6D Helmets has been protecting riders since 2011. Approaching head safety from a unique angle, the brand’s “suspension for your head” design philosophy challenges traditional methods used by competing helmet manufacturers. The ATR-3 is the latest generation of 6D’s premier off-road helmet. Building on the success of its predecessor, the ATR-2, the new helmet further reduces angular acceleration, increases energy absorption, and is 120 grams (0.3 pound) lighter (1,350 grams, or 2.98 pounds, total weight).

Fifth-Generation ODS6D’s exclusive Omni-Directional Suspension (ODS) technology utilizes two layers of EPS, interconnected with isolation dampers (which the company calls Damping Towers), designed to compress and sheer omnidirectionally within the helmet shell, reducing the transfer of angular acceleration energy as well as low-threshold energy. The helmet’s outermost layer of EPS is molded to the shell and the inner layer contacts the rider’s head. In the event of a crash, the two layers either compress into each other or can move in any direction separate of each other, lengthening the time of an incident and thereby reducing the peak acceleration and deceleration force. More time equals less G force, and Gs are what injure the human body. Progressive suspension provided by the Damping Towers reduce energy absorption at a low-impact thresholds whereas traditional helmet technology does not.

In crashes resulting in high-energy impacts, the two EPS layers come together working like a traditional helmet. During low-energy impacts, which still cause brain injuries but are often not tested, the suspension dampers (the Damping Towers) reduce low-energy absorption to the brain.

Additional FeaturesEjection system compatible: Required for competition by sanctioning bodies, the Eject Helmet Removal System is essentially an airbag that can be inflated by hand or via a CO2 cartridge, allowing medical personnel to safely remove a rider’s helmet to prevent further head and neck damage after a crash.

Rebuildable: Replaceable inner EPS liner for extended helmet life and enhanced serviceability. For eligibility, your crashed ATR-3 helmet’s external shell must pass the 6D engineers’ inspection process.

Enhanced ventilation: Air Gap ventilation system with ram-air direct-to-brow cooling.Aerospace-quality shell: Constructed with a new 3K carbon-composite design.Lightweight: Reduced weight with lower center of massWashable Dri-Lex liner: Removable, washable, antibacterial comfort linerIntegrated speaker pockets: Dedicated pockets for communication systemsAdjustable visor: Integrated visor with flush-mount shear-away screwsEmergency-release check padsMagnetic chinstrapRemovable roost guardHydration tube compatibleMud visor extensionThree-year limited warrantyFIM Racing homologated helmet:Pricing:Sizes: XS–XXL

Riding ImpressionsInstantly noticeable is how lightweight the ATR-3 is as you remove it from the bag. Putting on the ATR-3 for the first time, you’ll be amazed by the soft and plush interior. The washable Dri-Lex liner and emergency-release cheek pads are supportive, comfortable, and nonabrasive. Titanium D-rings secure the helmet with a convenient magnet chinstrap closure. The ATR-3′s viewpoint seems shorter (top to bottom) but once goggles are on and you’re riding, the 6D’s narrower field of vision is less noticeable than at first thought.

Riding in the 6D ATR-3 is comparable to other high-end helmets. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and carries its minimal weight well. The interior is soft and cushy but still feels safe and supportive. The ATR-3 is one of the best helmets I’ve ever worn. With 6D’s Air Gap ventilation system, the ATR-3 may be the most breathable helmet on the market. The ram-air direct-to-brow cooling vents funnel air directly to the forehead and the chin bar vents provide steady airflow to the rider’s mouth. But the increased airflow generates increased noise, so make sure to pack a set of earplugs.

We did not crash test the 6D ATR-3, but if we were to have a big get-off, we’d be thankful to have the protection of the ATR-3. We have always had the privilege of wearing well-established and proven helmet brands, but it’s nearly impossible for us to say which helmet is better or more protective from experience or our own independent lab testing. Our goal is to not crash test any helmet. However we are confident in 6D’s science and have no doubt it does what the company says.Every brand has their own unique angle on the complicated and highly technical task of head and brain protection for motorcyclists. What we can say about the 6D Helmets ATR-3 is that it’s the most comfortable dirt bike helmet we have ever worn. It’s light, comfortable, breathable, and has many practical and premium features. As for its ability to protect your head in the event of a crash? The science says the ATR-3 will help reduce brain trauma just as well if not better than any other premium helmet.