MET has released the Manta MIPS, an update to its existing Manta aero road helmet, which it claims is both faster in the wind tunnel, safer and better ventilated than its predecessor.
The Manta MIPS incorporates a MIPS-C2 brain protection system into the helmet, for improved safety.
The MIPS system allows the helmet shell to slide 10-15mm relative to the rider’s head in the event of a crash. This is claimed to reduce the rotational force acting on the rider’s brain and, as a result, reduce the risk of injury. It, and other similar technologies, are increasingly being integrated into the best road bike helmets.
Marginal gains
On top of the safety improvements, MET also claims the Manta MIPS is around 3-4 watts more aerodynamically efficient than both the outgoing Manta and its “average competitors” – which we assume means an average of all the competitor helmets MET tested (meaning individual competitor helmets may be significantly more or less efficient than the average).
MET declined to say exactly which competitor helmets were tested, but it did say it chose the “best-performing helmets” from four major helmet brands.
The wind tunnel testing was performed at Newton lab in Milan, and tests were performed at zero degrees yaw, at speeds of 33kph, 55kph and 80kph, with each helmet mounted to a fake head for consistent measurements.
MET tested two head angles that simulate different riding positions: 77 degrees (replicating being sat up on the hoods) and 65 degrees (replicating being hunched down in the drops).
Ventilation is also said to have been improved over the outgoing version, though MET hasn’t put a figure on the precise level of improvement.
It nevertheless remains a helmet with minimal venting (the Manta MIPS has 15 vents in total, if you’re counting) due to its focus on aerodynamics, so it’s unlikely to be quite as airy as MET’s Trenta 3K Carbon, for example.
Some trade-off between ventilation and aerodynamics is inevitable for road helmets however, as improving one tends to negatively affect the other.
MET Manta MIPS key features
Aero and safety concerns aside, the Manta MIPS includes a dedicated sunglasses port for storing your favourite shades when you’re not wearing them.
The chin strap has a Fidlock magnetic buckle and MET also says its fit system is ponytail compatible.
The Manta MIPS is available in three sizes:
- Small, 52-56cm, claimed weight 230g
- Medium, 56-58cm, claimed weight 250g
- Large, 58-61cm, claimed weight 270g
Available in six different colour options, all with reflective rear decals, the MET Manta MIPS has an RRP of €250 / £220 / $300 / AU$400 and is available to purchase now.
