Thor Verge Helmet
(discontinued)

Vital Rating:
Discontinued
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Tested: Thor Verge Helmet
Rating:
Vital Review

Review by Thiess Lindsay // Photos by Michael Lindsay

Last year, Thor set out to redesign their top-of-the-line helmet (formerly known as the Force). With the help of not only their design staff but a list of their top pros (including all-around badass Ryan Villopoto), gave me the thought that the new Verge helmet had to be worth testing.

Verge Helmet Highlights:


  • Hand-laid composite Fiberglass/Kevlar construction
  • EPS material extends throughout the chinbar
  • Antibacterial, moisture-wicking SilverCoolTM liner is removable and washable
  • Available in six sizes, XS to XXL.
  • DOT and ECE 22.05 approved
  • MSRP: $324.95

First Impressions

I found the sizing (I usually wear a large) to be accurate with a comfortable shape. The cheek pads are what I would consider a medium thickness. These didn’t have quite as snug of a fit as several of the new helmets on the market I’ve tried. The chin bar has sufficient room from the face, for those that are more “nostrilly” gifted.

I was excited to see the antibacterial liner, which is something that’s becoming more popular in clothing. This is a great addition to gear that’s subject to heavy perspiration and has the potential to become pungent. The portions of the liner that touch the face are soft and comfortable, as opposed to the mesh-type material that’s popular for some liners.

The strength of the visor did bother me a bit. Although it's well mounted, it's quite flimsy and didn't leave me with much confidence in how it would hold up in an impact.

Long-Term Durability

The first two places I normally see wear issues are at the front of the chin bar and the removable liner. So far, the chin bar looks great, with all the materials retaining their shape and appearance. The liner has also held up well. I’ve also been impressed on how well the plastic and rubber pieces were constructed.

I do have one complaint, though, as the chinstrap pads aren’t removable. This may sound a little nitpicky, but the particular model I tested had a light gray colored liner that showed dirt fairly quickly. The pads can be cleaned, but it takes more effort than just throwing them into the washing machine with the rest of the liner. Instead, I had to hand-wash them with soap, while trying not to completely soak the inside of the helmet.

The Last Word

Overall, I was impressed with the Verge's fit and comfort. Thor didn’t go overboard on features, which kept the price down. The antibacterial liner was a very nice touch, but I was disappointed to see that some pieces weren't removable. In the extreme heat of the summer the Verge left me wanting more ventilation, like most helmets on the market. But for the rest of the year, it's sufficient. At the $325 list price, I feel like this a good mid-range helmet and would give it 3 1⁄2 stars.

Vital MX Rating

Check out ThorMX.com for more info on their Verge helmet and other products.

About the Test Rider

Thiess Lindsay - born to a moto-crazed father who stole his first name from Greg Theiss, a regular on professional motocross scene in the late 70s. The family is still trying to figure out why the spelling is different, but the running joke is Thiess means “drunken father”. As a taller and “bigger-boned” rider Thiess is proud to give a voice to the large number of riders that were built more for football or basketball than moto. His inherently cheap nature also serves as a good measuring stick for the average guy who is trying to find the best value from the many aftermarket parts available. Between his career as an engineer (which means he can’t spell) / project manager and a young family, Thiess finds every opportunity to ride and enjoy the freedom and comradery that only a dirt bike can provide.

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Specifications

Product
Thor Verge Helmet
Type
 
Construction
 
Colors
 
Size
 
Miscellaneous
 
Price
$324.95
More Info
  •  Meets AMA and FIM requirements for helmets used in competition.
  • Hand laid composite Fiberglass / Kevlar construction.
  • Contoured eyeport gasket improves goggle fit.
  • Increased liner and EPS ventilation for maximum airflow.
  • EPS material extends throughout chinbar.
  • Front intake port and rear exhaust vents provide optimal air circulation and venting.
  • Antibacterial, moisture-wicking SilverCool™ liner is removable and washable.
  • Integrated hi-flow mouthpiece increases airflow while filtering out roost.
  • DOT and ECE 22.05 approved.
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