Jeff Reviews the Gath Surf Convertible Helmet

Jeff's got four decades of experience on the water but has only recently decided to begin wearing a helmet, and his pick is the Surf Convertible helmet from Gath. So far he's had two sessions with it, and he hasn't looked back. So why did it take him so long to start protecting his noggin, and how has the Gath SFC helmet overcome those objections?

Do I Really Need a Helmet?

Ultimately, it is up to you whether you want to wear a helmet. We know that they can feel heavy, especially if they have pads that absorb water. They also tend to be a bit bulky, and the increased surface area adds to the impact when you hit the water hard.

But the water is still relatively soft compared to a board and especially the blade-like wings of a foil, and that's what made Jeff give helmets a second look. We're starting to see so many riders at all skill levels don a helmet that it's no longer part of the official uniform of the Kooks Klub. And when you're protected, you'll feel more confident to try new things and progress faster.

How Is the Gath Surf Convertible Helmet Different?

Gath has been making helmets for years, and the Surf Convertible is not new to their lineup. In fact, it's been one of the top surf helmets on the market for some time.

So what makes it so popular with watersports enthusiasts? It has a very low profile compared to many helmets, staying close to your head, yet it's very protective with an abrasive and impact-resistant shell. It also uses a closed-cell foam that doesn't absorb water, keeping it lightweight. These two things combine to make a helmet that you can almost forget you're wearing.

How Is the Helmet Convertible?

Rather than a shell that fully encloses your head, the Surf Convertible has ear protectors that can be removed. Whether you need to stay a little cooler in warm weather or you want your hearing to be completely unobstructed, you can pull those off.

Jeff has decided he likes to have them on. Not only do they provide extra impact protection, but they also keep the wind out and make riding a little quieter on those high-end days. They've even got adjustable vents that you can turn to let more sound through when you want. Another bonus to using the ear protectors is that they help keep water out of your ear canals when you splash down.

How Does Sizing Work?

The helmet comes in small through extra large sizes, and then each comes with two thicknesses of foam strips that you can use to fine-tune your fit. Be sure to check the size chart and measure around your head at mid-forehead and just above the ears. You want a fit that's snug, but not too tight that it becomes uncomfortable while you're out.

How Does the Gath Helmet Feel When It's On?

It really is comfortable. Jeff went with the medium and didn't feel any extra pressure, even after a few hours of riding. It felt nice and close, yet so lightweight that he wasn't constantly reminded he was wearing a helmet. When he fell, it didn't feel like the helmet was making a bigger splash than his unprotected head would have. And the padded strap made sure there was no chin chafe.

A helmet is really about staying safe so you don't end a session with a trip to the ER. Things can go wrong very quickly when you're out on a foil and you don't always have time to react. That's when you need to rely on your gear to keep you safe, but it only works when you're actually wearing it. The Gath Surf Convertible is one helmet you won't mind putting on.

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