Giro

Synthe MIPS Limited Edition Helmet

Few helmet profiles are as closely associated with certain teams and organizations as Giro's Synthe. The Synthe MIPS Limited Edition Helmet is a celebration of those associations, and it spans the cycling world from fixie to 11-speed electronic, depending on the colorway. Regardless of what's on the outside, though, it's what's inside that counts. Specifically, the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) basket, which adds some 21st century tech to a sport whose passion often derives from the romance of its 18th century beginnings.

The big draw with MIPS is its ability to diffuse oblique impact force in the event of certain crashes. MIPS consists primarily of a strategically anchored, thin liner on the inside of the helmet that looks exceptionally simple but serves a rather complex purpose. That little liner is designed to move independently of the helmet shell to essentially redirect impacts that standard, non-MIPS helmets have to address head-on.

On the outside, the Synthe retains all the awesome features that made its non-MIPS predecessor so well-loved in the peloton and the local circuit. Wind tunnel testing shows that it's more aerodynamic than the ultralight Aeon, while giant vents and Aero Mesh Panels funnel air across your dome for a massive cooling effect—a rare combination of fast and comfy.

Giro uses Featherweight Webbing straps with a Slimline buckle to hold the Synthe MIPS firmly in place without any of the pesky irritation or distractions that can plague thicker strapped helmets with bulky closure systems. The Roc Loc Air fit system features two-way fit tuning that's easily adjustable on the fly and is ponytail-compatible, making this helmet extra convenient for those of us with long hair. Giro even integrates eyewear docking ports into the Aero Mesh Panels for safe storage of your favorite sunglasses when the clouds come out to play.