Kask Sintesi Review

Cycling gear is becoming more and more expensive over the years, especially for mid-range and high-end products. However, if you look carefully, there are still products that are very well priced without sacrificing quality. This is what the Kask brand aims to prove with its Sintesi model.

Text: Olivier Dulaurent – Photos: 3bikes.fr, Kask

The Kask Sintesi is not new, but having tested it for many months, accumulating well over 7,000 km in all weather conditions, allows us to have perspective on the performance it offers. While Kask is more appealing for its high-end products like the Protone, here, for around a hundred euros, could the brand offer a helmet that is both high-performing and durable over time?

First of all, and to give credit to the Italian brand, which could have chosen to offshore its production to Asia to maintain costs and/or increase its margins, manufacturing remains Made in Italy like the rest of the range. Moreover, the economy did not affect the choice of color, as 11 options are available. The weight was not neglected either, and at 236 g verified on the scale in size M (for 230 g announced), it only gives away about thirty grams on the scale compared to the best (but the Protone is announced at the same weight).

But then, where is the secret? First, let’s point out the choice of “only” two sizes, which therefore covers a fairly wide range of head circumferences: size M should cover heads from 52 to 58 cm, while size L concerns 59 to 62 cm.

Advanced features

Despite a retail price of €100, the Kask Sintesi benefits from the technology of its older siblings, featuring an internal EPS shell, an external polycarbonate shell, and breathable padding that can be easily removed for washing. It is even possible to replace them by ordering them directly from the website for €20.

As for the occipital retention system (Ergo Fit), it allows for precise adjustment. The whole package exudes quality with excellent finish and successful aesthetics while remaining true to the brand’s spirit. With 11 colors in the catalog, all cyclists should find a way to match this helmet to their frame or favorite outfit.

In terms of ventilation, with 13 vents, this point has not been overlooked either, as is sometimes the case for models in this price range.

Extending the features of the brand’s most expensive models is also the Kask Rotational Impact WG11. A somewhat complicated name to signify that the Sintesi benefits from the same protection measures as other models in the event of a rotational impact.

While riding

Let’s start by noting that Kask evaluates the capabilities of its Sintesi within its range. With 2/5 for aero and 3/5 for ventilation respectively, these figures are to be compared with 4/5 for both aspects with the Protone. While the slightest aero effect is difficult to quantify while riding – but one can imagine that there is a difference – the lower ventilation can be felt. Indeed, while the internal pads are comfortable and absorb perspiration well, they feel warmer than other models whose contact surface with the head is smaller. Similarly, the air seems to circulate less freely once speeds exceed 20-25 km/h.

However, it should be noted that this reduced feeling in terms of ventilation is to be qualified because, on the one hand, it remains good in absolute terms, and on the other hand, it must be considered in relation to the asking price.

Regarding retention, there are no particular pressure points, and here again, the comfort of the pads plays its full role. As for the occipital adjustment, while the Sintesi does not use the Octo Fit system of higher-end models, settling for the less advanced Ergo Fit, there are no complaints in this regard: it is precise, comfortable, and apparently very durable.

Finally, the aesthetics seem to be universally appreciated, and the overall look does not create a “big head” effect as we sometimes see with other models.

In conclusion, the Kask Sintesi stands out for its exceptional value for money to the point where one might wonder if spending more is truly reasonable. Certainly, its performance in extreme heat is not as good, and its aero qualities (difficult to measure) are not the best, but in any case, and for the majority of users, it will be largely sufficient. Ultimately, aesthetics, safety, color choice, and finish are all criteria that have not been sacrificed on the altar of price. Well done, Kask!

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