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Oakley Helmets ARO3/ARO5

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Oakley Helmets ARO3/ARO5

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Old 09-02-19, 12:38 PM
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Plainsman
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Oakley Helmets ARO3/ARO5

Anyone have experience and opinions on the Oakley ARO3 and ARO5 helmets? Considering one for my new lid.

Thanks,

Tom
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Old 09-02-19, 02:38 PM
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RShantz
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I bought one and had to ship it back. It just didn't fit my head. I'd have kept it if it fit. Just make sure to purchase somewhere with free returns.
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Old 09-02-19, 08:59 PM
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noodle soup
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A close friend has the ARO5, but he doesn't use it in the summer months. His Giro Ionos is better vented

It gets pretty hot in Phoenix.
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Old 09-02-19, 09:06 PM
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tomato coupe
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I have an AR03 -- no complaints.
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Old 09-03-19, 10:24 AM
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RedBullFiXX
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Aro3
Most comfortable helmet I've had yet, good ventilation
Fit, size similar to Bell/Giro
Giro Synthe still best for ease of sun glass retention
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Old 09-03-19, 10:54 AM
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Plainsman
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Don’t see tons of pix out there of them in use (or in depth reviews really) but stand alone the helmet looks cool. Seems to have a great feature set. I’ve tried on the Synthe and agree it’s top notch, but with recent sales the ARO3 is half the cost. I’ve heard the ARO3 has a retro vibe, and the aesthetic is either love it or hate it. I try to avoid the extra bulbous/mushroom like helmets. I don’t mind having a helmet that is not the most common though. Also heard it runs a wee bit on the small side, which if true would suit me.
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Old 09-04-19, 12:20 AM
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surak
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I've consistently read that the AROs are more suited for rounder shaped heads and that their ventilation is poor. The former would be great for me, but the latter put me off from trying one.
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Old 09-04-19, 07:38 AM
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Plainsman
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I’ve heard the ARO5 gets hot, but that the ARO3 cools pretty well. In any case, I found a good sale on a sharp looking ARO3 with free return shipping, so I’m giving it a shot.
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Old 09-04-19, 01:11 PM
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I have an ARO3. It's fine. The adjuster is great, doesn't channel sweat in your eyes, straps lay flat, buckle doesn't land on adams apple, and breathes as well as anything. I did have to warranty the first one after 6mo because a $.005 plastic rivet failed in the plastic halo. Oakley warrantied via the retailer and Brands shipped me a new one from stock IIRC, so I was only down 2.5 days total.

Note: I think these are made by the same company that makes POC helmets as the Octal and ARO3 fit me the same. I believe Bioracer makes the clothes for both POC and Oakley, so there some connection in there.
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