Gear Review: Sweet Protection Rocker Kayak Helmet
Value Rating: 10
Durability Rating: 10
Overall Rating: 10
Location of Test: Oregon whitewater
Duration of Test: 2 months
Product Name: Rocker Kayak Helmet
Product Brand: Sweet Protection
Best Use: Whitewater
ABS Thermoplastic Shell laminated with Thermoplastic Carbon Fiber
EVA Shock Absorbing Liner
CoolMax Liner (Interior)
Shatter Resistant Visor
The Full Review:
A couple of months ago I purchased the Sweet Protection Rocker Kayak Helmet as an upgrade from my outdated whitewater helmet. To put it short, my helmet went from zero to hero in a matter of seconds. Prior to this purchase, I was used to an uncomfortable fit with little to no padding and having a headache after a run was just part of the game. Those days are over. The Rocker is SO comfortable. Fully padded on the inside with plenty of room for adjustment. There is also a very intuitive, easy to use tightness adjustment bar on the back of the helmet. Squeeze both sides and tighten it up, push the release button to loosen it back up. This can easily be done while wearing the helmet. If comfort wasn't enough, this helmet also keeps me warm. Much of my whitewater adventures are done on a SUP so you can imagine how often I am swimming. Often, in case you're unsure. That being said, I'm not getting cold from the shoulders up. The rocker is well insulated and on the flip side, the CoolMax liner does well to keep you cool should you find yourself in warmer conditions. Haven't had the ability to test this out though, PNW life.
The helmet is also extremely bomber proof. It's designed to take several hits while maintaining its durability. The injection molded ABS Thermoplastic laminated carbon fiber shell allows Sweet Protection to finely tune the shape of the helmet while still maintaining the tough rigidity of carbon fiber. In short, it's molded for comfort and tough for impact. The Rocker also comes with an optional shatterproof visor. I opted to attach mine to the helmet and it's been great for those rainy days. Luckily, I haven't had to properly "test" this helmet. No rocks to the head as of late. Should an incident arise however, I feel comfort in knowing that I have the Rocker on my brain bucket.
The Good:
Extremely comfortable
Reinforced with carbon fiber
Removable visor
Plenty of adjustment opportunities
It's sexy. Function and Fashion
The Bad:
Expensive (but worth it)
The Bottom Line:
Rock the Rocker. Protect your brain bucket.