Bike racers generally obsess over the latest tech. And helmets have benefited from a quiet revolution in technology. Today's helmets are lighter, more comfortable and safer. We rounded up a selection of the latest lids in Issue 30, and in true Cyclocross Magazine fashion, looked to see which ones are are best suited for your mixed-terrain racing and adventures.
In part 1 of this on-line feature, we showed you the latest in aero helmets. Here we take a look at some more traditional lids in case you're wondering what else is out there in terms of helmet options.
by the CXM Test Crew
Giro Savant
If you’re drawn to the potential brain-protecting benefits of MIPS, but don’t want your helmet to be a conversation starter or attention grabber, the Savant should be on your short list. It looks like a normal road helmet, but the $110 helmet packs in MIPS with Giro’s excellent Roc Loc 5 fit and 25 vents. And it does it without packing on the weight, at a reasonable 327 grams for Large. A great value, and a staff favorite.
Safety: Giro maintains that all its helmets are designed to “reduce as much energy as possible” but the MIPS technology, which the company has invested in, will reduce rotational forces. That’s a good thing, since we’ve never seen a crash where someone torpedoed the ground or an obstacle with the top of his head, which means there’s almost always a rotational aspect to any crash.
Fit: If other Giro helmets fit you well, the Savant MIPS will be no exception, and its four sizes should guarantee nearly every head will be protected. The Rock Loc 5 cradles your head and doesn’t interfere with your glasses like some other brands’ cages, and the helmet’s adjustable tilt adds a new angle to your fit options.
Heads Up: You may not be buying the most aero or lightest helmet, but you should be able to sleep better knowing that you have MIPS as head insurance. Isn’t that why we wear helmets? A killer value.
Specs: Weight: 327g (L) // Safety: MIPS, In-mold construction // MSRP: $90 (standard) $110 (MIPS) // Sizes: S/M/L/XL
More info: giro.com
