New Specialized S-Works helmets The best helmet lineup ever?!

Product news/test: Just in time for this year's Tour de France, Specialized is presenting a completely new helmet lineup. The aim was to be able to offer drivers even more performance advantages and to do so in a way that was tailored to the respective terrain. The portfolio of the new Specialized S-Works helmets includes the S-Works Evade 3, the S-Works Prevail 3 and the S-Works TT5.

The goal of developing the best helmets is only made possible by an energetic team that is involved in the entire development process. At Specialized, this consists of a high-performing team of engineers, product developers, designers, manufacturing technicians and quality control specialists.

When a rider chooses one of the Specialized helmets, they put their full trust in the brand - and Specialized takes this responsibility very seriously. Only the most innovative means are used to achieve the goals: advanced solid modeling, finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid mechanics (CFD), state-of-the-art test laboratories on several continents and feedback from the best racers in the world. In addition, all tests are carried out in our own Win Tunnel, the company's own wind tunnel. The search for the best aerodynamic properties drove the team while also challenging the conventional concepts of impact energy distribution and helmet construction. All of this is combined with the irrepressible will to design, which leaves no detail untouched, and so a high-performance and purpose-oriented set of road bike helmets could be created, which are made especially for racing.

The technologies of the new Specialized S-Works helmets at a glance

According to their own statements, the manufacturer has worked hard to ensure an even more individual fit for optimal comfort with its new Specialized S-Works helmets. Both the S-Works Prevail 3 and the S-Works Evade 3 are equipped with the following systems:

MIPS Air Node technology

The ultra-light and extremely comfortable MIPS Air Node technology is integrated directly into the helmet padding. It consists of a smooth, low-friction layer that effectively dissipates rotational forces. Based on Specialized's development work, MIPS has incorporated perforations into this layer to maximize breathability, performance, comfort and weight savings.

Adjustment to occipital base

The occipital base adjustment system optimizes comfort by allowing the fit of the helmet to be tailored to the individual head shape. In addition, the helmet angle can be changed for better compatibility with different goggles.

Tri-Fix strap system

The Tri-Fix strap system, which can be adjusted in several directions, offers riders additional comfort and individual adjustment options. Redesigned, thinner 10mm belt band minimizes belt noise.

Mindset fine tuning

The ANGi-compatible, ultra-lightweight Mindset fine-tuning system can also be adjusted in height, allowing for the perfect fit. It has been redesigned for better grip and easier handling while riding.

S-Works Evade 3

The Evade is one of the most popular aero helmets and has always been a staple in the Specialized S-Works helmet range. The new Evade 3 is now even better ventilated, because the air exchange is said to have been increased by 10%, and is still just as fast as its predecessor. To make this possible, the new Specialized S-Works helmet has been redesigned from the ground up. This innovation breakthrough was achieved through countless computer simulations in computational fluid dynamics and extensive testing in the Specialized Win Tunnel. The result is a new core element called the "diffuser" that reduces drag and provides larger openings for ventilation.

How much faster is the new S-Works Evade 3 compared to the previous generation S-Works Evade 2 in terms of aerodynamics? With requests from World Tour racers to create an even better performing all-round racing helmet, the focus has been on improving ventilation without sacrificing the aerodynamic strengths the Evade is known for. The aerodynamic gains achieved through the use of diffuser technology in the rear of the helmet compensate for the larger air intake areas at the front of the helmet. The result is that the S-Works Evade 3 retains the aero characteristics of the S-Works Evade 2 while ventilation has been improved by 10%.

The new Specialized S-Works Evade 3 – features

Larger openings in the front for 10% more air exchange
Rear diffuser provides aerodynamic benefits
MIPS Air Node technology ensures an ideal combination with the ventilation properties of the new Specialized S-Works helmets
Tri-Fix strap system ensures better wearing comfort due to more individual adjustment options
All-round shell made of precisely processed polycarbonate ensures increased durability and a high-quality surface
Optimized dual density EPS foam

First riding impressions of the new Specialized S-Works Evade 3

The new Specialized S-Works Evade 3 looks very narrow and long. This is also reinforced by the so-called diffuser, which is intended to ensure first-class aero properties. When it comes to ventilation, the Evade can no longer be beaten, especially not an aero helmet. In our editorial team, the opinion even went so far that the Evade might even be the better alternative when it comes to wind chill. Otherwise, the helmet fits perfectly thanks to Tri-Fix and its adjustment systems.

S-Works Prevail 3

The Prevail has always been the go-to helmet for mountain stages and hot days. The new Prevail 3 claims to be the best ventilated helmet the US manufacturer has ever developed. Accordingly, the S-Works Prevail 3 should be perfect for all riders who appreciate the comfort and temperature regulation benefits of a superior ventilation system. It is the ultimate all-round helmet that wants to excel in hot conditions, strenuous climbs and mountain stages. To make this possible, the airflow-blocking foam bridge in the center of the helmet was removed, creating the air channels that increase the ventilation area by 24,5% compared to the S-Works Prevail II Vent.

The traditional approach to helmet design is that more foam (EPS) results in better energy management. However, Specialized has dealt with more than just the foam for the new Prevail in order to push the topic even more innovatively. Woven aramid "cables" run through the helmet and are attached to carbon fiber side panels. In the event of an impact, the so-called AirCage technology works on the same principle as suspension bridges and distributes local forces over the entire helmet. The AirCage technology is also patent pending.

The new Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 – features

Aircage technology for increased airflow
All-round shell made of precisely processed polycarbonate for increased durability and high-quality finishes
MIPS Air Node technology ensures an ideal combination with the ventilation properties of the new Specialized S-Works helmets
Tri-Fix strap system ensures better wearing comfort due to more individual adjustment options
Occipital base adjustment system optimizes comfort and compatibility with glasses
ANGI Compatible Mindset System for better grip and easier handling while riding

First riding impressions of the Specialized S-Works Prevail 3

Visually, the new S-Works Prevail 3 looks very classy. Both the matt surface and the badge with the S-Works lettering make a lot. The fit of the new Prevail is slightly different than its predecessor, as the new Specialized S-Works helmet sits a little higher this time, which means it doesn't go quite as far over the head. According to our taste, the comfort of the fit was again right at the top and left nothing to be desired, because the padding was also kept very minimalistic. Due to the extremely large ventilation openings, the head is strongly in the wind when driving, since the long inlets are only interrupted by very narrow bars. This is very pleasant, especially on hot summer days, as long as you take care of sun protection, in autumn, spring and winter the whole thing should look a little different and you have to grab a hat.

S-Works TT5 time trial helmet

For years, Specialized has partnered with the world's fastest racers to create products that contribute to victories in the world's greatest races. The S-Works TT 5 is an excellent example of this development approach. Remco Evenepoel and Kasper Asgreen of WorldTour Team Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl spent countless hours in the Win Tunnel developing the fastest TT helmet ever made by Specialized.

Using CFD models, the helmet team reshaped the TT helmet and positioned the rear of the helmet closer to the rider's shoulders. This reduces the air vortex and thus also the air resistance. For smoother internal airflow, the helmet has an integrated aero head sock that compresses the rider's ears and hair, optimizing aerodynamics inside the helmet. For one of the Quick-Step pros, this helmet saved a total of 40 seconds over 26 kilometers.