CyclistMET launches updated Manta 3 aero helmet, claiming better ventilation and reduced dragMET has updated its Manta aero race helmet, claiming a 10% improvement in ventilation and a 6-watt reduction in drag.The helmets aerodynamics are tuned for a rider in an attacking, head-down riding position and MET says the internal channelling has been designed to enhance airflow.It reckons the Manta 3 is the fastest aero helmet when it was benchmarked against (unnamed) competitors in an in-house wind-tunnel.MET has also switched from MIPS C2 to the lightweight MIPS Air Node Pro rotational impact protection system, where the sliding plane is integrated into the helmets Coolmax padding.The rear vents have been simplified from the previous generation Manta, switching to two parallel horizontal ribs, which MET says are inspired by the air deflectors used on Formula 1 cars and claims improve aero performance and heat dissipation.A change to the shape of the outer surface at the rear of the helmet is also said to optimise airflow and the front vents and strap placement have been designed for eyewear compatibility. A full wrap shell aims to increase durability. Crash-tested by the prosMET says it has crash tested over 250 Manta 3 helmets as part of the new models development, putting them through a total of 745 impact tests in the lab. It also collected 142 crashed helmets from the UAE Team Emirates pro team and compared the effect of real world impacts with its lab testing to help validate its results.The helmet has been in use by the pros throughout the 2026 season, starting with Milan-San Remo, where Tadej Pogaar wore it to the win, while Brandon McNulty was wearing the Manta 3 when he won the mens Road World Championships in Montreal in September.Sprint Cycling AgencyMET has sent the new helmet to Virginia Techs Helmet Lab for testing, where it was awarded a five star safety rating.It claims the Manta 3s 250g weight in size M, which fits heads from 56 to 58cm, makes it one of the lightest aero helmets on the market and claims its shape is comfortable for a range of different head shapes.The size S helmet fits heads from 52 to 56cm and has a 240g claimed weight, while the L fits heads from 58 to 61cm and weighs a claimed 280g.The new MET Manta 3 is on sale immediately, priced at 300 / $375 / 330 and available in six shell/logo colour combinations.The post MET launches updated Manta 3 aero helmet, claiming better ventilation and reduced drag appeared first on Cyclist.