Lazer has introduced two new entry-level mountain bike helmets featuring advanced safety features that have received the highest score possible from the Virginia Tech helmet safety labs. Both models named the Lupo KinetiCore and Finch KinetiCore share, as the name suggests, the brand's KinetiCore helmet technology, which until now has been found in Lazer's more costly helmets.
KinetiCore is Lazer's patented safety system and like the widely used MIPS design, KinetiCore gives additional protection from rotational impacts via unique crumple zones incorporated into the internal structure of the helmet.
As one of the oldest helmet brands in the world, founded in 1909, it's safe to say Lazer know a thing or two about helmets and its new offerings – the Lupo and Finch are aimed to challenge as two of the best budget mountain bike helmets, designed Lazer say for trail mountain bike riding. The Lupo KinetiCore and Finch KinetiCore are like bickering siblings – they share similar qualities but also have a few unique features that make them ever so slightly different and I had a dig in to find out more.
Lazer Lupo KinetiCore
First up is the Lupo KinetiCore and this five-star protection-rated trail helmet features deep coverage on the sides for enhanced impact protection. It also has the Lazer TurnSys system for easy on-the-go fit adjustment, TurnSys is similar in function to a Boa fastening that is often found on way more expensive helmets like the Fox Crossframe Pro.
There is an integrated fixed visor and built-in recesses for sunglasses storage, Lazer also adds that the shape of both helmets helps to remove pressure that can sometimes be caused by the arms of the best MTB sunglasses, and helps add to the overall comfort of the helmets. Cooling capabilities also add to comfort and there are plenty of fairly large vents, 12 in total for increased ventilation.
The Lupo KinetiCore is compatible with the Lazer Universal LED lighting system and Lazer Winter Kit which allows for all-year-round use and comes in eight color choices and weighs in at a respectable 350g.
Lazer Finch KinetiCore
Finch KinetiCore is basically the same helmet with all the mentioned features of the Lupo – so the same five-star rating helmet, Lazer TurnSys fit, integrated visor, protection and ventilation as its sibling.
The main difference is Finch KinetiCore is designed for smaller head shapes, from 50-56cm, which is great for people looking to avoid the 'massive helmet on tiny head look'. Lazer says the Finch avoids that bulky look and therefore feels more comfortable, ideally suited for youth and females, but also for males with a smaller-than-average head. The Finch weighs in slightly less than the Lupo at 320g, and comes in six color choices.
Pricing and availability
Both the Lazer Lupo KinetiCore and Finch KinetiCore are available now from Lazer, various online retailers and good old-fashioned brick-and-mortar bike shops. Lupo comes in eight color choices priced at $69.99 / £59.99 / €69.99 and the Finch comes in at $69.99 / £49.99 / €69.99, with six color variants. For more information and to check out the rest of the Lazer range please visit Lazersport.com.
