Good winter helmet? 🥶 Experience with TSG Pass helmet in winter?

[meepmeepmayer]

So I'm finally looking for a winter helmet and wondered what everyone's experiences with this topic are.

Requirements:

• Full face/hard chin bar.
• A winter-specific helmet. I'm happy with my Fox Proframe, which is as light and airy as a full-face helmet can be. Now I need something for cold temperatures. Anything from below 15°C (which can get quite cold with the wind from riding) to 5 hour rides in sweet icy negative degrees Celsius.
• Visor against the wind (one should be able to open it, but I think they all do that). Clear, if a sun visor extra option is available as an extra that would be even better.
• Warm, and not too much ventilation so that one doesn't overheat, but also doesn't cool out, and so the wind doesn't howl through it. I want to wear a jacket and a scarf, ideally for everything above the helmet should do the trick.
• Works when wearing glasses.

So I'd be happy to hear your experiences and recommendations for such a winter helmet. What you use, what works and what doesn't, what to look for, etc.

-

I am eyeing the TSG Pass (see picture), it just looks so nice and seems to have everything (on paper). I especially like the different inserts that allow to fine-tune the helmet fit. Can anyone tell how warm it is and if it is suitable for winter riding?

And if there are similar alternatives, I'm happy to hear about them.

[Svenbo]

The TSG helmet looks really nice

Currently I am using a simple skiing helmet (and glases) for my winter rides. It is really warm and comfy, but it has no chinguard so no crazy fast riding for me with it.

[Lutalo]

3 hours ago, meepmeepmayer said:

So I'm finally looking for a winter helmet and wondered what everyone's experiences with this topic are.

Requirements:

• Full face/hard chin bar.
• A winter-specific helmet. I'm happy with my Fox Proframe, which is as light and airy as a full-face helmet can be. Now I need something for cold temperatures. Anything from below 15°C (which can get quite cold with the wind from riding) to 5 hour rides in sweet icy negative degrees Celsius.
• Visor against the wind (one should be able to open it, but I think they all do that). Clear, if a sun visor extra option is available as an extra that would be even better.
• Warm, and not too much ventilation so that one doesn't overheat, but also doesn't cool out, and so the wind doesn't howl through it. I want to wear a jacket and a scarf, ideally for everything above the helmet should do the trick.
• Works when wearing glasses.

So I'd be happy to hear your experiences and recommendations for such a winter helmet. What you use, what works and what doesn't, what to look for, etc.

-

I am eyeing the TSG Pass (see picture), it just looks so nice and seems to have everything (on paper). I especially like the different inserts that allow to fine-tune the helmet fit. Can anyone tell how warm it is and if it is suitable for winter riding?

And if there are similar alternatives, I'm happy to hear about them.

The TSG Pass Pro helmets are very lightweight at 940 grams. For me,  the combination of lightweight, great protection, and comfort are my main priorities. 

I am somewhat limited in the helmets I can wear due to my XXL helmet size. So, for me TSG is a no go. However, I think the Pass Pro is a great helmet; especially in carbon form, but protection limited in the way bicycle helmets are compared to motorcycle helmets. 

I currently wear a BMX/DH: the Bell Full 9 (BF9) bicycle helmet. I love it, but I think personally I will gravitate back towards motorcycle helmets for three reasons: better protection than bicycle helmets, better technology has substantially slimmed the historic compromises between weight and protection; monstrous diver's helmets are no longer needed for great protection, and wider field of vision versions comparable to bike helmets available all without protection compromises. 

I am currently eyeballing the Nexx XR2. Expensive? Yes ($600). At under 2.6 lbs (L) it is the lightest full face motorcycle helmet available on the market. My BF9 weighs in at 2.4 lbs (L). 

I realize that a $600 helmet might not be considered a practical choice for many, but I also ride motorcycles. So, for me the helmet would theoretically be a dual purpose wig.  

