Ever since attending EICMA 2025 back in November I’ve found myself fascinated by Chinese gear manufacturer LS2.
The company has been around for a while, tracing its history all the way back to 1990, when it was started by Arthur Liao in Heshan, China (I’m guessing Arthur isn’t his actual first name but that he does that odd Chinese thing of adopting an Anglicized name for the sake of making things easier on Westerners). I’d been aware of its existence, but had dismissed it as a cheap-o gear company – in terms of price and quality. But then, as I say, I got a chance to see its stuff in person at EICMA.
It looks and feels, at least, to be of better quality than I’d imagined. Enough that I have been pleading with LS2 lately to be given one of its jackets for review. I’ll let you know how that goes.
In the meantime, an LS2 media release hit my inbox this week boasting of an ECE 22.06-rated helmet that it is selling for just £59.99. That’s pretty impressive.
I mean, you know: China. But, setting aside all the thorny issues that raises, this is a good deal for consumers – especially younger riders.
Anyhoo, the helmet in question is the LS2 Rapid III, an updated version of what was already the UK’s best-selling entry-level helmet.
“Combining accessible pricing with a specification that punches well above its weight, the LS2 Rapid series has become a go-to for UK riders on a budget,” declares the media release.
Featuring a colossal rear air spoiler, which LS2 claims not only improves airflow but improves stability at high speeds, the Rapid III comes in three shell sizes and is available in sizes XS to XXXL.
Weight is an impressive 1350 grams – almost 400 grams lighter than the Shoei Neotec 3 that I use on most of my rides. Yes, I am comparing apples and oranges there, but you get my point. The helmet is secured by a micrometric buckle.
Looking closely at pictures, I’m counting two vents on the helmet: one at the chinbar and one at the crown. Additionally, you could choose to remove the chin curtain for extra ventilation.
There isn’t an anti-fog visor in the box, but LS2 says the Rapid III is “ready to accept a Pinlock 70 MaxVision insert.” The internet tells me that will add about £29 to your overall cost.
The helmet’s liner is fully removable and washable. But does anyone ever actually do this?
The LS2 Rapid III is available in UK shops now, or you could click this affiliate link and buy the helmet from Amazon.
Leave a Reply