Shoei GT Air Wanderer TC-5 helmet review

Reviewed by: Carli Ann Smith RRP: £469.99

This is my new lid from Shoei – the GT Air. It’s the first in the manufacturer’s range to feature an integrated sunvisor which offers 99% UV protection. Often with this ‘integrated’ items, they are a pain to try and open/close/move with your gloves on – but not this one. It can be used effectively without taking your hands out of your gloves, therefore eliminating the need to pull over and disturb your ride. The padding can be removed from the helmet and washed easily and there are even special little ear pads to help reduce pesky wind noise.

It fastens with a double D fastener for the ultimate secure fit, but unlike many other helmets it has an emergency quick release system meaning that should the worst happen and you have an accident, your helmet can be removed easily. There’s also an amusingly named ‘chin curtain’ to stop the draught and make you feel secure.

I chose the Wanderer TC-5 scheme, which is matt black, but there are tons of designs including red, yellow and other patterned choices. The R&D boys have been busy and the shell has been specially designed to be aerodynamic with the vents in strategic places for maximum airflow. Rather than looking naff, they look part of the design as well as being practical.

I’ve worn this helmet since I got it and I love it. I like it because it’s versatile; it doesn’t look out of place if I am doing a track day in a one piece leather suit or if I am testing a scooter in jeans and a textile jacket. It’s comfortable too, other helmets often dig in and leave me with an unattractive red mark straight across my forehead whereas this one fits like a glove.

More info: www.shoeiassured.co.uk