New kit: Arai Pro Shade System
Arai’s answer to internal sun visors
Internal sun visors have been around for quite a few years now. I’ve got mates that love ‘em and others who think they’re a bit of a gimmick. Whilst brands like Shoei are a little late to the Top-Gun themed party, it seems Arai still has no interest in attending.
The official reason for this is safety. An internal visor takes up space between the outer and inner shells of a helmet. And that space can sacrifice helmet rigidity. Arai is of the opinion that internal visors could affect performance of crash helmets so their safer solution to sun glare is to fit a sun visor to the outside of the helmet.
The Pro Shade System fits the MAX vision Arai visors. It comes already fitted to the visor, with a recess for a Pinlock anti-fog insert. It locks into a peak position when not in use and can be quickly flipped down by hand when you need it.
When I first saw pictures of the Pro Shade System I’ll admit it did remind me of my ‘six-eyed’ grandad and his flip-up sunglasses. But it does get easier on the eye. It’s not aimed at the sports market but rather those that prefer an upright seating position and ‘serious touring riders’.
The system costs £99 but is currently being supplied as a free extra with all new Quantum ST and 2014 Rebel and Chaser V helmets.
I’ll post a used review in the coming weeks.
