US-based helmet brand, Thousand Helmets, launched their Epoch range of urban helmets last year and we managed to get our hands on their latest to give it a good test pedal.

The Epoch helmet oozes sophistication with its ultra sleek finish, curved edges and luxury details. With a strong but lightweight polycarbonate shell, the Epoch helmet uses vegan-friendly leather straps with a magnetic clasp for easy fastening.

The visor has been incorporated into the design and peaks out the front with a relatively low profile.

There are two sets of interior padding for comfort and seven carefully place vents around the lid for breathability and improved airflow. But what makes this helmet pretty neat is the secret ‘Poplock’ feature which is a popout hole in the rear of your helmet which allows you to fasten your lid to your bike. What’s even better is that if someone does break your helmet to steal your bike, Thousand will send you a replacement!

While this helmet certainly has a smooth charm about it, I wasn’t all too impressed with the fit. I found the leather strap buckles fiddly and with set hole-increments, I couldn’t get a snug enough fit to leave me feeling comfortable.

Overall, I do like the helmet. The minimal elegance certainly appeals to my tastes, but the straps and inability to get a good fit with them leaves me in a position to choose safety over fashion.

Available in three sizes, the Epoch helmet can be purchased here for £115.