Lazer Century Helmet Review

The Lazer Century is a helmet that is both aero and ventilated, with its characteristics modified by inverting a magnetic capsule on top. It also benefits from an integrated LED on the back to improve visibility. A versatile and comfortable helmet, not entirely without minor flaws, which we tested over several months.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: @3bikes.fr/DR

The Century is claimed to be the most versatile helmet in the Lazer range, positioned between the lightweight and highly ventilated Z1 and the aerodynamic Bullet 2.0, even though the latter already features a slider system to improve ventilation while riding. More specific helmets for time trials or short-distance triathlons are available from Lazer, but the Century is a model better suited for longer, varied, and hilly courses. It is also available with the optional MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), a kind of mobile internal cage designed to protect against multi-directional impacts. With a retail price of €159.90, it is in the mid/high-end range and is offered in seven colors plus a stunning limited “Anniversary” edition.

Custom ventilation

One of the Century’s two main assets is the magnetic capsule located on top of the shell, which, when inverted, allows for better air penetration or improved ventilation through enhanced air circulation.

This attached part is lightweight (26 g) and is held securely by the strength of the magnets. Sufficiently so, in any case, to not risk being lost while riding. In terms of weight, the Century comes in at exactly 300 g in size M, including all components.

And speaking of components, it comes with a small USB-rechargeable LED light, designed to provide visibility at night or in low-light conditions. This is the Lazer Century’s second notable feature.

The LED is housed inside the helmet, by unclipping a part of the adjustable support. A small button activates this small diode, and it is only accessible by removing the helmet. The light diffuses at the back, and is reflected through a mirrored frame.

Its use is not very practical, especially regarding recharging, but fortunately, the battery life is more than sufficient for several long rides.

A bit thick

The internal shape of the helmet is a little peculiar and proves to be quite deep. With a “normal” head, one gets the impression that the helmet sinks quite a bit onto the head. This feeling is reinforced by the thickness of the walls, undoubtedly very effective in case of impact (we haven’t tested it!) or from an aerodynamic perspective, but which slightly disrupt the field of vision at the forehead.

The other complaint concerns difficult compatibility with glasses. Their arms must not be too long, otherwise they will touch the tightening frame behind the ears. And above all, when raised, such as during a long climb, they do not stay in place when inserted into the openings.

The overall comfort of the helmet remains very good, and we appreciate the product’s finish. The internal pads are well designed, easily detachable for washing, and effectively cushion contact with the skull. The chin strap is easily adjustable for a comfortable fit, and its contact with the neck is very pleasant.

Finally, the occipital adjustment system with a high-quality dial allows for precise tightening, even while riding.

A positive assessment

While it’s not possible to objectively measure the aerodynamic gain of the capsule in closed mode, the difference in ventilation between the two positions is very noticeable. The Lazer Century is a true two-in-one helmet, which at the very least has the advantage of being adaptable to weather conditions. Indeed, it can also be beneficial to have less air circulating under the helmet in the middle of winter.

Finally, while we appreciate its comfort and finish, as well as the colors offered in addition to its two main features, let’s not forget that a helmet’s primary purpose is to protect the head in the event of an impact. Since we haven’t tested its level of protection in real conditions, we must rely on the CE / CPSC / AS certifications, which are obviously the most common and reassuring for this type of product. A final word on the selling price, which seems largely justified given all the features and versatility provided.

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