I love the TSG,  though; especially,  the full face Pass Pro. I wish they came in my size. 

 

Edited February 2, 2019 by Lutalo

[meepmeepmayer]

3 hours ago, Lutalo said:

The TSG Pass Pro helmets...

Didn't realize there is a Pass and Pass Pro. The differences seem not too big. Still wondering how warm either of them is.

3 hours ago, Lutalo said:

but protection limited in the way bicycle helmets are compared to motorcycle helmets

You think it would make a difference with a EUC?

I assume a MTB/Downhill/Enduro helmet (like my Proframe) should be enough?

The TSG Pass seems to count as a skate helmet, does that mean it's weaker? "Downhill longboarding"...

3 hours ago, Lutalo said:

I am currently eyeballing the Nexx XR2. Expensive? Yes ($600).

 Haha, too steep for me.

--

Maybe a motorcycle helmet is indeed better for cold weather? Built for higher speeds = more wind expected = more thermal insulation?

Edited February 2, 2019 by meepmeepmayer

[Lutalo]

10 minutes ago, meepmeepmayer said:

You think it would make a difference with a EUC?

Depends. There is of course price to consider . Many will feel that the extra protection is overkill. I am one of those people. I don't think it's necessary to have motorcycle level protection for EUCs; hence, the reason that I wear a BF9. On the other hand, it's sort of difficult to argue that extra protection for one's brain is overkill.

However, if technology is neutralizing the contradiction between weight and protection, I figure why not go for the most protection possible. On the other hand, it still costs $600+ bucks to mitigate the compromise 😧. This is simply not going be a reasonable consideration for most. 

I bought my 18L because I didn't think MSX level range was necessary. Maybe so, but now that I have it in my 18XL I wonder why anyone would bother with a lesser powered wheel.

It's one of those; "you can't miss what you don't have" sort of phenomena. Once you can affordably buy  motorcycle helmet protection without sacrificing the weight of a bicycle helmet then why not? they are warmer in the winter with better protection than bike helmets. 

[Darrell Wesh]

It doesn’t matter what thermal properties your helmet does or doesn’t have, or how many vents it has. If you wear a balaclava with wind stopper (GORE WINDSTOPPER) then it will stop the wind chill period and keep you warm with the visor down.

Helmets are never insulated, they’re designed to flow air, especially ones with visors. No air flow = fogged up visor. 

Worry about what you’re wearing UNDER the helmet, not the helmet itself. I have the TSG PASS and wear it with a Klim Balaclava with GORE windstopper underneath and have easily been in 10 degrees Fahrenheit weather riding at 50mph on my Dualtron Thunder with no problems 

[litewave]

6 hours ago, meepmeepmayer said:

Didn't realize there is a Pass and Pass Pro. The differences seem not too big. Still wondering how warm either of them is.

You think it would make a difference with a EUC?

I assume a MTB/Downhill/Enduro helmet (like my Proframe) should be enough?

The TSG Pass seems to count as a skate helmet, does that mean it's weaker? "Downhill longboarding"...

 Haha, too steep for me.

--

Maybe a motorcycle helmet is indeed better for cold weather? Built for higher speeds = more wind expected = more thermal insulation?

I bought the Pass Pro specifically for cooler weather. It's much warmer in winter than the vented BMX helmets like the Bell Supers (I also own a 3R). The carbon-fibre Shoot is sleek and hi-vis, and gets lots of compliments, but is hard to find and may be (soon) discontinued. It is downhill rated for both skating and cycling (see my earlier post here), and it has protected my head perfectly during two recent full faceplants such that I felt nothing, despite the close fit.

