Arai Helmets has added yet another new graphic design called the "Akira" to its VX-Pro3 off-road helmet line. Named for motocrosser Akira Narita, it is available now, in four different colors: Red, Blue, Silver, and Orange.
The new Akira is the latest of several mid-season-graphic additions to Arai’s VX-Pro3 dirt model. The others are two Osborne Replicas (White and Black), and two Samurai graphics (White and Black),
The VX-Pro3 was introduced to unprecedented rave reviews from the entire off-road publishing world, some even calling it "the best helmet ever tested." (Editor note: Full list of press reviews available upon request.)
Although now copied, the Pro3 introduced yet another Arai innovation: the Emergency-Release Cheek Pad system created to allow easier access to an injured rider.
Such concepts have always been one of Arai’s "greatest sources of pride," according to a spokesman. "For generations, Arai has fostered helmet improvements that aid in our primary mission of first protecting the rider. We’ve never been a company that favors ‘flash and fashion’ over function, which is why Arai designs tend to be more evolutionary than revolutionary." Another example of this Arai philosophy evident in the Pro3 is its unique rounded chinbar shape with less forward protrusion. The shape’s design intent is to make the chinbar less likely to catch and snag a crashing rider than longer, more pointed chinbars.
Arai’s VX-Pro3 comes in sizes XS to XXL; suggested retails range from $529.95 for solids, to $659.95 for Replicas like the new Akira.