Kong Scarab, $117, 10 ounces
Summary: “Straight out of Milan” is how one tester described the Kong Scarab’s appearance. This bike-hemet-style polystyrene model was easily the most exotic-looking lid in the test — the helmet’s well-shrouded vents do indeed remind one of a scarab. Aside from the excellent ventilation, the Scarab also earns top marks for comfort, with a generous — but not chunky — layer of padding inside, and a padded chin strap. While the fit system was very easy to adjust, there were occasional problems with the push-and-rotate button popping open when bumped. Headlamps were difficult to put on and difficult to adjust for position, due to the headlamp clamps also functioning as the end points of the chin strap. Ponytail wearers may have issues with the rear of the suspension.
Pros: Comfortable; easy to adjust.
Cons: Adjustment dial can pop open.
Overall grade: A-
Kong/Advanced Basecamp: (888) 902-5462, www.advancedbasecamp.com

Test Results:

Black Diamond Half Dome
C.A.M.P. Silver Star
Cassin Astral
Edelrid Ultralight
HB Dyneema
Kong Scarab
Lucky Alpha
Petzl Ecrin Roc
Petzl Elios
Simond Bumper

About UIAA and CE helmet certification

Kong Scarab, $117, 10 ounces
Summary: “Straight out of Milan” is how one tester described the Kong Scarab’s appearance. This bike-hemet-style polystyrene model was easily the most exotic-looking lid in the test — the helmet’s well-shrouded vents do indeed remind one of a scarab. Aside from the excellent ventilation, the Scarab also earns top marks for comfort, with a generous — but not chunky — layer of padding inside, and a padded chin strap. While the fit system was very easy to adjust, there were occasional problems with the push-and-rotate button popping open when bumped. Headlamps were difficult to put on and difficult to adjust for position, due to the headlamp clamps also functioning as the end points of the chin strap. Ponytail wearers may have issues with the rear of the suspension.
Pros: Comfortable; easy to adjust.
Cons: Adjustment dial can pop open.
Overall grade: A-
Kong/Advanced Basecamp: (888) 902-5462, www.advancedbasecamp.com

Test Results:

Black Diamond Half Dome
C.A.M.P. Silver Star
Cassin Astral
Edelrid Ultralight
HB Dyneema
Kong Scarab
Lucky Alpha
Petzl Ecrin Roc
Petzl Elios
Simond Bumper

About UIAA and CE helmet certification