Already protecting the pros from the Discovery and Rabobank teams, the Giro Ionos helmet was officially launched at this year's Tour and is now available for sale.
The Ionos took Giro three years to develop, during which time it was spotted on numerous occasions on a variety of racers including Floyd Landis during last year's tour. The new design and the finished product has been tweaked after requests from pros to make it even lighter and more ventilated. At first glances the Ionos looks very similar to the current Atmos but Giro are claiming a 15% increase in ventilation. On closer inspection the 21 vents and general shape of the Ionos is quite different from the Atmos. Curvier than its sibling, the Ionos loses the Atmos' spoiler-like lip at the rear, while the back and sides look a lot more fluid and have accommodate bigger vents. The front appears less 'squashed' with more supple lines that flow into the vents and the overall effect is of a helmet that is less angular than the Atmos. >Giro has also broadened the overlap on the size range. We've never had a problem getting a Giro to fit before but if you own a head that previously couldn't get on with the brand, then the new Ionos could be worth a try. We're on the case about getting one in to test so keep an eye on the gear sections. Prices for the new Ionos £125/$225, Check out Giro's Ionos website if you're hungry for more details.
New Giro Glasses >
>The Ionos has been no secret but whilst cruising the pit lanes at the Tour we spotted a pair of Giro's new glasses. Giro has already launched a range of snow sport goggles so it's hardly surprising that they've moved into the glasses market. No doubt closely designed to complement the fit and style of their helmet range it will be will be interesting to see how they fair in an already saturated and Oakley-dominated market. More details to follow as soon as we get them. >
