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S-Works Prevail 3

4.2

63 Reviews

The S-Works Prevail 3 helmet is perfect for riders who value the comfort and thermoregulation…

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Ventilation

Ventilation

The S-Works Prevail 3 is the most ventilated helmet we have ever made, providing riders with an additional 24.5% of ventilation surface area, compared to it’s predecessor, ensuring maximum cooling capacity.

AirCage

AirCage

Our patented AirCage technology utilizes strategically placed woven aramid fibers to distribute force from impact throughout the helmet like a suspension bridge while also enabling maximum ventilation.

Five Star Virginia Tech® Helmet Rating™

Five Star Virginia Tech® Helmet Rating™

The S-Works Prevail 3 has earned a 5-star rating, the highest rating, from the Virginia Tech Helmet testing lab—internationally recognized as the industry go-to for independent 3rd party helmet testing.

S-Works Prevail 3

Product Details

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The S-Works Prevail 3 helmet is perfect for riders who value the comfort and thermoregulation benefits that superior ventilation delivers. It is the ultimate all-around helmet that excels in hot conditions, strenuous climbs, and mountainous stages.

With a never-ending quest to push the limits of ventilation, we eliminated air-blocking foam “bridges” from the center, effectively creating thru-air channels that increase the surface area of ventilation by 24.5% compared to the S-Works Prevail II Vent helmet. The all-new S-Works Prevail 3 has the most ventilation area of any helmet we have ever made.

When a helmet is impacted, its job is to dissipate the energy of the impact. The conventional approach to helmet design is that more foam (EPS) means better energy management. We re-wrote the book on cycling helmet design by innovating beyond foam. Woven aramid “cables” traverse the helmet and are anchored to carbon fiber side panels. Upon impact, the AirCage technology* works as a suspension bridge and is designed to distribute localized forces throughout the helmet.

The Occipital Base Adjustment optimizes comfort by personalizing fit to individual head shape and helmet angle can be adjusted for compatibility with glasses. An adjustable Tri-Fix web system gives riders added comfort with updated, thinner 10mm webbing that minimizes strap noise. And the ultralight Mindset micro-dial fit system with height adjustability has been updated for improved grip and reaction for easy on-the-go fit.

Our ultralight and supremely comfortable MIPS Node Air technology is integrated directly into the helmet padding, with a sleek low friction layer designed to dissipate rotational forces. With Specialized’s proprietary development work, we added perforations to maximize breathability, performance, comfort, and weight savings.

For helmets sold in the U.S. and Canada: Complies with U.S. CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets for Persons Age 5 and Older.

  • AirCage innovation increases airflow.
  • Precision, full-wrap polycarbonate shell for increased durability and premium finish.
  • MIPS Air Node technology is MIPS’ most ventilation-focused solution.
  • Adjustable Tri-Fix web splitter boosts comfort through personalized fit.
  • Occipital Base Adjustment optimizes comfort and compatibility with glasses.

Complete Your Ride

Rider Reviews

4.2

63 Reviews

 

No Longer Fits Right

I agree with the several other reviews about the change in size and fit. I need an oval shape helmet and the Prevail has been my helmet of choice for several years. For some reason you changed the mold and now a medium fits too tight. I can’t wear it more than 10 minutes. I tried on a large and it’s way too big. Time to find a new helmet.


Name:
Ray

Helpful?

Specialized for 10 years

I used a Specialized S3 before the Prevail 3. In between, I had two more heavier helmets, which I disposed of in disgust after less than a year. My advice, don't look at the price, but at what suits you best.


Name:
Matjaž

Helpful?

Best helmet I’ve ever owned!

So many people are complaining about the shape of the helmet being oval and not round inside. Well guess what, pretty much EVERY helmet from other brands is round inside. I have an oval head… do you know how nearly impossible it is to find a helmet for a skull not shaped like a ball? It’s the worst, I’ve been looking for a while now and when I finally tried this one on in the store, I was in love! I had the Prevail 2 previously and it worked ok, better than any others I tried. But the Prevail 3 is absolute magic on the fit. The inside top part is also rounded, like an arch. So if your head is flat on top then you won’t appreciate it, but for me, gold. I think instead of people getting upset and writing to their congressman over the new shape change, the time can be spent realizing everyone is designed differently and no helmet will fit everyone perfectly. For the rest of us that have oval heads… this helmet is the best one out there! And the ventilation is awesome! Best 300 bucks spent


Name:
Carlos

Helpful?

