Anon Merak WaveCel Helmet

The new Wavecel system is designed to distribute impact energy, absorb impact forces, and divert rotational forces. The network of cells is able to flex in order to divert the impact force away from your head and it can also crumple to absorb the impact energy. Rotational forces cause the cells to glide, thus redirecting energy away from your head and protecting your brain better.

The 50/50 hybrid shell combines Endura-shell and in-mold shell construction for minimal weight and maximum durability. The shell has a total of 19 vents, 8 of which can be opened and closed for increased ventilation or locking in the heat.

Polartec Power Grid fleece on the liner and earpads is both warm and comfortable and the material is low pile, pill-resistant, and moisture-wicking

The chin strap features Fidlock, a magnetic buckle system for glove-friendly use. Because of this technology the chin strap can be opened or closed with just one hand.

Shell Material: 50/50 hybrid shell; Endura-shell and in-mold construction
Protection: Wavecel
Buckle: Fidlock
Insulation/liner: Polartec Power Grid fleece
Fit system: 360° BOA Fit System

• Wavecel
• Magnetic buckle system
• BOA fit system
• Audio compatible
• Active and passive ventilation channels

Gone are the days of dense foam and finicky plastic buckles; each element of the Anon Merak has been meticulously designed resulting in an easy to use, comfortable futuristic snow sports helmet. The WaveCel technology used in this helmet is easily the best part of this helmet but the other features offered are nothing to shake a stick at.

First off, the Merak is very comfortable and light. The ventilation is impressive and the ability to open and close the larger top vents offers greater climate control. The vent slider offers not just fully open or closed settings but can also be adjusted to any amount in between to offer a wide variety of warmth and ventilation levels. The Polartec fleece which lines the ear pads and inner liner are soft and warm as well, and the fine-tuning offered by the BOA system means a snug fit for any head size is easy to achieve. 

The Fidlock magnetic buckle is a particularly nice touch for donning and doffing the helmet without having to remove your gloves. After a bit of practice, the one-handed operation was easy enough, even with mitts on.

Finally, the WaveCel technology must be addressed. This new impact-absorbing technology is making helmets better from a safety standpoint but also seems to make them a bit lighter and offer better airflow. Increased protection from both direct impacts and rotational forces is a win no matter which way you look at it. I like that they have found a way to protect from a variety of impact types with one system, as it seems to reduce bulk and offer a tighter fit than comparable technologies.

As is often the case with new technologies, there comes an increase in cost. $400 is significantly more than other high-end helmets, like the POC Auric Helmet. That being said, the increase in the protection offered by WaveCel along with the host of well-thought-out features certainly puts this helmet on another level.