For 2025, SHARK has launched the brand-new OXO helmet, but what’s it all about?
The latest announcement to come from the SHARK stable is its first ECE 22.06 dual homologated helmet, the OXO, delivering the ultimate versatility for those riders wanting all the benefits of a full and open-faced helmet while they’re out and about on their travels. Known for its innovation, it’s no surprise that SHARK launched the first ever dual homologated lid back in 2011 with its ‘Evo’ family – so extra points to helmet aficionados for thinking it looks slightly familiar – but you’d be wrong for thinking it’s the same…
WHAT’S NEW?
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The OXO benefits from a brand-new streamlined shape to reduce drag for peak performance and less neck fatigue. It also features SHARK’s ‘2 Digit Unlock’ mechanism specifically designed to enable quick and seamless transitions between modes and locks the chin guard into the open position for peace of mind and security.
Constructed with high-impact Lexan polycarbonate, the OXO offers exceptional shock absorption – even under extreme temperatures ranging from -10°C to +50°C – so rest assured wherever you choose to ride, you’re covered. Talking of temperatures, there are two adjustable air intakes with full or partial opening options, even with gloves on.
CUSTOMISED FOR YOU
When you’re a company that has sold millions of helmets worldwide, you’ll know that fit is an extremely important factor. So SHARK is offering cheek pads in a variety of thicknesses as an option with the OXO—acknowledging the reality that we all have different-shaped heads!
Following a campaign of anatomical 3D head shape scans by the brand, SHARK developed ‘Best Fit’ by SHARK to contribute towards a second-skin experience when it comes to fit comfort.
There’s a choice of two shell sizes and six liner options too. Talking of liners, the interior is made from recycled fibres using SHARK’s ‘Eco Circle’ technology and its posh AEGIS anti-bacterial treatment helps keep it fresh on every ride – it’s also washable for those who are so inclined.
CLEAR VISION
The anti-scratch visor comes with a Pinlock 70 and offers a wide field of vision of the road ahead and locks with a central tab which can be operated with one hand – even while gloved. There’s an inbuilt sun visor too which has been treated with both anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings for crystal clear vision, even on those ‘low sun’ rides. There’s a variety of visor options to choose from as options extras too depending on your mood or style – including iridium and tinted options.
STAY CONNECTED
SHARK has replaced its old ‘SHARKTOOTH’ system and has partnered with Sena to deliver integrated comms systems called ‘Sena for SHARK’. Compatible with the entire 22.06 line-up from SHARK – aside from the all-out-race Aeron GP – the units have been designed to match the helmet’s contours. Available in both Mesh and Bluetooth connectivity options, the units have 40mm speakers, Advanced Noise Control and up to 15 hours of battery life.
Interview with…Jean-Frédéric Long, Project manager R&D at SHARK
What are the biggest challenges of making a dual-homologated helmet?
Firstly – and most obviously – the helmet must fulfil certification requirements in both full-face and jet positions, which is no mean feat in itself. Not only must they pass the certification, but the helmet must keep the same level of comfort, design and balance as much as possible in both positions, as it will be used most of the time in open or closed positions depending on the rider’s use.
What changes have been made to the OXO since the ‘EVO’ series was launched?
There are a whole host of changes from the EVO platform to the OXO. Most noticeable is the helmet’s styling. By using current dynamic design codes visible on other Shark helmets – Skwal i3 and Spartan GT Pro – the EVO is unmistakably SHARK.
We’ve improved the chin-bar locking system, with bigger components and simplified rotation movement, the chin-bar handling from jet to full-face position so that it’s even easier to use and there’s now an improved vision field – thanks to the bigger visor.
We also intensified the work regarding the Intercom integration: the OXO helmet can be equipped with high-performance SENA devices specifically designed for Shark helmets.
What does dual-homologated actually mean?!
Simply put, ‘dual homologation’ is the official way of saying that the helmet can legally – and has been tested and passed the necessary certifications – be worn in two different ways. Full face and open face – sometimes called ‘jet’ – are the most common styles chosen. The most recent ECE regulations – that stands for the Economic Commission for Europe – are ECE 22.06.
Who’s SHARK?
Founded in 1989 by motorcycle enthusiasts, the Teston brothers, SHARK has since sold more than 11 million helmets in more than 82 countries around the globe. Based in Marseille, France, the brand is synonymous with racing, safety and cutting-edge innovation. Working with riders in MotoGP such as Johann Zarco, knowledge and technology developed for the race track filter down the range such as anti-fog visor coatings and ventilation systems.
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