Helmet

I love this line of helmets and this is the fifth helmet I bought and will continue to buy these!

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Tyler L.

Helpful?

Excellent Hemet for the hot summer

When the temps are over 80 degrees, this is what I reach for when heading out. It also feels lighter and more comfortable than my S-Works Evade that I race with (on cooler days). Just remember to use sunscreen on the scalp as this helmet has a lot of exposure to the sun on top


Verified Buyer
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Name:
Brian

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Really like the design. Awesome

Really like the design. Awesome ventilation.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Kristen H.

Helpful?

Unbelievably Narrow

I own a medium prevail 2. Fits like a glove. Perfect circumference for my noggin. I was hoping to invest in a white prevail 3 due to the hot Florida sun. The medium squeezes the sides of my head horribly. Immediate headache. Tried on a large and it swallows my head. So big it’s unsafe. Reddit thread says there is a round version but only available in Asian countries. No round heads or Asians in the US I guess. Do better specialized.


Name:
Brandon

Helpful?

Nice helmet, looks great

Oval’ish shape, but fits my noggin The helmet is sleek looking, great adjustability. Lightweight Only reason for 4 stars, the inside plastic adjustment band is beginning to deform.


Name:
Timster

Helpful?

Very nice helmet

Very nice helmet

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Khuong M.

Helpful?

Looks great, doesn't fit

Looks gorgeous in the Hyper Dove colourway, but the redesigned fit means the new Prevail 3 NO LONGER FITS ME!!!! Very angry and very disappointing, especially considering that Specialized has made a round fit version that could potentially meet the needs of my fat Asian head, but is NOT AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA. This move is non-sensical. I've had the LARGE original Prevail and Prevail II and all fit well. But the elongated shape of the new design of the 3 means it puts too much pressure on my temples as the maximin sizing has been reduced from 63 to 62, which should still theoretically fit me. Be warned.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Jason T.

Helpful?

Saved my head

3 months after purchasing, I crashed, smashing my right side against the kerb from head to hip. The helmet was a write off and I almost became one but my head was completely fine. Replaced with another Prevail 3 under assisted replacement.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Michael

Helpful?

Best helmet I've ever owned

Used to wear Specialized lids all the time before moving to Bell and then had a MET Trenta carbon... was intrigued with this design so took the plunge and got one... WOW. Fits my oval head just like I remembered Specialized and the design and workmanship is just exceptional. And it really is the coolest/most breathable helmet I've ever owned.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Paul D.

Helpful?

Very comfy

Very comfy

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Christopher O.

Helpful?

Prevail 3

Great ventilation, good looks and for my head, a near perfect fit. A very good summertime helmet.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Richard H.

Helpful?

Great Product!

Loved it

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Rodrigo

Helpful?

Saved my life

I was in a serious cycling accident in mid Aug of 2023. I was wearing the S-Works Prevail helmet and according to the physicians if not for that helmet I most likely would be dead. Never skimp on a helmet and the S-Works Prevail is the best choice.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Chad S.

Helpful?

Light and comfortable, great ventilation

Light and comfortable, great ventilation

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Jim C.

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Excellent ventilation, looks good, and

Excellent ventilation, looks good, and it fits perfectly to my head.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Guest G.

Helpful?

I feel the wind blowing

I feel the wind blowing across my bald head with this helmet.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
James F.

Helpful?

Excellent

Very nice helmet

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
OSCAR S.

Helpful?

Love it.

Lightweight and fits perfect

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Chris D.

Helpful?

Almost feels like you’re riding without a helmet.

It fits my Asian head great on the sides and top. Ventilation is insane. My size L weighs 325g. In comparison, my Bontrager Specter with Wavecel weighs 20% more at 389g. I got the Mountain White and it’s a matte finish so I expected some smudges but it also came with a couple of scratches. Didn’t bother me enough to exchange it but I think that if you’re paying $300 for a helmet, it should come pristine and some people may be turn off by that. That’s why I’m only giving it 4 stars.


Name:
Steve

Helpful?

Outstanding Helmet In All Aspects

Glad I decided to try this iteration of the Prevail....many years ago (2017ish) I purchased a Prevail and was unable to get a good fit, no matter how much I cranked on the knob (way too loose...kinda like "sloppy loose"....was very disappointed) .... this Prevail-3 is a perfect ...clearly several years of "tweaking" the design has paid off. Took it out this morning for an initial 30-mile ride ... very warm and humid this morning so a perfect weather for test ride. Perfect fit, retained retention throughout the ride, exceptional ventilation and extremely light weight...sunglasses storage was easy to use and is very secure.


