Specialized Propero

All helmets sold in the United States must meet Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) safety standards, so an expensive bike helmet will not necessarily provide better head protection than a cheaper helmet. However, performance bicycle helmets designed for serious cyclists have two things going for them -- they are very lightweight and have large amounts of ventilation. In this category, the Specialized Propero (*Est. $110) gets numerous recommendations for performance and value. The helmet meets both CPSC and Snell Memorial Foundation B-90 safety standards, and it comes in three sizes for a more precise fit. Multiple reviewers say the Specialized Propero is very comfortable, and it is said to be a good choice for either road cyclists or mountain bikers. Specialized helmets are somewhat harder to find than Bell or Giro bike helmets, but you can find them in a local bike shop or online at www.specialized.com. The Specialized Propero comes in both men's and women's colors. If you can't spend this kind of money on a bike helmet, reviewers also like the Giro Indicator (*Est. $40). It's not as light or well-ventilated as the Specialized Propero, but it's considerably less expensive.

The Specialized Propero helmet is reviewed by a number of sources, including RoadCyclingUK.com, Bicycling and Women's Adventure magazines. Each of these sources tests the helmet for fit and comfort, and RoadCyclingUK.com provides a pretty in-depth overview. In addition, the Specialized Propero helmet is reviewed briefly by Outside magazine and the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute. Unfortunately, there are few owner-written reviews available for this helmet.