Fox Proframe RS – In our lightweight and convertible full-face helmet comparison test 2023
FOX is currently one of the most popular clothing and protection manufacturers in the mountain bike sector. The Proframe RS full-face helmet is intended to be your all-purpose weapon – a versatile companion for all types of trails, from gnarly enduro tech routes to fast bike park routes. How did it perform compared to the competition in our 2023 full-face helmet comparison test?
Although the Proframe RS is the lightest full-face helmet in the FOX portfolio at 917 g in size L, it is the second heaviest helmet in the entire test field after the Giro Insurgent DH. However, at 320 euros, it is also one of the cheapest competitors despite its numerous high-tech features. The holding system, developed in collaboration with BOA, has a finely graduated rotary wheel and thus ensures a large adjustment range. In contrast to more traditional helmet retention systems, the BOA uses thin nylon cords instead of wide plastic straps. The adjustment wheel on the back of the full-face helmet is integrated into the shell and can therefore be accessed quickly and easily even when wearing gloves and safety glasses. The system is not only intelligently integrated into the shell, but also well thought out and allows for up to four occipital steps. Fox also includes two sets of cheek pads to customize the fit to your anatomy. Designed to protect against rotational forces on the brain, the MIPS Integra Split Liner was designed specifically for Fox and is integrated into the helmet rather than attached to the shell. In addition, the inner lining is divided in the middle, which ensures better freedom of movement in the helmet. The magnetic Fidlock closure system on the chin strap can be operated quickly and easily with one hand and the visor can be adjusted to three positions.
When you wear the Fox Proframe RS for the first time, you will notice that it runs quite large and size L is suitable for a head circumference of up to 61 cm. Whatever size you choose, the shape is long and narrow, meaning you’ll need to strap the Proframe RS tightly to ensure a good fit – and even then, some of our testers had a noticeable gap at the back of their heads. Regardless of the position of the holding system, the chin straps rubbed against the ears of some testers, which can be quite uncomfortable.
On the trail, the Proframe RS inspires a lot of confidence, but doesn’t offer the highest level of comfort, leaving you feeling like your head is resting directly on the nylon laces or the bare shell – a harsh feeling that can only be improved by doing something Adds padding. However, the ventilation is excellent and ensures a pleasant indoor climate even on long summer days – even with glasses.
The Fox Proframe RS looks cool and, at 320 euros, is also the cheapest competitor in the entire test field despite numerous clever features. The lightweight full-face helmet from FOX is rather large and is not particularly comfortable to wear, so you feel as if your head is lying directly on the shell and the holding system. Although it’s not the lightest full-face helmet on the market at 917g, it gives you plenty of confidence on the trail.
Tops
- Fidlock holding system easy and intuitive to use
- Cheapest helmet in the entire comparison test
- Good ventilation
Flops
- Relatively heavy
- Not the most comfortable one out there
- Strange shape
For more information visit foxracing.com.
For an overview of the group test: 9 lightweight and convertible full-face mountain bike helmets tested
All full-face helmets tested: Bell jar Super Air R Spherical (Click to review) | Bluegrass Vanguard Core Edition (Click for review) | Fox Proframe RS | giro Insurgent (Click for review) | MET Parachute MCR (Click here to read a review) | POC Otocon Race MIPS (Click for review) | Specialized Gambit (Click for review) | Troy Lee Designs Stage (Click for review) | Uvex Revolt MIPS (Click for review)
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Words: Simon Kohler Photos: Peter Walker
