HOG2.0 Lock Retention System
While I’ve been able to get a snug fit before I even need to tighten the HOG 2.0 Lock Retention System, the HOG system provides yet another way to customize the fit of the Standard helmets.
The system tightens up by twisting two disks that are mounted atop a leather oval which snugs against the nape of your neck. The disks control the length of plastic cords that connect to two tabs within the helmet. These cords are loosened by pushing a small lever on either disk.
The system is great for fine tuning, but would not serve a huge purpose prior to outfitting the helmet with the aforementioned padding.
I did have a problem with this system when I wore the Super Scrappy; after repeated use at a tidal wave, the retention system started to rust out and would not stay tight. So if you paddle in salt water frequently, either be diligent about rinsing your helmet after paddling, or look for a different helmet that doesn’t have adjustable metal parts.
The other very minor complaint I have is that when I wear my pony tail between the HOG system and the base of the helmet and tighten the HOG disks, it not only wraps the plastic cord into the disk, but also takes some hair with it, which makes for uncomfortable helmet removal.
Shred Ready Standard Full Face – Specifics
The full-face helmet is still a fairly new phenomenon in the kayaking world (~8 years) and most companies offer one signature full face model. Shred Ready’s Standard Full Face is significantly less expensive than the Sweet Protection Rocker (MSRP $349) another very popular full face.
(For the record, the WRSI Moment Full Face (MSRP 139.95) is a newer, similarly-priced addition to the full-face category, and it’s made from the same plastic shell and foam materials as the Standard Full Face, but we haven’t yet reviewed it.)
One of the best compliments I can pay the Standard Full Face is that when I’m on the water, I often forget that I am wearing a full face. It does not feel super bulky or heavy, and the full face component is just far enough below my eye level that I usually don’t even notice that it’s there.
On that note, it’s worth pointing out that the Standard’s face guard seems to be positioned lower than other full face helmets, so there is more direct coverage of the chin than the mouth. (Head size and shape will likely influence how high or low the face guard sits, however…)
A minor frustration I have with the face guard, which may also be a function of its low position, is that it hits the protruding shoulder of my front-zip drysuit when I turn to the right. It also makes for a frustrating time when carrying a boat. I have heard of similar complaints with the Sweet Rocker.
What I do like about the lower face guard in addition to the visibility is that it is still possible to drink out of a water bottle, albeit slightly awkwardly, without having to just dump the contents of your water bottle in the direction of your mouth through your helmet opening.
The face guard is made of the same material as the rest of the helmet shell, and is lined with a light and thinner foam (different than the main body of the helmet). After about a year of use, this foam did come apart from the shell at one point, but I glued it back in and have not had a problem since.
In the front of the face guard there are several slits cut in the foam and the plastic, I suppose with the intention of making sure you are not muted once you strap this helmet on. I have still found, however, that it is a little difficult to be heard, as is often the case with full face helmets.
An additional note on the fit of the Full Face: I do find myself initially pushing my head into the helmet through the bottom, as the face guard is no wider than my head. So if you have a large dome, getting your head into the helmet may be a push.
Shred Ready Standard Full Cut – Specifics
The ear flaps of the full cut are not made from the carbon/kevlar material; they appear to be made from the same ABS plastic as the non Carbon Standard. The comparable Sweet Rocker provides ear protection with a thick layer of foam as opposed to plastic.
The flaps are lined with a very thin layer of foam, and have three rows of narrow slits cut in them to help you to hear, and I’ve never had any trouble hearing in this helmet.
Bottom line
Both the Shred Ready Standard Full Face and the Shred Ready Standard Full Cut are an excellent value. They are sturdy, they offer a lot of coverage, and they are easily customizable to achieve a good fit. They’re warm when the river is not, and when I wear the Full Face, I often forget that I am even wearing a full-guard helmet.
These helmets have kept my head well protected, and I would recommend them to other paddlers also looking to protect their noggins at a reasonable price.