GIRO CINDER MIPS

£124.99

Construction

Following the popular Synthe, the Cinder continues Giro’s backswept look, this time with slimmer elements and a rounded, compact tail. The EPS foam core is more neatly finished than the Lazer, and all its exposed areas are protected by the in-moulded polycarbonate shell.

Fit and security

Giro’s Roc Loc 5 has a robust occipital cradle that adjusts to three heights and tightens the headband with a rotary dial. The MIPS [Multi-directional Impact Protection System] layer is a transparent smoke colour, so blends with the dark EPS. The X-Static brow pad and V-shaped upper pad contain silver for its antimicrobial, odour-eliminating and temperature-regulating properties.

Performance

Weighing 311g in 59-63cm size large, the Cinder carries a small, but worthwhile MIPS penalty. Its 26 vents are evenly distributed across the shell around the reinforced bands of the SL Roll Cage, which bridges seven deep internal channels for strong and steady airflow. This channel depth makes the Cinder a little more domelike, but in wholly unscientific testing, it feels more slippery through the air than the Lazer.

The perforated MIPS layer is suspended beneath those air channels, and their impressive airflow, matched to less head to MIPS contact, makes for excellent temperature regulation. The Cinder was a secure fit, and while the brow pad felt obvious, its in-built channels lessened heat build up.