Specialized S-Works Prevail 3: Well ventilated and very safe
In Specialized's lineup, the Prevail 3 is the counterpart to the Evade 3: While the latter focuses on aerodynamics, the Prevail's primary goal is optimal ventilation. Viewed from the front, the Specialized's crash-ring design is striking: four tall ribs with wide gaps between them run lengthwise across the head; even from the side, the helmet appears significantly less flat than the Evade. Four large vents at the rear allow air to escape.
Riding without a helmet will likely be less cool than wearing the Prevail. Its cooling effect is extremely pronounced; however, the fresh air also allows flying insects to get in unhindered. Sunscreen is also a must unless you have thick hair and deep roots.
Despite its open shape, the Specialized Prevail 3 offers a high level of safety: The Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings rank it fourth among all road bike helmets. The stability of this helmet, which at times appears quite fragile, is thanks to a carbon skeleton called the Aircage, integrated into the foam body. The struts are clearly visible between the ribs. They ensure that the Prevail retains its shape in a crash. Safety is also enhanced by the "Mips Air Node" padding, which can rotate with rotational movements and is quite thin.
The Specialized sits quite comfortably, but quite high. The retention system can come loose from its guide at the back if pulled too hard; the straps are comparatively narrow, but this doesn't affect comfort. Details like this might lead one to believe that the Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 is a lightweight helmet. At 290 grams in size L (manufacturer specifies 300 grams), however, this isn't really the case. Some road aero helmets are noticeably lighter, which shows how difficult it is to combine optimal ventilation with a high level of safety.
At €290, the Prevail 3 isn't too expensive for an S-Works product. Several color options are available, although not all are currently available.