When Specialized set out to improve the original S-Works Prevail, the design and engineering teams knew that they had our work cut out for them. How could they improve on the industry benchmark for fit, ventilation, and comfort? The primary goal was to improve one the best selling road helmets of all time, so they turned to their riders for input and ideas. Through this process, they realized that there were a few aspects of the original Prevail II MIPS that needed to be changed, with the dominant request being for a lower-sitting design. Some new technologies and safety features were on their own list, so the challenge was ow integrate these with a modified design.

The team understood that "thinking big shouldn't result in bigger helmets," so with the Prevail, they set out to prove that big ideas can come in smaller packages. It all starts with the patented EPS construction that relies on multi-density foam that's paired with a robotically woven, Aramid-reinforced skeleton. This delivered a reduction in the overall size, creating a smaller profile that fits lower down on the head for a better fit and safety, but that wasn't even close to the new safety concept they had in mind. They teamed up with MIPS researchers to introduce MIPS SL, a new, ultra-light, and supremely comfortable version of the proven MIPS that's available exclusively on Specialized helmets. With MIPS SL, the designers essentially integrated MIPS technology within the helmet padding itself. MIPS SL's minimalist "watchband" attachment system provides 10 to 15 millimeters of rotation in every direction and offers the same brain protection benefits as other versions of MIPS, while also ushering in a new level of comfort and weight savings. Safety goal box #2 checked off.

Number three was the addition and integration of a new ANGi Crash Sensor, a small pod on the rear retention set-up that gives you and your loved ones peace of mind like never before. When connected to the Specialized Ride app (iOS or Android) on your smartphone, the sensor will detect a crash and send a text message to specified contacts in your phone. It also syncs with the app and STRAVA® to provide GPS-based activity tracking. If it detects a crash, it commences a countdown that, if you’re ok, you can stop and keep riding. If, however, ANGi determines that you’re in need of help, it’ll send an alert to your selected contacts with your last known GPS coordinates and a message that you’re in need of help. There is also a back-up process in case you are out of cell range. Nothing is perfect or will 100% save your life; like CPSC standards, the positive proven capabilities of MIPS, nor ANGi, but Specialized has gone to great lengths to innovate and integrate more safety features than any other bike helmet maker we know of. It is clear this a priority for the company, and they lead the way in the industry.

Yet the S-Works Prevail II MIPS ANGi Helmet still needs to be comfortable, adjustable, secure, and yes, efficient. It has deep internal channels that are aligned from front-to-rear, so the air intake and exhaust are optimized for unparalleled cooling over the entire head. And in the Win Tunnel, the testing team found these new designs amounted to six seconds saved over 40km when compared to other "standard" road helmets. Another standout feature of the S-Works Prevail II is the Gutter Action System that manages the flow of sweat, keeping it away from your eyes and dripping it off of the pads over your temple. Retention and fit wise, the ultra-light Mindset HairPort II micro-dial fit system features shell height adjustability for the perfect individualized fit. It really seems they used the whole technology kit, addiing the thin, soft, and lightweight 4X DryLite webbing, which won’t stretch out with sweat or water; as well as the Instrap webbing system for ultra-light construction and security, which relies on the popular Tri-Fix web splitter for improved comfort and ease of strap adjustments.

In the end, the S-Works Prevail II MIPS ANGi is the most complete lightweight race helmet Specialized has ever made, and it is perfect for hot, mountainous rides and flat, windy sections alike. You and your loved ones can sleep a little easier knowing you have one of best helmets ever offered, with real safety advantages that make this key piece of equipment both desired and essential.