Test of the Lazer Z1 KinetiCore helmet

The Lazer Z1 KinetiCore is an excellent helmet, sleek, comfortable, well ventilated and which offers excellent safety guarantees, as we were able to see by testing it. testant over the past three months. A very good choice, although it comes at the relatively high price of €249,99.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: Yan Marie

This new version of a helmet first launched 10 years ago replaces the internal MIPS system against rotational impacts with Lazer's own protection process called Kineticore.. It is a system fully integrated into the structure of the helmet, which allows to save weight and ventilation (around 5% gain according to Lazer), while reducing the production of plastic (- 90 g compared to MIPS).

To achieve this, the Belgian brand has designed cone-shaped deformation zones inside the helmet, designed to break in the event of an impact and dissipate energy away from the cyclist's skull. The system consists of EPS foam blocks placed directly inside the helmet's inner shell, which allows for a significant weight reduction compared to a MIPS cage added to the design (- 50 g) while also promoting better air circulation by avoiding this famous additional layer.

The independent Virginia Tech institute also attributes to this helmet a maximum rating of 5 stars for its ability to reduce the risk of concussion in the event of an accident.

The Z1 Kineticore also has 29 vents, one less than the previous version. In place of this reduced opening at the back of the helmet, Lazer has chosen to place the headband adjustment system there, so that it is better protected and the overall look is more refined. A wheel that offers a very progressive action in both directions with a worm screwThis tightening is based on the Advanced RollSys system, which is like a cradle that surrounds the entire head, eliminating possible pressure points and allowing more precise adjustments.

The padding inside the helmet is distinguished by a floating forehead pad, which also contributes to air circulation and promotes drying, even while riding, so that limit its imbibition by sweat.

At the level of the support straps, we note the presence of a separator in reinforced fabric rather than plastic, which limits the risks of irritation. The straps adapt rather well to the wearing of glasses in their upper part, and we did not note any discomfort at this level. The fact remains that This separator is not adjustable and that it is not possible to precisely adjust the position of the straps around the ears.

As with the previous model, Lazer offers an Aeroshell case compatible with the new Z1, to cover the air intakes, either to protect against rain or wind, but more surely to improve the aerodynamics of the helmet if necessary. The Z1 is also compatible with universal LED accessory which mounts at the rear to add visibility during rainy outings.

With 226 g in size S, The Z1 Kineticore is one of the lightest models on the market. Combined with a high ventilation capacity, this featherweight makes it ideal for those who like to climb and especially in hot conditions. This is what we were able to observe, especially in the middle of summer and at low speed, with heat dissipation that seems very effective.

The straps are soft and comfortable and fit snugly around the face without feeling too tight or flapping in the wind.. The Advanced RollSys clamping system, although it seems a bit complicated in its operation, is completely transparent in use. The shape of the helmet at the back seems to leave little room for long hair, unlike some competing models, but to tell the truth this feature is of little concern to us at the moment.

Finally, The Lazer Z1 Kineticore stands out as one of the most comfortable helmets on the market, thanks to its very low weight, its tightening system and its numerous ventilations.. And while it's not exactly cheap with a retail price of €249, it's worth comparing to other high-end helmets from competing brands. It's definitely a great success.

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