I was extremely impressed the first time I picked-up the MX436 Pioneer. It felt light, balanced and solid. The multi-dimensional, aggressively angled shell shape is gorgeous. All of the color options available are attractive and LS2 did a great job styling the interior as well. The areas most visible from the outside are accented with florescent orange air webbing to accentuate the helmet’s premium look and feel.



The Pioneer was true to sizing and consistent with other manufacturers. The quick release chin strap took some getting used to and compared to a traditional double D-loop system it feels stiff. I thought it was going to become uncomfortable but it never bothered me on my test ride. The MX436 is comfortable and the visor doesn’t cause any significant drag or buffeting, even at highway speeds.

In the open position, the face shield peaks high and it’s easy to accidentally grab the visor instead. Opening and closing the shield past the locked setting requires a substantial amount of force but a little practice made one-handed operation quick and easy. The Twin Shield system is optically correct but has small waves in it, enough to make me a little nauseous for the first minute of riding, but my eyes are able to adjust before I leave my neighborhood. The sunshade works easily but I wish it came down about half an inch lower as it sits just under my line of sight. I enjoy the helmet best with goggles which fit great since the windshield pivot point is mounted high.



The Pioneer works best in warm to hot weather since the top and rear vents don’t close. The chin vent is closable and offers a generous amount of airflow to your face when opened. Above 30 mph the wind noise becomes significant whether the visor is open or closed. This wasn’t a big deal for me since I usually listen to music or wear ear plugs, but those who are seeking a quite helmet for long distance highway cruising may want to look elsewhere. There's so much wind noise that a comms system on the Pioneer would probably be useless at highway speeds. 

Hands down this is one of the safest helmets in its category’s price-point. If your dual-sport ride involves more dirt than asphalt, this is a great, balanced, and breathable helmet, making the MX436 Pioneer a sensible helmet whether you’re on a budget or not.

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