The MET team spent a year hidden away inside their lab and the result is finally out: the MET Roam is supposed to set a new benchmark in the enduro and trail sector. We’ll reveal what it can do and also tell you if it’s true that “All roads lead to ROAM”.

The thin line that separates enduro and trail bikes is narrowing each day. What was considered a light enduro bike two years ago, is a trail ripper now. And it’s clear, trail bikes are capable of so much more than many of us would think. As we’d expect, this shift puts enormous pressure onto the equipment and accessory industry. Customers want “do-it-all” accessories for their “do it all” bikes. Fair enough. With their new Roam, the guys from MET proved that they’ve recognised this change of tendency and quickly acted to come up with a fitting solution for their customers.

The MET Roam in numbers

The MET Roam will be available in 3 different sizes. Small, for head circumferences between 52 and 56 cm, Medium for 56 cm to 58 cm and a Large option for heads between 58 and 62 cm. MET indicates the weight of a medium sized helmet at 335 g without MIPS and 360 g with the MIPS system. The Roam is yours for € 150, € 20 more will land you the MIPS version. As the first helmet of the new MET generation, the Roam is fitted with a SAFE-T Orbital System. This allows 3 different adjustments within the helmet shell: one strap reaches all around the head circumference, allowing for precise adjustment. Three different height settings make for a snug fit on the back of the head, the width of the two contact points at the back of the head can be adjusted between two different positions. A total of 22 ventilation holes provide enough airflow to keep your head cool even on hot summer days.

The MET Roam in detail

Loaded: MET also thought of the night owls and action heroes amongst us. The Roam includes a platform for GoPros and helmet lights.
Optimised for goggles: the MET Roam was specifically designed for the needs of goggle lovers.
Extra room: There is enough space under the visor to fit a pair of goggles without too much fiddling.
Obviously with MIPS: MET and MIPS joined efforts and came up with an optimised system that allows for great ventilation even with a built in MIPS system. A perfect compromise.
MET’s new SAFE-T Orbital. This setting allows to adjust the two contact point on the back of the head.

How does the MET Roam feel on the head?

The helmet feels very comfortable right away and the many adjustment settings make for a quick and effective fit. The head sits very close to the helmet shell, this makes the MET Roam feel very safe. Our initial impressions are also reaffirmed on the trail: the helmet sits firmly on the head and doesn’t move around, even through fast and rough rock gardens.

Not even an hour later and we’ve already forgotten about the helmet and the many vent holes keep our head nice and cool. Even on slow and long climbs the Roam seems to keep our brains well ventilated, the head never gets too hot. That’s one characteristic that makes the MET Roam an optimal choice for long tours and Alpine terrain. Thanks to its sophisticated features and goggle compatibility, the Roam is also suitable for enduro racing.

Colours and availability

The MET Roam will be available in seven different colours, starting September 2017.

Our conclusions

Light weight, cool design and a load of clever features. What more do we really want from a helmet? Unfortunately, we only get hold of a prototype for our test, which means the helmet was adjusting by itself from time to time. MET assures that the problem will be solved by the time the series model is released. Apart from this, there isn’t much we can complain about. The MET Roam is an ideal option for situations that don’t require a full face helmet. This makes it the optimal companion for endless days of enduro and trail riding.

More informations here: met-helmets.com


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Words: Photos: MET