rh+ combines weight, ventilation and aerodynamics for its 2020 road helmets
rh+, a brand firmly rooted in the performance cycling and ski market, has a new helmet collection for summer 2020
Following on from the launch of the new Super Light Project jersey collection, rh+ returns with the launch of its new helmet collections; AIR XTRM & Z2in1.
The new range of helmets have been designed following the rules of aerodynamics, but also with a focus on ventilation and weight. The new range aims to please all enthusiast riders who are in the market for a high-performance helmet with a focus on weight, comfort and ventilation. rh+, using its experience from working with professional teams such as pro continental outfit Wanty Group Gobert and Alberto Contador's foundation team.
The all-new AIR XTRM is a road performance helmet sitting at the top of the rh+ helmet range with a focus on ventilation. The helmet is a low profile design with 14 forward-facing vents for maximum airflow. Fit is taken care of with the evolution of the Power-Fit 2 fitting system, given an even slimmer design and enhanced support to provide more stability. The fit system provides three levels of vertical adjustment along with an almost-infinite horizontal adjustment to ensure the perfect fit. The sleek Italian style makes the low profile helmet perfect for long days on the bike where comfort, ventilation and aerodynamics are your concerns.
Often an area overlooked by manufacturers, but not so in this case, there is an all-new strap design with straps made from a structured mesh that allows your skin to breathe and not cause discomfort. rh+ has also taken care of visibility with reflective detailing throughout to improve low-light safety. Helmets with a lightweight design can often wear unnecessarily quickly due to the materials used in manufacture, but for the new AIR XTRM, rh+ has used an in-moulded polycarbonate shell which increases the helmet's strength while also making the helmet less susceptible to abrasions caused by wear and tear.
The second helmet announced as part of the 2020 range is the new Z2in1. One of the lightest helmets available on the market, the Z2in1 prioritises comfort and ventilation, and features many of the same design technologies as the AIR XTRM, including the polycarbonate shell, the Power FIT 2 system, and reflective details to aid with visibility. Both helmets also feature removable and washable anallergic 3D printed padding that wicks sweat away.
The styling of the Z2in1 is more casual than that of the AIR XTRM so it will appeal to a broad market. It features a removable visor and, when removed, the Z2In1 wouldn’t look out of place in a fast-paced bunch ride or race, yet with the visor fitted it adds the practicality and function for off-road, casual or commuter use.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Peter has been riding and racing road, CX, and mountain bikes since the early 2000’s. He spent a decade working at a large independent bicycle shop, handling customer service, warranty and technical questions. Thanks to an obsession with product details he loves nothing more than picking over the newest tech.
Peter is a fastidious mechanic and will not settle for anything less than perfect when it comes to bike setup, whether it be a child first bike or a highly integrated top-tier time trial or road bike.
He’s been writing for Cyclingnews since 2020 as a Contributing Writer, where having a 50km commute to his day job allows him to quickly rack up the miles when putting any new products to the test in all weathers.
He currently rides one of the following: Specialized Tarmac SL6, Basso Diamate, Talbot Frameworks steel road, Trek Emonda ALR, Specialized Crux, Santa Cruz Tallboy.