Mammut El Cap

Love it or hate it, climbing is getting steezier. From neon clothing to reflective sunglasses, flash is back. So when climbing helmets needed a makeover, Mammut introduced the El Cap, which breaks away from the standard bucket helmet with a narrower design and a low-profile visor. At first glance, this helmet looks more apt for kayaking or snowboarding, but the El Cap more than holds its own on rock. With 12 ventilation openings, adjustable headband, and relatively light weight (12 oz.), this is a well-built helmet that looks good. (It comes in two sizes for pinheads and brainiacs.) “The hat stayed on tight even during big whips,” reports our tester, “and the visor kept the sun out of my eyes. It’s not as light as some helmets on the market, but I’m psyched on it. I can’t wait for one with built-in headphones.” We’re not sure the UIAA would approve, but it’s probably coming.