There’s nothing worse than the helmet that is supposed to protect you, splintering on impact and failing in its number one job.
Kask is a relative newcomer to the helmet market but they do their job very well, and in this piece we’ll examine two of their products.
Let’s compare the Kask Vertigo vs Mojito.
If you don't have time to read the article I'd probably choose Kask's Vertigo. I can't stand sweat in my eyes, and this helmet helps greatly with that.
Product Comparison Table
Product Name | ||
|---|---|---|
My Rating | 8 | 8 |
Cost | $$ | $$$ |
Weight (g) | 270 | 220 |
Visor | No | No |
Aerodynamic | 4/10 | 4/10 |
Ventilation | 8/10 | 6/10 |
Air intakes | 24 | 26 |
Kask Mojito
Overview
The Kask company was founded in 2004, and their belief is that helmets should be designed with a combination of the best technological breakthroughs, functionality, safety and good looking design.
They are Italian based and Italian produced, and although the company focusses on head protection in many sports, it's professionalism within the world of cycling should not be in doubt.
Kask has sponsored winners of multiple stages in the Tour de France and take the sport very seriously. A Mojito helmet is lighter than the Vertigo counterpart but some of this lightness does come from, arguably, a slightly less safe structure.
This isn't to say a Mojito is not safe, but it doesn't have quite all of the technological breakthrough a Vertigo possesses.
We'll cover this more on the Vertigo product information.
Mojito has three safety certifications, which is the case for all Kask products, and it also comes with the trademarked Kask 'up and down hinge adjustment' system.
This is not unlike the Vertigo, and means if it doesn't feel right you don't have to put up with it. You can adjust it, both before the ride and in the middle of a ride.
Pros
- Lighter
- 26 air vents for cooling
Cons
- Narrower internal padding than the Vertigo
- Missing some additional bridging to offer extra frame support
What did reviewers think?
This reviewer highlights some important things. He begins by making sure you know it's light.
Carrying something on your head for any amount of time can bring on fatigue, Kask knows this and they build accordingly.
Secondly, he mentions about the traveling aspect of a helmet. There's no use buying a great helmet that will be damaged the moment you travel.
It seems Kask have thought about this as well. Many modern helmets are shaped to look sporty and aerodynamic, they often end up with slight protrusions on the edges of the helmet, due to the way they are shaped.
Kask have have made protrusions smaller so there's less chance of them breaking off. This also makes it much easier to put it into the Kask helmet bag. There's no forcing the issue, which is essential for any kind of traveling.
These seem to be the overall views of users. Some have complained of the heat, however, so it may be that the venting system doesn't work as well with certain shaped heads.
I'm not an engineer, so I have no idea why this might be the case, but it is worth bearing in mind.
Check Mojito's Current Pricing And Availability
Kask Vertigo
Overview
Vertigo is the name of a team Kask sponsors, and it’s no surprise that they would want this helmet to be one of the very best. Vertigo has wider internal pads than a Mojito.
On top of this, it has additional plastic ridges bridging the top vents. These features make it heavier than the Mojito counterpart.
There's a reason for these features though, it makes the product safer. A Vertigo helmet is designed so that it survives multiple stages of a crash and doesn't implode on the first impact.
For many cyclists, the extra weight is worth it for the added feeling of security. The plastic ridges, mentioned above are part of an internal skeleton that ensures this effect.
Now.
A Vertigo also offers the same adjustment system as the Mojito, so there's room for shifting the helmet around to find the most comfortable spot.
The wider pads mentioned earlier, are designed to absorb sweat, which may also make up for the general heavier feel of the unit. The last thing any cyclist wants is being unable to see due to sweat pouring down into the eyes.
Pros
- Added internal skeleton design brings more safety
- Thicker and wider internal padding to absorb more sweat
Cons
- Heavier than the Mojito
- Can be more expensive than the Mojito
What did reviewers think?
The first thing Sergey mentions here is that he loves the product being made in Italy as opposed to China. If supporting local industry is important to you then this should be a consideration.
Sergey believes this also makes the helmet safer, which may be backed up by the fact Kask has its helmets pass three safety certifications vs the usual one of most other companies.
Sergey is another reviewer who loves the style of Kask, and this is a testament to the company's engineers. On top of that, he mentions the adjustable fit system, something that many cyclists really value.
The one draw-back some users seem to have is that certain types of sunglasses may not fit well with this helmet. This is another time when I recommend you to try it before you buy it.
Check Vertigo's Current Pricing And Availability
Buyers Guide
Kask is an elite company catering to some fairly elite clients. This is not to say that their helmets are not useful for the average joe, but there are other cheaper alternatives out there.
As always, it's a trade off - there's no doubt in my mind that Kask engineers know what they're doing and design accordingly.
There are no shortcuts when it comes to your personal safety, but many of the ergonomic structures found within Kask helmets are just not necessary for a regular cyclist who doesn't compete. Consider something else if cycling is just a part time hobby.
The Kask is a unique brand, and their helmets regularly come with several features you don’t necessarily find on all its rivals.
Some Things To Look Out For
Kask up and down adjustment system
Many reviewers commented on this. Essentially, Kask has designed a double pivot system. This is available on both a Vertigo and Mojito. It means straps can fit snugly at the back of the head before being adjusted further down.
They combined it with breathable padding, created specifically not to slip, so it gives your head breathing space and extra comfort.
Many helmets, particularly cheaper ones, come with a set of straps that are merely tied beneath the chin, rather than being adjusted to cradle the back of the head.
Eco leather chinstrap
Being eco-friendly is a big deal to cyclists. This particular chin strap is designed to be just that.
Again, it’s available on both helmets, but what exactly does eco-friendly mean?
Well, firstly the strap is not real leather, it's been made from a variety of plant life to look and feel like leather without harming animals. It can all be recycled as well.
Secondly, it's designed so that it won't cause any allergies. Skin irritation will be minimal or none existent.
Thirdly, it's breathable. Think about the times the plastic strap or leather strap catches sweat and causes itching because, well, it just can't breathe. This prevents all of that.
Internal padding
The padding on any Kask helmet is designed to absorb sweat while being non slip. It’s also sanitized using an antimicrobial and antibacterial process which keeps it clean and smelling nice. The process means irritation is kept to a minimum as well.
What’s more, when these pads do eventually begin to break down or are damaged, they are replaceable, they can be ordered from many bike stores, online and offline, as well as Amazon.
To see how a Kask helmet is made check out the video below by the GCN
Alternative Solutions
Echelon 2 for Commuters
The Echelon offers great ventilation and a very ergonomic design. It’s been through a lot of testing and at $70 it’s much more affordable than some of the top line professional brands.
Giro Savant
If you’re still looking for that sleek look and feel but from a top brand then Giro Savant might be ideal.
(check out my review of the Giro Savant vs the Foray - here).
It’s lightweight, has plenty of ventilation and has gone through some top safety testing. As an added bonus, the colours it can come in are almost unlimited.
Conclusion
The number 1 consideration when buying a helmet is safety, but it’s also important to make sure it fits well or you may be tempted to wear it less often, or even cycle less.
It’s crucial that you make sure you have the best helmet for you. The Kask company offers the best of the best, there’s no time like the present to ensure your own safety or that of a loved one.
All in all I’d probably choose the Vertigo. I hate getting sweat in my eyes when cycling, and the additional padding should help a bit more, and in my mind every little helps.
Check Vertigo's Current Pricing And Availability
Check Mojito's Current Pricing And Availability
Image Photo Credit - Cyclist Wardrobe, Gemme Bike, Glory Cycles
