Review: Bell Stoker helmet

As trail helmets continue to evolve, they seem to get more expensive. Not so with this new helmet from Bell, which hits a great price point while only losing a few features from its more expensive big brother, the Super.

All the standard trail helmet features are present: visor, extended rear coverage, rounded shape, goggle compatible, fit dial. Other smaller details that are still important: over brow ventilation and interior ventilation channels (to keep eyewear fog-free and head cooler) and straps anchored at the bottom of the shell so glasses can be worn under the straps.

The adjustable height of the dial retention system really cradled my head, and was plenty secure on the roughest descents. I’m not usually a goggle and half-shell guy, but a single digit cold snap had me break out the goggles and found them to play fine with the Stoker.

For $70, this is the best deal going in helmets. I’ve worn it on the trail and through a lot of winter commuting, it has become one of my favorite helmets. It is actually a little lighter than the more expensive Super, and is only missing the Go-Pro mount and super adjustable visor. I wish the fit was a little deeper, but I often wish that about helmets, I’ve got a tall head. With seven colors and five sizes to choose from, I’m stoked on the Stoker.