Helium Enduro: Helium helmet, coat and Highpants test
As the hybrid product range becomes more and more popular in the snowmobile world, the clothing division of Ski-Doo had to provide consumers with an ideal package for active trail and off-trail riders.
This year, I have the chance to try the Helium Enduro Pro coat, the Helium Enduro Highpants and the Ex-2 Enduro helmet. With more than 1300 kilometers with it, I can now give you my impressions.
Helium Enduro Pro Helium Set with Ex-2 helmet
The Ex-2 Enduro helmet
The helmet protects from the reflection of the sun and snow like a snocross helmet. It has the same look, but with a visor that completely covers the face. This helmet will be loved by many off-track and trail enthusiasts.
Ex-2 Helmet
Some characteristics of the helmet
It is equipped with an aerodynamic visor for off trail (it is removable for a more trail-like appearance), an interchangeable retractable anti-fog sun visor, an advanced plastic composite shell, a lockable heated visor, a comfortable, washable lining and an oversized chin deflector for better wind protection.
It is important to always connect the heated visor to prevent fogging. I had trouble getting used to connecting the visor, I've been riding for more than 13 years with a helmet without an electric visor. After a few rides, the reflex was there. It's also important to lock the visor, if you don't you will feel the air getting into the helmet. It's not always easy to lock the visor with one hand at first, but I got used to it quickly. The heated visor keeps an excellent visibility even in really cold weather.
Helmet locking mechanism
Like any snocross helmet, it is important to wear the right hood. I have tried different types of hoods during my rides, the one that works best with the helmet is a mountain hood to deviate the air downwards when you exhale. It avoids fog. Also, this hood keeps the nose and cheeks warm.
The retractable sun visor is easily accessible with the external lever, it helps to protect you from the sun, but it tends to freeze in extreme cold.
This entry-level helmet, one of the Ski-Doo helmets on sale, protects you from the wind, is lightweight and let the heat out when driving off trails. It also has a beautiful off trail style.
Helium Enduro Coat and Helium Enduro Highpants
Helium Enduro Pro Coat
The Helium set is well named, the first feeling I had when I put it on was like I had nothing on me. I was concerned that it might not be warm enough due to its lightweight design. The manufacturer says that it’s 50% colder than the X-Team, it is designed for active driving.
I was able to see the performance of the coat and highpants during our first big snowfall. The federated trails were not surfaced and I was the first to go. I had to work harder and the whole set kept me warm and allowed me to get rid of the humidity during this intense activity. The more energetic the drive is, the more breathable the membrane becomes. The coat we have in trial is the Helium Pro with logos, another version without any logo is also available.
Helium Enduro Coat
I tried it under -15 C and it kept me warm. Remember that it is designed for active driving. In colder conditions, you can add other layers such as the Ski-Doo compressible coat.
Ski-Doo compressible coat
The coat has small rubber bands on the shoulders for people who bring a mountain backpack. All zippers are sealed to prevent air infiltration. What I like about the Helium Enduro Highpants is that the zippers are more rearward-facing, which prevents snow and air from getting in.
Rearward-facing zippers
Being visible at night is very important, the Helium Enduro kit has a lot of reflective linings on the sleeves, back and back of the legs for optimal visibility.
I would like to thank BRP and Motoneiges.ca for making the test of the Helium Enduro Highpants, coat and Ex-2 Enduro helmet possible.
Looking forward to seeing you on the trails.
