Lazer Sphere Helmet with Aeroshell Review

By Sheri Rosenbaum

Hot

• Virginia Tech 5 star helmet safety rating
• Advanced ROLLSYS System (ARS) provides 360 degrees of horizontal and vertical fit adjustment
• MIPS helps to reduce the risk of rotational brain injury
• Comfortable and lightweight
• Optional Aeroshell converts into an aero helmet as well as protection from the elements
• Crash Replacement Program – 3 years of coverage, 50% discount on replacement helmet

Not

• Aeroshell was initially difficult to remove

Lazer

Price: $159.99 MSRP (helmet); $22.99 (Optional Aeroshell)

Helmet Colors: White, Blue, Black, Red, Stripes

Aero Shield Colors: Black, Flash Yellow

Sizes: Small (52–56cm), Medium (55-59cm), Large (58-61cm)

# of Vents: 18

Weight:  275g (size small); 50g (Aeroshell)

Availability: Online, Retail

How Obtained: Company Sample

RBR advertiser: No

5-Star Virginia Tech Rating

Back in January Lazer launched their new Sphere helmet which was designed around a cyclists’ natural riding position. According to the company’s research, while on the bike, road cyclists tilt their heads at around a 15-degree angle. The Sphere’s ventilation channels were optimized to keep the rider’s head cooler for longer in this particular position. With 18 large vents, there’s plenty of air movement.

Virginia Tech gave the Sphere their 5 Star Rating which is used for evaluating a helmet’s ability to reduce linear acceleration and rotational velocity of the head resulting from a range of impacts. Also, like the Cameleon helmet I reviewed a few weeks back, the Sphere uses an Advanced ROLLSYS System to dial in the right fit. It provides 360 degrees of horizontal and vertical adjustment using a thumbwheel located on top of the helmet. The side straps help to secure the fit with sliders to keep the straps flat against the face.

Optional Aeroshell converts Sphere into a 3-in-1 helmet

By itself, the Sphere is a great road helmet. Add Lazer’s patented Aeroshell made from polycarbonate, for only $22.99, to improve aerodynamic performance. For cold, wet, and windy rides the Aeroshell protects the rider’s head from the elements. I was able to test it on a cold winter ride in Chicago and I liked how it blocked the winter chill but still allowed heat to escape out the back preventing me from overheating.

The Aeroshell slips easily onto the Sphere helmet, but it took some doing to remove it the first time. I reached out to my Lazer contact who told me to remove it from the back and “peel” it off towards the front. After a couple of tries, the process became easier. My suggestion to the company is to add instructions on their website and/or the hangtag to avoid customer frustration. I was also initially worried about ripping the Aeroshell as it’s very thin, but the polycarbonate proves to be extremely durable.

The Aeroshell comes in two colors, black or flash yellow. I like the bright yellow for added visibility. The Sphere weighs in at 275g (small) and the Aeroshell adds another 50g for a combined weight of 320g (small).

Bottom Line

Lazer’s new Sphere helmet paired with the optional Aeroshell gives you three options in one: an aero helmet, a road helmet, and a helmet for rain or cold. Add in the MIPS, ARS fit system, and Virginia Tech’s 5-star rating for a great helmet option.