Giro Aeon Cycling Helmet

Colorado's scorching sun and near-triple-digit temperatures have provided ample opportunity to test the Aeon's ventilation since it was launched in early April and we're happy to report that buyers won't have to live with a hot head to save a few grams. A new Thermoformed SL internal skeleton (essentially a second polycarbonate skin embedded inside the expanded polystyrene foam liner) allows for much bigger vents and deeper internal channels than the reinforcement-free Prolight and you can feel air rushing across the top of your head at speed.

The big ports also provide easy access for your fingers if you've got an itch to address, while a central split at the brow and strategically placed gaps in the X-Static interior padding help evaporate sweat before it can drip on your sunglass lenses. And speaking of sunglasses, riders who like to tuck them into their helmet vents on climbs will be happy to know that most of the models we tried fit just fine – just be sure to flip them over first for a more secure hold


Fit quality is outstanding, however, with Giro's latest Roc Loc 5 retention system offering a near 360-degree hug for your noggin along with easy, one-handed height and circumference adjustments. In addition, most of the plastic bits are pleasantly soft and flexible, and there's enough padding inside so even riders with shaved heads shouldn't have much of an issue. The thin straps are borrowed from the Prolight but in this case, they're have minimal cam-locks so you can dial in the fit just so.


Finally, there's the issue of durability. The Aeon's dual-density foam sheds a bunch of weight but the softer material makes the Aeon noticeably squishier than the more solidly built Ionos so be careful when packing it in your luggage. Exposed EPS foam edges on the helmet's underside will eventually show signs of daily wear and tear, too.

(Posted on 10/08/2011)

The Aeon does give an incredible blend of of low weight, comfort and airflow. Giro developed the whole retention device for helmets, and the latest shimmed down RocLoc 5 is superb. It is tiny, easily adjustable and very,very comfortable. The straps themselves are narrow, light and soft and remain compliant, even when soaked with sweat.. Airflow is exceptional and the comfort factor means you really forget your wearing a helmet.

(Posted on 14/07/2011)

The Aeon is by far the best helmet I've ever tried: better than any other Giro. It is nearly as light as the Prolight, nearly as cool as the Ionos, and just as comfortable as them all.

The weight and the cooling are by far the most noticeable characteristics. When you pick up the helmet you instantly notice it is very light weight - just a few grams heavier than the Prolight. While riding you also get that noticeable breeze over your scalp like you do with the Ionos.

The retention system is slimmed down from previous version and works ever bit as well. It has an oval shape that rests on a head comfortably.

The main downside is the high price. You also don't get the extra winter liner pad that comes with the Ionos. Despite the price and the lack of a winter liner the helmet is still very nice. This is definitely the best helmet in the Giro range.

(Posted on 05/07/2011)