Simpson Ghost Bandit Helmet Review - Retro Style Plus Modern Features
The new Ghost Bandit Helmet from Simpson is an impressive next step from the company known for their vintage-inspired lids. We put an Iridium shield on it, but the Ghost Bandit ships standard with a clear face shield.
When you see a Simpson helmet, you know it's a Simpson - and not just because it's got the company's name on it. As usual, Simpson goes with its bold retro drag racing style on the Ghost Bandit, though this one's got a few more curves than the Outlaw Bandit - and offers the most modern look from the company yet. It's a nice compromise, as Simpson doesn't forsake their aggressively styled old-school roots, while allowing for a more aerodynamic design with plenty of new features.
SHOP THE SIMPSON GHOST BANDIT HELMET IN MATTE BLACK, GLOSS BLACK OR WHITE NOW.
So what's new in the Bandit line? What makes the Ghost Bandit the best Simpson - at least in terms of features, yet? An internal sun visor is helpful in changing light situations and the face shield can be easily snapped down and locked in place. If you wish to swap out the standard clear shield, it can be done tool-free. Inside, riders will enjoy integrated speaker and boom mic pockets. We found the padded antibacterial liner quite comfortable and if you want to wash it, it's removable.
The Ghost Bandit is also Simpson's first helmet to provide full ventilation for maximum airflow. Retractable mouth vents can be opened or closed internally and top and rear vents are the new additions to the Simpson feature set that put it in line with more modern helmets.
We did notice some fogging while standing around in cooler weather, but the chin curtain can be snapped out, and once we removed it, that mostly subsided. Once we got moving on the bike, fogging was no longer an issue as the front, top and rear vents did their job to keep the air moving.
Weighing in at 3 lbs 4 oz in a size medium, the Ghost Bandit is a DOT approved helmet that has plenty of vintage style while also mixing in more of the features that 21st century riders want. We found it fit true to size, though you can consult the size chart on the product page to match up the best fit for your head.
Today, we've looked at the Matte Black Ghost Bandit, but it's also available in Gloss Black and White. A carbon fiber Ghost Bandit is also available for riders seeking the lightest Ghost Bandit on the market. Like every product, the Ghost Bandit includes fast, free shipping anywhere in the Lower 48 states.