Gear Review: Black Diamond Half Dome Climbing Helmet
Value Rating: 10
Durability Rating: 10
Overall Rating: 10
Location of Test: Smith, Mt Hood, Boulder Canyon, Joshua Tree
Duration of Test: Five years
Product Name: Half Dome Climbing Helmet
Product Brand: Black Diamond
Best Use: Outdoor climbing
Hybrid design with molded EPS foam, generous ventilation, and highly adjustable suspension system
Suspension's custom wheel adjuster allows for improved fine-tuning of fit
Headlamp clips are the most secure headlamp attachments on the market
Available in 2 sizes
The most durable helmet Black Diamond makes
The Full Review:
Climbing is inherently unsafe. Oddly enough the most significant dangers come from above, not below. I have heard countless stories of friends getting hit by rocks, gear, ice chunks, etc. I have had a couple of close calls myself.
I chose the Black Diamond Half Dome helmet mainly because the price was appealing. Next Adventure offers the Half Dome for a great price. It’s the most affordable option for full-grown humans that I’ve found.
Not only is the price appealing, but so is the build quality. The helmet is constructed of durable plastic with sturdy headlamp tabs and a decent amount of ventilation. My favorite feature of this helmet is the ratcheting strap. Not only does it offer a comfortable grip on your dome, it also pivots up into the helmet making it very easy to stash in a pack.
I have had the helmet for five years now and it is showing no signs of impending failure. None of the skinny plastic pieces seem compromised and the shell is still in great shape. Plus, the comfort factor is still high.
The Good:
This simple helmet delivers exactly what most climbers are looking for, protection and comfort at a friendly price.
The Bad:
If you are the sort of climber looking to shave grams, there are some better options.
The Bottom Line:
The Black Diamond Half Dome helmet will be with you for years and it won’t break the bank. Safety conscientious dirtbags, this is the helmet for you.
The Full Review:
Climbing is inherently unsafe. Oddly enough the most significant dangers come from above, not below. I have heard countless stories of friends getting hit by rocks, gear, ice chunks, etc. I have had a couple of close calls myself.
I chose the Black Diamond Half Dome helmet mainly because the price was appealing. Next Adventure offers the Half Dome for a great price. It’s the most affordable option for full-grown humans that I’ve found.
Not only is the price appealing, but so is the build quality. The helmet is constructed of durable plastic with sturdy headlamp tabs and a decent amount of ventilation. My favorite feature of this helmet is the ratcheting strap. Not only does it offer a comfortable grip on your dome, it also pivots up into the helmet making it very easy to stash in a pack.
I have had the helmet for five years now and it is showing no signs of impending failure. None of the skinny plastic pieces seem compromised and the shell is still in great shape. Plus, the comfort factor is still high.
The Good:
This simple helmet delivers exactly what most climbers are looking for, protection and comfort at a friendly price.
The Bad:
If you are the sort of climber looking to shave grams, there are some better options.
The Bottom Line:
The Black Diamond Half Dome helmet will be with you for years and it won’t break the bank. Safety conscientious dirtbags, this is the helmet for you.