Product Review: Fox Flux Mips Helmet

Fox has been making helmets and soft goods for everyone from mountain bikers to motocrossers looking to push their limits in the dirt for a long time now. The Flux has been Fox’s go-to trail helmet, and this last year Fox did a full redesign of this half-shell. We have been testing our fair share of quality lids lately and were eager to put this new helmet to the test to see if it could hang with the competition. 

Tech info: The Flux is a streamlined, half-shell design that combines the looks you’d expect from a trail helmet with a modern approach. The overall finished looked is low volume, with no extruding parts coming from the outer shell that might catch low-hanging branches or trail debris. Fox offers the Flux in three different sizes—XS/S, S/M, L/XL—with each being designed to fit a range of head shapes. 

Fox uses a 360-degree retention dial that is easy to reach and adjust, even when wearing gloves on the trail. The Flux uses 14 large vents to provide a generous amount of airflow and breathability. On the back of the helmet, there are two slots that can securely hold a pair of sunglasses. 

There are two versions of the Flux available—one with a MIPS liner and a lower-end version without. Both shells use multi-density EPS with an inner cage for additional strength in case of an impact. Retail price on our helmet is $150 with a weight of 423 grams for the L/XL size tested. The more affordable non-MIPS version retails for $100. Riders can choose from among four different colors.

On the trail: Pulling the Flux out of the box, we were impressed with the almost aero-looking shell and low-volume design. The back of the helmet didn’t protrude and make weight distribution awkward. Dropping the Flux on our heads for the first time, the fit proved to be roomy yet snug with a wide range of adjustment in the retention system. The front of the helmet sits low on the brow, but not so low that goggles and larger sunglasses would be an issue. The Fidlock buckle was also easy to access and engage once we were ready to hit the trail.

Our first impressions of the Flux were positive. The large oversized vents channeled air effectively, even at lower speeds when climbing. The Flux is definitely one of the better-venting helmets that we have tested in recent memory. Whether using goggles or sunglasses, the Flux had plenty of clearance to allow for a comfortable fit. While the Flux had room to run goggles, there wasn’t enough space to stash them under the visor, which bothered a couple of our test riders but wasn’t a deal breaker. 

During our testing, the Flux remained comfortable and kept us cool with its generous venting, but most of our test riders didn’t like the visor and its lack of adjustability. The visor is small and doesn’t serve much of a purpose. Overall, the price is competitive compared to other MIPS helmets, and the weight is competitive as well. If you are looking for a well-vented helmet with a sleek profile, the Flux will check a lot of boxes.

Hits

• Low volume, sleek design

• Good ventilation

• Stash your sunglasses on the back

Misses

• Visor is small and doesn’t have multiple positions

www.foxracing.com

THERE ARE SO MANY WAYS TO GET ELECTRIC BIKE ACTION