Giro has never been bashful about introducing innovative products that challenge assumptions about what a helmet can deliver. Every year it seems a new design or technology pushes the market forward yet again. When Giro, company not known for hyperbole, released the new Synthe Helmet, the press release began The Synthe is the pinnacle of road helmet design and here at Excel we were immediately on notice. Having had the helmet in hand and some time to use it, we come away impressed and with the strong feeling that the Synthe is a game changer, but we doubt, given the drive to innovate that propels Giro, that this is the pinnacle. Every year Everest grows, and the summit goes higher.

Start with the focus on aerodynamics. For the last few years helmet companies have studied aero capacity of standard road helmets. Not surprisingly, the large vents that are crucial to cooling turned out to add drag. The trade-off has been worth it for most riders, even professionals. But what if a helmet could manage air flow and temperature and be aerodynamically sound? Well, it turns out these two missions are compatible, however the earliest designs were not all that attractive. And let's face it, the look of a helmet matters. When Giro designed the Synthe in the wind tunnel, the team reshaped and sculpted a design that reminded of the neo-classic road helmets of the 2000's, but had a more streamlined shape and air vents that blended more into the overall aesthetic of the aero shell. An egg no more, the Synthe is the new classic design. Still, the challenge of temperature management remained. Giro applied new material technologies and construction to keep the cyclist comfortable and safe, yet the aerodynamics have been nailed, and the aero-mesh panel on either side is functional and distinctive.

Safety has been delivered via the In-Mold polycarbonate shell with EPS liner that has exceeded CPSC requirements for years. The new Roc-Loc Air system has been optimized to manage and channel the air provided by the 19 Wind Tunnel™ vents. This retention and fit system lifts the helmet structure slightly off the skull, allowing air to flow over the entire head. Not only does this cool the head and manage perspiration more effectively, it also increases comfort while reducing pressure points. The featherweight webbing of the supple Roc-Loc Air feels smooth against the skin and hair, and can be easily micro-adjusted via the rear dial. Ports in the design allow for easier interface with eyewear, and Giro has used X-Static® padding for freshness and comfort. The slimline buckle won't pinch and it's low-profile is forgotten once cinched. The Synthe establishes the new pinnacle, and it inspires us to consider what's next.