Lazer Z1 KinetiCore Helmet Review

The Lazer Z1 KinetiCore is an excellent, racy, comfortable, well-ventilated helmet that offers excellent safety guarantees, as we found when testing it over the past three months. A very good choice, even if it is offered 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 for rotational impacts with Lazer’s own protection process called Kineticore. This is a system fully integrated into the helmet’s structure, which saves weight and improves ventilation (approximately 5% gain according to Lazer), while reducing plastic production (- 90 g compared to MIPS).

To achieve this, the Belgian brand designed cone-shaped deformation zones inside the helmet, intended to break upon impact and dissipate energy away from the cyclist’s skull. The system consists of EPS foam blocks directly placed inside the helmet’s internal shell, which significantly reduces weight compared to a MIPS cage added to the design (- 50 g) while also promoting better air circulation by avoiding this famous extra layer.

The independent Virginia Tech institute also awarded 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 features 29 vents, one less than the previous version. Instead of this missing opening at the back of the helmet, Lazer chose to place the head circumference adjustment system there, so that it is better protected and the overall appearance is more streamlined. A dial that offers very progressive action in both directions with a worm screw. This tightening relies on the Advanced RollSys system, which is like a cradle that surrounds the entire head, eliminating potential pressure points and allowing for more refined adjustments.

The internal padding of the helmet features a floating front pad, which also contributes to air circulation and promotes drying, even while riding, to limit its saturation with sweat.

Regarding the retention straps, there is a reinforced fabric divider rather than plastic, which limits the risk of irritation. The straps adapt quite well to wearing glasses in their upper part, and we did not notice any discomfort at this level. However, this divider is not adjustable, and it is not possible to precisely adjust the position of the straps around the ears.

As with the previous model, Lazer offers an Aeroshell cover compatible with the new Z1, to cover the air inlets, either to protect against rain or wind, but more certainly to improve the helmet’s aerodynamics if necessary. The Z1 is also compatible with the universal LED accessory that mounts at the rear to add visibility during rainy rides.

At 226 g in size S, the Z1 Kineticore is one of the lightest models on the market. Combined with a high ventilation capacity, this featherlight weight makes it ideal for those who like to climb, especially in hot conditions. This is what we observed, particularly in mid-summer and at low speeds, with heat dissipation that seems very effective.

The straps are soft and comfortable, and their adjustment around the face is done without feeling too tight, and without flapping in the wind either. The Advanced RollSys tightening system, although seemingly a bit complicated in its operation, proves to be 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 be honest, this feature concerns us little for now.

Ultimately, 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 vents. And while it’s not exactly cheap with a retail price of €249, it compares favorably to other high-end helmets from competing brands. It is undoubtedly a great success.

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