Name:
Dean

Helpful?

Weird fit

Weird fit. I wish the round fit option were available in the US. Medium is way too tight, but the large is insanely roomy. Seems like a cool helmet though.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Dylan O.

Helpful?

S Works Prevail 3

I have had many S Works helmets over the years, including a Prevail 2. I could never feel comfortable with the 2, so I was hesitant to try the 3. The Prevail 3 felt great right out of the box and has proven to be the best and most comfortable helmet I have ever worn. I highly recommend the Prevail 3.


Name:
Geoff

Helpful?

Prevail 3

Awesome helmet, the venting is amazing, riding in warm weather I can't think of a better helmet.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Andy R.

Helpful?

Foundation is strong but finishing falls short

After enjoying the spoils of previous Prevail models throughout the years, I have found myself disappointed with this iteration after ~1 month of use. Overall, it's a snazzy helmet. Fits a higher/smaller than the Prevail II, though I find it comfortable and aesthetically on par with what I would expect from the Prevail line. However, at the price point, I've been disappointed with two features. 1.) The Velcro on the padding is easily dislodged and seemingly misaligned by design. This has led to much sweat-induced frustration during rides, and my addition of supplemental Velcro to secure the padding further. 2.) The Angi sensor from my Prevail II does not attach. Either that, or I'm unable to figure it out with reasonable effort. The info on the Angi page leaves much to be desired. Overall, this is a snazzy helmet and I'll keep giving it a second chance. Though, for $300.00 I'd prefer to not have to.


Name:
Andrew

Helpful?

Worth it!

So comfortable that I forget it’s on. Definitely cooler than other helmets I’ve tried. I was right on the line between two sizes so went with the bigger size and it adjusts perfectly! Nice fit!

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Colette F.

Helpful?

Great helmet

Great helmet, comfortable padding and fit and great colour. A great upgrade from my Mojito. Highly recommended.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Chris F.

Helpful?

Perfect

This is the first helmet I've tried that fits perfectly. Despite others complaining, it is a great helmet - light, not bulbous, and more or a long-oval shape. It's a huge upgrade from the various POC helmets I've had in the past.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Brandon

Helpful?

Major flaw in side straps

You can not adjust the side straps with the TriFix which is the side strap connector to the chin strap. So, if the your head is not the right size in side length, the TriFix may be hanging down to your jaw or pass it.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Ken

Helpful?

WHY?

I’ve worn the previous models of this helmet for years, they’ve been great. I looked forward to the breezier update. But the thing does NOT FIT. I have to cram it on my head and it doesn’t ratchet down at all. Same size as my previous helmet. The shape is different. I’m not even going to try the next size because the shape is just way off for me. It’s not going to work for me. Super disappointed because helmets are such a big part of riding and can really make or break the experience. I’m mad I have to start the hunt over again. Why did they have to mess with it? 😞

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Lisa

Helpful?

Best Helmet Ever

I've ridden every version of the Prevail helmet for the past 10 years and this is superior in every way. The fit and finish is stunning. The design is modern and I feel confident wearing it. And the fit is top notch, especially the thin straps which practically disappear and make the helmet feel even lighter than it is somehow. I LOVE this helmet.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Stewart

Helpful?

Very nice helmet

Extremely comfy in warm conditions. Fits me well, was a medium in the Prevail 2, medium in this too. Overall the quality is really really nice. VT score is a plus.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Zak

Helpful?

Saved my life

I was recently knocked off my bike (by another cyclist!) and went down heavy. My head hit the ground first and I actually heard the foam in the helmet compress when I hit the ground. Absolutely no head injuries. The helmet saved me from serious head and brain injury. Unfortunately, my hip hit the ground next and I broke by hip! But the helmet couldn't have helped that. It reinforced the need to buy a good helmet and always wear it properly with the straps all adjusted correctly. Now I'll be looking for another one...

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Mike

Helpful?

Very comfroble light weight.

Very comfroble light weight.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Laurence J.

Helpful?

Comfy & Cool

Had the opportunity to try on in my LBS. For my head, the fit was perfect.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Nathan

Helpful?

Awesome helmet

Awesome helmet

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Muhammad A.

Helpful?

Beautiful helmet. Well constructed and

Beautiful helmet. Well constructed and great packaging. Truly the best ventilated helmet I've ever owned.


