Editors' Choice Snow 2014: K2 Route Ultralight Helmet

No more excuses for not wearing a helmet. At 11 ounces, the Route is the lightest, most inconspicuous snow sports helmet ever made. “I was halfway through my lunch before I realized I hadn’t taken it off,” said one tester after a day of ski-touring in BC. Pea- to nickel-size vents (59 of them) and internal front-to-back channels keep air moving at maximum flow. “I normally don’t wear a helmet at all—its just too hot and interferes with my general sense of awareness,” one tester says. “But the Route is so light that I not only wore it on the downhill, I often kept it on for the ups, as well.” The Route lacks a traditional liner, which, along with so many cutouts, accounts for its wispy weight. Instead, it has strategically placed fleece pads and earmuffs, which you can remove for use with a beanie or for biking (it’s certified for cycling). A Boa fit system ensures a snug fit for any size head. Goggle/headlamp clips lock into four of the vents. They can be moved and adjusted, which is welcome, but be aware that they can pop off if not properly locked into place. Bonus: Each helmet comes with a stretchy, waterproof/breathable cover. Just slip it over the helmet to cover up all the vents if a storm rolls in. $150; 11 oz.; k2skis.com