2013 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide: Aero Helmets
Get a look at the four cycling aero helmets featured in the 2013 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide.
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Get a look at the four cycling aero helmets featured in the 2013 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide. More from the Buyer’s Guide.
POC Tempor
$380, Pocsports.com
The draw: Unique aero profile
Giant wings extending from the ears are intended to smooth the gap between the helmet and shoulders. It has a snug fit but shouldn’t prohibit fast transitions. Construction quality is excellent; it’s evident that the designers paid attention to every detail. For athletes looking to shave precious seconds from their bike split, the Tempor’s unique shape offers an aerodynamically unique option. Finding whether or not it works for you—that requires a wind tunnel.
RELATED – Coveted: The POC Tempor Aero Helmet
Bell Javelin
$200, Bellhelmets.com
The draw: Ample venting in a traditional design
Generous vents at the front provide a large volume of airflow, delivering outstanding temperature regulation compared to most aero lids. The open tail, while potentially sacrificing a fraction of speed over a closed tail design, aids in this cooling effect. An integrated visor provides wind and debris protection that rivals most sunglasses, all without the hassle of fussing with sunglasses in transition. Also available in black.
RELATED: Craig Alexander’s Aero Helmet Test
Lazer Wasp
$400, Lazersport.com
The draw: Customizable
The most unique feature of the new Wasp helmet is the placement of “tripwires” on the outer shell. These small additions are intended to improve airflow around the helmet’s tail. The Wasp, which stands for “watt- saving performance,” is also available with an integrated visor, as well as a selection of removable/replaceable tails to fit an athlete’s specific back profile.
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Giro Air Attack
$200, Giro.com
The draw: Low drag without the heat
Eschewing the traditional long tail used by most aero helmets, the Air Attack might just be, on average, the fastest helmet for the majority of people on the premise that it does not matter how an athlete’s body or head is positioned. It is shaped like a more traditional road helmet with some aerodynamic refinements and without the typical vents. This is in stark contrast to the typical long-tail designs, where an ideal head and body position are necessary to gain a substantial aerodynamic advantage.
RELATED: Giro Air Attack Shield Helmet Review
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