The Van Rysel RCR Mips is a road helmet designed for fast and mountain biking without compromising comfort.
In Decathlon’s product lineup, it is only surpassed by the Van Rysel RCR-F, which focuses more on aerodynamics and is used by the Decathlon-AG2R La Mondiale team during racing stages.
1. Design and Functionality
The Van Rysel RCR Mips helmet features an aerodynamically optimized polycarbonate shell, prioritizing reduced drag over maximizing airflow.
The helmet has eight front vents and seven exhaust vents, which is relatively low for a road helmet, reflecting its “aerodynamics first” philosophy.
The retention system includes a rear dial with occipital adjustment, allowing riders to adjust the tilt of the helmet, how it fits the back of the head, and the ponytail gap.
The TriVider flat mesh divider (located at the plastic connection point on the straps below the ears) ensures stable positioning and reduces strap flapping. The straps themselves are flat and soft, with standard push buckles at the ends.
2. Fit and Comfort
The RCR Mips helmet provides a comfortable and secure wrap-around feel.
The micro-adjustment feature of the rear retention dial allows for easy adjustment to the optimal tightness, while the occipital adjustment feature is a nice addition for a helmet at this price point.
While I find the adjustability excellent, the comfort level is just okay.
The comfort of the helmet partly depends on the rider’s head shape, so the same helmet may feel different on different riders.
3. Ventilation and Aerodynamics
Ventilation is not the strong suit of this helmet, but it remains very comfortable even in hot weather.
The eight front vents are relatively narrow, prioritizing aerodynamic efficiency over maximum airflow.
Decathlon explains that the Van Rysel RCR Mips helmet features a “ventilation system that varies according to the rider’s position on the bike”; even at low speeds while climbing, the ventilation design is effective.
Conversely, the helmet’s aerodynamic performance should shine during descents, making the RCR Mips more suitable for high-altitude riding compared to the slightly more expensive RCR-F, which has slightly poorer ventilation but stronger aerodynamic performance.
The Van Rysel RCR Mips helmet complies with European regulation EN1078.
The Mips Air Node enhances protection during rotational impacts.
The Air Node specification is a lightweight version of standard Mips technology, offering better breathability by eliminating the full helmet liner in favor of sliding elements built into the helmet padding.
Conclusion
The Van Rysel RCR Mips helmet offers rotational impact protection, a safe adjustable fit, and an aerodynamic design, all at an affordable price.
Its ventilation is average, but this compromise is understandable given its aerodynamic design.
For those seeking a fast aerodynamic helmet without spending too much, the Van Rysel RCR Mips is definitely a value-for-money choice.