Triple 8 Compass

Field Notes: Well-balanced from the start, this in-mold construction biking helmet feels solid in all riding positions from upright (bar-top) to tuck. Interior padding is the Goldilocks “just right” thickness and is reduced to an absolute minimum to prevent heat build-up. This interior EPS foam is contoured to promote positive, manageable airflow in one of the best topographies among helmets under test.

The headband tension system is incremental, positive and sure-locking, particularly in a helmet well under $100. Outside, non-adjustable, elliptical venting ports suit riding at moderate speeds as 12 ports avoid heat build-up from forehead to the nape of the neck. The Compass’ swivel at the bottom of the chin strap improves chin comfort by 50% by being able to adjust while riding without taking the helmet off to change strap length. Apart from the swivel, chin straps and click-to-close clasp are simple, solid and standard. Ear cut-out allow unobstructed hearing—and boost protection behind the ear including the upper spine. Along with the brim design, the helmet’s shape is ideal for sunglass wear, even of larger, Ray Ban-style frames. 

The visor is essentially non-removable but is easily managed with wet or gloved hands. And testers found the variable visor angle is pure genius as it accounts for personal preferences and minimize the visor’s interruption of forward view while in a more aggressive riding stance: travel is about 1”, secured by a knurled screw. Icon-shaped punch-outs on the visor add a playful sense of branding along with functionality as they reduce speed-induced pressure on the large visor surface. Visibility is solid and balances field of view against eye and face protection ideal in commuting and road bike helmets.

Styling has a European, almost Scandinavian feel to it that will suit both conventional and e-bikes. Clever branding includes forward vent perforations shaped in the Triple 8 icon and rear horizontal graphics only about 4” wide. By all appearances, the back of the cycling helmet’s venting and contours hint at the faces of a chorus of happy, singing aliens (no controlled substances were used to come to this epiphany). Color choices in Gun Matte, Black Matte and Orange glossy are adequate in the one-sized product for 54-60cm diameter heads that does exclude larger-diameter heads. This Triple 8 helmet meets US CPSC Bike Certified standards

Tester Comments: “Among the most thoughtfully-engineered helmets in this Guide, Compass uses well-considered materials and construction methods to make the most of every ounce and square inch. To me, the design is an instant winner that never makes me think twice about wearing a helmet. And that’s a good thing.”

Key Attribute: Venting