Kask Protone Icon Review

For eight years, the Kask Protone has been one of the most iconic high-end helmet models, with versatility and a look that has attracted tens of thousands of cyclists worldwide. The new Protone Icon iteration brings some subtle new features, while maintaining a recognizable style.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: Vincent Lyky / 3bikes.fr

Available in ten colors – including this magnificent red that we were able to test and which is perfect for riding in autumn or winter conditions – the Kask Protone Icon incorporates the aesthetic codes and characteristics of its predecessor. Its volume is quite small (no “pot” effect on the head), the rear part is rounded, and the aggressively shaped openings offer excellent ventilation in normal conditions of use.

It is a versatile helmet that is appreciated on both flat sections and long climbs, provided it is not excessively hot. The shape is studied in a wind tunnel to offer a good compromise between aerodynamics and ventilation. But during intense effort, one can indeed regret that the foam located at the forehead does not absorb perspiration a little more, as was already the case with the first-generation Protone. At Kask, the Valegro is more suitable for certain extreme conditions, with a reduced weight and numerous openings to ensure even better ventilation.

=> SEE ALSO : Kask Valegro Review

Improved finish

Compared to the previous model, the Protone Icon has slightly more angular side and rear openings. But above all, we can see that the shell covers the polystyrene parts a little more, which offers a better finish, and undoubtedly more durability aesthetically.

=> SEE ALSO : Buy the Kask Protone on sale

The internal structure of the helmet has been redesigned to offer, according to Kask, greater safety in the event of impact, especially rotational impacts. The Italian brand does not use the famous MIPS system, but has developed an innovative internal frame that offers greater mechanical resistance and better compactness. It has also developed its WG11 rotational impact test protocol, which demonstrates that the protection index largely exceeds international standards.

Inside the helmet, the Coolmax internal padding has also been revised to further improve comfort on the head.

At the rear, the adjustment system, now called Octofit+, is a little more ergonomic than the previous model, offering wider contact with the nape of the neck. The vertical stabilizer allows for personalized adjustment and facilitates the placement of long hair and/or a ponytail. The adjustment dial is also of a larger diameter, with a grippy material that makes it easier to handle.

Finally, it should be noted that the brand has retained synthetic leather retention straps for this new model, which again provide comfort and durability even after several thousands of kilometers of intensive use.

On the road and off-road test, with the Kask Protone Icon

At first glance, there is still very little difference from the old Protone when putting on the Protone Icon. The sizes are identical. The occipital tightening is easily adjusted, whether wearing a cap, a skullcap, or nothing underneath. It is easy to adjust the fit, without feeling any pressure points. However, the tightening dial at the back is much more easily accessible and manipulable than on the old version.

Slightly heavier (235 g in size S compared to 216 g for the Protone in the same size), the Protone Icon is quite quickly transparent on the head, and you can accumulate hours in the saddle without even thinking about it. Under temperate conditions, however, because as we pointed out above, the internal foams do not completely absorb sweat. And on some gravel rides with some “committed” efforts, we could feel drops of sweat falling inside the glasses. Note, however, that below twenty degrees, we never felt the slightest overheating, and that the vents are largely sufficient to provide good ventilation for most of the year.

Regarding glasses, their placement on the helmet poses no problem of hold, whether with glasses from the sister brand Koo, or with models from other brands.

The rear part has a wide reflective strip which, combined with the bright red color of the helmet, offers a lot of visibility according to our riding companions.

Ultimately, the Kask Protone Icon lives up to its reputation in terms of versatility, comfort, and finish. It is an ideal helmet for almost all year round, an essential outside of a few extreme situations. And we still appreciate its aesthetics and the many colors offered by the brand.

=> SEE ALSO : Kask Utopia Review

>=> SEE ALSO : All our Gear articles