Stilo launches new generation of rally helmet
12 Mar 2021
Lets Stilo up
It's 20 years since Stilo launched it's now iconic WRC Helmet - how old does that make you feel!?
To mark the very special anniversary, the Italian manufacturer have launched the VENTI range of helmets, an "evolution" of their existing range and all in the now familiar Carbon shell.
As to be expected, it confirms with the latest FIA specifications and offers three models to choose from.
Probably the most exciting factor with the launch, is the introduction of a "revolutionary" intercom systems, which operates via Bluetooth offering a wireless alternative to exisiting units and designed to be used with the VENTI range. Lets dive into the latest offering...
The "budget" budget offering from Stilo comes in at £1242 / €1450 plus VAT (at the time of writing).
Similar to the previous DES model, the Venti WRC retains the iconic Stilo shape, but with a redesigned boom to help clarity in the car thanks to its moveable position. A new peak and shell shape make it more angular in appearance, but also adds strength.
The intercom internals are retained from the previous models due to - as they say - if it ain't broke, dont fix it!
Next up, the Venti WRC 8860 offers the next level of protection with its highest standard of FIA8860-18 homologation allowing this helmet to be used in all premiere championships, and in addition, it also has Snell SA2020 homologation when used in the US. Starting at £2340 / €2575 +VAT (at the time of writing). Like its cheaper cousin, it too has had some moderate changes to design but also retains the previous models intercom internals.
If you are serious about your rallying, then this is the helmet for you. The VENTI ZERO comes in at a cool £5363 / €5900 +VAT (at the time of writing) but for your buck, you get pretty much the F1 helmet for rallying. It's as good as it gets and so it should be at that price, but to be honest, what price do you put on your life?
Now, this is where we think Stilo have really upped the game in the cockpit and we will be brutally honest here, the only reason you should buy this intercom system is if you both have a Venti helmet and actually, only buy a Venti Helmet if you are going to buy the wireless intercom...and here is why.
The innovative system works much like your bluetooth speaker in that the intercom box becomes the reciever and "bouncer" of signal between the co-driver and driver. The output from the crew comes from a "dongle" which is plugged into the helmet and means there is no wires to consider...handy huh?
The idea of the system comes from the problems sometimes experience in Dakar, when a co-driver is digging the sand from a stuck vehicle and needs to shout to the driver to stop, or start and thats hard when both have helmets on but not connected. Likewise at time controls - hand signals usually have to do but with this system, the driver and co-driver can chat away in or out of the car.
The dongles need to be "paired" to the intercom box and come that way - but be warned if a nav comes with his own, they will need to be paired together - just like a phone.
Its super stuff and we are excited to see it in action - just a few points to note:
- It's £1000 / €1120 +VAT (at the time of writing) for the intercom box and two wireless dongles.
- Whilst the system CAN be used with any helmet - we don't advise this. The warranty on the VENTI intercom is only valid with a VENTI helmet due to the design of the male/female adaptors and how they sit in the helmet.
Final word
There is no doubt this is an ultra cool system and we can't wait to get some on the shelves. Now, please be aware this will probably be mid-late 2021 so don't go selling your current lid just yet. We haven't personally seen or heard the intercom or how it works in action, but Stilo know their stuff and we are pretty sure it will be just grand.
For help with helmets, intercoms or anything Race or Rally - our advice is free - give us a shout!