Ruroc RG2 gear review

Ruroc RG2 full-face modular snowsports helmet review – would you wear a full-face helmet?

Helmets have become ubiquitous in ski resorts, and many of us who thought we would never wear one have now given in – but what about full-face helmets? Ruroc, the UK-based helmet manufacturer behind the world’s first full-face snowsports helmet, the RG1-DX, has just launched the RG2, which has been completely redesigned based on pro athlete and customer feedback.

Were there problems with the RG1-DX?

I was excited to test this helmet last season in Japan because the weather can get extreme, and face freeze is a real issue – but sadly, I couldn’t get it to fit comfortably. Admittedly, I have a big head and often have issues with fit. Many people liked the RG1-DX (see image below with red lens), but ultimately, they couldn’t see themselves wearing it full-time. It’s useful for blizzards and protecting your face from tree branches, but wearing it as a normal helmet without the face mask attached felt like too much of a compromise.

First impressions of the RG2

With the new 360º Adjustable Fit System, the fit of the RG2 (above with the blue lens) is much improved, even though the L/LX RG2 is 1cm smaller than the R1-DX. Personally, I found that the space for my jaw between the two sides of the helmet is more roomy, while the dial at the back really helped get a snug fit and ensured the integrated goggles sat nicely on my face without any gaps around my cheeks and nose. The new fully adjustable chinstrap is also a clever feature, allowing you to angle the two-point strap backwards and forwards to get the perfect fit. This replaces a single strap on the RG1. The fact that the RG2 is 22% lighter is also very noticeable.

Seamless goggle integration

The goggles really do fit perfectly without any gaps above or below. A big change with the goggles is a switch from a spherical lens on the RG1-DX to a cylindrical lens on the RG2. This might seem like a step backwards, but personally, I’ve always worn cylindrical lens goggles. This change is probably more about fashion with the resurgence of large 70s-style ski glasses and goggles, and they do give the RG2 a more retro look. There’s also a 28.9% larger field of vision, which is a massive difference, particularly in the vertical plane. The new maglock lens now allows you to change lenses easily without removing the goggles. Lenses are available in various light transmissions and you can also buy interchangeable straps.

Can the RG2 be worn without the mask?

Without the face mask attached, it’s obvious that the RG2 has a lower profile than the original, and the parts on either side of your jaw are around 2cm higher up your face. This, combined with the new magnetic visor, larger vents, and a sculpted rear vent, helps the helmet look more sleek and aerodynamic. The changes may look subtle at first glance, but they make a big difference to aesthetics and comfort. Without looking very closely, nobody would know that it wasn’t a normal snowsports helmet. For me, this is one of the best things about the RG2 – it’s very wearable without the mask, it feels comfortable and it doesn’t look big, even in the L/XL size. Essentially, you can forget about the face mask until you need it.

How does the mask work?

One of the drawbacks of the RG1 is how the mask is attached. It has two tabs that slide and click into slots on the helmet. It’s hard to attach without removing your gloves and using a mirror – and even when it is attached, sometimes you think it isn’t because it didn’t click into place. The RG2 fixes this with magnets that guide it into place and hinged tabs on either side that you lock once it’s on. It can be a little fiddly sometimes, but it’s a huge improvement, and with practice, it can be done without a mirror and with your gloves on. With the RG1-DX you also needed to remove the goggles before removing the mask. Now, the mask fits over the goggles, allowing you to remove the mask easily on the mountain or even mid-run.

Safety features

The RG2 is packed with safety features, including a RHEON liner that significantly reduces the risk of head injuries, a built-in NFC chip that allows first responders to access health data, and conforms to safety standards. A little-known benefit of full-face helmets is their ability to create an air pocket to breathe in if the wearer is trapped in an avalanche.

If you ski or snowboard in heavy snow, icy winds, or the backcountry, the RG2 is a great option for protecting your face and head while keeping out the elements. The new design addresses all the problems of the previous model and creates a more stylish, streamlined, lightweight helmet. The RG2 is now available for preorder from ruroc.com and will ship worldwide starting 4 December 2024.