New Design, Better Airflow, Lighter Weight
Trek recently updated two of its most popular MTB helmets with updated WaveCel safety technology, improved ventilation, and extended head coverage — all without compromising comfort, fit, or their Virginia Tech 5-star safety rating.
Previously, users found WaveCel helmets warmer and heavier than their MIPS counterparts. Trek took this feedback to heart and innovated. The latest iterations of the Rally and Quantum helmets feature newer WaveCel technology, with cells that are 10% larger and 15 grams lighter than before.
New-and-improved WaveCel technology (left) features 10% larger cells, allowing for more airflow while saving weight.
WaveCel outperforms traditional foam cycling helmets. Its collapsible cellular structure acts as a crumple zone during angled impacts, absorbing and dispersing energy more effectively.
Another improvement to the new Rally and Quantum helmets includes deeper rear coverage, protecting the back of the head. Plus, Trek’s Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free replacement within the first year of ownership if you’re involved in a crash.
After testing the Rally and Quantum helmets, I found the fit and comfort remarkably similar. Besides the price and weight, there are a few key differences that I’ll highlight in the individual reviews.
Not into mountain biking? These helmets are versatile performers, perfect for multi-use trails, daily commutes, or gravel adventures. The visor offers extra sun protection, and the extended rear coverage protects more of the back of your head.
Trek Rally WaveCel Helmet
Price: $159.99
Sizes: S – XL
Colors: Matte Black, Purple Flip/Black, Matte Chinchilla/Black, Matte Keswick/Black
Virginia Tech safety rating: 5 star
Safety features: WaveCel – New design for better airflow and cooling
Visor: Three-positions; Built-in sunglasses storage; Goggle compatible
Fit system: BOA®
Buckle type: Fidlock buckle
Other features: Removable Blendr magnetic mounting system for a GoPro or Trek light; Goggle strap gripper at the rear of the helmet
Weight: 365 g (Small)
Availability: Online and retail
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
The Rally, priced just $35 above the Quantum, offers a range of advanced features typically found in higher-end helmets. It starts with a BOA fit system featuring a single rear dial that allows easy, one-handed adjustments, even while wearing gloves.
New Rally model (left) and older Rally model (right).
Additional comfort features include a Fidlock strap buckle and lay-flat adjustable camlock straps, designed to minimize twisting and binding while ensuring a smooth fit against your face.
Want to capture all the action on your ride? In the box, the Rally includes a removable Blendr magnetic mounting system. This magnet-based system makes it easy to attach and detach from the helmet. Add accessories like a Trek light to add visibility to the trail in low light conditions or a GoPro camera to capture some cool footage of your ride.
Since the visor is goggle-compatible, Trek has added a strap gripper to the rear of the helmet, preventing the strap from sliding off.
All the features of the Rally come at a slightly higher price than the Quantum, and it weighs 45 grams more. Choose from four colorways, including three matte and one gloss – matte black, matte chinchilla/black, matte Keswick, and black purple flip/black.
Trek Quantum WaveCel Helmet
Price: $124.99
Sizes: S – XL
Colors: Matte Black, Matte Power Surge, Matte Lavender Haze, Matte Era White/Old Style Gold
Safety features: WaveCel
Virginia Tech safety rating: 5 star
Safety features: WaveCel – New design for better airflow and cooling
Fit system: Headmaster II
Buckle type: Standard buckle
Visor: Three-positions; Built-in sunglasses storage
Weight: 320 g (Small)
Availability: Online and retail
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
The Quantum helmet is slightly less expensive and weighs less than the Rally but offers fewer features. However, the Quantum is still a great option.
Comparing the two helmet models reveals the fit system on the Quantum, which uses a Headmaster II instead of a BOA. Also, the strap buckle is standard instead of a Fidlock. The rear of the helmet is not as “beefy” as the Rally and does not have a goggle strap gripper.
Lastly, the Quantum is not Blendr compatible, so there’s no easy way to attach a light or GoPro.
The Quantum has four color combinations to compliment your bike frame and personality. Choose from a black, power surge, lavender haze, or era white/old-style gold model — all in matte finishes.
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.