Bell Super DH Helmet

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Where To Buy
Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
$350.00
Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
$349.95
Two Helmets in One - Bell's New Super DH is Built for Today's Rides
As speeds continue to increase on all-mountain and enduro bikes, Bell's new Super DH helmet adapts quickly from general trail use to downhill shredding thanks to a removable chin bar.
Rating:
Vital Review
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Just a few years ago we were all wrapped up in full body amor and burly helmets while racing our downhill bikes. Today's enduro-craze has us racing and riding the same trails at the same speeds on smaller bikes with less protection. Seems odd, doesn't it? Enter the convertible helmet – one where you can go from something suitable for trail riding and climbing to full-on downhill gnar with the flip of a few clasps – as a solution to keep us all protected. Riders who can only afford one helmet or those who want to climb without the airflow restrictions of a dedicated full face will be pleased with the new Bell Super DH while smashing high-consequence singletrack.Not only does this version look better than ever, but it also integrates a new MIPS Spherical system that protects against a broader range of impacts.

We had the opportunity to catch up with super-shredder Bryn Atkinson for a closer look at the new design and a quick rip on Whistler's trails:

Super DH Highlights

  • Meets ASTM 1952-00 DH // ASTM F2032-06 BMX // CPSC Bicycle // CE EN1078 certifications
  • Tool-free detachable chin bar
  • MIPS Spherical energy management
  • Progressive dual-density EPS/EPP foam layering
  • Fusion in-mold polycarbonate shell
  • Snap-in breakaway camera/light mount
  • Overbrow ventilation
  • 19 helmet vents, 4 chin bar vents, 2 brow ports
  • Goggle friendly visor adjustment
  • Adjustable Float Fit DH system
  • Magnetic Fidlock buckle
  • Sweat guide
  • X-Static padding
  • No-Twist Tri-Glide strap management
  • Sizes: S / M / L (52-62cm)
  • Weight: 850g (size medium)
  • Colors: Black, Black/Gum, Copper, Red/White/Black Recourse, Yellow/Smoke/Black Recourse, White/Emerald/Hibiscus Recourse
  • MSRP: $300 USD
  • Available: December 2017

MIPS Spherical

The Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) is a slip-plane technology developed to reduce rotational forces in the event of a crash. Bell's Super DH introduces the next evolution of the system.

Modeled after a ball-and-socket style interface, the helmet uses two independent foam layers of different densities. The firmer EPS foam on the outside is designed to absorb high-speed impacts while the softer EPP foam surrounding your head improves protection in low-speed scenarios. Each layer has a thin hard shell, and the MIPS Spherical slip-plane is integrated between the layers with elastomers to hold things in place and return it to center. Moving the inner layer around with our fingers we noted a much wider range of controlled movement than the sometimes noisy and jiggly older MIPS versions. In addition, Bell says they've been able to improve the helmet's ventilation by moving to MIPS Spherical.

Initial Impressions

Until recently, most helmets of this style have been downright ugly, but Bell succeeded in improving both form and function over the Super 3R. In our opinion, this lid looks good as both a half shell and a full face.

The chin bar is noticeably stiffer and easier to install than the previous version. Aided by an improved rear clasp, it's just a matter of lining things up (which the design helps you do), flipping three buckles, and you're off.

When the trail points back uphill, removing the chin bar creates a noticeable increase in air flow and makes it easier to breathe. Though large, the wrap-around chin bar design is easy to secure to a pack, and Bell is working on a lightweight carrying accessory for riders who want to ride without a bag.

Those looking to record the fun or light up the trail will be pleased with the new spring-loaded camera/light mount that takes just seconds to install and is much more secure than the old velcro version.

Bell's focus on improving the fit was apparent to dozens of people who tried it on in our presence, with the new head form, 4-position height adjustment, and dial cinch system allowing everyone to find the perfect combination for their dome. The adjustable Float Fit DH system gently tightens small plastic straps and padding around your head nearly 360-degrees, essentially creating a custom fit for everyone without any hot spots.

Time spent in our helmets is a precious escape from the day to day. The name of the game is seizing the moment, going hard, and having fun. Our job is to help protect them, to inspire them, to cultivate confidence, and to get out of the way.

Also New - 4Forty & Hela Helmets

If you're looking for value, these helmets replace the Stoker in Bell's lineup and offer many of the same features as the Sixer at a reduced cost. You lose the dual-density foam, camera mount, several vents, 4-position visor, goggle gripper, and X-Static padding, but the helmet is a good deal lighter and there's an option to get a MIPS-equipped version. 