The Pass design has one major flaw, however: fogging. Despite the anti-fog coating, there is no way that I have found to prevent it (including balaclava, 3rd-party anti-fog treatments, shaving cream, incantations, etc.). The Pass design is so snug that airflow from your nose or mouth, even when directed downward, still circulates in front of the face leading to condensation, fog, and even frost. When the temperature difference is 5-6deg C (40deg F) or more less, I am forced to open the shield all or most of the way. The only solution in my opinion would be rigging a heated visor, which would be too much trouble and expense, considering there are snowmobile helmets available that could be more easily adapted with a portable 12v battery pack, like this one:

Edited February 3, 2019 by litewave

[Lutalo]

3 hours ago, litewave said:

I bought the Pass Pro specifically for cooler weather. It's much warmer in winter than the vented BMX helmets like the Bell Supers (I also own a 3R). The carbon-fibre Shoot is sleek and hi-vis, and gets lots of compliments, but is hard to find and may be (soon) discontinued. It is downhill rated for both skating and cycling (see my earlier post here), and it has protected my head perfectly during two recent full faceplants such that I felt nothing, despite the close fit.

The Pass design has one major flaw, however: fogging. Despite the anti-fog coating, there is no way that I have found to prevent it (including balaclava, 3rd-party anti-fog treatments, shaving cream, incantations, etc.). The Pass design is so snug that airflow from your nose or mouth, even when directed downward, still circulates in front of the face leading to condensation, fog, and even frost. When the temperature difference is 5-6deg C (40deg F) or more less, I am forced to open the shield all or most of the way. The only solution in my opinion would be rigging a heated visor, which would be too much trouble and expense, considering there are snowmobile helmets available that could be more easily adapted with a portable 12v battery pack, like this one:

Like @Darrell Wesh has stated. I am rather satisfied with the warmth I have been able to maintain with my BF9 and a balaclava. I have no fogging issues because I have no visor to fog. Even when I did I rode with it open most of the time; even on my motorcycle when cruising around my city. The main issue with this method is riding in the rain; which I tend not to do on my EUC, and didn't do on my Busa unless I had to.

Edited February 3, 2019 by Lutalo

[LanghamP]

I occasionally wear this fake beard. I'm sure I look nuts.

Beardski Pirate Ski Mask https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0049XLDSC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_qdowCbCCD36AP

[Unventor]

I tested mine this Sunday when going shopping  at about 5-6 C temp.

I were a bit surprised how cold it felt compared to my MC helmet (LS2 FF399 EU).

It is ridable with the TSG Pass, but I would maybe had put on a thin running cap like this:

https://www.salomon.com/sv-se/shop-emea/product/rs-warm-beanie.html#848=9168

I use this too when it is cold as it is easy to fit under a jacket and draw up over the chin:

https://www.salomon.com/sv-se/shop-emea/product/rs-warm-tube.html#848=9346

When I bought mine it was supplied in Grey only. The good thing is it is very thin yet warm, is it is easy to store in a pocket until you need it.

 

Edited February 18, 2019 by Unventor

[meepmeepmayer]

Thank you, everyone!

I'm distracted by other stuff at the moment, but soon-ish will have more time for this winter helmet thing.

Looks like the TSG Pass isn't what I need.

And although the cap/balaclava combination seems the best thing to do in general, I'm trying to get away just with a helmet because that's easier and quicker, and also less interference with my glasses (I tried a regular cap under my helmet and it just didn't work).

So some good motocross helmet (or similar) will probably be what I'll be looking for soon.

[mrelwood]

I bought the cheaper Icaro Skyrunner helmet that superficially resembles TSG Pass. I only got to use it a few times in the fall, but as is, besides being uncomfortable it’s unusable because of fogging. Liquid treatments didn’t help much, as my whole mouth area was quickly sogging wet. Even without directly breathing to the visor, if the moist air doesn’t get to escape, I don’t think anything will stop the fogging.

While there must be great differences in helmets regarding warmth, I wouldn’t dream of riding without a balaclava or other kind of hood in the winter. The Skyrunner of course prevents direct wind from hitting me, but the air that circulates is still cold as duck. And again, no air circulation = fog.

