While it may look similar to its pre-existing Utopia Y aero helmet, Kask says the new Nirvana has been designed from scratch and it’s even faster.
That is mainly thanks to increased coverage at the lower edge of the helmet shell.
This has been designed to shield the rider’s ears, which must surely be one of the most unaerodynamic small body parts, given that their sole job is to stick out and catch sound waves.
While the larger, smoother shell makes it easy to see how it might be faster – a full 35% faster than its nearest competitor, Kask claims, although it remains tight-lipped about which helmet that is – Kask also says the design is significantly cooler.
‘The Nirvana boasts a 19% increase in ventilation over its rivals, and the ear covers play a part in that advantage as well,’ says Alessandro Cernicchi, Kask’s R&D director.
Just as they smooth airflow outside the helmet, the ear cover sections help control air circulation inside the helmet too.
Air is let in by large front vents and further guided by internal channels.
The Nirvana also includes Kask’s Multipod padding, which debuted in the Elemento all-rounder model.
This 3D printed structure is said to behave isotropically, meaning it responds with the same cushioning effect no matter which direction the force is applied, and is Kask’s solution for the rotational impact protection that Mips was designed for.
Standard Kask features such as a faux-leather chinstrap and Octofit+ retention system are included, but these add-ons combined with the shell’s extra surface area don’t seem to have affected the Nirvana’s weight, which is claimed at a competitive 270g for a size medium.
The new Nirvana will be available in Australia in 2024.
AU Price $570
Web: kask.com
