WA
306 posts
My manera is the best helmet I've had, and I've tried loads, light, great for impacts, used with and without hood, when I used to have to helmets. Plus I've noticed less whiplash and bucketing in wipeouts. Highly recommend.
QLD
20 posts
I like the Manera too - its light weight, low profile and simplicity. I bought the L because the M felt a bit snug - if I was buying again I'd get the M. It now feels slightly too big - not sure if the helmet has 'eased' over time or if I was having a 'big head day' when I tried them on.
252 posts
Been wearing the oakley WTR helmet for the past month and it is all I will be wearing from now on. My gath will no longer be used.
877 posts
Reposting a mini overview of the Oakley WTR Icon that I wrote. Note that I just got the WTR Icon and haven't had the opportunity to try it on the water yet.
Pros:
- Very comfortable. Feels very secure and comfortable on my (large) head. The adjustment ratchet cradles my head well and the ear/jaw piece is snug, but not uncomfortable at all. I am confident that the helmet will stay secure in all crashes and will not move around at all.
- Very adjustable. My head is the very large end of the size range for the large size, and while it probably wont fit me over a hood, it fits very well without a hood and the adjustment ratchet has a big range. The range will probably work over a hood for most people.
- Tons of drainage. Don't expect any "bucketing" effect with this design.
- Zero hearing compromise.
- Fairly lightweight, while also having good impact protection. There is an stiff external skeleton shell, standard impact foam, then waterproof fitting foam inside.
- Pretty low profile. Doesn't feel like a bobble head in terms of size or weight. Won't substantially increase surface area (won't increase impact due to large size against water).
Cons:
- Adjustment ratchet feels a little flimsy. Pretty standard mechanism from a bike helmet. It shouldn't take much abuse, but time will tell how well it holds up. The rest of the helmet feels very robust and durable.
- I had some concerns about the design of the drainage holes and their compromise for a foil strike. In person, I don't see any realistic situation where a foil would come through the drainage holes, but the area above the ear is a bit exposed.
- Comparatively quite expensive, but I expect it will last for several years and it definitely feels like a "premium" quality product.
Other Observations:
- The ear protectors can snap out. I will wear them for the protection and don't see any downside having them on there.
- It would be nice if it had a fidlock type buckle at this pricepoint. The buckle isn't removable so I can't switch it out.
- Nowhere to add a Gopro mount if that matters to you (doesn't matter to me).
- External shell feels very solid. Doesn't flex like some other helmets (Gath).
- Pretty badass looking design. Low profile and won't stand out like the Simba helmet, but it looks pretty cool to me.
86 posts
I've been using the Oakley WTR Icon for 6 days now (mix of prone and wing in waves).Paid full price for it.Never used a helmet before for watersports.
Super light, super comfy, I can't feel it.I use SurfEars, sunglasses and a cap under it and my rashguard's hood on top of it.
Everything fits well and comfortably without pressure points.
Falls are definitely less unpleasant.No brainer purchase
I picked one up for the girlfriend.