[34468 Randy]

And a third vote for the ear plugs. Hearing loss is usually permanent. I think what you will find is that the more ventalated the helmet is, the more wind noise you will get. So to get the comfort level you may want, you will have to persevere the earl plugs. Speaking from experience. I hated ear plugs as much as I hate eye glasses. But I forced myself to wear the ear plugs while highway riding which is what I do all the time. It really did not take me all that long to get used to the plugs. There are a wide variety of foam ear plugs out there that cost literally penies and are very good at noise reduction.

As far as helmets go, I have a Shark RSR. It is very light but also quite expensive. But I commute 30,000 km year round here so the cost is well worth the comfort. My first helmet was a KBC. it was fine but on the heaveir side. But if all you are doing are recreational rides, then it may be a good choice for you. Unfortunately I have no others to compare with. Shoei does seem to be popular here. If it is popular, there must be a reason.

BTW That Cabot Trail must be a real nice ride!