With the substantial number of helmets flooding the market today, it is quite challenging to find the perfect one, especially if you are an all-around cyclist. But there is one helmet that has been designed to do it all; the Giro Synthe helmet.
If you are a UCI world tour fan, you probably have seen this helmet on the heads of the BMC, Katusha, and IAM world tour teams at the Tour de France. This is because the Giro Synthe helmet offers what seems to be an impossible mix in any other helmet; style, aerodynamics, convenience, and safety. With this helmet, you can comfortably participate in a local cycling race or just enjoy a Saturday bike ride to your favorite cycling destination.
We went ahead and put together a comprehensive Giro Synthe helmet review that will give you an in-depth look at everything you need to know about this one-of-a-kind helmet.
Table of Contents
Giro Synthe Review – Features
Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System
This is a common feature among Giro helmets. The Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System sits at the base of the skull. It is designed to allow you to tighten and loosen the helmet effortlessly, for that perfect fit and extra comfort. The Roc Loc Air Fit System is adjusted by a click-wheel and three height-level settings located just below the wheel. What’s more, it also has a full circumference adjustable headband that is crafted to cradle the head, while keeping a small gap between your head and the EPS foam lining, therefore enhancing the helmet’s stability and provide extra comfort.
This feature has been designed to suspend the helmet slightly off the top of the skull, allowing more air to flow inside the helmet and improve the performance of the ventilation holes. According to most Giro Synthe helmet reviews, this design creates a perfect balance fit around the head, that helps prevent any pressure points against the hard foam inside the helmet. The Roc Loc Air Fit System also enhances the helmet’s stability, especially when riding over bumpy areas. The manufacturers of the Giro Synthe helmet added an extra oomph to this feature to make the helmet stand out. The Roc Loc Air Fit System comes with a 2-way tuning and aero mesh panels with a specific spot that allows you to securely dock your sunglasses as you cycle. However, some Giro Synthe reviews have pointed out that the aero mesh panels are too small.
MIPS technology
Another common feature among Giro helmets is the MIPS technology. An acronym for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, MIPS, is described as a slip-plane technology in helmets designed to redirect the rotational forces from your brain in the event of an accident. Studies have shown that when you fall while riding a bicycle, you will most likely fall at an angle. Scientific research also has it that our brains are susceptible to rotational forces compared to linear forces.
So, how does the MIPS technology help reduce these forces? You may ask. Well, MIPS incorporates the slip-plane system, that is designed to move inside the helmet, mimicking the brain’s protection system. When you fall, the slip-plane layer rotates with the intent to potentially redirect the rotational forces directed to the head, therefore reducing the risk of sustaining severe brain injuries.
In–mold construction with EPS foam lining
The Giro company boasts in producing helmets that are not only stylish and convenient but durable, and the Giro Synthe helmet is no exception. The Giro Synthe helmets incorporate in-mold construction that perfectly merges the robust polycarbonate outer shell with the EPS foam lining. An acronym for Expanded-polystyrene, the EPS foam lining, is best known for its ability to absorb shock when your head and the helmet take an impact in the event of an accident.
Thermoformed SL Roll Cage Reinforcement
This is a feature that, according to most Giro Synthe MIPS reviews, really makes this helmet stand out. The thermoformed SL roll cage reinforcement is a very light yet robust web of reinforcement that is invisibly molded inside the helmet’s EPS foam lining. The reinforcement helps keep the helmet intact in the event of an accident, therefore boosting the safety levels of the Giro Synthe helmet and its durability.
Hydrophilic X-static microbial padding
This is also a common feature among Giro helmets. The Giro Synthe MIPS helmets feature a hydrophilic X-static microbial padding that is best known for its ability to absorb and retain sweat and reduce odor. For starters, this padding can absorb water that is ten times its weight, so it can no doubt help you manage sweat and prevent it from dripping into your face and eyes while you are cycling.
The padding contains fiber that is made with layers of pure silver, which is permanently woven into the fabric. Silver is best known for its natural anti-microbial performance, helping regulate heat and reduce odor, therefore keeping your helmet fresh and comfortable regardless of how hot it may be. What’s more, the padding is removable and washable, so you can wash it whenever you want to.
Wind tunnel ventilation holes with internal channeling
The manufacturers of Giro helmets are very keen on ventilation. That is why they have made sure that their helmets have enough ventilation holes, and the Giro Synthe is not an exception. This helmet comes with 26 big ventilation holes with deep internal channeling, that provide that air with a smooth path into and out of the helmet.
