TestedHelmetsBetter lab score
Specialized Ambush 3
5/5 stars
- STAR score
- 9.108Lower is safer
- Tested
- 2026
- Price when tested
- $250Not today's price
Specialized Ambush 3 vs Specialized Ambush 2
The Specialized Ambush 3 scored better than the Specialized Ambush 2 in Virginia Tech's mountain lab tests: STAR 9.108 versus 9.883.
Both are mountain helmets in Virginia Tech's ratings, so their scores compare fairly. Here is how they did in the lab and what each cost when tested.
Specialized Ambush 2
5/5 stars
- STAR score
- 9.883Lower is safer
- Tested
- 2022
- Price when tested
- $180Not today's price
The verdict
The Specialized Ambush 3 scored 9.108 and the Specialized Ambush 2 scored 9.883. That gives the Specialized Ambush 3 about an 8% better score in Virginia Tech's lab tests.
Both earned 5 stars.
At testing, the Specialized Ambush 3 cost $70 more ($250 against $180).
Virginia Tech tested these in 2022 and 2026. Check that the one you buy is the version that was tested.
Is the better lab score worth it?
Only if you like it for other reasons. You'd pay about $70 more for a lab score about 8% better. Fit, vents and looks can fairly decide this one.
Prices are what each helmet cost when Virginia Tech tested it. Check today's price, the exact model and the fit before you buy. Source: Virginia Tech Helmet Lab bicycle helmet ratings.
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