MET Rivale MIPS Road Helmet Review

By Sheri Rosenbaum

https://www.met-helmets.com/en

Price: $199

Ratings/Certifications: 5 star Virginia Tech rating, CE; AS/NZS; US

Safety Features: MIPS-C2

# of Vents: 18

Weight: 267g (S)

Sizes: Small (52-56 cm), Medium (56-58 cm), Large (58-61 cm)

Colors: Black/Red metallic, White, Motion Blur, Navy Silver, Red Dahlia, Silver Gray, Ultra Lime, Black

Availability: Retail and Online

How Obtained: Company Sample

RBR Advertiser: No

Virginia Tech’s Highest Safety Rating

Another new find for me in the aisles of CABDA Midwest was MET helmets. I admit this was the first time I heard of the Italian brand. What caught my attention was their booth signage touting a 5-star Virginia Tech rating caught my eye.

Three of MET’s road helmets boast this top rating, but I selected to review the Rivale MIPS model due to its more accessible price point. At $199, it is the least expensive of the three, making it an excellent choice for many RBR readers.

Of course, we all hope you’ll never need to test a helmet’s safety features. Still, if it is damaged in a bicycle accident within two years of the original date of purchase, MET proposes to replace it at a reduced cost. 

Lightweight and Comfortable Fit

At 267 grams (size small), the Rivale MIPS is lightweight and comfortable. Despite its aerodynamic design, it has an impressive 18 vents that keep your head cool. The helmet’s NACA vent, a signature feature from MET, works in synergy with the specially positioned exhaust to ensure constant airflow through the helmet without catching the wind and creating drag.

Fine-tuning the helmet’s fit is easy with the rear dial, allowing precise, one-handed micro-tension adjustments. The Safe-T Upsilon retention system features a full 360-degree head belt for a secure, custom fit, eliminating pressure points and ensuring maximum comfort. The side straps are equipped with an adjustable cam divider so they lay flat against your face to prevent flapping or wind noise while riding.

During that mid-ride coffee stop or on a long, steep climb, securely dock your sunglasses using the specifically designed ports. The reflective MET logos add an extra layer of safety to your rides by enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. 

Bottom Line

The MET Rivale MIPS helmet is a standout choice for cyclists looking for a blend of safety, comfort, and performance at a reasonable price point of $199. With its Virginia Tech 5-star safety rating, the Rivale MIPS offers top-tier protection, while its lightweight design and 18 vents ensure you stay cool and comfortable. The easy-to-adjust fit system and thoughtful features like sunglass ports and reflective logos make it a practical and stylish choice.

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Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.