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Giro Indicator helmet review
On a recent ride, my aging cross country lid started bouncing around on my head as I made my way down a technical trail. This new ‘feature’; certainly made for an interesting descent, with me pushing the helmet back onto my brow while struggling to keep my speed. Needless to say, the ride was the last for my old shell and I retired it in favour of the Giro Indicator.
When I went into my local shop, I was set on picking up the pricey but slick Giro E2 helmet but after trying the Giro Indicator, I had a change of tune. The Indicator is an affordably priced (MSRP: $35usd | $50 cad) helmet that comes in a one-size-fits-all format. The helmet uses Giro’s ACU-LOC fit system, which is decent and keeps the shell from moving around on my head once it’s snapped in place. I have a normal-sized head and the helmet sits comfortably and in the proper position. Future adjustments can be made easily and without hassle.
On the trail, the Indicator stays where it should and doesn’t rattle around or create any distractions on descents. At slower speeds the helmet’s 20 vents work, but not to the same degree as Giro’s higher end models. However, once you get up to speed, the helmet’s venting system keeps your head cool and comfortable.
However, my experience with the Giro Indicator hasn’t been trouble free. First, there was quite a bit of ‘stretch’ in the helmet’s straps over its first month of use; after the initial break-in period, I needed to readjust the helmet so that it fit appropriately. Second, the latch mechanisms used to adjust the straps on the side of the wearer’s head have a tendency to open. I don’t know how they open, but I’m assuming they get caught on my gloves, sleeves, or some other part of my apparel.
The verdict: I like the Giro Indicator and think that it’s worth the purchase price. It fits well, has a decent range of adjustments, and provides good coverage in the case of a crash. Although it’s not perfect and it won’t be confused with the higher-end (and higher-priced) helmets on the market, the Indicator is a worthy purchase for budget-minded riders with high-performance demands.
1. Posted by planet pooks » Blog Archive » What’s your helmet? | 10:36 am, 1 June 2006
[…] I realize that my main concern is safety, so that’s fine. Beyond that, it’s ventilation because even wearing a baseball cap in the summer makes me miserable. I found a review of the Indicator. […]