Ekoi Ekcel Aero: Against the Current

The stars of the international peloton are increasingly wearing aero helmets. You can also examine the models of different manufacturers in some cyclocross races. Since Mark Cavendish's World Championship success in Copenhagen in 2011, when the Brit wore a simple plastic shell on his helmet for aerodynamic reasons, a lot has happened not only in terms of development, but also in the rules of the World Cycling Union UCI.

The regulations now include a clause stating that "removable helmet shells [...] are prohibited. [...] Although their use is prohibited, fully enclosed helmet shells are permitted. " The UCI aims to regulate minor disruptions to competition with this clause.

Despite this, the French manufacturer Ekoi has addressed this issue and pursued its own solution. With the Ekcel Aero, the French company has retained a helmet shell that can be detached from the helmet. However, this requires some effort, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The shell presses itself against the helmet in a way that makes removal while riding impossible. Instead, the shell must first be squeezed slightly at the rear to release the pressure. Then, using both hands, the shell can be slid upwards at the temples of the helmet. To remove it completely, you then reach underneath it from the front. This sounds more complicated than it actually is. After a couple of tries, the process becomes quite easy.

Ekoi has patented this concept. While the shell can be used in amateur races, it remains prohibited in licensed races. However, a positive aspect is that the Ekoi Ekcel Aero essentially offers two helmets in one, as the shell effectively blocks the cold during winter training.

The shell, which weighs just under 30 grams, also hides a few special features that impressed us in use. The helmet is very well ventilated thanks to its 27 ventilation openings. The fit is good and can be adjusted using a dial on the back of the head and a continuous strap. The magnetic buckle can be easily operated with one hand. From a visual point of view, one might criticize the size of the wheel, but it fulfills its purpose without any ifs and buts.

The helmet, made from antibacterial Coolmax and EPS foam using the InMold process, weighs a light 250 grams in size S/M. Since it is very narrow in volume, it is also ideal for drivers with a small head.

//Conclusion

Ekoi is swimming against the tide with the Ekcel Aero , offering a double-layered helmet with only a few weaknesses. The helmet impresses with its light weight, both with and without the shell. It's versatile, well-made, and comfortable to wear. However, as mentioned, the adjustment dial at the back of the head could be a bit smaller, and the fit is also a touch too snug. Considering the low price of €129 and the performance it delivers, though, these shortcomings are forgivable.