Helmet Production Date 2022

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Hey Reddit, ChatGpt helped me to write this text in English:

I recently bought a new Giro Manifest Spherical MIPS helmet from Bergzeit for around €198 (about 31% below MSRP).

When it arrived today, I noticed the manufacturing date is 03/2022, so the helmet is already about 4.5 years old despite being unused and sold as new.

I contacted the retailer, and they said that it is unused new stock and that the discount partly reflects that it may come from an older production batch. They also stated that, when stored properly, helmets retain their intended protective properties and that aging is mainly accelerated by use, UV exposure, temperature changes, etc.

I know the Manifest is a high-end helmet with excellent safety features, and it fits me well. However, I'm wondering whether you'd personally be comfortable starting with a helmet that's already 4.5 years old.

My alternative would be returning it and buying an ABUS CliffHanger MIPS for around €103.

What would you do? Keep the older high-end Giro for €198, or return it and get the newer ABUS for almost half the price?

Curious to hear your thoughts, especially from people who know more about helmet material aging and shelf life.