The old vapor without the foam is much more durable and shows dirt and grime much less. I understand the appeal of the lighter helmet, but personally I find I can cut weight elsewhere in the alpine. The protection a solid helmet provides also gives some warm fuzzies. I would appreciate if Black Diamond made a model in all foam like the Petzl Sirroco, and a model less "comp" / "speed mountaineering" oriented and had it be a full hardshell. Fit is phenomenal much like the old model, but I would appreciate a one handed magnet buckle (even though they can pick up some iron from the dirt) for when I am wearing gloves.
Drew
3 months ago
Wait For The Next Iteration. . .
I have so many helmets in my garage--ski, kayak, bike, motorcycle--and I know immediately when one just isn't going to work. I've owned two previous Vapors; got the one the very first year it came out and it was my favorite piece of gear. Stayed tight on my head in chimneys, breathed well, and took a number of good smacks from sideways falls. This redesign is a miss. Reading the reviews, it seems like maybe it will fit if you have a certain shaped head--especially large and high domed. I don't, and there was no amount of fussing with the straps that would solve it. The helmet fits on my head, but the straps only adjust in one direction, so that the buckle is never where you want it. I predict another redesign next year. . .
James G.
3 months ago
Lightweight And Comfortable. A Big
Lightweight and comfortable. A big improvement over my old beginner helmet.
Tory M.
6 months ago
Great Helmet
This was my my ultralight choice for a Baker climb. I forgot it was on a few times.
GR
6 months ago
Light, Works Well With Headlamp! Fits Big Head.
Adjust well to my big head ! Comfortable. Headlight strap mounts work well. Lightweight. Best helmet that I have owned.
