Giro Avera Ski Helmet Review

Helmets are absolutely a standard piece of equipment for skiers and riders; choosing the best protection for your head is worth some consideration. They all kind of look alike, right? Plastic shell, some foam liners, and pads to keep your ears warm. What’s to decide? Well, I recently had a chance to try out the Giro Avera Helmet.

Giro Avera Helmet EPS Foam Liner

The Avera has a classic, sleek, and relatively low profile styling. It is light and easy to slide on and off. The cushy, fleece-lined ear pads snap in and out of the helmet frame easily. The vent lever was simple to locate and operate with ski gloves on. The stack ventilation feature reduces the ever-present goggle fogging problem. So, what’s the big deal?

There are a couple of features that set this helmet apart from other brands. It is really light. Giro uses an in-mold construction system. The tough polycarbonate shell is fused directly to the impact-absorbing EPS foam liner. EPS foam is extraordinarily lightweight and has excellent thermal efficiency. The in-mold construction allows for more seamless ventilation; these helmets are lighter and cooler than traditional helmets.

MIPS Ski Helmet

It is really safe. Giro Multi-Directional Impact System (MIPS) features an elastomeric attachment system between the interior foam liner and a low friction liner. In an angled impact, the elastomeric system stretches to allow the foam liner to rotate independently around your head thereby reducing rotational forces. The EPS foam of the liner is highly effective at reducing the amount of energy transferred to your head during an impact perfect for a backcountry ski helmet. This helmet carries the industry-standard certification EN 1077.

And it fits really well. The fit dial at the base of the helmet was glove-friendly and rotated easily to adjust the fit. It supplies up to 6 mm of flexibility. The compression straps extend from the base of the helmet to above the temple. When adjusted snugly, the helmet hugs your head evenly and comfortably. There were no flat spots or pressure areas.

Giro Avera Ski Helmet Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight with seamless ventilation
• Multi-Directional Impact System for safety
• Excellent fit and comfort

Cons:

• Looks similar to other helmets
• Fit dial might not suit everyone

Overall Impression

I tested this womens ski helmet in a variety of conditions- snowy and warmish to clear and cold. I found it to be consistently comfortable and unobtrusive. My head was warm and dry. I could hear through the ear pads. And- most important- in the early season celebratory photos, I didn’t look as though I had an oversized squash on my head. Total win!

The GIRO Avera MIPS ® retails for 130.00 and comes in four colors- black, teal, white, and graphite.

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