Review: A “Smart” Helmet That Measures Your Heart Rate

A quick look at the Lazer Genesis Lifebeam.

Traditional heart rate straps worn around the chest could be going the way of the dinosaur with the introduction of a variety of new biofeedback devices. The bio-sensing specialists at LifeBEAM partnered with Lazer to release the first “smart” cycling helmet that measures your heart rate through a small sensor that rests against your forehead. This is actually the second iteration, which is now Bluetooth and ANT+ compatible.

So how does it work? An optical sensor about the size of a peanut detects pulsing blood in your forehead and sends a signal to a transmitter at the back of the helmet. The small sensor is embedded in the helmet’s padding (you won’t even detect its presence). Just turn the sensor on, put the helmet on and have your device search for the signal.

LifeBEAM initially developed this technology for fighter pilots and astronauts, so it has no problem handling extreme heat, cold or rain. The unit holds a charge for about 15 hours. The helmet features an easy-to-use Rollsys retention system that’s highly adjustable via a dial on top, which is why the Genesis is only offered in two sizes: medium and large.

Lazer is currently the only brand using LifeBEAM’s technology and the Genesis (in white) is the only model to utilize it, although Lazer has plans to make the unit removable so it can transfer to different helmets.

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Lazer Genesis Lifebeam

$250, Lazersport.com