The realm of convertible helmets has a new contender. As the name suggests, Leatt’s DBX 3.0 Enduro helmet seems like the right lid for enduro riding.
With its sharp looks, angular removable chin bar, and unique Turbine technology, this helmet is a very welcome option against the powerhouse Bell Super 3R MIPS. This helmet was purchased from Mountain Bikes Direct. An interesting note is that this did not come with the advertised magnetic Fidlock clasp in the chin strap. I was informed that this design feature was omitted since it did not meet the Australian Safety Standard. Very strange!
So, convertible lids. Enter two for the price of… two. The Leatt DBX 3.0 Enduro is not downhill certified placing it within the same realm as the Super 3R MIPS. Enduro rides encompass a mixture of terrain, downhill included, at higher levels of fatigue in most cases. In such conditions, a full certified DH helmet is in my opinion a must. Also in my opinion ,the Leatt would better suit the trail rider who has a tendency to ride aggressively but not at the max speeds downhill riders or bike park flyers hit.
Leatt have provided an interesting solution to minimising damage caused by rotational force to the brain during impact. They call it their 360 degree Turbine Technology. The 11.1g round plastic turbines are made of a 3D In-Molded V Foam designed to absorb impact by compressing and sliding during a collision. Think of it acting as the bubble wrap in a box, wrapped around a crystal vase. On impact, the bubble wrap both creates leeway in a restricted space as well as help minimise the direct blunt force transitioning directly toward the vase.
The aesthetic junkies would get a positive kick out of the overall size of this helmet. It is in fact quite “slim” with less bulk. This prevents the mushroom head look that is common with
As with many new terms that seem to pop up in the mtb industry, each facet of the market seem to be covered by singular titles. So you ride a mountain bike you say. Oh, are you a XC, Trail, Trials, Downhill, or Enduro rider? Grab a ticket and move along the line please. I used to hear about a time when bikes were clipped in death traps and daring dukes would ride downhill, across long stretches, then trick out in carparks. They used to just be called mountain bikers. Savage times for the savage man and woman.
