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In 2007, a Swedish company shook up the bike world. Based on numerous studies, the manufacturer had discovered that the rotational energy generated by an angled impact harbours an enormous risk of concussion. MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) was designed to enable the helmet to slide offset to the head with the help of a low-friction shell and thus noticeably reduce harmful forces. In our last Mountain bike helmet test in BIKE 12/2020 we used a specially developed test rig to prove the positive effect of the system. There is now hardly a helmet manufacturer that does not offer models with MIPS or its own rotation protection.
Lazer is now also going its own way with KinetiCore and wants to eliminate the disadvantages of MIPS - additional weight, poorer ventilation in some cases and an additional component in the helmet. Initially, the revised Jackal will be available as a model for mountain bikers.
Lazer Jackal in detail
- Price: 199 Euro >> available here
- KinetiCoreSystem for reducing rotational forces
- Four colours available: black / black and white / grey / turquoise
- Weight343 grams (size M)
- SizesS/M/L
- Info: www.lazersport.com
Lazer has been committed to protecting cyclists for over a century. With the new KintiCore system, the Belgians now want to make biking even safer. Until now, additional material or equipment was always needed to protect against rotational forces. Lazer has now developed its own system that utilises the existing material more effectively.
KinetiCore: better protection, less weight
In their search for the appropriate solution, the engineers discovered parallels to crumple zones in cars. KinetiCore also utilises the deformation that partially dissipates kinetic energy in the event of a collision. In the new Jackal "Controlled crumple zones" which are designed to deform in the event of an impact.
The special thing about it: no material was added, but material was taken away to create the flexible 3D structures inside the helmet. The not only saves weight. The structure is designed in such a way that it is Optimum ventilation and therefore More comfort in the helmet is intended to ensure safety. The crumple zones are designed to reliably cushion the impact forces.
Compared to the current Lazer Jackal with MIPS the KinetiCore helmet is said to be 50 grams lighter. Nevertheless, it has already received a 5-star rating from the renowned Virginia Tech Institute in the USA. The institute is a pioneer in the research of brain damage in connection with the effects of force on the head and originally developed its test system for the classification of football helmets. A five-star rating is the highest honour awarded by the technical university in Blacksburg for helmet safety.
But the new Jackal has also been improved in other details. For example, the revised helmet shell is designed to hold goggles in place better thanks to the "goggle car park". Helmet lights or action cams can be mounted on the helmet using the accessory mount. The visor has also been adapted and is easy to adjust. A magnetic lock from Fidlock ensures a secure hold and comfortable fastening, even when wearing gloves.
Snug fit with low contact pressure
The new Jackal sits extremely comfortably on the head from the very first time you try it on. The adjustment wheel is easy to reach, can be adjusted in height and can be fitted with an optional rear light. Because the head ring not only adapts to the wearer from behind, but also closes around the entire head, the Jackal sits very snugly even with low contact pressure.
The new Lazer Jackal with KintiCore is now available for 199 Euro available in stores. The Belgians can also score points here with a nice detail: The new packaging made from recycled material protects the environment and reduces the amount of cardboard required.
Stefan Frey
Editor
