Head Game
Backpacker|Summer 2022
These top-notch lids won us over
By Ryan Labar
Head Game

A. Giro Merit Spherical $220

Giro's new Merit helmet boasts the brand's Spherical Technology: a rotational impact protection system that employs MIPS, but without a plastic disc next to your scalp. Instead, Giro built the Merit using two distinct foam layers (dense EPS foam on the outside and softer EPS foam on the inside to mitigate low-speed impacts). The interior surface of each layer is coated in MIPS plastic compound, which allows them to rotate against one another to disperse rotational forces. The fit is comfortable on a wide range of head shapes, the retention system offers a depth adjustment, and the visor tilts high enough to offer goggle-storage space. Ventilation is ample.

B. Specialized Gambit $300

This story is from the Summer 2022 edition of Backpacker.

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This story is from the Summer 2022 edition of Backpacker.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.