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The Specialized Evade 3, like those that came before it, is a very popular helmet among amateur riders and racers. It’s a common sight in amateur scenes around the world. I would bet my house on seeing at least one at my local club ride or race, and it’s the first helmet you’ll see in our guides to both the best road bike helmets and the best aero helmets.
The Evade 4 then has a lot to live up to, especially at $350 — $50 more than its predecessor.
Despite most aero helmet manufacturers persistently seeking aerodynamic improvements, Specialized has, for the second time in a row, updated the Evade with no claims of being ‘faster’ in this sense.
I say that, but the brand’s wind tunnel operator tells me it is actually a smidge more aerodynamic, but the improvement is less than half a watt, so not something they’ll be shouting about.
Design and aesthetics
The S-Works Evade 4 bears more of a resemblance to the original Evade. The opening ‘MouthPort’ at the base of the brow has been brought back, the curvature of the vents as they follow the helmet from the front to the rear is more pronounced, with the return of the diagonal vent on either flank.
The exhaust vent from the Evade 3 at the rear remains, though, and this has been widened quite significantly to create a much more squared-off, more open rear, which I’m told is inspired by the TT5.
As a result, the helmet is actually now shorter in front-to-back length than before.
It’s a millimetre wider too, which doesn’t sound like a lot, but this means the internal shape is wider, and will ease the pressure complaints that some wearers experienced on either side of their head.
At face value, it’s impressive that the brand has made it shorter, wider and more ventilated without ruining its aero performance (assuming you believe its claims, of course).
To be completely honest, I prefer the look of the older helmet, but A, who really cares what I…
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