MET Parachute MCR 2: The Helmet That Might End Your Two-Helmet Quiver

Jennifer Miller · 2026-10-12

### Can One Helmet Really Do It All? MET's convertible full-face enduro helmet is back for round two, and the Parachute MCR 2 promises to improve on its predecessor in almost every way. But can a single helmet truly match both a dedicated full-face and a separate open-face? To find out, we headed to MET's home turf in Italy and rode it hard. We spent time at MET's headquarters in Talamona, Italy, near Lake Como. We talked with the people behind the project, explored the development facilities, and took a closer look inside their test lab. And yes, we came away impressed. MET clearly puts product functionality and quality at the heart of everything they do, with rider benefits taking priority. Despite their professionalism, the team has the easy-going atmosphere of one big family. ### The Two-in-One Concept Two helmets in one doesn't just appeal to enduro racers. It's just as tempting if you want full-face protection on a riding vacation without packing two lids, or if you simply want one helmet that does it all. The idea is simple: climb with plenty of airflow, then drop into those hard-earned descents with full-face protection. Weighing just 1.6 pounds (730 grams), the new MET Parachute MCR 2 promises improved ventilation and even higher protection than its predecessor. To achieve this, MET takes a decidedly scientific approach to helmet development. What does that actually involve? You could simply test a helmet on your local trails, but where's the fun in that? ### Key Specs and Features The MET Parachute MCR 2 is designed for enduro, where fast, demanding descents go hand in hand with long climbs and big days in the saddle. MCR stands for Magnetic Chinbar Release, and the "2" marks the second generation. With the chin bar removed and generous venting through the shell, the helmet aims to feel as close to a conventional open-face as possible. All of this has to happen without letting the weight climb, despite the added mechanical complexity. The concept makes just as much sense for eMTBs, which carry more speed on flatter terrain and are every bit as fast as enduro bikes on the descents. - **Technology:** EPS helmet with hard outer shell and removable chin bar - **Certifications and safety:** Helmet shell certified to NTA 8776 (speed pedelec standard, with 43% greater energy absorption than required). Chin bar tested to ASTM standards (approximately 45% less deformation than permitted). Mips® Air Node Pro: The lightest Mips system designed to reduce rotational forces during impacts. Targeted 5-star safety rating: The helmet is designed to reduce concussion risk by limiting both linear and rotational acceleration. Results from the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab are still pending. - **Features:** - Removable chin bar with magnetic Fidlock locking mechanisms (Magnetic Chinbar Release) - Fidlock magnetic chin strap buckle - MET Safe-T Heta fit system for adjusting helmet circumference - Removable and washable cheek pads (two thicknesses included) - 24 ventilation openings and 25% more airflow than its predecessor - Adjustable visor with a position for storing goggles - Visor designed to release under excessive upward force and flex under downward loads - **Sizes:** S, M, L - **Weight:** 730 g (M) / 1.6 lbs - **Colours:** White, blue and black at launch, with more colours to follow in 2027 - **Price:** $370 ### Our Verdict After riding the Parachute MCR 2 hard on MET's home trails, we can say it's a serious contender for riders who want one helmet to rule them all. The ventilation is noticeably better than the previous version, and the magnetic chin bar system is intuitive and secure. It's not perfect—nothing is—but for enduro riders, eMTB enthusiasts, or anyone who hates packing two helmets, this could be the answer. The Parachute MCR 2 doesn't just replace two helmets; it might just replace your entire quiver.