The new Tyrant helmet might look a little quirky but it offers up loads of additional coverage when compared to a regular open-face lid and, thankfully, it doesn’t get too sweaty either.
Its shape is almost identical to Giro’s Switchblade helmet (minus the chin bar), but the padding is more minimal and less full-face-like, while extensive internal channelling and well-positioned vents means there’s way more airflow across the top of your head.
In fact, once on, it feels remarkably like a regular helmet, where it’s the retention cradle that does much of the work when it comes to securing its fit, rather than relying on loads of snug, plump padding to make it tight on your head. The cradle itself provides a nice, even tension around the head and doesn’t need to be overly tightened to keep it in place.
At 622g (medium) it’s not exactly light, but it manages to spread and carry its weight well so never feels top heavy or unsteady once on. And while it doesn’t feel quite as head-hugging as the Switchblade, it still feels more than secure enough. Giro also provide additional cheek pads to help deliver a slightly tighter fit if that’s what you’re after.
Giro Tyrant design
Under the padding sits the MIPS Spherical system, which allows part of the Tyrant’s liner to move independently of the outer liner and shell to better protect your head against angular impacts.
This design does mean there’s a tiny bit of creaking from time to time (as the inner liner moves while the outer liner/shell stays put) but it’s easily ignored and we’ll more than happily take the boost in safety over a regular lid any day.
The Tyrant worked best when worn with goggles (which there’s room under the long, adjustable peak to stash) but you can wear glasses with it too, though models with shorter arms seem to sync better with the low-cut rear of the helmet.
Giro Tyrant verdict
The Tyrant does a decent job of filtering air in across your brow and over the top of your head, as well as past your ears for a surprisingly breezy feel. Of course, if you work really hard on long slow climbs, it can get pretty warm, but it’s a small price to pay for the extra protection the Tyrant offers over a regular open-face helmet.
Product
| Brand | giro |
| Price | 280.00 AUD,150.00 EUR,135.00 GBP,170.00 USD |
| Weight | 622.0000, GRAM (M) - As tested |
Features
| br_MIPS | yes |
| br_helmetType | mountain_bike_open_face |
| Features | Ventilation: 14 vents with internal channeling Construction: Hardshell with In-mold polycarbonate Hardbody™ Sizes: S (51-55cm), M (55-59cm), L (59-63cm) |
