Ice Pirate

RBK 8k: Medium in black w silver inserts Purchased: New around December of 2006 Fit: I have a kinda/somewhat wide head and the fit was perfect for me in a medium. I am a 7 and 3/8 hatsize. The comfort gel pads ontop of the EPP inside the helmet are noticeable while being worn, but aiding only slightly in comfort. The adjustible dial for the occipital stabilizer bars on the back of the helmet is a gimmick and the bars go right back to flat with any minor pressure on them. 8/10 Ventilation: The helmet feels cool when wearing it. Slightly cooler than previous helmets I have owned. 9/10 Protection: It's HECC, CE, and CSA certified, and being worn by thousands of players, so I guess that's as detailed as my comment gets without performing major research. What's curious to me is the reduction in padding at the front of the forehead. They molded it thin there to fit the front of the shell, is that not a bad thing? 9/10 Weight: It is a nice and light helmet, maybe the lightest I've had. 10/10 Durability: Ok here is where I am angry and what prompted my review. This helmet has seen no abuse and after only two years there is a big crack that has suddenly appeared from the cage screw hole running down to the brow. The screws are not over tightened. For a $140 dollar helmet that is only 2 and a half years old I am very dissapointed. Anybody know if Reebok would perform some type of warranty service on this? 5/10 Intangibles: The helmet looks fantastic, great aesthetics. Conclusion: A great looking, great feeling helmet that up until yesterday when I saw the crack I would have highly recommended to people. Now I might still recommend it, but without the same enthusiasm.