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Positioned in the mid-range, the new Lazer Sphere helmet – presented on January 7 – features several characteristics designed to provide comfort and safety. We tested it for you exclusively.
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 the latter area, the independent testing center at Virginia Tech University gives this model a 5 out of 5 star rating, making it a helmet that immediately ranks among the safest on the market. This is the eleventh Lazer model to achieve this maximum rating, reminding us that comfort and aerodynamics are only worthwhile if they are accompanied by a helmet’s primary function: safety.
Directly descended from the higher-end Genesis helmet, the Sphere is only slightly less light, weighing 282g in size M (compared to 209g for the Genesis). It was designed with the cyclist’s natural head position during effort in mind, for better ventilation. When riding, we tilt our heads about 15 degrees, which can affect the circulation of airflows inside the helmet. The air intake and extraction angles have thus been optimized by Lazer to promote better ventilation in real-world riding conditions.
In terms of comfort, the Lazer Sphere is equipped with the Advanced Rollsys® retention system with 360° adjustment and vertical adjustment, to best customize the helmet’s positioning on the head. With such a retention system, the back of the helmet is freed up, making it easier to accommodate long hair or ponytails. This naturally makes it a unisex model, suitable for both men and women.
Because good ventilation is not always welcome, especially in winter, the Sphere is compatible with Lazer’s Aeroshell cover, which improves aerodynamic performance and protects the head from the elements, mainly wind and cold.
With a dedicated slot for glasses (when the lens is dirty or to prevent sweat during long climbs), the Sphere is available in four sizes, from S to XL, which is quite rare in this field and especially at this price point. Different colors are, of course, offered, although the matte black tested here has the advantage of matching all outfits.
The Sphere is available with or without the MIPS system (internal protection system against certain types of impacts). This latter technology is a kind of internal shell (on which the head rests), which moves independently of the main helmet shell. In the event of certain impacts, rotational impacts would thus be better absorbed, as the internal shell maintains a freedom of 10 to 15 mm relative to the rest of the helmet.
On the road
The retention system with the dial on top of the helmet offers many advantages, such as the feeling of having the head enveloped 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 not super lightweight, the Sphere proves comfortable on long rides, without causing any pressure points.
The season is not favorable for testing ventilation capabilities, but the helmet certainly doesn’t seem to lack it. Without the additional shell, a skullcap is mandatory to avoid getting cold.
Tested here in size M, the Sphere seems to run a bit large: with a head circumference of 57, we had to tighten it all the way, even though the helmet is designed for a head circumference of 55 to 59. As a result, it proves ideal for winter, with the wearing of a skullcap or a cycling cap, but it seems a bit large for summer, at least in this size.
The retention straps are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to adjust for a perfect helmet fit without restricting the jaw.
As for the slots provided for glasses arms, they prove practical and easy to find, even while pedaling and wearing thick winter gloves. They ensure excellent hold, even when riding out of the saddle, lowering the head, or descending quickly.
The Sphere version without the MIPS system saves about thirty grams and twenty euros on the final bill. It is therefore legitimate to wonder if the option is really useful. In absolute terms, many helmets without MIPS work very well, even if, fortunately, we rarely have the opportunity to test their 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 high-end models on the market. For the rest, it stands out for its comfort and several practical aspects, although it will first be necessary to try it on in a store to be sure it suits you, especially in terms of size.
| The LAZER SPHERE in brief… Rating: ***** Pros: price, features, retention system, glasses holder 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: 250 to 310 g (non-MIPS). Price: €139.99 (non-MIPS), €159.99 (MIPS) |
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