Lazer
I haven't had a chance to test this item for its intended purpose and hope I never do. Should that event happen, though, I'm very comforted to know that this helmet actually fits my head. I've always had issues with helmets as I have a long oval head shape. Most helmets are either too wide with lots of side-to-side play or don't properly sit on my head. I was pleased to find the Z1 MIPS as the fit is almost perfect and the style looks great.
One thing to note which is super-important:
If you can't get the retention strap to tighten enough then turn the helmet over and pull back the MIPS liner where the retention mechanism attaches to the center back of the helmet. You will find a single silver screw that attaches the retention harness to a plastic strap that attaches to the helmet itself. On mine there's a sticker that points out this location, but I know it's not present on all of them. Loosen that screw and you can slide the retention harness so that it sits lower on your head. On mine I slid it out as far as it would go (don't forget to re-tighten the screw) and now I can tighten the harness down more than enough.
The circumference of my head is 59 cm and the shape is more round oval, meaning often the width of helmet is more limiting than the front-to-back length for me. I have been using Lazer Z1 in size L for the past 3 years and while overall the helmet is great, the fit is OK but not great. Lazer's helmet size chart lists this Sphere helmet as "all fit" rather than "oval fit", which I took as meaning it'd be wider and larger. It turns out to be a great fit for me in size M. I do have to loose the chin strap to its longest, but given my head circumference is at the upper limit of size M, this is to be expected. I also have the urbanize helmet also in size M for daily commute, which I feel is slightly roomier even than the Sphere.
I added a 1500 watt Bafang motor to my hardtail, and quickly realized that I needed a few more things out of a helmet when reaching speeds over 30 mph and commuting on the road daylight & nighttime in all 4 seasons and weather. The MIPS rating and the other reviewer's story about taking a bonk on the noggin while poodle-dodging certainly helped cover the all-important impact protection part of the decision. The not-too-bright / not-too-dim light on the back that pulses (or stays on) sure helps with visibility in tandem with my rear light. A-holes still buzz me in the passing lane at 45 mph in a 35 mph zone, but at least have time to not run right up on my rear or try to "share" my lane. The clear visor was also a must for me, and this one is very handy. In the dark, rainy, or overcast days the 30+ mph wind, raindrops, or suicidal bugs stay out of my eyeballs. In bright sun, it just flips upside-down for use with mirror shades and stays on magnetically in both positions with a firm hold. In really cold pre-dawn temperatures, there is room enough to wear a Carhartt Fleece 2-in-1 hat (helmet liner cap + optional baclava type mask) under it and the helmet cinches as snug as without. The advertised sizing seems accurate to me.
The only thing I wondered about when buying this was if it would make me look like a member of the SWAT team or something. No worries, it doesn't look that imposing in real life.
I have used it 5 days a week for 2 months in late summer heat and early fall below freezing temps, rain and shine.... in traffic. Highly recommend. ....But definitely get some sort of helmet liner and hose it down with a waterproofing silicone spray if you have to ride in the cold and wet.
The helmet is light, fits good, and I like the unique design. I bought it because my old Specialized helmet was 9 years old and the Lazer received a good ventilation rating in a report I read. Bike Tires Direct had the best Lazer price and shipping was super fast. Typically in South Carolina, our late summer will be in the upper 90s or higher. We didn't have a hot summer this year and fall has been very pleasant. Maybe I'll get to try out the ventilation of the helmet in the summer of 2022.
