Gentex helmets in the UK?

[JohnV85]

Hi

Is there an official dealer of gentex helmets in the UK? I couldn't seem to find anything on their site and Headset Services only seem to sell the Alpha.

Thanks in advance

John

[rtl_flyer]

I think you may find they can be hard to obtain if you want a new one.... something about export licence for military hardware.:rolleyes:

Take a trip to US and buy locally

[Arclite01]

so what is wrong with the Alpha Eagle ??

Arc

[JohnV85]

I'm sure there is nothing wrong with the Alpha. It just seems to be almost double the price of the Gentex.

From what I've read it also seems a little heavier than the Gentex, and although I'm looking at getting a helmet for use in the Extra/Pitts when doing aerobatics I want to keep weight down if possible.

Unless the Alpha offers significant advantages over the Gentex to overvome it's heavier weight and increased cost it doesn't really seem worth it.

Of course, it is a minus if the Gentex can only be sourced direct in the US.

[eharding]

Headset Services will sell you a Gentex if you ask - although they seem to carry more Alpha stock than Gentex.

I ordered a Gentex HGU-55 from Flightsuits in the US a few years ago, and there was a month's worth of dicking about with export paperwork - not sure if Flightsuits will still export a complete helmet though.

The Alpha is arguably better made than the Gentex, but is quite a bit more bulky which can be an issue if you're restricted for headroom. Also, spares for the HGU-55 are a lot easier to come by at reasonable rates, whereas Alpha spares can be fairly eye-watering.

If you can solder and work a multi-meter, I'd consider sourcing a raw HGU-55 shell from Flightsuits, get your liners, earcups, speakers, leads and microphone from OREGON AERO,Inc.- Oregon Aero designs and manufactures more than 500 products for aviation and other industries that prevent and eliminate pain, reduce noise, and improve impact protection. (http://www.oregonaero.com), and put the thing together yourself. The one benefit of a factory custom build is having the edge-roll fitted to your face, but I'm sure that with a bit of effort you could have that done locally.

If you're in a high noise cockpit, consider some secondary passive noise reduction since both the Gentex and Alpha don't perform as well as a decent headset in this respect. I use the CEP system, Communications & Ear Protection, Inc. (http://www.cep-usa.com), and I know Headset Services will sell you custom-fit earplug speakers (but at a considerable premium).

[JohnV85]

Thanks eharding. I'll have a look at your suggestions.

Would there me the same problems personally picking up a Gentex from the US when it comes to bringing it back? I will possible be in LA later in the year and notice they have a facility out there.

[Sam Rutherford]

I bought my Gentex in the US and brought it back to EU without issue. Once you have a US delivery address it's a non-issue...

Sam.

[Arclite01]

How much is the Alpha nowadays ??

Arc

[B200Drvr]

Also look at CGF Gallet, Paris based company that make great helmets, had my life saved by one last year. Breitling L39 guys use them as well as various air-forces. Very reasonably priced for the quality.