Lightweight, innovative, safe, high-performance, protective
Imagine you're out on the North Shore, the waves towering over you like giants, each one a blend of beauty and danger. You’re riding the edge of possibility, pushing your limits, feeling the thrill of the ocean's raw power. In these moments, every decision, every movement matters. That's where Oakley's WTR Icon surf helmet comes into play – it's not just gear; it's a game-changer.
This helmet isn’t your run-of-the-mill, cumbersome headgear. Weighing in at under 365 grams, it’s as light as a whisper, designed to blend seamlessly with the natural flow of your ride. Oakley’s WTR Icon has emerged from the crucible of insights gathered from the world’s best surfers, combining cutting-edge technology with real-world feedback. It’s built to take on the heaviest waves while addressing the sensory concerns that surfers have long grappled with when wearing helmets.
One of the standout features of the WTR Icon is its construction. Made from strong Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and integrating D3O® technology, this helmet is engineered to absorb impact and disperse energy, reducing the risk of blunt force trauma. It’s rated 4 stars by Virginia Tech’s Helmet Lab and boasts an EN-1385 white water certification, putting it in a class of its own. The unique shell design minimizes disorientation and drag, allowing surfers to maneuver through and under the water with ease. The open ventilation system ensures quick drainage, so when you resurface, you're ready to take on the next wave without missing a beat.
But it’s not just about protection. The WTR Icon includes adjustable and removable ear protection, maintaining your hearing while preventing cuts and protecting against eardrum blowouts. This feature is crucial for staying aware of your surroundings and making those split-second decisions that can mean the difference between a successful ride and a wipeout.
Griffin Colapinto, a member of Team Oakley, summed it up perfectly when he said that even top pro surfers can have life-changing wipeouts. The hesitation around wearing helmets in the surf community is real, but the WTR Icon has the potential to shift this mindset. It offers a blend of safety and confidence, allowing surfers to challenge waves they might have previously avoided.
The journey of developing the WTR Icon was no small feat. Bryan Norvell, Oakley's Senior Design Engineer, spoke about the stagnant state of surf helmet design over the past 20 years and how refreshing it was to innovate without constraints. Testing prototypes with world-class athletes and refining the design based on their feedback led to a product that truly sets a new standard for surf helmets.
This helmet made a dramatic entrance at the 2024 Lexus Pipe Pro at Pipeline. Team Oakley surfer Caity Simmers, wearing the WTR Icon, delivered a historic performance, conquering one of the most dangerous surf spots in the world. Her victory underscored the helmet's role in providing that extra layer of safety and confidence needed to excel in such extreme conditions.
For those who live for the thrill of riding the biggest and most formidable waves, the WTR Icon is a beacon of innovation. It's more than just a helmet; it’s a revolution in surf safety, enabling you to push your performance to new heights. Starting November 2024, it will be available for purchase in limited quantities on Oakley.com, with wider availability in early 2025. This is your chance to ride the future, equipped with a helmet that could very well redefine your limits.
Pros:
- Lightweight Design: At under 365 grams, the WTR Icon is one of the lightest surfing helmets available, ensuring minimal interference with performance.
- Advanced Impact Protection: Made with Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and integrating D3O® technology, the helmet is engineered to absorb impact, disperse energy, and reduce blunt force trauma.
- High Safety Ratings: Rated 4 stars by Virginia Tech’s Helmet Lab and featuring an EN-1385 white water certification, it provides top-tier safety standards.
- Minimal Drag and Disorientation: The unique shell design minimizes drag and disorientation, allowing for better maneuverability in the water.
- Open Ventilation System: Ensures immediate drainage upon resurfacing, helping surfers stay agile and ready for the next wave.
- Adjustable and Removable Ear Protection: Maintains hearing while preventing cuts and protecting against eardrum blowouts, crucial for awareness and quick decision-making.
- Real-World Athlete Feedback: Designed with insights from top surfers, ensuring it meets the practical needs of professionals in the sport.
- Increased Confidence and Safety: Provides an extra layer of safety, allowing surfers to tackle more challenging waves with greater confidence.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: Initially available in limited quantities starting November 2024, with wider availability only in early 2025, which may cause accessibility issues.
- Potential Resistance from Traditionalists: Despite its benefits, some surfers might still resist wearing helmets due to ingrained habits and cultural perceptions within the surfing community.
- Cost Consideration: High-end safety gear often comes with a significant price tag, which might be a barrier for some surfers.
- Adjustment Period: Surfers not accustomed to wearing helmets might need time to adjust to the feel and fit of the WTR Icon.
- Specific to Extreme Conditions: While ideal for heavy wave conditions, casual surfers or those in less intense environments might not see the necessity for such advanced protection.
