Fox Proframe Review
In this post, I’ll review the Fox Proframe mountain bike helmet. I recently bought one and have worn it while riding enduro routes, downhill trails, and on sweaty rides home from the bike park.
Learn all about the Fox Proframe and if it is what you are looking for.
What Is The Fox Proframe Mountain Bike Helmet?
The Fox Proframe is a full-face trail helmet designed for all-mountain riders and enduro racers. It is lightweight, comfortable, and has several features that make it a great all-round full-face mountain bike helmet.
Why I Chose The Fox Proframe Over A New Bell Super 3R
After serving me well for about six years, I decided to swap my Bell Super 3R for a For Proframe mountain bike helmet. You should change your helmet every five years, as they deteriorate and compromise protection. But I wore the Bell a lot, and the insides started to show wear and tear, making it very insecure on my head, especially with the chin bar removed.
As my Bell Super 3R was passed it, I decided I needed to get a new helmet quickly. Fox is one of the most prevalent brands sold in several local bike shops. So I knew I could try one on and take it away that day.
I was tempted to buy the new version of the Bell Super 3R, as it was super-comfortable for several years until recently. However, I questioned if I needed a convertible helmet with a removable chin bar. This is because I rarely took the chin bar off. Also, I knew I could still get a well-ventilated and lightweight full-face helmet for enduro and downhill rides.
First Impressions Of The Fox Proframe
My first impressions of the Fox Proframe were good. Its weight feels similar to the Bell Super 3R, which impressed me, as it is a very lightweight mountain bike helmet. It also has MIPS, which gives me a little more peace of mind, which I hope I don’t have to use.
It also looks super cool. I really like the aesthetics of this mountain bike helmet, especially as it comes in a range of styles. I kept it simple and went for a stealthy matt black.
Fit
When I first slipped the Fox Proframe over my ears, I was more than happy with the comfort, although it was a little tight. But after replacing the inner pads with smaller ones, I could fine-tune the fit to perfection. You get a few different-sized pads with your helmet, so you can select the best combination for your head shape and size. This is also handy if the original pads pack out, as you can replace them with larger ones.
The 2023 version takes customizing the fit to the next level, as it has a BOA dial on the back. This allows you to tweak the helmet’s fit on the fly.
Features
Here’s a rundown of the Fox Proframe’s features and how they work:
Protection
Fox has made the Proframe to give you peace of mind when riding. They have done this by including MIPS in its construction. This system reduces rotational forces when you crash, protecting your neck.
The Fox Proframe also has a Dual-density Varizorb EPS liner. This improves impact absorption, protecting your head.
Ventilation
I live halfway up a mountain, so no matter which way I go, I’m either starting or ending on a big climb. However, the Fox Proframe is very well-ventilated, so when I ride to and from the bike park (about an hour away), I still get plenty of air coming in through the helmet.
It doesn’t quite have the feel of an open-face helmet, but it’s not far off. It has 8 big bore vents and 7 exhaust vents, maximizing airflow, including a huge one in the chin bar. However, it would be best if you remembered to keep your mouth shut, as there is no mesh over the vents, creating the possibility of swallowing a few fast-moving insects.
Fixed Visor
The Fox Proframe has a fixed visor. Fox says it is perfectly positioned for directing air into the helmet. I totally agree, but my Oakley goggles don’t fit under the visor. Therefore, when I’m on a tough climb, I have to take them off or turn them around.
However, my friend wears the same helmet with Fox goggles, and they fit under the visor without any problems. So I have something else to buy!
Removable Liner
After a while, the inner liner of a mountain bike helmet can get pretty grubby. It’s no surprise with all that sweat, dirt, and dust. Therefore, Fox has made it so you can remove the Proframe’s liner for cleaning.
The liner is excellent at wicking moisture, too. I rode the Pass’portes du Soleil event in 35oC (95oF) earlier this year, and it didn’t feel soggy at all.
Fastener
The chin strap is fastened with a Fidlock SNAP helmet buckle. This is magnetic, so it is incredibly easy to fasten and unfasten, even while wearing gloves.
Verdict On The Fox Proframe
I thought that my Bell Super 3R would be tough to match. However, the Fox Proframe is slightly more comfortable while offering a better fit. But that is just the size and shape of my head, so it may be different for you.
The Fox Proframe feels secure while providing lots of ventilation. Its excellent construction feels solid, which goes a long way to giving you peace of mind, along with top-notch protection.
If you’re looking for a lightweight full-face mountain bike helmet, you’d be hard pushed to find a better one than the Fox Proframe. Of course a more downhill oriented helmet provides more protection, but the Fox Proframe offers versatility and comfort on hot days.
