Shark Skwal i3 review: motorcycle helmet with active LED brake light
How the LED brake light of the Shark Skwal i3 works, how the helmet fits and what you get in terms of shell, inner lining and visor.
In this article7 sections
Yes, if visibility matters a lot to you. The Skwal i3 has four white LEDs at the front and two red ones in the spoiler, which flash rapidly via an accelerometer as soon as you brake or slow down using engine braking. You also get a polycarbonate shell, a snug fit with room for glasses, a Pinlock insert and a drop-down sun visor.
Why choose the Shark Skwal i3?
The Shark Skwal i3 is a helmet that catches the eye with its modern design and advanced technology. But what makes this helmet so special? Here are a few reasons to choose the Skwal i3:
- Active LED brake light for better visibility
- Excellent aerodynamics and ventilation
- Comfortable inner lining that is removable and washable
- Advanced safety standards
- Stylish design with several colour options
Active LED brake light: safety first
A standout feature of the SHARK Skwal i3 is its integrated lighting system. Four subtly recessed white LEDs are fitted at the front, while two red LEDs are integrated into the spoiler at the rear. The lighting can be set to stay on continuously, to switch off or to flash slowly.
Thanks to the built-in triple accelerometer, the red rear lights automatically start flashing rapidly as soon as the helmet detects braking. This happens not only under hard braking, but also when slowing down using engine braking, so traffic behind you is warned sooner. This feature can offer an important safety benefit, both in busy city traffic and on group touring rides.
The lighting is also useful in bad weather, for example in rain or spray on the motorway. The system is energy-efficient and automatically goes into sleep mode when not in use, so it usually only needs charging once a week. The LED lighting also looks super sleek and gives the helmet that little extra.
Technical specifications of the Shark Skwal i3
Here are the main technical specifications of the Shark Skwal i3:
- Material: Thermoplastic
- Weight: Approximately 1.5 kg
- Ventilation: Multiple vents for optimal airflow
- Visor: Scratch-resistant and anti-fog visor
- Adjustable chin strap with quick-release fastening
The material
An important aspect of motorcycle helmets is the material of the outer shell and the number of shell sizes available. The more shell sizes a helmet has, the more compact the fit for each size, which contributes to both safety and comfort.
The SHARK Skwal i3 is made from Lexan injection-moulded polycarbonate. This material is known for its durability and strength, although it is slightly heavier than, for example, fibreglass or composite. An additional advantage is that polycarbonate is a relatively inexpensive raw material, which contributes to the sharp pricing of the Skwal i3 without compromising on reliability.
Comfort and fit
Wearing a helmet should be comfortable, especially on long rides. The Shark Skwal i3 has an ergonomic design and a soft inner lining that ensures a perfect fit. The inner lining is also removable and washable, which helps with maintenance and keeps the helmet fresh.
This good-looking helmet also stands out straight away for its very comfortable fit. In size M the helmet feels very snug the first time you wear it, but thanks to its clever construction it still slides smoothly into place. Once on, the helmet wraps fully around the head without noticeable pressure points. This is thanks to SHARK's 'Best Fit' technology, in which an optimal internal shape was developed based on 3D scans of a large number of heads. The result is a fit that feels as if the inside was made to measure. As a result, the helmet looks compact and certainly not big or bulky, as some other helmets do.
The Skwal i3 also offers plenty of room for glasses wearers: the arms of your glasses slide easily along your temples without putting extra pressure on them.
The interior has a luxurious finish and feels soft and comfortable. SHARK uses five different fabrics, which not only add to comfort but also wick moisture. Thanks to the antibacterial treatment, the inner lining stays fresh and free of unpleasant odours, even with intensive use. Moisture from sweat or rain evaporates quickly, so the helmet stays pleasant to wear even on longer rides. The inner lining and cheek pads are also easy to remove and refit, which is handy when cleaning or installing an intercom (communication system).
Style and design
A selection of versions
The Shark Skwal i3 is available in various colours and designs, so you can always find a helmet that suits your style. Whether you choose the Linik Blank Mat Black Anthracite or the Linik Blank Violet Anthracite, you will certainly stand out on the road. With eight versions, the line-up of this helmet is very extensive, which underlines its popularity. On our site we always keep all versions linked together, which makes it easy to explore the different options.
The visor
The outer visor of the SHARK Skwal i3 is Pinlock-ready and comes with a Pinlock insert in the box as standard. The visor has a user-friendly quick-release system: open the visor, press the buttons on both sides, turn it upwards and it clicks free. Refitting it is even easier: line up the tabs with the holder, click it into place and close it. The only step that takes a little more precision is fitting the anti-fog insert, but that applies to almost all helmets.
Another practical detail is the fine adjustment of the visor. Opening it to a subtle setting, just enough to clear a pair of glasses of mist, works particularly smoothly on the Skwal i3. Thanks to the simple swapping system, taking a tinted visor along is no problem, although in practice this is hardly necessary. The helmet is fitted with an integrated drop-down sun visor, operated by a slider on top of the helmet. For those who want to stand out more, stylish metallic visors are also available, including an eye-catching red version for an extra sporty look.
Why choose the Shark Skwal i3?
The Shark Skwal i3 offers an excellent balance of style, comfort and safety. The active LED brake light is a unique feature that reduces the risk of accidents. This makes it an ideal choice for both recreational and everyday riders.
Where to buy
Interested in the Shark Skwal i3? At Vespucci in Apeldoorn you will find an extensive collection of these helmets, including popular colour options such as the Linik Blank Anthracite Red. Pop in and experience our service and expertise, so you can find the perfect helmet.
Conclusion
The Shark Skwal i3 is more than just a motorcycle helmet; it is a statement of safety and style. With its innovative active LED brake light, comfortable fit and attractive designs, it is an excellent choice for every rider. Whether you are an experienced biker or just starting out, this helmet offers the protection and comfort you need. Don't wait any longer and invest in your safety with the Shark Skwal i3!
Visit our showroom in Apeldoorn and discover the Shark Skwal i3 and other motorcycle helmets. We will be happy to help you make the right choice!
Was this article helpful?
