Troy Lee Designs make some of the most sought-after MTB gear out there, and the A2 trail helmet is a prime example. Its sleek lines and stylish graphics – on the more understated Decoy models (as seen here), at least – make it one of our ‘Most Wanted’ products, but its appeal isn’t just cosmetic.
The A2 comes with some robust safety features, including a dual-density EPS and EEP foam liner to deal with both low and high-speed impacts, a MIPS brain protection system and breakaway peak bolts. It’s also got a load of ventilation to help keep you fresh when you’re grinding up the trail. Add the fact that it’s one of the comfiest helmets we’ve tested, with good coverage and a secure cradle, and it’s hard to beat. The one drawback is that all these benefits don’t come cheap.
Pricing: £165
Distributor: www.saddleback.co.uk
Read Tom Marvin's review of the Troy Lee Designs A2 trail helmet on BikeRadar
About MBUK's Most Wanted (2020)
For the January issue of Mountain Biking UK magazine we put together a glossy guide to our Most Wanted gear for 2020, containing some of the most incredible, highly desirable mountain bike kit on the market. It seemed a shame not to share it with our website users, so now we’re posting each category online too.
The selection process wasn’t easy. We were determined to pick products that genuinely stood out, so just narrowing down the categories was hard. Then our test team discussed the pros and cons of each bit of kit that had been shortlisted – and had some heated debates over which should make it in!
You can rest assured that all of our Most Wanted gear has been given this accolade for good reason. It’s either performed amazingly in our tests (in which case we’ve provided links to the original review) or, in the case of just-released kit, has wowed us on the trails during initial rides and shown huge potential.
Cast an eye over the gear and you’ll notice that a lot of it doesn’t come cheap. That’s because these are our Most Wanted products, and not necessarily the parts and accessories that represent the best value for money. We know that not all readers will be able to afford them, but think they’re worth showcasing. Firstly, because they show just how far MTB kit has come. But also because innovation and improvements at the top end of the market inevitably trickle down to lower price points within a couple of years, for the rest of us to enjoy.
