Ventilation came first and foremost for MET when they created this helmet – and they wanted to take a new approach to that which is seen elsewhere: namely lots of vents. Instead, they wanted to maximize the performance of the vents they did have to ensure they were working at their optimum. Size-wise, this test model is a medium, which fits a head size of 52-58cm, while a large comes with a 59-62cm circumference. There are seven colour choices. Italian brand MET have been targeting the female audience of late, adding ‘Small’ sizes in many models that were previously only available in Medium or Large. Initially I was disappointed to hear that in the case of the Strale they’d chosen to maintain a ‘Medium’ as the smallest version. However, I was told being a compact lid designed to suit a 52 to 58 circumference, women would be catered for, and true enough a Medium did fit my genuinely tiny noggin (albeit with the retention system almost at its max). Make sure your straps have been adjusted to sit around your ears and do up securely but not tightly under your chin. What is MIPS?

In total, the Strale contains fourteen vents – the pivotal airflow provider being a wide channel at the centre. The central cut out is so important it even has a name: the NACA vent. This has been designed around the ‘Venturi effect’ which in brief refers to the reduction in pressure when fluid flows through a constricted area. In more human terms, the idea is that cool air flows through the narrow area created, before being pushed out of the wider ducts located at the rear. There are side vents too, but all of them are directed to the large rear section, where hot air can be directed away from the rider. All helmets sold in the UK pass the required CE safety tests, so what more are you looking for in terms of endorsement? Did you ask for crash test photos or impact videos when you bought your car? If not why is it an issue here?

MET Strale highlights

Two of the vents at the front are said to be a sunglasses port, but to be honest they are just positioned in a place that suits the width of the arms – there is no real retention there. If you are climbing that should be no real issue, but if the road is rough or you are moving around a lot you might find that your glasses are going to get acquainted with the tarmac soon enough. Value

What is your budget? There are fantastic helmets at all price points and you can be reassured that all MET helmets pass CE and BSI safety standards. However, if you can afford more, it does mean you can choose enhanced features, such as MIPS technology. the MET Rivale helmets with NACA ventilation opening, 360° head harness and openings for sunglasses availability. In this case we recommend to consider alternative items from the BIKE24 product range. We researched other brands and found that they were appalling quality straight out of the box and often more expensive too. Chain reaction Cycles and CRC are trading names of Wiggle Ltd (In Administration) registered in the United Kingdom at 1000 Lakeside, Suite 310, Third Floor N E Wing, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 3EN,Low in weight, the medium size tips the scales at just 255 grams. This compact helmet is both unobtrusive and up there in style with some of the industry's leading options. Finance is subject to application, financial circumstances and borrowing history. Performance Cycling Limited FRN: 720557 trading as Tredz are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a credit broker not a lender – credit is subject to status and affordability and is provided by Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Terms & Conditions Apply. These two gentlemen could not be any more accommodating if they tried, quality service that is a rare find in today’s crazy world, I can not recommend this company enough! From the Italian helmet experts, the MET Strale Road Helmet is designed to be comfortable and incredibly well ventilated for riding in a range of conditions.