4Forty & Hela Highlights

  • Meets CPSC Bicycle // CE EN1078 certifications
  • Optional MIPS energy management
  • Fusion in-mold polycarbonate shell
  • 15 vents
  • Goggle friendly visor adjustment
  • Adjustable Float Fit system
  • Sweat guide
  • No-Twist Tri-Glide strap management
  • Sizes: S / M / L / XL (52-65cm)
  • Weight: 338g (non-MIPS size medium) // 380g (with MIPS size medium)
  • Colors: Black, Retina Sear/Black, Hibiscus/Smoke, Copper/Black, Gunmetal/Tropic, Pacific/Black, Smoke/Pear
  • Hela (Women's) Colors: White/Cherry Fibers, Navy/Cherry Fibers, Lead Stone
  • MSRP: $95 USD (Integrated MIPS) // $75 USD (Non-MIPS)
  • Available: October 2017

Bell's continued focus on improving protection is obvious in each of their new lids, and we dig these new feature-packed, rigorously tested helmets that offer riders the trust in their equipment that's needed to charge even harder. Visit www.bellhelmets.com for more details.


About The Reviewer

Brandon Turman - Age: 31 // Years Riding MTB: 16 // Height: 5'10" (1.78m) // Weight: 175-pounds (79.4kg)

"I like to have fun, pop off the bonus lines on the sides of the trail, get aggressive when I feel in tune with a bike, and really mash on the pedals and open it up when pointed downhill." Formerly a Mechanical Engineer and Pro downhill racer, Brandon brings a unique perspective to the testing game as Vital MTB's resident product guy. He has on-trail familiarity with nearly every new innovation in our sport from the past several years and a really good feel for what’s what.

Video by Vince Smith // Music by Lame Drivers under Creative Commons // Photos by Paris Gore and Brian Chapel

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Specifications

Product
Bell Super DH Helmet
Riding Type
Downhill
Enduro / All-Mountain
Freeride / Bike Park
Trail
Rider
Unisex
Number of Vents
19 helmet vents, 4 chin bar vents, 2 brow ports
Construction
Progressive dual-density EPS/EPP foam layering
Fusion in-mold polycarbonate shell
Tool-free 360-degree wraparound detachable chin bar
MIPS Spherical energy management
Adjustable Padding
X-Static Padding - quick-drying pad materials, woven with real silver fibers, inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi.
Includes two sizes of cheek pads.
Certification
ASTM F-1952-15, ASTM F2032-15, CE EN1078, CPSC Bicycle
Bag
Included
Size
S (52-56cm), M (55-59cm, L (58-62cm)
Colors
2024 Colors:
  • Fasthouse Matte/Gloss Black Camo
  • Fasthouse Matte/Gloss Black/White
  • Fasthouse Matte/Gloss Blue/Hi Viz
  • Fasthouse Matte/Gloss Sand/Black
  • Fasthouse Matte Red/Black
  • Fasthouse Taco Tuesday Matte/Gray/Black
  • Matte Black/White
  • Matte Light Blue/Navy
  • Primer Matte Blue/Crimson

    2019: Fasthouse Stripes Matte Black/White, Matte/Gloss Black, Matte/Gloss Crimson/Black, Matte/Gloss Slate/Orange, Matte/Gloss Yellow/Black, Unhinged Matte/Gloss Black/Berry/Blue, Unhinged Matte/Gloss Gray/Green/Black

    2018: Black, Black/Gum, Copper, Red/White/Black Recourse, Yellow/Smoke/Black Recourse, White/Emerald/Hibiscus Recourse

  • Weight
    1 lb 14 oz (850 g)
    Miscellaneous
  • Snap-in breakaway camera/light mount, no zip ties or tape, breaks away upon impact to reduce the risk of injury.
  • Overbrow ventilation actively ushers cool air over the head and regulates temperature.
  • Goggle friendly visor adjustment.
  • Sweat Guide pad design pulls moisture away from brow pad and away from eyewear.
  • Adjustable Float Fit DH dial adjustment system with magnetic Fidlock buckle.
  • No-Twist Tri-Glide strap management helps keep straps flat and properly positioned.
  • SKU #BL-7127498
  • Price
    $350.00
    More Info

    Combines DH certification (ASTM 1952), a stout and detachable chin-bar, and the impact management of MIPS Spherical, the Bell Super DH helmet is a helmet for big mountain terrain.

    For more info, visit the Bell website.

    What do you think?
    Where To Buy
    Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
    International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
    Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
    International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
    $350.00
    Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
    International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
    Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
    International shipping available. Some exclusions apply.
    $349.95
    Full Face Helmets

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