NEXX X.WED3 Helmet

Adventure helmets often make bold claims, but the NEXX X.WED3 might just be the real deal. I spent days riding through the varied and often challenging landscapes of France with this helmet, and I came away impressed. Whether I was navigating tight, dusty trails or eating up miles of tarmac under a blazing sun, the X.WED3 felt like it was purpose-built for every moment of the journey.

NEXX positions the X.WED3 as “The World’s Wildest Adventure Helmet,” and after spending time with it, I can see why.

Designed to handle the extremes, this helmet is packed with thoughtful features and innovative tech that made my long ride not just bearable but genuinely enjoyable.

First Impressions: A Helmet Built to Perform

Sliding on the X.WED3 for the first time, I noticed how light it felt for a helmet this robust. That’s thanks to the X-Matrix 2 composite shell, which combines six layers of advanced materials to balance lightweight comfort and impact resistance. From the outset, it felt snug but not restrictive, with plenty of adjustability to fine-tune the fit.

The aerodynamic design stood out on the road. The peak’s multi-position adjustment system made it easy to adapt to changing conditions. Even at highway speeds, the helmet remained stable, and the anti-vibration EPS system worked wonders in minimizing turbulence-induced vibrations—a feature I didn’t realize I needed until I experienced it.

Ventilation That Keeps You Cool

The X.WED3’s ventilation system deserves a special mention. With seven closable intake vents and four exhaust outlets, I could customize the airflow to suit the weather. This was particularly noticeable during hotter days when the new Mid Airflow Chamber and Air Cumbs cooling system came into their own. They circulated fresh air around my head, keeping me cool without creating the feeling of wind blasting through the helmet.

Even on slower, dusty trails, the ventilation performed admirably, preventing the suffocating stuffiness helmets can sometimes produce. The inclusion of a dust guard made riding through dirt clouds less of a chore, allowing me to breathe comfortably without worrying about debris.

All-Day Comfort and Practical Features

NEXX didn’t just focus on performance; they nailed comfort and practicality, too. The interior, lined with X-Mart Dry fabrics, stayed cool and wicked moisture away even on the hottest afternoons. The cheek pads and crown pad offered a plush feel, and knowing they’re removable and washable meant I didn’t hesitate to push hard and sweat it out.

One of my favorite features was the Fast Release System (F.R.S). With just a few steps, I could remove the cheek pads—perfect for cleaning after long days, and a reassuring safety feature in case of emergencies. It’s clear NEXX thought about the rider’s experience, from the practical design to the materials chosen.

The helmet’s panoramic eye port gave me an exceptional field of view, and the larger-than-average inner sun visor was a lifesaver when the sun dipped low. Switching between goggles and the visor was seamless, and the integrated goggle strap holder kept my goggles secure when I wasn’t wearing them.