Positioned in the mid-range, the new Lazer Sphere helmet – presented on January 7 – has several features designed to provide comfort and safety. We have it. testand exclusively for you.
By Guillaume Judas – Photos: Gwendoline Alves
Despite a reasonable price compared to some competing models (€159 with the MIPS system, €139 without), The Sphere benefits from several features that make it an aesthetic, comfortable and safe helmet. In this latter area, moreover, the center of testIndependent Virginia Tech University reviews give this model a 5 out of 5 star rating, for a helmet that immediately ranks among the safest on the market. This is the eleventh model from the Lazer brand to obtain this maximum score, which reminds us that comfort and aerodynamics are only interesting if they are accompanied by the primary function of a helmet, namely safety.
A direct descendant of the more premium Genesis helmet, the Sphere is only slightly lighter, with 282 g on the scale in size M (instead of 209 g for the Genesis). It was designed taking into account the natural position of the cyclist's head during exercise, for better ventilation. When riding, we tilt our heads at about 15 degrees, which can affect the circulation of airflow inside the helmet. The air inlet and extraction angles have thus been optimized according to Lazer to promote better ventilation in real-world riding conditions.
In terms of comfort, the Lazer Sphere is equipped with the Advanced Rollsys® clamping system with 360° adjustment and a vertical adjustment, in order to best customize the positioning of the helmet on the head. With such a tightening system, the rear part of the helmet is freed and facilitates the placement of long hair or ponytails. Which of course makes it a mixed model, for both men and women.
Because good ventilation is not always welcome, especially in winter, the Sphere is compatible with the Lazer Aeroshell shell., which helps improve aerodynamic performance and protect the head from the elements, mainly wind and cold.
With a space provided for placing glasses (when the screen is dirty or to avoid sweat during long climbs), the Sphere is available in four sizes, from S to XL, which is quite rare in the field and especially at this level of range. Different colors are of course offered, even if the matte black testand here in fronttagand to go with all outfits.
The Sphere is available with or without MIPS (Mid-impact Protection System). This latest technology is a kind of internal shell (on which the head rests), which moves independently of the main shell of the helmet. In the case of certain impacts, rotational impacts would thus be better absorbed, because the internal shell maintains a freedom of 10 to 15 mm in relation to the rest of the helmet.
On route
The tightening system with the wheel on the top of the helmet has many advantagestages, such as the feeling of having the head surrounded and perfectly supported, and the absence of pressure at the back of the head, as is the case with most helmets on the market. Although it is not super light, the Sphere proves to be comfortable on long rides, without causing the slightest pressure point.
The period is not favorable for testventilation capabilities, but the helmet certainly doesn't seem to lack any. Without the additional shell, an under-helmet is mandatory to avoid colds.
TestHere in size M, the Sphere seems to be a little big : with a head circumference of 57, we had to tighten it fully, while the helmet is designed for a head circumference of 55 to 59. As a result, it is ideal for winter, with the wearing of an under-helmet or a cap, but it seems a little big to us for summer, at least in this size.
The tightening straps are lightweight, comfortable and easy to adjust to fit the helmet perfectly without restricting the jaw.
As for the locations provided for the arms of the glasses, they are practical and easy to find., even when pedaling, and wearing thick winter gloves. They provide excellent grip, even when riding in a standing position, with your head down or when embarking on fast descents.
The version of the Sphere without the MIPS system saves around thirty grams and around twenty euros on the final bill.. It is therefore legitimate to ask whether the option is really useful. In absolute terms, many helmets without MIPS work very well, even if, fortunately, we have little opportunity to use them. tester effectiveness in the event of an impact. Nevertheless, this option allows the Sphere to go from a well-equipped and functional mid-range helmet to a product almost on par with the high-end models offered on the market. For the rest, it stands out for its comfort and several practical aspects, although you will first have to try it on in store to be sure that it suits you, particularly in terms of size.
| Le LAZER SPHERE in short… Note: ***** The +: price, features, tightening system, support for glasses certifications: CE/CPSC/AS – Colors: Matte Black, White, Red, Blue, Matte Dark Green and Fluorescent Yellow, Matte Stripes (purple-pink-orange gradient). All colors are available with or without MIPS – Available sizes: S (52-56), M (55-59), L (58-61), XL (61-64) – Weight: from 250 to 310g (non MIPS). Price: €139,99 (non-MIPS), €159,99 (MIPS) |
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