Verified Buyer
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Name:
Guest G.

Helpful?

light and very ventilated ideal

light and very ventilated ideal for summer

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Marcos G.

Helpful?

Perfect design - poor execution in sizing

The sizing is bizarre. Maybe you used your RETUL data to optimize sizing but in doing so you messed things up for your long-time helmet users. The best thing you can do is to bring the round fit sizing on this to the U.S. They are available in Japan and other areas. If you do that then many of us will be happy — and you won't get so many product returns.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
MT

Helpful?

Nice helmet - If it fits.

I've been wearing medium Specialized helmets since the Decibel came out in 2005. I have also had the Prevail and multiple Prevail II's in their different forms. All in medium. The Prevail III in medium is now sadly too small for me and a large is way too roomy. I really wanted to continue using Prevails. They tend to perform well in safety tests and are normally a good light fit. If this fits you well go for it.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Paul B.

Helpful?

Wear a medium in the

Wear a medium in the Prevail 2 and barely fit in the 3. No chance of wearing a winter cap. Also the shape has changed and not as comfortable.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Guest G.

Helpful?

Would have been 5 stars but fit totally changed?!

Really like the look and design of this helmet…but for some reason, Specialized totally changed the fit. Medium was perfect for me before but is now super duper tight. Might have to try a large. Definitely can’t fit anything on my head under the helmet. Specialized, your helmet sizing and shaping was perfect before—why did you change?!

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Adam

Helpful?

Best helmet I’ve ever owned

Best helmet I’ve ever owned - light, well-ventilated, and aerodynamically efficient

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Guest G.

Helpful?

Great for the summer as

Great for the summer as the helmet is super breezy. If you ride in a cold climate I would pick a different helmet like the aero helmet (or wear a warm hat) because you can really feel the cold air on your head.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Anneleen B.

Helpful?

First crash due to front flat

Helmet was solid and absorbed the impact. Fellow rider looked at it and said, don’t worry it did what it was suppose to.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Nathaniel

Helpful?

Helmet fits true to size

Helmet fits true to size and is very comfortable. Helmet doesn’t move and fit nice with larger sunglasses

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Guest G.

Helpful?

Great helmet but not 5 stars because...

I've been using the Prevail since its inception. Owned and loved every version. The PV3 is a great looking helmet and the ventilation is fantastic. I've always worn a size Medium with perfect fitment. I purchased a Medium and to my disappointment, it was too narrow. Not sure if it was designed to sit higher than the PV2, but just didn't like it. I like my helmets to sit more flushed where the front edge of the helmet sits right above my eyebrows. I went ahead and exchanged it for a Large. Fits better for sure, but larger than the PV2 medium. So, I'm kind of stuck between sizes I guess. Of course, I was hoping to stay with the Medium b/c the helmet is already heavier than the PV2. So going to the Large would add even more weight. To be fair, once on and riding, don't really even notice the weight. In the end, I'll keep the PV3 b/c it looks good, offers great protection, and is comfortable on. So if you measure 57-58 cm and wore a Medium berfore with the PV2, try on the helmet first!

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Ant

Helpful?

One step forward, one step back

Improvements over Prevail 2: - Sizing: Medium was a little too big for me, now it's just right - Venting: obviously - Line of sight clearance: the brow of the helmet is higher, improving sight when in the drops or in a tuck - Retention: the helmet slips less over bumpy roads/trails The big drawback is the failure of sweat management. Perhaps this helmet was tested at pro speeds only, but with my amateur legs on a slow, steep climb, the brow pad saturates quickly and the sweat goes into my eyes. On the Prevail 2, the brow pad wasn't up to the task either, but at the very least the sweat would drip in front of my face, off my sunglasses and eyes. With the Prevail 3, it's the worst of both worlds: the pad is too thin to hold sweat, and it doesn't drip ahead of your face. One would think that a $300 helmet wouldn't require a kludge like having to wear a sweatband.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
David

Helpful?

Great helmet. One issue

I had the previous Prevail and liked it very much. Better ventilation than the Giro owned before. The new Prevail has even better ventilation. Especially noticeable the past 3 weeks in July here in New Jersey. The issue? The internal width of the helmet is narrower. I wear a Halo headband (the standard width) and the new Prevail presses the sides of the Halo into my head, causing sore spots. Sore enough to have to loosen the ratchet adjustment mid-ride. I’ve since purchased the narrower 1” Halo and the soreness is no longer a problem for me.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Rom

Helpful?

