Helium vests
 

What's up with Helium lately? Seems like they aren't putting out any new stuff or very limited and not near as attractive/stylish as their previous vests.

good question

deffinately appear to be shrinking for whatever reason(s).
They had a massive sale a year ago, i think it was... which may also point to a cuting-back kind of trend.
i was one of many who got a vest from that sale. I got a helium swat after hearing many reviews. personally though, i would say that it is only a small step better than a plain front-zip stearns (same company really) that i have. it is kooler that is for sure, but build quality, weight, and thickness, and even mobility all feel about the same to me.

speaking of stearns, I kinda feel like stearns is on an opposite sort of trend and is expanding and adding a bit more style. they have added some vests with features that appeal more to watersports: angled zips, flex zones, etc. http://www.stearnsflotation.com/Wate...ckets-C23.aspx

take these two vests for example
stearns http://www.stearnsflotation.com/Mens...-P1867C23.aspx
helium http://www.stearnsflotation.com/AMP-...-P1969C34.aspx

but then again i am speaking about and comparing the CGA line only

Helium went down hill quick as soon as Stearns took over. I believe Helium came from the ashes of Nevin, and was a strong brand, but then they sold to Stearns.

YUP I used to ride for them. Sterns got involved and that was the end. They made some great product when things were good.

mitch and andy, what you guys said i guess that supplements what i have seen in stearns getting more "innovative."

i guess it could be said that stearns was the leach that latched onto helium and sucked the life from it... ha funny... now stearns will have a little-man voice cause it sucked helium... ha git it?

;P

So disappointing because Helium had, IMO, the best looking CGA vests that were not bulky.

^^^
+1

didnt tom fooshee ride for them too for a little while. I remember him and like Sam collins in videos riding with them. I got the swat because it looked dope and was looking forward to the newer models but was let down