Carrera are more known for their snow sports helmets and high fashion glasses, but the Italian outfit have also had a long association with pro cycling.
Their Radius helmet uses a unique internal crash protection cage made from sculpted and shaped lightweight aluminium. Carrera claim that this seriously improves the integrity of the helmet on impact, making it much less likely to split apart in the event of a crash.
Carrera’s styling sets the Radius apart from the competition too. The shape is designed to be as smooth and simple as possible while still retaining 25 large vents. Carrera achieved this by using a wind tunnel during the design and testing stage. And while its lack of peaks, points or ridges gives it a little of the old-school appearance, its construction is totally cutting edge.
Rather than just being glued on, the tough, thicker-than-usual outer shell is integrated into the EPS foam core, for a supremely well-made helmet. The inside has had just as much thought put into it, with deep channels following the vents for maximum airflow. The rounded internal shape is comfortable even with the minimal pads, and it feels light and airy when worn, despite the mid-weight 293g of our 58-61cm lid.
The soft-touch straps have reflective thread detailing and are vented through the centre section, further adding to comfort. With the rear cradle having a minimal anchorage either side the design will work with long hair too. The rotary dial offers micro-adjustability and the cradle design offers plenty of vertical room for manoeuvre too.
But the helmet’s minimal aero shaping does have a downside: the depth of head coverage. The sides and rear aren’t that deep, so if your head size is closer to 61 than 58 on the Radius’s sizing, it looks like it’s perched on top of your head – though it feels fine when you’re wearing it.
If the shallow design does suit your head then the Radius is a first-rate choice. The quality is up with the best available and a spare pad set and a quality zipped soft bag are included in the price, adding decent value to a premium helmet.
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.
