Lazer Helium (2013)

Bottom Line

The Lazer Helium is a great helmet for people who like to accessorize with lights and rain covers or for those unhappy with their current helmet's retention system. A big draw is Lazer's Rollsys system, which can be adjusted with just one finger while riding.

Performance

Plenty of accessories. The Lazer Helium wins over reviewers with its good ventilation system and the availability of add-on accessories. Men's Fitness named it one of their 10 Best Bike Helmets thanks to its versatility with optional add-on pads that deflect insects or warm you up for winter rides or when you throw on a rain cover or a rear light. With 19 vents for airflow the ventilation system in the Helium is comparable to other top-range helmets, even ConsumerSearch's top-rated model the Giro Aeon (Est. $250) say the editors at CompetitveCyclist.com.

The Helium is available in three sizes, which is an improvement over the limited options of previous models. Reviewers are satisfied with this Lazer model's fit and build. The helmet is constructed of dual-density foam with fiber composite reinforcements.

Comfort

One-finger retention adjustment. Lazer's helmet-top Rollsys garners respect from CompetitiveCyclist.com's reviewers, who find the use of metal cables with the adjustment dial instead of plastic creates superior adjustability and causes this helmet to lead the pack in retention. James Huang, from BikeRadar.com, calls the Rollsys system superb but notes the Helium is not the only Lazer helmet to use it. In addition, the helmet's X-Static pads are "silkier," creating a "luxurious feel," Huang writes.

On the other hand, despite the helmet's great retention and soft padding, or perhaps because of it, the Lazer Helium wins no points with reviewers on weight. At 348 grams, the Helium is the heaviest of the six helmets reviewed by CompetitiveCyclist.com. That's a whopping 130 grams heavier than the Giro Aeon.

Ownership

Durable for packing. The Lazer Helium is durable enough to put in your suitcase and take on a trip writes BikeRadar.com's James Huang. He notes the lower-front shell, which is an update from the previous Lazer helmet model, will also "improve durability."