The Fox Proframe is a reasonably priced full-face helmet with exceptional ventilation and a respectably lightweight. It is also more affordable than other carbon DH Helmets we tested. The enduro race scene has progressed over the last few years, and the helmet market needs to follow suit. Full face protection is required for the timed downhill sections but not for linked climbs or transfer stages. Helmets with removable chin bars have burst onto the scene in recent years. These convertible helmets provide full-face protection while offering the versatility of a lighter weight trail helmet when the chin bar is removed. For some riders, this style works great, but for other riders, they would prefer the security and safety of a chin bar. This is where the Proframe comes into play.
Fox Racing Proframe Review
Compare prices at 2 resellers Pros: Convenient magnetic fidlock buckle, light weight, giant bore vents for circulation
Cons: Fixed visor, limited chin strap mobility,
Manufacturer: Fox Racing
Our Verdict
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Our Analysis and Test Results
The Fox Proframe sits at the ultimate intersection of protection, ventilation, and weight offered at an impressive price tag. The Proframe is the lightest and most breathable full face mountain bike helmet that Fox has ever created. With open-faced breathability and downhill certified protection, it gives you the flexibility to do it all.
Performance Comparison
Comfort
After hearing and reading great reviews about the comfort levels of the new Proframe helmet, we were anxious to see what the hype was all about.
From the first moment, we could instantly notice the lightweight breathability of the Proframe. This helmet feels distinctively different than a full-face lid. We rode this helmet in all conditions. From desert heat to humid British Columbia, we put the ventilation to the test. The results were awe-inspiring.
Protection
The Fox Impact Absorbing Integrated chin bar is secured to the main helmet structure with their patent-pending system and meets ASTM Downhill standards, plus the MIPS increases protection against the rotational motion to the brain caused by angled impacts - which we accidentally tested while boosting a 30ft hip and overshooting to flat.
After the impact, we self-diagnosed that the Proframe can absorb an impact just as hard as any helmets that we tested.
Weight
Our medium Proframe weighs in at an airy 25.9 ounces. This weight is competitive with the other lightweight enduro focused helmets in this review. It feels light on your head and doesn't cause any neck fatigue like you might experience with other heavier lids.
The one thing we need to make sure and add here is - the Proframe is geared towards Enduro riders. That said, it still holds up fine on big lines in the desert. We felt secure in all situations despite the lighter weight.
Ventilation
We understand that the Proframe design caters to enduro racers, but we put it to the test in the biggest big mountain terrain on the planet - in Virgin, UT. We hiked massive spine ridges in 80-degree temperatures, and there was never any need to take the helmet off. The Proframe is very comfortable and breathable. The 15 big bore intake vents and nine exhaust vents make the Proframe one of the lightest and most breathable DH-approved mountain bike helmets on the market today.
Visor
The securely fixed visor is positioned perfectly to ram maximum airflow into the big bore vents. Unfortunately, it isn't adjustable which makes stashing your goggles on your head less convenient than other models in this review.
The visor is a great shape and size, but we hope to see the Proframe include an adjustable visor in the future.
Extras
The Fidlock SNAP helmet buckle provides quick entry and exit while wearing gloves with maximum security when locked.
The only negative feedback was the lack of chinstrap mobility. We maxed out the chinstrap on the medium helmet tested; if you have a bulky neck cause or a somewhat large chin, you might want to consider another helmet or try it on before buying to make sure it fits.
Value
The Proframe is a solid value for a lightweight and well ventilated full face helmet with DH certification. There are less expensive helmets out there, and if you're looking for the best value, you'll find it in the 7Protection M1, though you'll sacrifice a bit in terms of weight and ventilation.
Conclusion
If you're enduro racer and are looking for a lightweight full-face lid, this is your helmet. If you're a DH rider who fiends for chair laps at your local mountain, this is your helmet. If you're a freerider that loves digging and shredding new trail, this is your helmet. It's a great choice for any rider on any terrain.
— Dustin Schaad