IXS Trail RS: Flashy helmet for trail hunting

With the IXS Trail RS enduro helmet, the Swiss are trying to bridge the gap between cross-country and enduro. Our test shows whether the balancing act between good ventilation and low weight on the one hand and increased protection on the other is successful.

At first glance, the successful look of the helmet is particularly noticeable. In addition to the blue version we tested, a bright green, fire red is also available, and if you prefer something more subtle, you can also choose plain black or white. In addition to the color, the 22 fairly large ventilation openings also catch the eye. In this regard, the IXS Trail RS is actually very reminiscent of a cross country helmet. Like most representatives of its class, however, the Trail RS offers additional protection for the back of the head thanks to the rear section that is pulled low. Our test helmet in size S/M weighs in at 322g, which is not exactly light, but is still quite acceptable.

The Ergo-Fit Ultra headband system developed by IXS ensures that the helmet can be adapted to almost any head shape. In addition to the now almost obligatory rotary wheel on the back of the head for adjusting the head circumference, the Trail RS also offers the option of varying the height of the harness system in three stages.

The practical test shows that IXS with the Trail RS manages the balancing act mentioned at the beginning, at least to a large extent. The Ergo-Fit Ultra system is a bit fiddly to set up at first, but once you find the right position, the Trail RS fits like a glove. The ventilation through the 22 openings and the internal air ducts works well, although after a while it naturally gets significantly warmer under the helmet than under lighter representatives from the cross-country area - in return, the rear part that is pulled low gives a pleasantly safe feeling Feeling.

And finally ...

The new helmet from IXS lives up to its name. The Trail RS is just the right head protection for people who are always on the hunt for the next single trail, but also like to put up with a steep climb. The balance between weight, feeling of security and ventilation is successful and the fit is also convincing.