Overall: Five Stars for an absurdly light helmet that doesn’t make you look absurd. Only notable reservation is eyewear fit.
Background on product familiarity: I bought my Vapor helmet in Spring 2013, and have worn it since for lots of training, racing, and “real” touring.
First, the first impressions out of the box: Even compared to almost all the very light bike-style climbing helmet competition, the aptly named Vapor is noticeably lighter. Plus the material is relatively thin on top, and the helmet extends down relatively far on the sides, so the Vapor has no alien-style “crystal dome” effect (especially compared to the downright embarrassing Petzl Sirocco).
The ratcheting adjustment in the back is simple and effective, and ditto for the chin strap. Fit matches up well with the sizing chart.
Second impressions, in use: Since the Vapor comes down a little more than other climbing helmets, some sunglasses with relatively high corners don’t fit well. For ski goggles, I’ve never tried using the headlamp clips, although alternatively, with all the vents to serve as attachment points, jerry rigging would be easy with some combination of zip ties, resort lift ticket holders, and/or velcro straps. And those headlamps clips are removable, so if you ever do remove them (or don’t attach them in the first place), remember to snap them on before any outing where you might need them!
Third impressions, for long-term durability: All bike-style climbing helmets are designed to sacrifice their lives for you. But many reviews of the Vapor question its durability from just being carried about, although I’ve never read of any failures. I did shred the interior padding relatively quickly, but Black Diamond sent me an easily swapped-in replacement.
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