Oakley recently launched the ARO Series—mainly the ARO3, ARO5, and ARO7. Housed in lightweight polycarbonate shell, these road racing helmets, are more than just protective gear. Safety being the cutting edge of these helmets, each one is equipped with MIPS Brain Protection System: a low friction layer separating the shell and the lining devised to reduce rotational motion on angled impact, providing the rider with superior protection. Each helmet is also lined with EPS Protective Foam that absorbs impact and road vibrations.
Oakley also throws in the BOA FS1-1 System. A 360-degree fit system wherein a dial tensions the TX1 lace: soft, flexible, and thin lace that lies flat inside the helmet for a more snug and custom fit with less pressure on your temples. It also makes it easier to use shades as it doesn’t compete with space.
Of course, when you ride, you sweat. And there’s always odor when sweat is concerned. The ARO Helmets are set with X-STATIC Brow Pad that draws off liquid and inhibits bacterial growth keeping you odor-free.
The ARO3 and ARO5 are decked out with an eyewear dock so you can stow your glasses and easily accessed when needed. Both models are also compatible with Oakley’s line of eyewear. On the other hand, the ARO7 includes two visors that you can swap out between Prizm Road and clear lens. These are guided with magnetic attachments that keep the visors in place.
Each helmet is geared towards different riding profiles:
ARO3
The ARO3 is all about ventilation and cooling. It’s made for riders in for challenging climbs under the blazing heat. It is built with an augmented ventilation system that ensures you keep your cool as you ride. Armed with large and long vents that lets air flow as you speed through while also making it possible for heat to disperse from your head when going slow. The ARO3 is available in three sizes and seven colors.
ARO5
The ARO5 is tuned for speed and more designed for sprint finishers. Compared to the ARO3, it has less vents and a condensed tail for a more aerodynamic model. The ARO5 is also available in three sizes and seven colors.
ARO7
Versus the ARO3 and ARO5, the ARO7 is crafted for aerodynamics and took inspiration from racecar forms. It has way less vents for cooling. This is your helmet of choice if you are a time trialist or a triathlete. Designed with a short-tail so you can move your head freely without too much aero drawback. As a time trialist, every second counts. With this in mind, the ARO7 uses a Fidlock Magnetic Strap Buckle Closure like Oakley’s snow helmets: a magnetic buckle that locks from any angle and
releases in one direction for a quicker helmet fitting. You can get the ARO7 in matte black and white.
Flight and Field Jacket
Aside from these helmets, Oakley also unveiled their latest innovations for the eyewear category, the Flight and Field Jacket. Available in seven colors and in Prizm, Prizm Polarized, and Photochromic lenses, these aerodynamic designed frames are your eyewears of choice for for running, cycling, and more. The Flight Jacket has a Brow-Less Design while the Field Jacket sports a Raised Brow Line for maximized upper field of view.
Both boast Advancer nosebridge that positions the frames forward by 7mm opening airflow for less fogging and overheating. They’re equipped with Interchangeable temple lengths that ensures helmet compatibility. No-slip Unobtainium nosepads and earsocks as well as the Three-Point Fit hold the shades in place and ensure accurate optical alignment.