South African M87 Kevlar Helmet
Condition:Distressed
Well-worn with heavy character. May feature professional repairs, fading, or small holes. Sold as-is for rugged use.
KEY FEATURES
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This original M87 South African helmet provides genuine military history for collectors and reenactors.
Cold War Heritage
Issued to South African Defence Force troops during the late 1980s, the M87 Kevlar helmet replaced earlier steel models. Manufactured by SAPHI of Rosslyn, its design took clear cues from Israeli Orlite helmets. The shell was shaped to fit comfortably over infantry communication gear while offering solid head coverage during field operation.
Shell Construction
The shell is made from resin-impregnated Kevlar fibres formed under high pressure. Its exterior features a non-reflective textured Nutria brown finish that prevents glare in open sunlight. A heavy-duty black rubber rim wraps around the outer edge, protecting the composite laminate from impact damage and moisture wear in harsh terrain.
Internal Suspension System
Inside, a Riddell-style canvas liner and leather sweatband disperse impact energy evenly across the head. The three-point canvas chinstrap holds the helmet securely in place during rapid movement. As genuine surplus in distressed condition, the metal mounting screws and buckles show surface rust, adding clear historical character for display.
Add this original piece of South African military gear to your collection today.
This item was used by the Other Army during the Late Cold War (1961–1991) and is in Distressed condition. It shows heavier signs of use and fading, but remains fully functional. We recommend washing before use.
Distressed gear is heavily worn surplus packed with genuine field character. While cosmetic wear is substantial, we never sell unusable junk—every item remains fit for its core, primary purpose and is ideal for rugged beat-around use, projects, or workwear.
- Functionality: The main structure and essential closures remain usable, though secondary elements (like a side pocket zip, drawcord toggle, or single snap) may be stiff, stuck, or broken.
- Fabric & Wear: Expect noticeable softening, severe fading, fraying hems, surface staining, or small puncture holes/snags that do not compromise the main build.
- Hardware & Metalwork: Metal snaps, buckles, and eyelets may show paint chipping, heavy patina, surface rust, or tarnishing, but main fastening points stay secure.
- Repairs & Modifications: Often features in-service repairs, patches, visible hand-stitching, missing non-critical buttons, or bold soldier names and stencil markings.
- Storage & Scent: Authentic surplus that has seen real deployment and depot storage—a solid wash and air-out is recommended before everyday wear.
| Product Code | SUPA120G2 |
| Department | Equipment |
| Condition/Grade | Distressed |
| Era | Late Cold War (1961–1991) |
| Issuing Country | Other |
| Service | Army |
| Model | M87 (Model 1987) |
| Manufacturer | S.A.P.H.I. (South African Pith Helmet Industry Ltd.) |
| Shell Material | Resin-Impregnated Kevlar Composite |
| Liner System | Riddell-Style Canvas Suspension Cradle |
| Retention System | 3-Point Canvas Webbing with Leather Chin Cup |
| Design Origin | Israeli Orlite OR-201 / US PASGT Pattern |
| Colour / Pattern | Brown |
| Key Features | Adjustable Fit |
| Activities | Historical Reenactment, Airsoft & Paintball |
Same-Day Dispatch: Orders placed before 1:00 PM (Monday–Friday) dispatch the same day from our Aberystwyth warehouse with full online tracking.
UK Delivery: Free standard UK delivery on orders over £50. Royal Mail Tracked 24, Tracked 48, and Next Day courier options available.
EU & USA Tax Pre-Paid: We collect import duties, tariffs, and taxes automatically at checkout for EU and US orders—ensuring smooth customs clearance with zero surprise fees on delivery.
Worldwide Shipping: We ship overseas daily via Tracked Airmail and DHL Express (delivering in ~2 days to the US and 2–5 days to Europe).
60-Day Hassle-Free Returns: Take your time to inspect your gear. Return any item in its original condition within 60 days of delivery.
Free UK Sizing Exchanges: Need a different size? We will exchange it free of charge for UK customers.
Prompt Refunds: Returns are inspected and processed within 5 working days of reaching our Aberystwyth warehouse depot.
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