Bell Super 3R Vs. Super Air (In-Depth Comparison)
The invention of the removable chin bar seems to change the mountain bike helmet design narrative.
Bell prides itself as one of the first manufacturers of removable chin bars. Bell bike helmets continue to evolve in performance and versatility.
Take, for instance, the Bell Super 3R and Super Air, two parallel helmets produced by Bell. Which is better, the two?
The Bell Super 3R bike helmet is an exceptionally high-quality helmet. It is comfortable and functional for mountain climbing at low and high speeds. On the other hand, the Bell Super Air is the most advanced Bell trail helmet. It offers a combination of safety, adequate ventilation, and good coverage on any trail, whether uphill or downhill.
This article provides up-to-date information about both helmet generations, including their features and prices.
I will precisely compare both products so you can know which soothes you best.
Bell Super 3R Vs. Super Air; Features And Differences
Choosing between the Bell Super 3R and Super Air is hard. However, adequate knowledge of both helmets will help you to make an informed choice.
First, let’s consider the features of Bell Super 3R and Super Air and then their differences.
#1. Features of Bell Super 3R
Both Bell Superbike helmets are commendable designs. In addition, Bell helmets have impressive features even as they evolve with no significant changes.
Bell Super 3R is a high-quality helmet for mountain riding and other related functions. The multi-tasking helmet is well-known in the bike helmet market.
Some features that make the Bell Super 3R stand out among other helmets include the following:
#1. Removable Chin Bar
The removable chin bar makes riding easier during long climbs. However, long climbs can be tiring with the chin bar on you, even though it’s necessary to cover it.
To regulate its use, take off the chin bar when the ride is long but less aggressive. But if you have an aggressive ride, ensure to hang in tight.
#2. Float Fit Closure
This technology allows for adjusting the circumference and positioning of your head to fit fine. In addition, the floating technology helps with fit and comfort.
#3. Low-Friction Layer
The Bell Super 3R has a low-friction layer that slides 10 – 15mm in all directions during rotational motion. As a result, it reduces the impact of rotational pain on the brain.
This function is due to the integrated Multi-directional impact protection System.
#4. Fusion In-mold Polycarbonate Shell
The shell safeguards the rider’s head without any discomfort. The fused in-mold polycarbonate shell is light but strong and reliable.
Moreover, people prefer light but highly protective helmets.
#5. Overbrow Ventilation
The design of the Bell Super 3R helmet provides some space on your forehead for ventilation. The ventilation prevents you from overheating.
It also comes with four vents in the chin bar.
#6. X-Static Padding
X-Static is one of the most interesting features of the helmet. It absorbs sweat and dries fast. Aside from keeping you cool, this material kills nips odor in the bud.
It also impedes the growth of odor-causing bacteria
#7. Google guide Adjustable Visor
This feature makes a reservation for both goggles and glasses. It can be accommodating.
#8. Breakaway Camera Mount
Many derive happiness from watching themselves while they are on an adventure. Therefore, the mount lets you attach your camera and cover the journey.
#9. Breakaway Screws
The Bell Super 3R has breakaway screws attached at some point in its construction.
#2. Features of Bell Super Air
The super Air is an advancement of the Super 3R, so it has similar features to the Super Super 3R. The Super 3R has a basic MIPS, but the one in Super Air is an advanced spherical MIPS.
You will find all the features in the Super 3R in a Super Air helmet too. However, there are a few differences you can notice between both models of helmets.
That said, let’s delve into their differences.
#3. Differences between Super 3R and Super Air
Although the Super 3R and Super Air have striking similarities, they are still dissimilar in certain ways. The differences lie in certain parameters, including weight, prize, and performance.
#1. Weight
The weight of both helmets does not match. The weight of a size Super Air is 424g while that of Super 3R is heavier.
People prefer a lighter helmet, considering its health benefits and convenience.
#2. Integrated MIPS
The multi-directional impact protection systems in both models carry. While the Super Air is imbued with a spherical MIPS cradle, the Super 3R has the standard MIPS.
#3. Price
The Bell Super Air costs up to $299, which is way higher than the Super 3R’s $239. But considering the safety both helmets guarantee, they are worth the price.
Which Is Better Between Bell Super 3R And Super Air?
Choosing between the Bell Super 3R and a Super Air is difficult because of the performance of both helmets.
Both helmets have similar features and can be hard to distinguish. However, there are a few differences between the models.
Considering the features and differences between the two, the Bell Super Air appears to be better.
Although the Bell Super 3R has a standard integrated MIPS, the Super Air’s spherical MIPS cradle appears more endearing.
Some people choose the Bell Super Air because it appears to be an evolved Super 3R. And that Super Air is very much lighter than the Super 3R helmet.
Arguably, the Bell Super Air also offers better ventilation than the Super 3R. It is the most refined trail helmet Bell has produced.
Super Air is quite loose and poses a risk; however, its protection technology seems unbeaten.
Pros And Cons Of Bell Super 3R?
The Bell Super 3R remains one of the best helmets for mountain biking. It is safe and protective. However, the Super 3R is deficient in certain areas.
Before purchasing the Bell Super 3R, weighing the pros and cons will be a great gain.
That said, the table below outlines the pros and cons of the Bell Super 3R helmet.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Perfectly fits on the head | It is not too easy to remove |
| It is highly protective | Risks suffocation |
| Possesses a removable chin bar | It is heavy and less comfortable |
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Bell Super Air?
The Bell Super stands out as Bell’s safest and most protective helmet. In addition, the technology employed on the helmet is top-notch.
The Bell Super Air beats many other helmets, including the old Super 3R. However, the Bell Super Air may only come next to other outstanding helmets.
Therefore, you should also consider the upsides and downsides of Bell Super Air as compared to other outstanding helmets.
To this effect, the table below highlights the upsides and downsides of Super Air, respectively.
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| It uses an integrated spherical MIPS | Fits loosely on the head |
| It is safe and protective | It is expensive |
| It is easy to remove at any time | |
| Offers the best ventilation | |
| It not heavy |
This article compares the Bell Super 3R and Super Air helmets. It analyses them both and concludes that the latter is better than the former.
However, the article does not aim at ridiculing the Bell Super 3R. It only considers the Super Air a better option.
- Hiking Trails in Ohio: All You Need To Know - December 16, 2023
- Best Hiking Trails in the World and USA! - October 9, 2023
- Hiking Tips for Beginners: Things You Should Know! - October 9, 2023
