Uvex Jakkyl Hde

At just €199, the Uvex Jakkyl Hde is the most affordable helmet in this test – and at only 708 g, it is also the lightest. There’s a lot to get excited about too: the removable chin guard affixes using tidy metal clasps and locking toggles, and a full Boa harness ensures a comfortable and secure fit. Goggle users will be happy to see the integrated goggle strap retainer and an adjustable visor which looks neat and offers a good range of height adjustment. While the Boa harness is very comfortable, we did encounter some fit issues. While the cradle spans a large spread of sizes and two shell sizes are available, XS-M and M-XL, we found the fit quite small – so big-headed riders may need to look elsewhere. This is the only helmet in the test without a MIPS cradle, which may worry some at this price point. The chin guard is not ASTM certified and during our impact tests the Uvex performed well, but was not as robust as the Fox and MET. Without the chin guard fitted the helmet looks the most ‘normal’ out of the bunch, clean and stylish without looking like half of a whole. The Boa closure cinches down quickly with just the turn of a dial; however, the straps are very flexible and loose in the helmet and they frequently get in the way when in full face mode, which can be infuriating with cold hands.

Removing the chin guard is a simple process once you’ve got to grips with the mechanism. We were initially confused with the extremely stiff, small plastic toggles but they loosened up with use. When riding hard, venting is OK, but it’s not as airy as some and we did get some heat buildup on longer rides. However, the coverage feels good. We like the two small vents that channel air down the front of the rider’s face, keeping glasses and goggles clear. The indexed chin strap seems a little overkill at first, but works well to provide a precise fit, and the button release is a great touch. Styling-wise the helmet looks good, compact and neat, with a build and design that look high quality and befitting of the price tag.


If it fits, the Uvex Jakkyl Hde is a great helmet for the money, boasting good protection at a good price. The BOA cradle ensures a precise fit and the helmet looks great as a trail lid, but we grew frustrated with the straps and adjuster constantly pushing up into the helmet when fitting.


Tops

– Clever removable chin guard mechanism
– Best-looking trail lid

Flops

– Smaller vents
– Straps push into helmet


Weight: 708 / 438 g
Price: € 199
More info at: uvex-sports.com


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