The new kid on the block: IHPS.

Soldiers and law enforcement officers deserve the best possible protection in the line of duty. That’s where the Integrated Head Protection System (IHPS) helmet comes in. This next-generation ballistic helmet from Ceradyne, a 3M subsidiary, promises significant performance upgrades for military and law enforcement personnel.

Pros:

• Enhanced Protection: The IHPS stops pistol and rifle rounds, safeguarding the wearer’s head from ballistic threats. It also provides protection from blunt force trauma from impacts or explosions.
• Modular Design: The helmet’s modularity is a major plus. You can configure it to attach night vision goggles, visors with digital displays, or even higher levels of ballistic protection. This adaptability makes it suitable for various tactical situations.

• Hearing Protection: Integrated hearing protection reduces noise from gunfire and explosions, safeguarding your hearing and improving situational awareness.

• Reduced Weight: Compared to previous helmets, the IHPS sheds 5% of the weight, making it less cumbersome for extended wear.
• Improved Chinstrap: Unlike older helmets with bolted chinstraps that created weak points, the IHPS uses a boltless design, enhancing overall ballistic protection.
• Night Vision Compatibility: The IHPS works seamlessly with legacy night vision devices like the AN/PVS-14 and AN/PSQ-20, as well as the newer AN/PSQ-42 ENVG-B.

Cons:

• Limited Availability: The IHPS is currently issued to the US military, with the Next Generation IHPS being rolled out to some divisions as of February 2024. Civilian availability is restricted.
• Cost: Military contracts for the IHPS can be expensive. While the exact cost isn’t public knowledge, it’s likely not commercially affordable for most users.

Overall:

The IHPS helmet represents a leap forward in soldier and law enforcement head protection. Its modularity, ballistic protection, and hearing protection make it a valuable piece of tactical gear. However, civilian availability and cost are limitations to consider.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Who it’s for: Military personnel, law enforcement (if available)

The Ops-Core FAST High Cut Helmet is a popular choice among military and law enforcement professionals for a reason. Here’s a breakdown of this helmet’s key features to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Lightweight Design: Made from advanced composite materials, the FAST High Cut prioritizes weight reduction without sacrificing protection. This is crucial for extended wear missions where every ounce counts.
• High Cut Design: The high cut allows for increased headset compatibility and better situational awareness, especially when aiming down sights.
• Multiple Impact Protection: The FAST High Cut protects against ballistic threats, blunt force trauma, and fragmentation, offering a well-rounded defense in various combat scenarios.
• Scalable Configuration: The helmet features rails for attaching night vision goggles, visors, lights, cameras, and other mission-essential gear. This customization allows for adaptation to specific needs.
• Occ-Dial Fit System: The Ops-Core FAST High Cut utilizes the Occ-Dial fit system for a comfortable, secure, and adjustable fit.

There are also low cut models for extra protection, but it will add .6 lbs of weight!

Cons:

• Cost: The Ops-Core FAST High Cut is a premium helmet, and the price reflects that. It might not be feasible for everyone’s budget.
• Ventilation: Some users report that due to the design, the FAST High Cut might be less ventilated than other options, leading to heat build-up during extended use in hot environments.

Overall:

The Ops-Core FAST High Cut Helmet is a top-of-the-line option for those prioritizing lightweight protection and customization. Its high cut design and scalability make it ideal for tactical use. However, the cost and potential for ventilation limitations are factors to consider.

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Who it’s for: Military personnel, law enforcement, security professionals, airsoft players (depending on field regulations)

Next Up: Team Wendy EXFIL LTP
 Bump Helmet w/ Exfil Rail 3.0

(For training, not fighting)

Pros:

• Lightweight Construction: Made from a lightweight, tactical polymer, the EXFIL LTP prioritizes comfort without sacrificing protection. It weighs only 1.59 lbs (0.72 kg).
• Impact Protection: The EXFIL LTP offers impact protection from blunt force trauma, which can be caused by falls or collisions.
• Comfortable Fit: The CAM FIT retention system with Boa Fit System allows for easy adjustability and a secure fit.
• Maritime and Night Ops Ready: Meets performance standards for shock absorption (BS EN 1385:2012) and has an integrated NVG shroud for night vision compatibility. It’s also built to endure various environments, having undergone environmental testing according to MIL-STD-810G methods.
• Modular Design: The EXFIL Rail 3.0 allows for attaching accessories like night vision goggles, visors, lights, and cameras.
• Stable Platform: The EXFIL LTP’s design provides a stable base for mounting accessories like night vision goggles, lights, and cameras.
• High-Cut Design: The high-cut shell allows for increased headset compatibility and better situational awareness.
• Customizable Fit: The Zorbium foam liner with comfort pads and the CAM FIT Retention System with BOA Fit System ensure a comfortable and secure fit.

Cons:

• Rail mount is less common than the ops core for peltor adapters
• No Ballistic Protection: Again, this is a bump helmet and not a ballistic helmet. It will not stop bullets or shrapnel.

Overall:

The Team Wendy EXFIL LTP Bump Helmet with EXFIL Rail 3.0 is a great choice for airsoft players, law enforcement in non-ballistic situations, search and rescue teams, and other applications where impact protection and comfort are priorities but ballistic protection is not required.

Overall, the Team Wendy EXFIL LTP is a versatile helmet that prioritizes comfort, protection, and customization. It’s a solid option for law enforcement, military personnel in non-combat roles, security professionals, and airsoft players (depending on field regulations).

Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Who it’s for: Airsoft players, law enforcement (non-ballistic situations), training exercises, recreational activities