Very light and well constructed

Very light and well constructed helmet.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Ryan M.

Helpful?

Definitely sizing changes

I used to be a small in the previous Prevail helmets, but had to size up to a medium now. Definitely a change in shape/size for these. The triflex attachments do sit lower below my ear than previous versions. Something to be aware off. Overall though, love the helmet due to low weight and venting!

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Mark

Helpful?

I have been riding Giro

I have been riding Giro helmets for years and liked the fit, feel, and look. I have been in the market for about a year and saw the release of the new helmets and hemmed and hawed over this or the areo version. I was glad I picked this one and have worn it now on about a dozen rides and am incredible happy with it. It is incredibly comfortable, fits well, and the ventilation is excellent. Also, I find it holds my glassed much better than any of my previous helmets with no risk of them falling out. The one issue I had was adjusting the chin strap fitting around the ears. Sounds weird, but most previous helmets have and easy adjustment to snug the strap up around the ears, but struggled with this. Regardless, great helmet!!!


Verified Buyer
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Name:
Guest G.

Helpful?

Why are all the helmet makers changing sizing?

It seems every helmet maker has changed their sizing/helmet shape these days (I have sent back new POC and Smith helmets this year in my quest to find a new helmet because of this). A large used to be plenty for me to wear a headband (bald guy) or a stocking hat during the winter under the helmet. The fit with a headband is tight - no room at all and squeezes my head some. I tried to put the helmet on with a thin stocking cap and it's very tight and probably won't work for the winter. Love the design, airflow, and construction (will keep the helmet for the warmer months but am not sure what I'm going to do for winter). Absolutely hate the fit. There is some fore/aft space available, but not laterally. Design seems to be more oval than round.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Chris

Helpful?

Need better colors

Looks good, probably preforms well, and is light as heck; BUT no Orange! Practically half the riders I see wear Orange helmets.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Martin

Helpful?

Checks all the boxes. Light,

Checks all the boxes. Light, airy, safe. Best Spec yet.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Jim H.

Helpful?

Looks nice, but after years

Looks nice, but after years of wearing a Size Medium, this was too small and I need to size up. I don't understand why the sizing would change. I've always been at the bigger end for Med, but they fit fine - so if you are a true middle of the road Med you might be okay - if you are borderline this runs small.... had to return

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Verified Buyer
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Name:
Scott H.

Helpful?

Nailed it! sizing might run a little small.

The medium of older models fit me perfect, but was right on the border to needing a large. Now I definitely need the large.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Corbin

Helpful?

Solid Helmet

Stocked with my new helmet! Heads up, it fits a little smaller than the previous version

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
John

Helpful?

Nice update to prevail!

Prevail is my go-to for all day training rides in the heat. I'm a medium in previous prevails (back to 2017), and a medium in the new version fits nicely after adjusting the tension dial in the back and the plastic cage lengths inside the helmet. The new aesthetic took a while to grow on me compared to previous prevails since they were all so similar, but this redesign is a nice, clean, modern update. The glasses holder is slightly different than previous prevail which took a couple rides to re-train my muscle memory to put shades in the right spot while on hot climbs, but the new design seems to hold shades even more securely than previous version. Overall great update!

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Cal

Helpful?

Slick update, but totally different fit than prior gen

I've been a Prevail fan for years, as it's the only helmet that fits me like a glove. From the Prevail 2 Vent to my 2016 model, the fit has always been consistent, but for some reason, the 3 was a total miss. Something must have changed because I had lateral pressure points on parietal region of my skull. Despite the miss on it, it looks rad, is super light, and tops the rankings on the VT helmet tests.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Ben

Helpful?

Prevail III

My very first ride with the new Prevail III was a very pleasant experience. The fit was perfect and in the looks department the helmet also deserves a compliment. After having used the Prevail I, Prevail II, and the Prevail II Vent, all in white, I got a matt black one, and with the gloss trimmings, this helmet looks sleek. The additional vents are a noticeable airflow increase over the previous models, and both the padding and my hair were dry after a ride on a pleasant sunny afternoon. The previous Prevail’s iconic mouth vent caused a bit of a protrusion that you got see, but with the new one this is no longer the case. The upgrade was well worth it, and I can highly recommend this helmet, despite the few grams which were added, compared to the previous ones.

Would Recommend?
Yes!

Name:
Andrè T.

Helpful?