Featherweight webbing with a Slimline buckle
Adding to the Giro Synthe helmet’s amazing features are the featherweight webbing straps with a Slimline buckle. Judging by its name, the straps are very lightweight yet strong, comfortable, and adjustable. The helmet also features a slimline buckle that allows you to easily buckle and unbuckle the straps, even while wearing gloves. What’s more, the buckle is very secure, preventing any mid-ride adjustments.
Read more: Giro Switchblade Review
Comfort
Giro Synthe MIPS helmets are no doubt very comfortable helmets. For starters, the featherweight webbing straps are very thin, breathable, and comfortable. The slimline buckle is designed to lay flat against the face, making it barely noticeable. What’s more, the Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System has been designed to create a balanced fit around the head without pressing it against the EPS foam lining. Although some Giro Synthe reviews do not like the fact that the helmet’s padding is not enough compared to other helmets, the hydrophilic X-static microbial padding is well-positioned inside the helmet, for a comfortable fit. The padding is also breathable, can regulate heat, absorb, and retain sweat.
Adjustability
Just like other Giro helmets, the Giro Synthe helmet offers a high level of adjustability. The Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System has an adjustable click-wheel that allows you to tighten and loosen the helmet for a customized fit. The full-circumference headband is flexible enough to fit your head, regardless of it’s size. The straps are also very adjustable, and the EPS foam lining is designed to adjust to the shape of the head, for a more customized fit.
Weight
Most people have the impression that helmets with MIPS technology are heavy. However, that is not the case when it comes to the Giro Synthe helmet. Apart from the MIPS technology, this helmet is packed with other features like the Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System, hydrophilic X-static microbial padding, to mention a few that do not alter its normal weight.
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Style and Aerodynamics
Compared to other aero bike helmets, the Giro Synthe helmet has a very sleek design that makes it comfortable for road races as well as usual cycling adventures.
It’s pretty clear that this helmet is a common choice for pro-mass road races mainly because of one reason; it is one of the best aerodynamic helmets. Although it is not shaped like other aero bike helmets, the Giro Synthe helmet has been carefully designed to offer high levels of aerodynamics. For starters, the aero mesh panels are designed to help air flow smoothly over to the front of the helmet. The front of the helmet also has a streamlined design that ensures that you easily cut through the air with minimum pressure dragging you back.
Ventilation
According to most Giro Synthe MIPS reviews, this helmet offers excellent ventilation compared to most helmets. The Giro Synthe helmet comes with 26 big wind tunnel ventilation holes with deep internal channeling that allows air to flow in and out of the helmet easily. The aero mesh panels also provide extra ventilation, and the Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System is designed to suspend the helmet slightly above the skull, creating another path for air to flow into and out of the helmet. What’s more, the EPS foam lining has channels that enhance the airflow in and out of the helmet.
Durability
Like other Giro helmets, the Giro Synthe is a pretty durable helmet. For starters, the Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System’s click wheel works flawlessly. The hydrophilic X-static microbial padding perfectly absorbs and retains sweat as well as prevent odor. The helmet’s outer shell is made of sturdy polycarbonate material that makes it durable. However, some Giro Synthe MIPS reviews have pointed out that the EPS foam lining is prone to dents and abrasion during transport.
Safety Tech
The Giro company aims at making helmets that are not only stylish and convenient but also safe. The Giro Synthe helmet features the MIPS technology and EPS foam lining that absorb any rotational forces directed to the brain during an accident. The helmet has been tried and tested to meet the CPSC safety standards, so it is undoubtedly safe for road races and regular cycling adventures.
Value
Giro Synthe helmet retails between $224-$265 on Amazon, which is quite cheap compared to other helmets with similar features.
What to like – Pros
- It is lightweight, stylish, and aerodynamic.
- It is ponytail compatible.
- The helmet comes with a Roc Loc Air Fit Retention System for a customized fit.
- It also comes with a hydrophilic X-static microbial padding that perfectly absorbs and retains sweat, regulates heat, and prevents odor.
- It comes with a one-year warranty.
- It features MIPS technology and EPS foam lining for extra protection.
- It also features 26 wind tunnel ventilation holes with deep internal channeling for proper ventilation.
- It comes in eight different colors.
Cons
- The helmet does not come with extra foam pads.
- Some customers have pointed out that the helmet is pricey.
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Verdict on Giro Synthe Review
Since it’s launch in 2014, the Giro Synthe helmet has managed to stand out in a sea of high-end helmets. This is because the helmet synthesizes all the features you would want in a high-performing road helmet that is still comfortable enough to be worn every time you go out for a casual ride. This is definitely a perfect choice for pros and amateur cyclists alike.
