At first glance, Elite 2.0 and Ultralite may seem like very similar helmets, and whilst our two best-selling helmets do share some core features, they have very different specifications that make each one stand out from the rest of the competition.
Before we get into the differences between these helmets, let's start with the similarities between them, there may be more than you think.
Similarities
First and foremost, both helmets share the same internal mould design. We engineered this shape from the ground up, spending months developing, fine-tuning, tweaking and designing our very own, unique helmet shape. We wanted to give the market an extremely comfortable, high-performance helmet that remains affordable.
Another feature of the mould that these two helmets share is the vent holes and outer trim design. This unique vent design was introduced with the original Elite, our first helmet which launched in early 2015, and has paved the way to giving REKD its outstanding and easily recognisable brand image. This, coupled with our trim design, really make the Elite 2.0 and Ultralite stand out from the rest of the market.
Both the Elite 2.0 and Ultralite use our custom branded rivets, branded strap divider, and our heat-stamped anti-bacterial lined padding.
So now you know what makes these great helmets similar. Let's take a look into their differences, and what makes each one a top choice in head protection.
Differences
There is one major difference between these helmets, and that's their construction. Elite 2.0 uses a traditional 'two-piece' construction method, using two separate shells fixed together. Ultralite uses a modern technology called In-Mould, which still uses two 'shells', but the outer shell is more of a layer of material that is fused to the inner shell during the moulding process, so the helmet becomes one piece.
The two-piece construction uses two separate shells; the inner shell is made from high-density Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and the outer shell is made from heavy-duty Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS).
This ABS material gives the helmet a tough outer layer which helps during heavy impacts, especially on hard surfaces like concrete skateparks.
The In-Mould construction uses the same EPS inner core but instead uses a durable Polycarbonate (PC) outer shell.
A similar theory to the two-piece construction, but rather than using two separate shells, the outer layer is fused to the EPS during the moulding process.
The outer PC layer is a thin, lightweight material, which allows the EPS to perform better in an impact whilst still giving the helmet a durable outer shell.
Both the two-piece and In-Mould construction exceed the necessary safety requirements, which means both helmets surpass the EN 1078 and CPSC safety standards for helmets.
Which is better?
The short answer is neither. Both helmets are top of their class and both offer incredible comfort and a high level of protection. But if we really had to put one in front of the other, we would lean to Ultralite just taking the lead. No Elite 2.0. No maybe, Ultralite, or Elite 2.0. Ahh, we can't decide! Let's properly look at the advantages of each so you can decide which you think would win.
Weight. The Elite 2.0 is certainly a lightweight helmet, coming in at 410g for S/M it's lighter than most of the competition on the market. Ultralite, well, the clue is in the name. The In-Mould process allows for a superlight PC layer instead of the heavier ABS shell, making the helmet extremely lightweight. Ultralite comes in at just 295g for S/M. A lighter helmet means you feel it less when wearing it, so you can wear it for longer without feeling any additional fatigue and the need to take it off every now and then. Ultralite wins this one.
Strength. Ultralite uses a thinner layer on the outside. It's designed to allow the EPS to perform better on impact. Even though it surpasses the penetration tests of EN 1078 and CPSC, the thinner layer is susceptible to smaller dents and knocks. Elite 2.0 uses a heavy-duty ABS outer shell, which is much thicker and won't show any signs of small dents from small knocks. Elite 2.0 wins this one, but only from this viewpoint, both helmets are strong in terms of protection during an impact and both pass the safety standards with flying colours.
Looks. With so many helmets on the market, it's difficult to stand out, but both the Elite 2.0 and Ultralite do just that. The ABS shell on the Elite 2.0 allows for more defined features, such as the vent hole outlines and trim lines. The In-Mould process of Ultralite makes for smoother lines and a softer-looking finish. This one is a tie, personal preference wins.
Price. We strive to provide the market with the very best products for the most affordable prices. Both of these helmets are priced competitive and both give you a very high specification product for the money. The In-Mould process is more expensive to produce, so in terms of price only, Elite 2.0 wins this one. But in terms of value for money, it's a tie, both helmets are the perfect option for a huge range of action sports.
So, there you have it, the similarities, differences, and advantages of our best-selling helmets, Elite 2.0 and Ultralite.
Which is your favourite? Let us know on Instagram!
REKD Protection is owned and distributed by Stateside Skates.
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