Deemax has traditionally been the DH range of French brand Mavic, but this helmet is more trail than gravity oriented. Short, non-adjustable peak and exposed underside are below par for the price but instantly comfortable, secure fit, enhanced safety and acceptable ventilation make it good all-rounder to wear.
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Performance
Based on a distinctive slightly teardrop mould that’s widest over the temples, the Deemax fitted a wide range of test heads extremely well before we snugged up the dial adjusted cradle. The AUTOFIT straps use a thick cord rather than wide strap so there are no flap or twist worries. Small curved plastic mounts for the low straps also adjust for angle automatically so fit is great there too. The helmet drops low behind the ears for extra coverage but it’s still relatively light. The EPS 4D material used for the body of the helmet comes with a claimed 30% impact absorption over standard EPS. You get a full MIPS slip liner to reduce G forces on your grey matter in an impact.
The multiple 3D, 37.5 material pads inside the liner apparently have ‘active particles’ that draw heat and sweat away from your head and five times faster than conventional poly pads. 14 wide, vents over the crown and five exhaust vents radiate heat well at lower speeds.
Internal channelling is very limited so there’s no ‘ramjet’ effect at higher speeds. The visor is also a short, relatively narrow fixed position piece which offers limited protection and can’t be hooked up to fit goggles underneath. The new Deemax Pro has a full feature peak but also costs $49/£40/€45 more There’s no hardshell coverage on the lower edge of the helmet either so it can pick up cosmetic dents and scratches easily.
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Verdict
The short, fixed peak and unprotected underside reduce it’s score slightly at this price, and high-speed airflow is poor. Instantly excellent fit for a wide range of riders plus enhanced material and MIPS protection mean it’s still definitely worth trying on for trail and/or enduro use.
Tech spec: Mavic Deemax MIPS helmet
- Weight: 333g (Large)
- Colours: Olive green, burgundy, french blue, black, white
- Price: $138 / £115 / €125
