As a kiteboarder, wingsurfer, and wakeboarder, my house is overflowing with equipment. So, you can imagine my excitement when I heard Mystic had released an Impact Cap that could be used for all three sports.
At a Glance
When I first opened the box, I was expecting a bulky helmet, but I was surprised at how slim and low-profile the helmet was. The cap is made of 1cm EVA impact foam that is shapeable/mouldable to your head. I won’t lie; it’s a snug fit, but that’s a good thing; it feels comfortable and secure. Adjustable velcro straps at the back, flex ear strap, and a push-fit clip on the chin made it quick and easy to adjust. Even though it’s incredibly slim at a glance, you might even double-think how much protection you’re getting; the EVA foam looks and feels solid.
Another thing I noticed was the need for more space it took up. Unlike regular helmets, the soft shape makes it much easier to compact in my bag and feels like one less bulky thing to carry to the beach - a bonus when I often look like the buckaroo mule heading there!
The cap is available in three colourways: black, red, and off-white. It is also available in three sizes: XS/S, M/L, and L/XL. I got to test out an XS/S in off-white.
On the Water
Mystic’s gear is always solid, and their attention to detail is always a winner for me. Living in the UK and mostly kiteboarding on the North Sea, my ears are always sensitive to the wind and cold water, even during the summer. However, the perforated design over the ears gave a good balance of protection from water and wind without muffling the sound—which is always essential. The Impact Cap is so slimline I barely felt like I was wearing anything on my head; it felt more like a beanie than a helmet.
Another design detail is the internal channelling system. These channels are moulded into the inside of the cap; they run from front to back and effectively help with water drainage. This is important after a big crash, as it stops water from pooling inside the cap and ensures it dries out quickly.
Overall
The Mystic Impact Cap is an impressive piece of gear that I highly recommend for anyone involved in watersports. It offers the right amount of protection without sacrificing comfort. The adjustable fit system ensures that the cap stays secure, and the perforated earpieces are a great addition that keeps you alert while protecting you from the elements—it’s a winner in my books!
This review was in Issue 106 of IKSURFMAG.
For more information visit MysticBy Jen Tyler
Italian/Egyptian Jen Tyler grew up on the sandy beaches of the Red Sea and has been on the IKSURFMAG & Tonic Mag team since 2017.