Road Helmets
Smith Trace $300
Utilizing Smith’s Koroyd impact technology (crumple-zone cylinders designed to absorb impact uniformly during a fall), the Trace helmet delivers exceptional protection without comprising ventilation or adding weight. Safety is further increased thanks to the addition of a mips liner. The Trace also showcases Smith’s unique Airevac system that draws hot air away from eyewear, reducing fog buildup during strenuous riding. The helmet also features easy-to-use integrated channels to retain eyewear, which, of course, isn’t surprising considering Smith is a leader in the eyewear industry. ( smithoptics.com)
Lazer Century $250
Embodying 100 years of manufacturing expertise, the Lazer Century delivers exceptional ventilation, aerodynamics and even visibility. Lazer achieves the first two seemingly conflicting qualities with the use of its innovative Twistcap shell component. The Twistcap provides full-frontal coverage for exceptional aero gains, but can be rotated easily while riding to allow for greater ventilation. In hot conditions or during extending climbs, the Twistcap can also be removed (and stored in a jersey pocket) to get maximum venting. This versatility and ease-of-use is achieved thanks to the Twistcap’s low-profile magnetic attachment system. On the visibility front, the Century showcases similar out-of-the-box thinking by incorporating a rechargeable built-in rear led. While the light output may not be sufficient for extended nighttime riding, it does offer a clean and always-available lighting option that complements more powerful lighting systems. ( lazersport.com)
Briko Quasar $190
With its aerodynamic shape and superb venting, the Quasar is a great choice for competitive road riding in warm conditions. The combination of 23 vents and internal air channels provide cooling airflow, while the reinforced liner and fully moulded shell offer solid impact protection. Briko has also added anti-insect netting inside, eliminating the distracting and sometimes painful bug-to-head impacts that occasionally occur during summer rides. ( briko.com)
Giro Agilis MIPS $120
Sporting 32 vents, the Agilis mips checks all the boxes on the venting front. From a safety perspective, the lid has extended coverage and mips technology for exceptional protection against impacts. The Agilis mips showcases Giro’s Hardbody shell construction that fuses the polycarbonate shell to the expanded-polystyrene foam liner allowing the shell to wrap to the inside of the helmet. The result is increased durability, as well as the ability to create a better-ventilated helmet. Finally, Giro specs its tried-and-true Roc Loc 5.5 retention system for a secure, comfortable fit. ( ogc.ca)
Garneau Aki II $100
With the Aki II, Garneau proves that you can get almost all the performance of an expensive helmet at a price that almost anyone can afford. Garneau starts with its in-mould construction that bonds the shell to the foam liner. This process improves the helmet’s durability and protection without adding unnecessary weight. For increased comfort during warm conditions, the Aki II has 28 vents that ensure plenty of cooling airflow. Impact protection is also impressive thanks to Rotexx, Garneau’s mips-like rotary damping system. Finally, Garneau’s Spiderlock Duo retention system provides a secure and comfortable fit that can be adjusted easily when on the bike. ( garneau.com)—gusalexandropoulos