Price: $85

Weight: 8.1oz

Sizes: S/M (53-59cm), M/L (58-63cm)

Shell: Polycarbonate

Foam: EPS

Colors: 3

Adjustment: 2-handed, plastic

What We Like: Great weight for price

What We Don’t: Polycarbonate not as durable as ABS

The Black Diamond Vector is coupling lightweight performance with a friendly price tag, much like its counterpart the Petzl Meteor, which is $5 more expensive while being 0.2 ounces lighter. The Vector is a fairly bulbous-looking helmet that has lots to offer. For $85, it’s a pretty good bargain.

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Construction

The helmet is constructed using lightweight EPS foam throughout and covered with a polycarbonate shell. The materials are co-molded to create a cohesive geometric shape. Durability is a slight concern, as polycarbonate is not as durable compared to the bombproof ABS plastic, but it does save a fair amount of weight. So be very aware that if the helmet takes any large impacts, it should be looked over very carefully and may even need to be replaced.

Adjustability

The adjustability for the Vector is well thought-out. The sliding plastic back ratchet system requires two hands to get a perfect fit, but it does work better than the dial system on the Black Diamond Half Dome. The chin strap is a standard buckle that works just as advertised, and there are adjustments around the ears to expand or close that help to get that perfect fit. As with all helmets, they are designed and manufactured differently and we all have differently shaped heads, so try on a helmet first if you can before committing to make sure it is comfortable on your melon.

Accessories

The vents on the Vector are large but they are all along the back, so you don’t quickly get the “cool-down” feeling that comes from air hitting your forehead. The headlamp clips are flexible tabs that make it very easy to get a headlamp locked in place. There is no bungee cord like the two higher-end Petzl helmets that would make holding ski goggles easier, but that is a fairly niche accessory.

The Bottom Line

The Black Diamond Vector is a well-priced helmet that will give climbers looking to shed ounces on their setup the ability to get into the lightweight helmet world without hitting the wallet too hard. The durability of polycarbonate is a worry, especially if you’re hard on your gear or climb in areas prone to choss and rockfall. While not the best of the midrange helmets, if it fits your head, it is a great middle-of-the-pack rock climbing helmet.

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