Kask Wasabi Review

The Kask Wasabi is a new-generation helmet designed for aerodynamics and/or protection from cool air, but which can prove extremely versatile thanks to a part of its shell that can slide backward to let air in. These features come at a price, as the Wasabi is the most expensive model in the Italian manufacturer’s range.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: Vincent Lyky / DR

Although it has a solid shape at first glance, the Wasabi can transform into a well-ventilated helmet after a simple backward movement of a sliding part of the shell. Even when riding in winter conditions and with a skullcap or fabric cap under the helmet, the cooling sensation is immediate, and you can perfectly feel the fresh air circulating from front to back over your head. Intended for those looking for a helmet to ride all year round, the Wasabi thus allows you to regulate temperature, while maintaining good aerodynamic properties.

The Kask Wasabi benefits from a finish commensurate with its selling price, meaning very high-end, with an outer polycarbonate shell and an internal Merino wool lining for comfort. Although the brand is not a fan of internal MIPS-type cages, the Wasabi naturally complies with all the highest safety standards (CE EN 1078, CPSC1203, and AS/NZS2063).

The smooth faux leather chin strap is similar to that of other Kask helmets, and it has long proven its durability and comfort. For tightening, the rear Octo Fit part functions as a floating cradle that adapts in height to the shape of the head, and adjusts with a now classic dial system. Inside the helmet, the medium-density pads conform to the shape of the head and are flexible enough to accommodate longer hair or a cap without causing discomfort. The internal Merino wool panel is ideal for regulating sweat odors.

The very structure of the helmet prevents attaching glasses arms through the ventilation holes, which can be inconvenient in certain situations, for example, on a long climb when sweat gets inside the lenses.

The Kask Wasabi is available in six solid colors with a matte finish: white, black, navy blue, gray, khaki, and burgundy. Rather classy and on-trend, especially since the Italian brand does not hide its intention to target this model at fast road riders as well as Gravel or all-road enthusiasts. However, this finish (at least in white) is quite prone to scratches.

Very efficient ventilation

According to Kask, wind tunnel tests show a loss of barely one watt at 50 km/h between the “open” or “closed” modes of the sliding shell. The ventilation system works by channeling airflow, which is directed by the internal shape, to pass through the front of the helmet before exiting at the rear, without dispersion. This creates that gentle cooling sensation in case of overheating.

The sliding system is very easy to use, even with long gloves, and it’s not necessary to always fully open it if you’re just looking for a small amount of air for a few moments, as might be the case in the middle of winter. And when temperatures are borderline for regularly operating the slider and you prefer to leave it in the closed position, you don’t feel excessive overheating, as heat seems to be properly evacuated by the rear vents.

In the rain, the Kask Wasabi offers significantly more protection than a helmet with numerous ventilation holes. Water will eventually seep in with the shell in the closed position, but much less quickly than with most helmets on the market.

Finally, regarding weight, the Kask Wasabi weighs 265 g in size S, compared to 215 g for the Protone, the Italian brand’s benchmark. This is not negligible, but relatively transparent on the road in terms of comfort.

A high price

Aside from specific time trial or triathlon helmets (Mistral, Bambino, and Beluga), the Wasabi is the most expensive helmet in the Kask range, retailing at €300. For comparison, the Protone is offered at €255, the Utopia at €249, and the Valegro at €199. And finally, the Mojito 3, the brand’s bestseller, sells for €149. €300 is a high price, which can be justified by the fact that with its sliding shell system, it is in a way a two-in-one helmet. For the rest, the finish is flawless and comfort is there. But we know that the choice of a helmet is primarily a matter of aesthetics. And everyone’s tastes are not to be debated.

=> SEE ALSO : Buy the Kask Wasabi for €299.90

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