Specialized S-Works Evade 3: Aero helmet with good ventilation
With front intake vents and a rear diffuser designed to prevent airflow, the Specialized S-Works Evade 3 aims to simultaneously improve aerodynamics and ventilation. The front vents aren't particularly large; however, airflow can also enter above the forehead, which then flows through the ducts along the head and is efficiently exhausted through the large vents at the rear.
Fairly good ventilation despite flat appearance
This makes the third generation of the Evade quite well ventilated for a road aero helmet, although the manufacturer offers an extremely airy alternative for really hot days: the Prevail. From the side, the helmet appears closed and rather long, while also being rather narrow and sitting close to the ears. The slim shape is also noticeable inside – the S-Works is not a helmet for round heads. The rather small adjustment dial on the head ring is noticeable; when adjusting the height, the retention system can sometimes come loose from its guide in the helmet.
At just under 270 grams in size M, the MIPS helmet isn't too heavy, especially considering its closed shape. It costs €290, which is a moderate premium over the usual price for S-Works products, and is available in six color variants. If you value good aerodynamics in your helmet, you can't go past the Evade 3 from Specialized – its sister model, the Prevail, is uncompromisingly focused on ventilation and may therefore not be as suitable for many.