I plan to try and modify the helmet for proper airflow to the visor before the snows melt. I hope I get the fogging down to a manageable levels.

Edited February 18, 2019 by mrelwood

[Unventor]

53 minutes ago, mrelwood said:

I bought the cheaper Icaro Skyrunner helmet that superficially resembles TSG Pass. I only got to use it a few times in the fall, but as is, besides being uncomfortable it’s unusable because of fogging. Liquid treatments didn’t help much, as my whole mouth area was quickly sogging wet. Even without directly breathing to the visor, if the moist air doesn’t get to escape, I don’t think anything will stop the fogging.

While there must be great differences in helmets regarding warmth, I wouldn’t dream of riding without a balaclava or other kind of hood in the winter. The Skyrunner of course prevents direct wind from hitting me, but the air that circulates is still cold as duck. And again, no air circulation = fog.

I plan to try and modify the helmet for proper airflow to the visor before the snows melt. I hope I get the fogging down to a manageable levels.

Look up a system called pinlock. Your helmet might be prepared for it or not. But as I understand it, it can be added to most visors. My helmet came with it, and it works 99.9% when it doesn't work, nothing else would help either. 

[mrelwood]

9 minutes ago, Unventor said:

Look up a system called pinlock. Your helmet might be prepared for it or not. But as I understand it, it can be added to most visors. My helmet came with it, and it works 99.9% when it doesn't work, nothing else would help either. 

Thanks, I've heard about it. My helmet is not prepared for one, but that wouldn't be an issue for me. I still suspect that without proper airflow even the Pinlock wouldn't work, so I will keep the airflow as the first step of the possible solution.

[Mrd777]

On 2/2/2019 at 8:15 AM, meepmeepmayer said:

So I'm finally looking for a winter helmet and wondered what everyone's experiences with this topic are.

Requirements:

• Full face/hard chin bar.
• A winter-specific helmet. I'm happy with my Fox Proframe, which is as light and airy as a full-face helmet can be. Now I need something for cold temperatures. Anything from below 15°C (which can get quite cold with the wind from riding) to 5 hour rides in sweet icy negative degrees Celsius.
• Visor against the wind (one should be able to open it, but I think they all do that). Clear, if a sun visor extra option is available as an extra that would be even better.
• Warm, and not too much ventilation so that one doesn't overheat, but also doesn't cool out, and so the wind doesn't howl through it. I want to wear a jacket and a scarf, ideally for everything above the helmet should do the trick.
• Works when wearing glasses.

So I'd be happy to hear your experiences and recommendations for such a winter helmet. What you use, what works and what doesn't, what to look for, etc.

-

I am eyeing the TSG Pass (see picture), it just looks so nice and seems to have everything (on paper). I especially like the different inserts that allow to fine-tune the helmet fit. Can anyone tell how warm it is and if it is suitable for winter riding?

And if there are similar alternatives, I'm happy to hear about them.

I use this helmet in the Winter here in NYC, and it does really help on keeping wind off your face.  I also wear a helmet skull cap for a little extra warmth.. Im very happy with it as the Winter winds off the Hudson river are pretty severe and really make my eyes tear.  On the negative side, the visor does distort your vision a bit and takes a bit to adjust too. Its a great helmet, so much lighter then a moto helmet! 

Edited February 18, 2019 by Mrd777

[sherryamber]

I don't bother with the coldness but the wind that makes me feel cooler. that kind of helmet seems a good way to protect us.

[Garivel]

The price of these Oakley Mod 5 snowboarding helmet went down and it comes in different colors too.

 

 

[FlyboyEUC]

Anyone heard of of tried the Avitar v2 from New Olders. It is a TSG Pass look alike and completely customizable. If you wear a balaclava, do you try to order a helmet size up? I wear a neck only balaclava and it makes zipping up my jacket around my neck next to impossible and gets in the way of my chin strap. 

