I just got myself a new Predator Lee and must say that I was very impressed with the outfitting. I read that Predator helmets fit big heads and my head is rather huge, so I thought I'd give it a try. Indeed, it fits perfectly - if I take out all the extra outfitting that is

So I can't really use the outfitting myself, but I was impressed by the amount of fitting patches and double-micro-velcro strips that came with it and would make custom outfitting extremely easy.

This was my first new kayaking helmet in many years, so I can't really compare it to other brands, so I hope you guys and girls know: is this typical for Predator or is this pretty much standard for kayaking helmets these days?

I have a large strangely square head. I have a predator sidecut because it was literally the only helmet in the shop that fit. The fit pads seemed great until i found that the open cell foam ones become less springy and seem to shrink when they are wet, making the helmet extremely loose. This is not a fun thing to find out when rolling on a low volume rapid... Luckily a bit of chopping and gluing with the thinner pads now keeps it nice and secure on my deformed noggin.

None of the other affordable helmets at the time had any real adjustment option but the expensive ones did. I was looking forward to the release of the WRSI helmet in the uk but it seems that Im in the 2% of people that it wont fit <--(Attempt to customise head to fit helmet)

I actually prefer the fit system in the Predator Trinity. I like the rear head retention (think bike helmet). I know Shred Ready does something similar in their helmets. As far as all the little foam patches and velcro strips it is fairly standard for a one size fits all design. Sized helmets don't come with as much but I guess they figure that you buy a size that fits your pretty good already and then just barely tweek it.

This is slightly off-topic, and I apologize, hopefully Jeroen won't have my head on a big sharp pointy stick for it . . . *gulps, steps forward, takes the plunge*

What do people think are the most important parts of helmet outfitting? For context, I'm in the process of making my own helmet, and am almost done my shell, and still considering how I will strap it on. At this point I'm think two V's leading down to a chin strap (with the V's coming down on either side of one's ear), and a strap across the back, linking those V's to provide some retention at the back. I'm waffling between using thin (probably 5mm) climbing rope, or then standard nylon webbing stuff (1.5 cm or whatever) for said straps. Any input would be appreciated.

I also want to say, since I've gotten some flak before, that I'm not making my own helmet out of desire for a cheap helmet, but rather out of desire for a really beautiful and safe helmet that I made with my own hands. If there's a componay that sells outfitting kits, I'll gladly check them out.

[quote:362567a283="Mudshark"]This is slightly off-topic, and I apologize, hopefully Jeroen won't have my head on a big sharp pointy stick for it . . . *gulps, steps forward, takes the plunge*[/quote:362567a283]

let's leave your head on for now, otherwise your new helmet won't have a lot of practical value really... but i think you should rather start a new topic for this. i'll leave your post on for another day, so you can copy-paste the text into a new topic. that ok?

Mudshark making his own helmet. Cool. Use the webbing as you will find it hard to get buckles to fit round shaped climbing rope. Also, the rope is hard to attach to helmet - you have to open it up and fan it out and epoxy it to inside of the shell like the anchors on a slalom C-1. To find rivets try horse riding shops - they sell ok parts called post nuts(locktight them though)

the helmet should fit snug and stay on when you hang your head upsidedown by bending over with the chinstrap undone. The rear straps are supposed to be only for fitting different size heads easier - the chinstrap should be snug enough to engage before any rear strap comes into play to stop roll back. Again, straps at back don't stop roll back on the front if the chinstrap is loose like most of us wear it.

Buy an old Predator helmet for cheap and use the EVA foam padding as it is the best and most suitable for your helmet.


Good luck.
Matt
www.predatorhelmets.com