First Look: Troy Lee Designs D3 & A1 MIPS Helmets

Hot on the heels of last week's A1 MIPS launch the time has come for Troy Lee's venerable D3 full face lid to get the rotational-injury-risk minimization treatment in the form of the ever more popular "Multi-directional Impact Protection System" - that extra layer that sits between the helmet shell and the internal liner to provide a degree of rotational freedom or "float", intended to keep rotational forces from reaching your brain in the case of off-axis impacts to the head. None of that exactly rolls off the tongue, but pictures are worth a thousand words and thankfully you can find out more about this trick new technology here:

To celebrate the addition of yet another safety feature to the lineup, Troy Lee went to work on creating some fresh looks for the new helmets. Both the A1 and the D3 see the addition of some completely new graphics, as well as the return of some classics like Midnight Black:

You can learn more about the A1 MIPS including our first impressions on the trail in this article from last week. We've also been long-standing fans of the D3, but while you wait for our thoughts on the new MIPS version, here is all the information you need in the meantime:

Troy Lee Design D3 CF MIPS Highlights

Technologically advanced carbon fiber shell construction
MIPS brain protection system, reduces rotational forces to the brain
Digital wind tunnel-tested, aerodynamic shell design
Revolutionary injection-molded air intake system
20 high-flow intake and exhaust ports for maximum ventilation
Added eps and new headform shape for improved impact performance
Full incremental sizing for greater range of fitment
Deep eps channeling for optimal airflow
Strategically placed interior chinbar shock pads for comfort and durability
Removable, washable padded liner with coolmax™ and dri-lex™ moisture wicking materials
Contoured 3d cheekpads fit anatomically
Quick-release cheek pads for emergency helmet removal
Purpose-built internal cavities for audio integration
Titanium hardware for reduced weight
Includes 2 lightweight, streamlined visors and a helmet bag
Exceeds bicycle certifications: CPSC 1203, CE EN 1078:2002+A1:2012 ASTM F1952-15, ASTM F2032-15, ASTM F2040-11
MSRP: $495 USD
Availability: mid-June, at finer dealers worldwide