Gear Review
light and fast
By James Stewart
Ranked #336 - Climbing Helmets
September 16, 2008
I used this helmet ice and alpine climbing in Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, and the Beartooths in MT and I love it. It's taken a few hits and has some small dents in the top, but it's all cosmetic. The core of the helmet is lined with a soft outer foam that nicks and dents easily, but it doesn't compromise the structural integrity of the helmet.
View Details: Petzl Meteor III + Climbing Helmet
Helpful Votes: 1 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Material:
- [shell] polycarbonate; [liner] polystyrene; [strap] polyester
- Adjustable Vents:
- no
- Fit Adjustment:
- ratchet back
- Certifications:
- CE EN 12492 (climbing), CE EN 1078 (European cycling), CE EN 1385 (European whitewater)
- Weight:
- 235 g
- Recommended Use:
- rock climbing
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- 3 years
Change me.



3 Comments Last Reply: May 15, 2011 By: Dustin Short
Actually the technology used in the new lightweight climbing helmets are very similar to the technology that was developed for bicycle helmets. Same concepts just slightly different design parameters and increased durability. As such, if the outer shell is at all cracked, the helmet should be replaced. Small dents (that don't pierce the outer shell) are really a matter of judgement. If they're small enough and mostly cosmetic the helmet should be fine. If you look at it and say "meh, it SHOULD be fine and doesn't really warrant buying a new one..." well then you should probably buy a new one (that's your wallet overriding your safety honestly). From the sound of James's post, his helmet is still more than functional. It just has some minor nicks and dings on the surface and I'm assuming the foam has no cracks or gouges in it.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Comparing a climbing helmet to a cycling helmet is apples to oranges. I don't know about you, but I don't typically take numerous non-life threatening hits from small falling rocks and icicles while riding my bike, but if I did, I would want the shell to be a little more durable.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
With most helmets,ie.motorcycle,skate boarding, cycling etc.once helmets take a hit of any nature they are recommended to be put out of service.Would not a climbing helmet fall into those same perameters? I have had several helmets, motorcycle, cycling,fire fighter, technical rescue helmets all taken out of service on those perameters. I would think it has saved my head once. Thank you you served me well. Time for a replacement. Can't replace the skull and brain. Just an opinion. Stay safe and climb on!
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes