable and secure position. There are two low-key and cleverly integrated parts of the helmet. One, a seamlessly integrated plastic holster that holds a goggle strap in the rear so you can go full enduro. Second, on the top of the helmet, a small plastic piece that is removable and will reveal a built in gopro or light mount.  A slightly longer visor and synthetic leather chin strap help round out some of the details for the KASK helmet. The Rex is available in 9 colors and runs a premium $245/£189 at checkout.

THE DIRT
The Rex has a slick and modern look, and overall, both our testers have been pleased with the fit and breathability of the helmet. The way the helmet tightens in the back feels plush and protective with the Octo-Fit design, more so than a traditional Ratchet, and the huge range of adjustment up and down the back of the head means you can get it snugged up into the most comfortable and supportive spot easily. Once in this spot, it’s incredibly solid on the head, feeling as “wrapped” as the best of them. One thing our Sunny-climate tester liked is the slightly longer, adjustable visor. Some visors don’t really do much for blocking out sun, but the Rex’s design here is functional and keeps the sun off your face on those exposed climbs or descents. Speaking of climbing, the helmet has only been worn in 30-65 degree weather, so we have not truly tested the ventilation, but first impressions indicate there’s a good amount of air flowing through once you get moving. The foam used on the inside does a decent job of absorbing sweat, but you may find some dripping off the helmet on hotter days.

Admittingly, it is weird seeing a premium helmet that does not feature a rotational impact protection system – modern day marketing has believed into thinking that a helmet cannot be protective without it. Interestingly enough, the Rex has been developed with the WG11 (Working Group 11) branch of the CEN, who are constantly developing methods for the testing of helmets to the highest level in the EU. You can dive into more detail here. We’ve managed to keep the Rex off the dirt throughout testing, so can’t speak on any firsthand accounts for durability or rotational impact, but Rex claims their helmets exceed international safety standards giving some peace of mind.

The Wolf’s Last Word

KASK has been making helmets for just about 20 years, and our Italian friends did a solid job in designing the Rex. Its comfortable, protective, has a nice circular shape, and slick integrated features that you don’t see on most helmets. For us, it ticks all the boxes, unless you are a rider that swears by a MIPS system or has a different preference for looks. The Rex is one of the few mountain bike helmet options in the KASK lineup, it would be rad to see more dirt focused helmets from KASK in the future.

Price: $245/£189
Website: https://www.KASK.com/

Disclosure: Our team selects all of the products we review and do so with honesty and objectivity in mind. Some of the products we receive come directly from Competitive Cyclist, who also value our readers and have offered them a 15% discount (exclusions apply) on their first purchase by using LOAMWOLF15. Through this program we may also receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support, TLW.