John_V 

I have a mid ranged Specialized that seems to work OK for me. It's solid silver in color and I have noticed that it is not as hot as the all navy blue helmet of the same brand that I had before. I always wear a sweatband ($2.00 at WalMart) in the summer for several reasons, the main one is that it absorbs the perspiration very well. It also keeps the helmet from sliding down my forehead when I perspire and when it really starts getting hot, I soak it in cold water, put it on the back of my neck, soak it again and put it back on my head. It works wonders. I ride with guys that have helmets that cost around $150.00 and more and they don't seem to be any cooler than I am. In the end, helmets are really a matter of preference and what you can afford to spend on one. I don't mind spending more money on a helmet if it is going to be much better, but I can't tell enough to justify the extra money.