Weighing around 400 grams, the Balz Pro helmet is not one of the lightest models on the market (HERE you can find the test of 12 other helmet models), but offers a hard outer shell and a thick, very strong protective cover underneath. The helmet is CE EN 1385 certified. Softer foam patches are also attached to the inner and harder protective shell, which ensured a high level of comfort in the practical test. The adjustment wheel at the back of the head is easily accessible and offers a large adjustment range. Positive: The adjustment system is also covered with soft rubber on the inside so that there are no annoying pressure points. The ear pieces are firmly attached to the helmet and cannot be removed on this model. This provides good protection for the ears and eardrums even in the event of heavy crashes. The ear pieces are also very comfortable on the ears thanks to their soft neoprene material.
However, we found the punched ear holes to be less than ideal during testing. Although you can hear a little better if you are standing in the lee on the bank, this supposed advantage is overshadowed by the constant noise on the water. If this bothers you, you should definitely keep an eye on the Ensis Double Shell helmet, which also offers good protection and has removable ear pieces - a test will follow shortly. The chin strap on the Balz Pro model is also problem-free; it works in the classic way with a clip fastener. If you pull the strap tight, additional padding would have been desirable.
Ensis Balz Pro - the conclusion
In terms of impact protection and wearing comfort, the Balz Pro helmet belongs to the absolute top class among water sports helmets. One small drawback is the wind noise caused by the ear holes and the price is also high.
Protection; wearing comfort, adjustment system
Chin strap not padded
Wind noise
Technical data:
- Test modelEnsis Balz Pro Helmet
- Available sizes: S/M (head circumference 51-56cm) // M/L (55-61cm)
- Material: ABS
- Dry weight: 402 grammes
- Wet weight: 452 grammes
- Price: 109 Euro
- Info: To the website
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
Manuel Vogel, born in 1981, lives in Kiel and learned to windsurf at the age of six at his father's surf school. In 1997, he completed his training as a windsurfing instructor and worked for over 15 years as a windsurfing instructor in various centers, at Kiel University sports and in the coaching team of the “Young Guns” freestyle camps. He has been part of the surf test team since 2003. After completing his teaching degree in 2013, he followed his heart and started as editor of surf magazine for the test and riding technique sections. Since 2021, he has also been active in wingfoiling - mainly at his home spots on the Baltic Sea or in the waves of Denmark.
