I’ve seen the OutdoorMaster Kelvin helmet everywhere the past few winters. It’s a budget helmet that suddenly showed up all over resorts and ski schools. So I finally picked one up to see if it’s actually any good or just cheap.
I wasn’t expecting much at this price, but it surprised me in a few ways and frustrated me in others. If you’re looking for a helmet that protects your head without emptying your wallet, this one’s worth a closer look. Here’s my comprehensive Outdoor Master Kelvin helmet review.
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Full Review
I’ve seen the OutdoorMaster Kelvin helmet around for years but never gave it much attention. It shows up everywhere online and at rental counters, promising solid protection for the price of an on-mountain lunch. I normally ride a Smith Vantage or Giro Range, so I wasn’t expecting much when I picked up the Kelvin to test.
I wore it for a few spring laps at Jackson and a couple of colder days teaching. It’s not a high-end helmet, but it’s a lot better than I expected for under fifty bucks.
1. Fit and Comfort
The fit is actually pretty good. The dial adjuster works, the padding doesn’t feel scratchy, and the chin strap is soft enough to avoid rubbing. It’s light and I never found it sliding or shifting once I dialed it in. The ear pads stay warm, though they do sit a bit loose compared to pricier models.
If you’ve ever worn a rental helmet that felt like a fishbowl, this one’s a clear step up. It feels more refined than it looks in photos. The weight is low enough that you forget it’s there after a few runs.
2. Ventilation
This is where the price shows. The vents are fixed, so you can’t adjust airflow like you can on midrange helmets. It’s fine for cold days, but on warmer bluebird laps I found myself cracking my goggles to dump heat. The foam behind the vents could definitely breathe better, but for mellow cruising or resort skiing it’s passable.
If you hike or tour, you’ll feel the heat build up quick. It’s not designed for that.
3. Build Quality and Safety
The ABS shell feels sturdy enough and has full ASTM and CE certifications, which is what really matters. It won’t win any design awards, but it’s not flimsy either. I dropped it once in the lot (purely scientific testing, of course) and it didn’t scuff badly. The liner and strap hardware feel basic but haven’t failed.
It’s not a multi-impact or MIPS helmet, so don’t expect that level of protection. Still, for casual riders or those on a budget, it’s a huge step above going without.
4. Compatibility
Goggle fit is solid. My Smith and OutdoorMaster goggles both sat flush with no gaper gap. The strap clip at the back holds goggles tight and hasn’t popped open once. It also fits fine with balaclavas or thin beanies underneath.
Update: I’ve now also tested them with Giro, Oakley and Dragon goggles. Some of the really large frames can come up against the sides of the helmet, but everything else has worked pretty well.
5. Pros & Cons
Verdict
The OutdoorMaster Kelvin helmet is simple but genuinely functional. It’s not going to impress gear nerds, but it’s light, safe and fits better than most cheap helmets I’ve tried. The fixed vents and basic padding are obvious trade-offs, but if you just want a comfortable lid for resort days or as a spare, it delivers.
Alternatives
If you’re ready to spend more, the OutdoorMaster Diamond is the next logical step up with better ventilation and MIPS protection. The Giro Ledge sits in a similar budget zone but feels more rigid and durable. For the best all-around performance, the Smith Vantage remains my go-to for comfort and airflow, though it’s several times the price.
Final Thoughts
The OutdoorMaster Kelvin isn’t flashy, but it nails the basics. For the cost of an Aspen après burger, you get a certified, comfortable helmet. If you’re new to skiing or need a reliable spare, this is an easy pick.
Just don’t expect high-end features. It’s not that kind of helmet (and that’s fine).
If you end up grabbing a pair, you can use my code CHASERS20 at checkout for twenty percent off.
Hope that helps!
