Bell Formula review
The Bell Formula helmet sits towards the value end of the brand's expansive helmet range but it offers a good fit and coverage
The Bell Formula helmet offers a good, head hugging fit, extending down the back of the head for an extra secure feeling. It's also available in plenty of colours which is a plus
-
+
Good fit
-
+
Good protection
-
+
Plenty of vents
-
-
Weight
You can trust Cycling Weekly.
The Bell Formula sits one notch below the excellent Bell Stratus helmet in the brand’s extensive range of lids.
Buy now: Bell Formula at Wiggle from £34.99
Made via Bell’s Fusion In-Mould process, the Formula has a polycarbonate shell that is bonded to the EPS foam, which should, according to the brand, makes for a sturdier build. This particular model doesn’t come with MIPs, but for £15 extra you can get a Formula that does, should you want a little extra protection.
The helmet’s design is distinctively ‘Bell’, and its shape echoes that of the Stratus and Falcon helmets, both of which sit above it in the range. That means you get some of the benefits of these higher price point lids for less money; including 19 vents that do a great job of keeping you cool, funnelling air over the top of the head and out of the rear.
Watch: Iconic climbs – White Horse Bank
The fit of the helmet felt good, and I was impressed by its design, especially its extended coverage down the back of the head which I’ve always appreciated on other Bell helmets. It helps it feel secure, like it’s hugging the head rather than precariously balanced, giving you a little extra feeling of protection.
- Best cycling helmets
- Best budget cycling helmets
The helmet uses Bell’s ‘Float-Fit’ retention system that gives a fair amount of adjustment and doesn’t impinge on the back of the head. Its easy to adjust on the fly and possible to get a comfy fit, including when wearing a helmet.
Buy now: Bell Formula at Wiggle from £34.99
At 235g it’s not a featherweight lid but it is par for the course when it comes to a value helmet, and the enormous number of vents will help shave some of that down.
If the black and fluorescent yellow colour tested here isn’t to your taste then fear not; Bell makes the Formula in an extensive range of colours, including a very nice matt black and gunmetal.
Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
-
Collapsed lung, concussion and multiple fractures: Fundraiser set up for first ever Tour de France Féminin winner following crash
Marianne Martin crashed earlier in October and is looking to raise $20,000 to help her get back on her feet
By Adam Becket Published
-
Gravel riders - get ready, set, register! A guide to 2025's biggest gravel events and key registration dates
Here are the registration dates for gravel’s biggest events around the globe
By Anne-Marije Rook Published
-
Power couple Keegan Swenson and Sofia Gomez Villafane win the 2024 Life Time Grand Prix series — again — but changes loom for 2025
Swenson secures third consecutive title, while Gomez Villafane defended her crown in a thrilling finale at Big Sugar Gravel.
By Anne-Marije Rook Published