[longjohnsally]

On 10/2/2019 at 8:41 AM, FlyboyEUC said:

Anyone heard of of tried the Avitar v2 from New Olders. It is a TSG Pass look alike and completely customizable. If you wear a balaclava, do you try to order a helmet size up? I wear a neck only balaclava and it makes zipping up my jacket around my neck next to impossible and gets in the way of my chin strap. 

FlyboyEUC...Did you ever get any information on this helmet?  Looks promising.  I like the style and the price point is great in comparison to TSG Pass.

[Scottie888]

I use my leftover (from motorcycling days) Schubert C3pro modular FF helmet. It's very light at a hair over 2lbs (considered featherweight far's motorcycling helmet goes), flips up for convenience & I've even equipped it with the somewhat anti-fog pinlock visor. Its also very compact (much smaller than the Klim F5 MX I wear in summer) & comfort isn't compromised. Adjustable ventilation makes it much warmer than anything else open faced. Got it for a steal a longtime ago.

I also like a cheaper alternative - Shark Evoline series. Its a modular where the chinbar flips all the way to the back of the head making it into a true 1/2 helmet when need arises. It's can be had at a good price on sale esp right now. IMO its m con is the bulkier & heavier shell. At least when compared to my Schubert. I think a pinlock anti-fog visor can also be installed as well. 

Do be aware that most motorcycle helmets suffers from the same shortcoming - a limited field of view vs its MTB/MX cousins. 

Far's protection goes, MTB & its ilk are light duty helmets. It should be fine for sub 30mph wipes esp on flat type impacts. The superiority of a good MX/motorcycle helmet are when the impact occurs on sharp & hard protruding material eg. rocks/metal. IMO ofcos

[Dreygun]

I'm currently using a tsgpass in -3C. No need for a cap or anything underneath so far, as long as I cover up neck with a neckwarmer. I have to have visor open about 1/2" or it will fog. Working great in these cold temps as it still shields the wind at speeds. 

[AtlasP]

3 hours ago, longjohnsally said:

the Avitar v2 from New Olders

Nice helmet except for the lightning bolt front and center like a wannabe superhero. Looks like you can customize all the colors--wonder if selecting the same color for the base and logo make it completely disappear or how visible it would still be.

[Unventor]

I can add to my old post. I keep using my TSG Pass helmet despite it is cold. 

I found with visor a bit open of full open I prefer this over my MC helmet. 

I use a baklava (ski/"rubbers" mask) to keep warn. Today I just picked up 2 new baklava. One made of microfibers other of cutton. 

I have written to TSG I would like them to move from the dual D lock to a fidlock (magnetic system) and they make a visor that has pinlock. But never got any reply. But there are 3 things that makes the TSG Pass my preferred helmet. 

AerodynamicS

Field of vison

Light weight. 

This is how it looked today on my lunch ride. 

 

Edited January 8, 2021 by Unventor

[longjohnsally]

Has anyone here tried a Snowmobile helmet?  They are designed for cold weather and many are DOT certified.  A lot of them appear to be much lighter weight (around 1000g).  Apparently this is because people riding a snowmobile need the ability to look around more just like us.  I was looking at this one that is designed to be paired with matching goggles https://ride509.com/products/tactical-helmet-2021.  There are plenty of helmets that are full face though like the downhill helmets.  I love the look of the TSG Pass, but that price point is rough.

[Scottie888]

I picked up the Klim F5 Ghost on sale last summer for <$300. Its carbon fibre, weights a hair >1kg, great fit & super ventilated/cooling for summer. Surprisingly (or not), it's actually categorized as a snowmobile helmet although if one looks deeper, there's really no difference. In the deep freeze, one would sweat lots when even riding their sleds semi aggressively & venting is huge for comfort. The helmet do come with a windstopper liner for more heat retention on lazy rides.

I pair my F5 with a similar branded Klim snowmobile Oculus goggles. Again there's really no difference btwn snow or mx except snow goggles sport dual pane lens for anti fogging.