With the launch of the updated Ambush and all-new Camber, Specialized’s trail helmet range has seen a full revamp.
Following on from the launch of the Tactic 4 and Gambit last year, Specialized have launched an all-new Camber helmet alongside the second generation Ambush. From entry-level MTB to full face carbon enduro lids, the line up is complete.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Camber, Tactic 4, Ambush 2 and Gambit helmets.
Specialized Camber
Key features:
- MIPS equipped
- Headset SX dial fit system
- Tri-Fix web splitters
- ANGi ready
- Five Star Virginia Tech® Helmet Rating™
- 370 grams (medium)
- £70.00 RRP
- Specialized.com
If you’re looking for an inexpensive MTB helmet that ticks all the safety and comfort boxes, you would be hard pushed to go wrong with the new Specialized Camber. Coming in at £70, the Camber kicks off the Big S’ trail helmet range and looks every bit the part compared to the other, more expensive helmets here.
Based around the same ventilation system gives the Camber the same aesthetics as the more expensive Tactic and Ambush, while the tech starts to filter down in the form of MIPS, Specialized’s TriFix and Headset SX systems, and that all-important Five Star Virginia Tech rating.
At 370g for the medium, it’s no pig either. In fact, it’s lighter than its bigger brothers. With an XSmall size available, there’s also no reason for your hard-shredding kids not to have suitable head protection either.
Specialized Tactic 4
Key features:
- SBC Integrated Fit System
- MIPS C equipped
- Fixed visor position
- Ebike certified (NTA-8776)
- Six colour options
- Small (51-56cm), Medium (55-59cm) and Large (58-62cm) sizes
- Five Star Virginia Tech® Helmet Rating™
- 380g (Size medium)
- £100.00 RRP
- Specialized.com
The fourth iteration of the Tactic 4 kicks off the more enduro-focused stylings in the new trail range. More coverage over the rear of the helmet aims to offer a more confidence-inspired feel when out on the trails.
On top of this you get MIPS C, the Tactic is e-bike certified and comes with the Five Star Virginia Tech rating. Fit-wise, you get the SBC Integrated Fit System over the Headset SX, allowing for a finer tune of the fit to your head.
Dedicated glasses storage on the helmet means no more jamming them into the rear vents or having to throw them back in your pocket too. Keep your vision clear and your sunnies handy at all times.
Specialized Ambush 2
Key features:
- SBC Integrated Fit system
- Tri-Fix splitters
- Occipital Base Adjustment
- Dual-density EPS foam
- Ebike certified (NTA-8776)
- 5-Star Virginia Tech® Helmet Rating™
- MIPS SL equipped
- ANGi ready
- 380g (medium)
- £150.00 RRP
- Specialized.com
Essentially the Tactic’s bigger brother, the Ambush is the open face enduro helmet with all the bells and whistles. Everything you liked about the Tactic has been fettled for increased performance.
Together, the SBC Integrated Fit System and the Occipital Base Adjustment allow for getting the fit on your head exactly right, while offering the same ventilation that forms the base of all four helmets’ looks.
MIPS SL-equipped, dual density EPS, ANGi ready, ebike-certification and that Five Star Virginia Tech Rating is an impressive tick list of safety features that have been well tested.
Specialized Gambit
Key features:
- Carbon fibre and polycarbonate shell
- EPS liner
- SBC integrated fit system
- 4-position adjustable cheek pads
- MIPS SL equipped
- Fixed visor
- DH certified
- 640g (medium)
- £295.00 RRP
- Specialized.com
Want a full face helmet that you can pedal in all day and feel safe but not a sweaty mess? The Specialized Gambit should well be at the sharp end of your list of considerations. Light for a DH-certified full face doesn’t do it justice, with the carbon fibre and polycarbonate shell keeping the weight down and the safety high.
Sporting the same tech as the Ambush 2 in terms of fit, you know you’ll be able to get it just how you like it.
It’s rare to see a carbon fibre helmet coming in this cheap too.