Introducing the Oakley WTR Icon: A Game-Changer for Surfing Safety and Performance
Where Oakley’s innovation meets the boundless potential of surfing, the WTR Icon helmet is born—a revolutionary piece of gear designed to redefine the future of the sport. Crafted to tackle the most intense waves, this helmet is engineered to enhance the surfing experience while addressing the sensory concerns that have long plagued helmet-wearers.
At just under 365 grams, the WTR Icon stands as one of the lightest helmets available on the market. Oakley’s signature technology, combined with insights gathered from real athletes, results in a helmet that priorities peak performance without compromising on safety. It’s not just about protection; it’s about giving surfers the freedom to perform at their highest level.
With the WTR Icon, surfers can confidently take on challenging waves worldwide. The helmet provides a heightened sense of security while ensuring a less restrictive experience, empowering surfers to push their limits and elevate their performance.
“Even top Pro Surfers can have a wipeout that changes their life forever. But when it comes to wearing a helmet, surfers are still torn,” says Team Oakley Athlete Griffin Colapinto. “This is why I’m psyched about WTR Icon. This helmet will keep you safe from some of the crazy wave conditions surfers face around the world. Oakley has always been a step ahead of the competition, and a helmet this good could definitely change the mindset around helmets in the surf community.”
The WTR Icon has earned a 4-star rating in Virginia Tech’s Helmet Lab, solidifying its place as a top-tier choice for surfers. Certified with the EN-1385 white water standard and featuring D3O® technology, the helmet is made from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)—a durable material designed to absorb impact, disperse energy, and minimize blunt force trauma.
Its distinctive shell design reduces drag and disorientation in the water, offering surfers a smoother, more efficient experience. With open ventilation and superior drainage, the helmet allows surfers to easily maneuver, even when duck diving, and quickly shed water once they reach the surface. Additionally, adjustable and removable ear protection ensures hearing is maintained, while also safeguarding against cuts and eardrum injuries. Surfers can stay aware of their surroundings, make quick decisions, and maintain full control in the water.
Photo by Beatriz Ryder - via STAB Mag
“The surf helmet space has been pretty stagnant for 20 years,” said Bryan Norvell, Senior Design Engineer. “It was refreshing as an engineer to dive headfirst into a project that had the pure intention of making something better with no guardrails."
“We got to test prototype helmets on world-class athletes, both men and women, and hear their feedback first-hand, which allowed us to innovate and improve every element of the helmet-wearing experience. The end result is something we are incredibly proud of and really sets the bar for how a surf helmet should perform.”
The WTR Icon is more than just a helmet—it’s a leap forward in the evolution of surfing safety and performance. Whether you're tackling heavy surf or pushing the boundaries of your abilities, this helmet ensures that you’re ready for whatever the waves throw at you.