If you're riding casually at speeds under 25 km/h—like commuting, running errands, or leisurely weekend rides—a helmet with no aero optimization is perfectly fine. These helmets focus on what matters most for everyday riding: protection, ventilation, and comfort, often at a lower price point. The aerodynamic drag you'd save with an aero helmet is negligible at recreational speeds.
However, if you regularly ride above 30 km/h, join fast group rides, or race, the lack of aero shaping becomes more noticeable. At higher speeds, you're working harder against wind resistance that an aero-informed or aero road helmet could help reduce.
The bottom line: skip the aero features if you're a casual rider or commuter. You'll get better ventilation and save money. Aero optimization only pays off when you're pushing the pace.