Motorcycle Gear Reviews: Suomy Vandal Helmet

The Suomy (pronounced "Swa-me") Vandal sets itself apart from other helmets on several fronts. The Vandal is by far the best fitting helmet we have ever reviewed! The venting system is a bit different from most other helmets - using knobs instead of sliding vents.

style

The Suomy Vandal comes in 18 different high detailed graphics. The Atlantic City graphics is one of our favorites. Not everyone is a fan of detailed graphics, and we would have liked to see some more solid color choices, although the staples; silver, black, and red are available.

features

The most impressive feature about the Suomy Vandal, along with several other Suomy helmets - is it's triangulated shape. The helmet's padding actually comes out from the bottom and comes inwards towards the chin. This creates a more secure and comfortable fit. It feels as though the helmet is wrapping itself around your head!

Venting on the Suomy Vandal is different from any other helmet we have reviewed. Instead of using vents that slide open and close the Vandal has two knobs that can be twisted in either direction to increase / decrease the airflow inside the helmet. We tried adjusting these with gloves on and were able to do so but with some concerted effort. Although a bit harder to adjust, the venting system make for a much quieter helmet.

The helmet only comes in two shell sizes. Those with head sizes on the XXS and XXXL side may be disappointed.

The visor is made of a Thermoformed LEXAN polycarbonate which has a anti-scratch and anti-fog coating. The visor has a locking mechanism to avoid it from flying open.

A mesh chin guard can be fitted under the helmet for added protection against debris and wind.

safety

The Vandal is DOT approved in North America, and ECE 22.05 BSI approved in Europe.

quality

The liner has a dynamically variable crush zone. While the shell is made of a Structurally enhanced composite. Following that is fiberglass shell in two different sizes. The visor is made of a Thermoformed LEXAN polycarbonate which has a anti-scratch and anti-fog coating.

show me the money

The Suomy Vandal is priced at a MFSR of USD $299 for solid colors and $369 for detailed graphics.

overall

There is no questioning Suomy's triangulated helmet shape. It is perhaps the best fitting helmets we have ever tried! The venting system, although unique is a bit awkward to adjust. Although it does do the job once you have the knobs in the right position. The visor's anti-scratch and anti-fog coating seems to last and does a great job of keeping the visor clear. We would have liked to see a Snell certification for North America, but considering Suomy is an Italian manufacturer perhaps they are more focused on their European market, hence the ECE and BIS standard certifications.

rating

• Style: 8/10
• Features: 9/10
• Safety: 7/10
• Quality: 8/10
• Price: 9/10
• Overall Value: 8/10