Withstanding the test of time in terms of durability and innovative features, Suomy’s MX Tourer continues to rival top-of-the-line helmets— four years after its release. The MX Tourer’s main advantage is its extremely lightweight Carbon Kevlar shell. This helmet weighs in at three pounds, and is very well balanced front to back. That may not seem significant at first, but after hours or even days of riding, heavier helmets can cause neck strain, premature fatigue, or even injury.

Suomy makes a bold entry to the ADV/enduro market with a helmet that attempts to perform well on- and off-road. For the most part, it needs to provide good air flow, prevent visor fogging at slow speeds, and cut through the wind at higher speeds. The MX Tourer accomplishes all of this with innovative air channels, an optically clear anti-fog faceshield, and a wind tunnel-tested peak visor. Though the peak doesn’t produce much noticeable buffeting, even at highway speeds, it’s easy to remove with the turn of a few screws. The faceshield has a solid feel and positive close, producing no wind noise or gaps. Even standing still and doing my best Darth Vader impression, the anti-fog coating prevented almost all fogging. If you prefer to ride with goggles, the faceshield extends far enough upward to accommodate them comfortably. With the sun in my eyes, a quick flip of a switch lowers an optically correct, tinted visor that eliminates the need for sunglasses. Make sure the helmet is tilted to the proper angle, with the chin low down and back up high, or the bottom edge of the tinted visor will be right in front of your eyes.

Though it may not appear so, the MX Tourer has excellent air flow. The chin guard is far enough away to allow ample air flow to the face. The top vents, which are hidden under the peak visor, pull air through parallel channels running from front to back, letting hot air escape. My only complaint is that they’re always open. It would be great to be able to close the vents in colder weather, but the simplicity of having fewer moving parts adds to the overall durability. During the spring, summer, and fall this helmet is a cool breeze, but can be uncomfortable in winter.

The fit and finish of the MX Tourer simply cannot be compared to lower-end helmets. As soon as it’s pulled on, there’s a noticeable “ahh” moment when it becomes clear that this is how a helmet is supposed to fit. Even when they’re properly sized, many other helmets will either move around slightly or fit too tightly in certain areas causing pressure points. Suomy balanced it so well that it stays in place and doesn’t produce any strain. Several reviewers have mentioned that their helmets run small, but my medium head fits perfectly in its recommended size. Removable interior padding is washable and available in several sizes if you feel the need for a more perfect fit.

It’s difficult to find faults in a helmet of this caliber. At $430 it’s on the higher end of the spectrum, but in all honesty, I think it’s worth every penny. This is a helmet that will fill the place of several single-purpose helmets. Whether you’re touring, enduro riding, or just running an errand, it’ll soon become the helmet you grab first. MSRP: Solids: $399.95 | Graphics: $479.95 Suomy.com

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