Comfort

This helmet is extremely comfortable. The liner pads are more cushioned than other helmets but the Course’s comfort is mostly due to the smooth, head-enveloping fit that feels secure.

Ventilation

The Course combines an aerodynamic frame with small, subtle “scoops” that funnel a few breezes inside the helmet. It’s a happy compromise between ventilation and aerodynamics: the design keeps sweat at bay during hard, three-hour rides, but doesn’t become a wind-catching whistle on fast descents.

Features

The Course includes a spare set of pads so you can refresh the helmet. The helmet also comes with a light that mounts (via double-sided tape) to the retention strap at the back. It’s a handy detail for folks who log most of their summer rides in the dark, pre-dawn hours. Head coverage extends farther down the forehead and back of the head than some other models.

Fit

An easy-to-use dial tightens the retention strap and also adjusts height, allowing you to wear it near the base of your skull or closer to the crown of your head.

Weight

At 9 ounces, the Course is slightly heavier than the ultralight Prevail but when testing, we didn’t notice the extra weight. The balanced fit distributes the weight evenly from front to back.

Value

Riders who want full-coverage protection with the minimum weight penalty will appreciate the Course. So will speed demons that rely on pro-level aerodynamics.