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Pro-Tec Classic Helmet Review

About.com Rating 4

By , About.com Guide

Pro-Tec The Classic Helmet

The Bottom Line

The Pro-Tec "The Classic" helmet is everything you need in a skateboard helmet. The Classic helmet is a re-definition of the "Classic Skate", and sacrifices some comfort for more protection. If you aren't too worried about extra special features on your helmet, but you want one you can trust, The Classic by Pro-Tec is a good choice. The only problem I found was that there are only two sizes available - if you don't fit perfectly into one of these two sizes (like me), you're out of luck.
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Pros

  • Everything you need - tough ABS shell, Stainless Steel rivets, EPS foam lined
  • CPSC certified (that's the government's stamp of approval)
  • 1 year warranty against not just defects, but also damage due to proper use
  • Pro-Tec is one of the biggest, most trusted companies for protection gear

Cons

  • As the cheaper, no frills Pro-Tec helmet, it doesn't have any super sweet features
  • Only two sizes available (S/M or L/XL). And those are really S or L, in my opinion...
  • EPS foam makes for good protection, but not for the best comfort

Description

  • Available in 6 solid colors (black, blue, gray, white, yellow, and red)
  • Availabe in two sizes, S/M and L/XL. If you are a true M or XL, make sure you try on before you buy
  • CPSC certified
  • Tough ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene - think plastic) shell
  • Lined with EPS (Expanded Polystyrene Insulation) foam for extra strong protection
  • Stainless Steel Rivets stamped with the Pro-Tec ace
  • Comes with stickers, plus instructions in nine languages

Guide Review - Pro-Tec Classic Helmet Review

Testing helmets is a lot of fun. We strap 'em on, and smack into stuff. Talk about a fine day's work.

Like I said, The Classic by Pro-Tec is a good, solid, basic helmet that's perfect for skateboarding, biking, blading - whatever. It has the classic profile that doesn't make you look stupid, it will do a good job protecting your noggin, and it is well built out of quality materials.

Pro-Tec says that The Classic is a re-working of the "Classic Skate" helmet. They added an EPS foam liner. EPS is trusted material by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to be used in helmets. I understand that it does a better job than most other basic foams, but it sure isn't comfortable. It's very solid, and doesn't mold to your head at all. The Classic helmet does have a soft foam liner (with a Velcro change out for either L or XL) that sits between the EPS and your head, and makes it a little more comfortable. My problem comes from having a truly XL head. Helmets that are marked as L/XL never fit right - if you are in this boat, I suggest stopping by a skate shop and trying The Classic helmet on before you buy it.

One thing I love about Pro-Tec is their product support. The Classic helmet comes with a one-year warranty. They will replace your helmet if you take a hard slam, scratch it up while using it, anything. I like that.

If you are looking for a basic skate helmet, The Classic is a perfect choice. Just make sure it fits right before you buy one.

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