This review delves into the Bollé V-Ryft Pure Photochromic ski helmet, offering a detailed look at its features, performance, and overall value. From the premium packaging to the helmet's comfortable fit and advanced photochromic visor, we explore every aspect of this high-end offering. We'll discuss the helmet's design, ventilation system, and adjustability, highlighting both its strengths and minor drawbacks. Our assessment considers the helmet's performance on the slopes, comfort during extended use, and its overall suitability for discerning skiers.This in-depth analysis provides a comprehensive perspective on the Bollé V-Ryft Pure Photochromic, weighing its premium price against its performance and features. We'll share our personal experience with the helmet, covering aspects like sizing, visor functionality, and the overall comfort and security it provides. Ultimately, this review aims to help you determine whether the Bollé V-Ryft Pure Photochromic is the right choice for your skiing needs and budget.
Pros And Cons
- Photochromic visor adjusts tint automatically based on ambient light (categories 1 and 3).
- Visor is easily removable without tools.
- Premium materials and soft interior lining.
- Adjustable ventilation (top and front).
- Anti-fog treated visor.
- Good seal around the face.
- Aesthetically pleasing design.
- Runs small (consider sizing up).
- No strap loop at the back for a standard mask when using the visor.
- Plastic screws holding the visor might break if over-tightened.
- Uses a standard closure instead of a micrometric closure.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The Bollé V-Ryft Pure Photochromic ski helmet arrived in a soft, premium-feeling bag, a significant upgrade from other brands I've experienced. The bag itself is a nice touch, offering good protection and storage outside of the ski season. The initial feel of the helmet was promising, hinting at a higher-quality build than some competitors.
The helmet comes in a variety of colors and visor options. I opted for the gray matte finish with a photochromic visor, which automatically adjusts its tint based on light conditions. This is a convenient feature, eliminating the need to swap visors manually.
Fit and Sizing
The size 55-59 helmet felt a bit snug for my 57cm head. While it's wearable, I suspect those with heads larger than 57cm might prefer the next size up (59-62cm). The fit is quite close, but it provides a secure, snug feel, which can be beneficial during high impact activities such as skiing.
The helmet's overall shape is less bulbous than some competitors, having a more streamlined, somewhat compressed look at the sides, which I personally find more aesthetically pleasing.
Visor Performance
The photochromic visor is a standout feature. The transition between light and dark tints is smooth, although not immediate. It takes around 3 minutes for the visor to fully adjust to the sunlight conditions.
The visor itself is anti-fog treated and features a blue tint. The lower part of the visor is reinforced with foam, ensuring a good seal and preventing fogging.
Ventilation and Comfort
The helmet has an adjustable ventilation system, with controls for vents on the top and front. The front vents help to defog your goggles, which is a clever design element. The interior is lined with a soft, comfortable velvet-like material.
The helmet's straps are padded with soft foam and have a mechanism to secure excess strap length. The chin strap's standard buckle could have been upgraded to a micrometric closure for better adjustability and security
Overall Conclusion
The Bollé V-Ryft Pure Photochromic is a premium helmet offering excellent features. The photochromic visor, adjustable ventilation, and comfortable fit are noteworthy. The design is sleek and stylish.
However, the lack of a rear hook for a standard ski mask when using the integrated visor is a minor drawback, considering the helmet’s price point. Despite this, the superior visor design, exceptional comfort, and overall quality makes it a strong contender in the high-end ski helmet market. For many skiers, the benefits will outweigh this minor inconvenience.