Giro's Synthe Helmet represents the best of the new style aero helmets that deliver aerodynamic benefits without sacrificing ventilation, comfort, and wearable aesthetics. Now the MIPS (Multiple-directional Impact System) has been integrated to Synthe, offering new levels of safety and head protection to Giro's superb road helmet. MIPS is a technology that was developed by Swedish scientists from 19 years of research. The resulting MIPS institute collaborates with helmet companies to deliver safety for cycling, snow, and other action action sports. With the Synthe, shape and function hasn't changed, but the helmet now provides a major upgrade in safety. Several of Giro's Tour de France teams wore the MIPS version for added protection, again proving riders value safety along with speed and comfort.

The integration with the MIPS protection system takes place under the helmet's shell. MIPS separates the fit lining and carriage of the helmet from the shell. The two are connected at four points with a stretch material. In normal use the shell is stable. But what MIPS researchers, and others, have learned about collision and impact has to do with the movement of the brain within the skull at impact. Torsional force can damage the brain as much or more than a direct impact. When cycling, certainly there can be an helmet impact. However, there are also many ways for the skull to suffer a torsional injury from a strike to the side or from a low angle. In isolating the shell from the fit system, MIPS allows the shell to move- from impact, or torsion, 10-15mm independently from the skull. This drastically reduces the impact and rebound forces that cause brain injuries. While there are no guarantees, MIPS has greatly improved the level of protection that a helmet can provide.

The Synthe design itself began 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.

MIPS doesn't replace other Giro safety features, but enhances the overall level of protection. Giro's In-Mold polycarbonate shell with EPS liner that has exceeded CPSC requirements for years. The new Roc-Loc Air system has been integrated with MIPS and 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.

As riders, we call appreciate the benefits of well designed helmets. MIPS adds a level of physical and psychological security every time we strap on the helmet. Given how little protection road cyclists have from accidents, impacts, and other threats, just knowing a crash is less likely to result in a brain injury helps the cyclist to relax, and focus on the goal of riding itself. For some, that is training- technical form, workouts, etc. For others, it is the sheer joy of being out on the road, the rhythm of the pedal stroke, and the air rushing in at you. The good news is you don't sacrifice comfort or performance in the process. We can all thank Giro and MIPS for more freedom to enjoy and maximize every ride.