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While the Bollé Avio MIPS helmet isn’t exactly new—the model debuted four years ago—the release of a new colorway that truly stands out from the crowd presented the perfect opportunity to ride with the French brand’s top-of-the-line model in every possible weather condition. And what better way to pair it than with a pair of sunglasses from the same brand—the Trailchaser—which are also designed to handle the widest range of weather conditions. Here’s a look back at a duo that has weathered nearly every kilometer ridden since April.
Text: Olivier Dulaurent – Photos: 3bikes.fr, Bollé
The Avio was described as Bollé’s ultimate high-performance road helmet as early as 2022, when it was first released. So this isn’t a recent model, but what sets it apart—and isn’t really a detail—is its use of a colorway that’s original to say the least: “Coloria mat,” composed of a multitude of bright colors. In any case, four years ago, the Avio MIPS was designed with a focus on ventilation rather than aerodynamic gains. The B&B Hotels team actually used this helmet as their official helmet, particularly on the hottest days and when heat dissipation is a priority—such as when riding in the mountains.
In terms of structure, deep internal channels and wide vents are combined with small exhaust ports. This is designed to reduce pressure at the back of the helmet to improve airflow. According to Bollé, the Avio MIPS is made from recycled materials.
Specifically regarding the “Coloria mat” colorway, Bollé notes that the pattern application process results in slight variations, making each helmet unique. As with the classic version of the Avio MIPS, the helmet features the Opti-Dock eyewear retention system, integrated into the temple vents to hold glasses in place when not in use. The MIPS Air system, the lightest of the MIPS brain protection devices, is also included.
Bollé lists the helmet’s weight as 250 g. The retail price for this special edition remains the same as for the standard versions of this model (excluding promotions such as the current one on the black version for €192 on the Bollé website; see HERE), namely €275.
As for sunglasses, the Trailchaser model—rather than the C-Icarus (which is directly matched to the helmet in terms of color)—was paired with the Avio helmet during our outings. As their name suggests, they are primarily designed for trail running, but thanks to their supposed features—particularly their ability to handle changes in light—they are perfectly suited for cycling, as demonstrated by the thousands of kilometers covered.
Here, the proprietary Phantom photochromic lenses (categories 1–3) adjust to light levels in real time, allowing you to transition from a dark forest path to a brightly lit road without any loss of visibility. The FIT-TEC temples, hinged on three axes, combined with an adjustable nose piece made from recycled Thermogrip, are designed to ensure a consistent fit, even when you start to sweat. The semi-rimless cylindrical lens features laser-cut vents to promote ventilation and reduce fogging, while maintaining a wide field of view.
The design also emphasizes sustainability, with a frame made from bio-based materials derived from castor oil, and certain parts manufactured from recycled materials. The lenses feature a scratch-resistant treatment and an oleophobic and hydrophobic coating to prevent fingerprints, sweat, or water from impairing vision. The suggested retail price is €220, which places them at the higher end of the price range for photochromic sunglasses.
On the Road
Avio Mips Helmet
From the moment you pick it up, the Avio Mips impresses with its relatively light weight of 252 g (verified), even though some models are even lighter. This feeling of lightness is confirmed once you put it on: the helmet seems to disappear—you quickly forget you’re wearing it—without pulling on the back of your neck, for example, or causing any particular pressure points from the padding or the rear support: These may seem like minor details to some, but they’re a valuable asset for those who ride for long periods or every day.
On the inside, the rather round shape seems to accommodate most head shapes. Even with a beanie under the helmet, the fit remains natural. The precise and smooth adjustment system wraps around a wide area of the head, preventing pressure points—and this is where the real advantage lies for long rides. It should be noted, however, that from a strictly aesthetic standpoint, the Bollé Avio seems to suit certain face shapes better than others.
The MIP Air system, integrated in a completely discreet manner, adds a welcome layer of safety. This technology, designed to reduce rotational forces during an impact, has become a standard feature on high-end helmets. Here, it goes unnoticed, but it’s definitely there, ready to do its job—though I must humbly admit I didn’t push the test far enough to verify these features.
When it comes to ventilation, Bollé has prioritized efficiency over quantity. There are fewer vents than on some competitors’ models, but they’re wide and perfectly channeled. The result: a continuous, even airflow that prevents hot spots.
Even when climbing, airflow remains active. In the summer, this makes it a valuable ally—tested in this case at temperatures up to 38°C in the shade. Another positive feature: compared to many other models, the foam padding and the helmet’s front shape seem to limit sweat droplets from falling onto the goggles, and it’s hard to say exactly what “miracle” makes this possible. Those who wear a headband under their helmet to prevent this will certainly be delighted to try a model that might just change the way they ride.
Furthermore, the Avio Mips remains stable, even at high speeds. It doesn’t shift, rattle, or vibrate, even in strong winds. And for cyclists with long hair (not tested in my case due to a lack of hair), the opening for a ponytail is a detail that makes all the difference.
Another clever and welcome detail—since this can sometimes be a headache for those looking for this feature—is the OptiDock, an integrated glasses holder. You can slide your glasses into it in a single motion, without risking losing them. A small extra that quickly becomes indispensable for some.
Trailchaser Sunglasses
In use, one feature of these sunglasses stands out immediately: they stay perfectly in place, even on very bumpy pavement, thanks to the (adjustable) rubber nose piece that fits the face perfectly and the temples, which are fully adjustable in all dimensions—all without causing any pressure points behind the ears. For all these reasons, overall comfort stands out as one of this model’s strengths.
In terms of vision, the lens follows a general trend toward a wider field of view, which proves to be an advantage both for visibility and for protection against flying debris or insects. There is no distortion at ground level, and the photochromic lens reacts quickly when moving from direct sunlight into the woods. Furthermore, the ventilation system really works: whether in extreme heat or in the rain, the lens does not fog up. Similarly, the top of the goggles can be adjusted far enough away from the eyebrows to prevent sweat from dripping onto the lens, which further enhances the helmet’s effectiveness in this regard.
Top-Notch Performance and a High Price
The overall assessment is extremely positive, as the helmet’s performance delivers all the qualities expected of a high-end helmet and goggles: comfort in scorching heat as well as when rain sets in during a ride, excellent management of sweat and moisture in general, precise and quickly adaptable vision thanks to the quality of the lens, all combined with a design that truly stands out from the crowd. The picture would be perfect if it weren’t for the €495 price tag required to access this level of performance.
The Bollé Avio helmet and Bollé Trailchaser goggles at a glance…Pros: comfort, heat management, and the helmet’s design; all-terrain versatility; adaptability and clear field of view of the sunglasses Bollé Avio Helmet Contact: Bollé |
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