helmets

I'm still in my fine old Petzl helmet,but the chin strap is getting too skanky. All the new helmets have styrofoam inside. I'd appreciate any info as to why the new design and shell durability. I get a lot of ice and the odd rock hit.

I had been thinking this was the case, but it may just be that all the consumer models are now foam. Have you looked at the Petzl's Vertex line?

For myself, foam is lighter and reasonably durable. Check Dane's comment on their durability here. I also like the side impact protection, but if you're mostly having stuff dropped on you that may be less important to you. The Sirocco is EPP instead of EPS, so it may be somewhat less brittle.

I think there are some hard-shell helmets still available, though not very many:

amazon.com/Camp-USA-Rock-Cl…

Because of this thread, I just found out the Ecrin Roc is not made anymore after doing a Google search. WTF?

Mammut El Cap?

Google "BMC Helmet Guidebook" for the British Mountaineering Council PDF on climbing helmets

Kask makes a really nice helmet called the super plasma. It's more designed for high angle workers than climbers but it's a hard shell with a bit of foam in the top. I'm not the only climber I see wearing them... But it's a rarity.

What I like about it. It takes a visor for ice climbing, it has nice clips for a headlamp, it has nice coverage (including some side impact protection), and it's easily adjustable.

As far as weight. It weights a little less than my wife's ecrin rock.

Not sure why the ecrin rock isn't made. I know cavers loved the helmet.

I'll probably pick up a scirocco for those times I want something ultralight, but my main concern is durability for multi rope sports, fit and headlamp attachment for my everyday helmet.

Thanks for the help all, I'll check that Brit site for sure, I'd forgotten how useful it is.