Gear Review

Black Diamond Tracer

1. ultralight
2. good ventilation
3. available in S/M/L
4. 8.3 ounces (medium)

The Tracer is Black Diamond's answer for those want a modern, ultralight climbing helmet but don't want to pay a premium.

At a ridiculously light 8.3 ounces (size medium), the Tracer weighs less than Kong's Scarab and exactly matches the minimalist weight of Petzl's Meteor III, but costs significantly less than either helmet.

Unlike Black Diamond's Half Dome climbing helmet, the Tracer is targeted toward fast and light climbers, with an emphasis on ventilation.

Fourteen vents keep the air flowing—and the top vents are mesh-covered to help prevent dirt, snow, and other debris from getting inside.

Three sizes mean you'll get a good fit regardless of your head size.

For ease of adjustment on the go, Black Diamond gave the Tracer a one-handed fit dial. I found the Tracer doesn't quite match the amazing comfort of the Scarab, but at nearly half the price it sure makes an attractive alternative.

Like all ultralight climbing helmets, the Tracer is best suited for warm-weather climbing or other contexts where weight overrides durability concerns. Ski mountaineers should be aware of the possibility of spearing tree branches while skiing.

The Tracer features somewhat minimalist headlamp clips. Lou Dawson at WildSnow worried that these made it more likely for a headlamp to slip out, but he hasn't reported any significant troubles yet.

As for durability, you will likely need to replace the Tracer if you take a major hit while wearing it. Helmets like these are designed to crumple on impact, compared to their heavier, hard-shelled siblings. That may make for higher maintenance fees, but it does reduce the impact energy directed into your precious gray matter.

Note: the kid's Tracer is sized as an adult small, but features 'younger' graphics.

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