Lazer Helmets Almost As Light As Light
Happy Earth Day! It’s a great time of year to go biking. And, as we ride with sheer abandon into the sunset, we must first remember the rules of the road: to proceed with caution and wear a helmet. Bicycle season is underway and we have been focused on predominantly writing about the significance of safety. We reviewed a couple of other helmets recently, and some other cycling gear as well. What stood out about the particular helmets reviewed in today’s article were some neat tweaks that made the helmets easier to fit as well as lighter.
We were lucky enough to test out two different models- the Genesis Race RD in White/Red and the Nirvana Fluid Black/White Mat. Though they are comparable models both in price and features, they each offer something unique that stands out when deciding between the two.
Let’s start with the similarities. Both Lazer helmets feature the significant Rollsys retention system which means that you can control the size and comfort of your helmet by simply turning a small dial wheel. The fit of the helmet will symmetrically be compressed without any pressure points. We found the smooth thumb wheel easy to move and adjust, even while riding, and it’s certainly a fun talking point for other riders. This slick piece of technology means that there are only really two sizes of each helmet, one for the smaller heads and another for the larger, and the Rollsys will adjust for the folks in between.
The Lazer helmets also offer their proprietary ‘X-Static airpads’ which basically are an antimicrobial and temperature-regulated padding system that specifically helps keep you at a balanced temp. Our ride was definitely more cool and comfortable as we sweated through the hills of San Francisco. In terms of weight, neither was heavy- the Genesis is only 290g and the Nirvana 260g.
We definitely give kudos to helmet makers that actually create their gear to withstand potential hazards on the roads or terrain we ride. The Multi-Impact Protection System on both helmets is called RBS, or Rigidity Brace System. We always appreciate a good acronym, and RBS was designed for helmet resistance against multiple impacts that we hope will not occur. Both models also have colored straps that have been aligned to the helmet color, as well as channeled ventilation that internally provides maximum airflow. Here is where they start to differ.
The Genesis includes 6 pieces of in-mold and 19 internal ventilation channels to produce maximum airflow. The Nirvana offers of 2 pieces of in-mold and 21 ventilation channels, but also has an integrated visor. The Genesis includes the Coolmax pads which makes dries quickly and makes moisture disappear- they actually worked pretty nicely against the sun. The Nirvana, on the other hand, has optional insect net or winter padding formed to help keep bugs out of the interior of your helmet or protect you from harsh weather conditions.
The Lazer Nirvana Black/White Mat is available in sizes XXS-M / L-XL and the Genesis in XS-M / L-XL. We recommend viewing the manufacturer’s size chart located on their website. You can purchase the Lazer Nirvana online at Amazon for around $130 and the Genesis RD Race White Red for $175. Either helmet is a safe bet and it’s worth considering the conditions you’ll be riding in as well as your requirements- lower weight equals a higher cost.
