I've had a bill save my nost on many occasions.  The Strutter bill is a bit much, gets in your vision but does offer some protection.  If you are headed downriver and flip on the backdeck, it won't.  
Clay
PS - Corran promotes for Gath (flimsy surf helmets w/out padding).
They are great for big water surfing but unsuited to rocky rivers or creeks. Perhaps he meant for surfing. . .