At the high-end, Giro has new drool-worthy helmets for both road and MTB. But what about the old favorites? Instead of just fading away, Giro has updated the beloved Montaro and Synthe with new MIPS 2 designs that should make them very appealing based on features and price.
Giro Synthe MIPS 2
Take the popular Synthe MIPS and add a new MIPS system that’s integrated into the retention system and you get the new Synthe MIPS 2. The helmet has very similar style to the original, but the mesh panels along the sides have been removed. Instead, sunglass grippers like those used on the Aether have been added to keep your shades in check.
Integrating MIPS into the retention system comes with a few benefits. One, there are fewer layers involved, which allows Giro to optimize the ventilation inside the helmet. Two, it looks like it does a better job of hiding the MIPS anchors which should mean less chance of hair getting caught on them. In terms of weight, it’s a bit of a wash with the Synthe MIPS 2 adding just 10g over the original.
Features include 19 vents with internal channeling, a Roc Loc 5 Air MIPS retention system, and an in-mold construction with a Thermoformed SL Roll Cage REinforcement. The best part is the reduced price of $200 with the helmet offered in eight sizes and available now.
Montaro MIPS 2
Take those same MIPS/retention system changes and apply them to a popular mountain bike helmet, and you have the new Montaro MIPS 2.
The shell doesn’t look any different, but inside you’ll find the new Roc Loc 5 MIPS retention system. Like the Synthe MIPS 2, the Montaro MIPS 2 benefits from improved ventilation and fewer components. Based on the weight sticker, this should be almost identical to the weight of the previous version at 370g for a CPSC medium.
The shell still features rubberized rear vents to make stashing goggles easier, an extended rear coverage, and an adjustable visor. Priced at $200, the Montaro MIPS 2 actually goes up in price, and should be available in January.
Escape Urban Helmet with Integrated Lighting
Continuing with the integrated MIPS theme, the new Escape urban helmet looks like a great option for commuters. The hardshell helmet features integrated front and rear LED lights with a 75-lumen front and 50 lumen rear rating. The ABS shell with EPS layer is better equipped to handle the hard-knock life of a commuter helmet getting bounced around while locked to a bike rack, and the integrated Roc Loc Sport MIPS adjustment system provides additional safety.
The front and rear lights are USB rechargeable and should offer up to 10h of runtime on flash mode. Available soon, the helmet will sell for $130.
Roc Loc 5 LED Lights
But what if you already have a Giro helmet and you want to add lights? The new Roc Loc 5 LED is the answer. The light system clips onto Roc Loc 5 retention systems, and provides rechargeable illumination in an easy-to-see location for approaching vehicles.
The USB rechargeable lights have a 10h run time and will sell for $30.
Giro Blaze Winter Shoe
It’s almost hard to believe, but Giro has never offered a winter riding shoe. Until now, of course. The new Blaze looks to check a lot of boxes for those who keep riding when the temperature drops.
To keep riders warm and dry, the outside of the shoe is completely waterproof with minimal sealed seams and a waterproof zipper. Inside, Primaloft insulation and a heat-reflective foil insole should keep you warm down to 20°F.
A fast lace closure cinches the shoe down under the zippered cover, and ankle padding helps with the fit.
The sole features standard 2-bold SPD cleat compatibility, and an Ice Grip rubber with optional toe spikes for grip. Available soon, these will sell for $250.
Xnetic Rain Gear
For the wet climates, Giro has some exciting new rain gear. Using their Xnetic knit waterproof shell technology, these products offer the ideal rain-proof performance—they’re breathable, fully waterproof, and are easy to put on, and comfortable to wear. At first feel, this stuff reminds us of the Shower’s Pass Crosspoint in a good way—those were my favorite waterproof gloves leading up to these, so I’m excited to try out the stuff from Giro.
Giro will offer their Xnetic footwear in the H2O sock ($45) and H2O Shoe cover ($55). Both use a three-layer construction with a RainGuard membrane fused between a nylon outer shell and a hypoallergenic liner to keep your feet dry, warm, and comfortable.
It’s a similar story for the H2O gloves, which come in black or Highlight Yellow. These aren’t designed for super cold temps with recommended wear down to 40°, but for those cold and rainy days where breathability is as important as waterproofing, the three-layer construction should be up to the task. The palms feature a non-slip texture and the fingertips are touch screen compatible for the thumb and index finger. Pick up a pair for $50.
