Giro Montaro Pro: New MTB helmet featuring MIPS technology and e-bike certification

​Editor’s conclusion

The Giro Montaro Pro combines a sophisticated protection system with a comprehensive range of features for trail, enduro and e-MTB riders. The MIPS-based Spherical Technology is an exciting feature that could further reduce the risk of concussion – even though the technology has not yet demonstrated significantly better laboratory results in older models.

The AURA Ring design and NTA 8776 certification further reinforce confidence in the helmet’s high level of safety, but do add to its weight. Combined with the extensive range of features, the weight of 453 grams in size M is indeed quite high. Only a detailed practical test will reveal whether the much-touted ventilation and comfort hold up in everyday use. Given such a high price tag, Giro really cannot afford to make any mistakes. Stefan Frey, BIKE editor

It has now been a few years since the Swedish manufacturer Mips launched its innovative concept for protecting the head against rotational forces. Until then, helmets had been nothing more than shock absorbers for the most vulnerable part of the human body – the head. However, it was only with the introduction of the Mips liners – which were still yellow at the time – that cyclists began to realise that, in a fall, they rarely hit an obstacle head-on, but usually strike the ground at an angle. The realisation that the forces involved can cause concussions and even more serious injuries really caught the cycling community’s attention.

Giro began collaborating with the Swedish researchers at an early stage and developed its very own rotational system, called MIPS Spherical. This did not simply consist of a liner inserted into the helmet. With Spherical technology, two independent helmet shells slide against each other in the event of a fall, thereby significantly reducing the rotational forces generated.

Protection concept featuring Spherical Technology

At the heart of the new Montaro Pro is Spherical Technology, which is reserved exclusively for Giro’s highest-quality helmets. This protective design is complemented by the so-called AURA Ring II, made from polycarbonate. According to Giro, this wraparound cage is designed to increase the helmet’s structural stability and also contributes to its e-MTB certification.

The Montaro Pro also features a hard-shell cover that extends far down the rear of the helmet. This is designed to improve durability in areas subject to particularly high stress. For the actual shock absorption, Giro relies on an EPS construction with progressive layering and NanoBead foam.

Weighing 453 grams in size M, the Montaro Pro isn’t one of the lightest trail helmets. However, it comes with a comprehensive range of features and is clearly designed for demanding off-road use, enduro racing and e-MTB tours.

23 ventilation openings and an adjustable visor

For ventilation, the Giro 23 uses so-called WindTunnel vents with internal air channels. This is designed to direct airflow specifically through the helmet. A DryCore sweatband at the forehead is designed to prevent sweat from running directly into the face.

The integrated visor can be adjusted to two positions. A redesigned glasses holder makes it easier to store them during short breaks or on flatter sections of the route. The features are complemented by padding with antimicrobial properties.

Customisation and specifications

Size adjustment is handled by the Roc Loc Trail Air system, which has always been easy to use on previous Giro helmets. As is to be expected in this price range, Giro also includes a magnetic Fidlock buckle. Individually adjustable strap dividers ensure that the straps can be positioned neatly around the ears. The Montaro Pro is certified to NTA-8776 for e-bikes and also meets the requirements of CE and CPSC standards.

Giro Montaro Pro: Features and Price

• Spherical Technology with MIPS to reduce rotational forces
• AURA Ring II made of polycarbonate for reinforcement
• Hard-shell cover pulled right down
• 23 WindTunnel ventilation openings with internal ducting
• Special features: DryCore sweatband on the forehead pad, Ionic+ padding with antimicrobial properties, Fidlock magnetic fastening, integrated visor with two positions, glasses holder
• Weight: 453 grams in size M
• Certification: NTA-8776 e-bike, CE and CPSC
• Price: 299.99 euros

Editor’s conclusion

The Giro Montaro Pro combines a sophisticated protection system with a comprehensive range of features for trail, enduro and e-MTB riders. The MIPS-based Spherical Technology is an exciting feature that could further reduce the risk of concussion – even though the technology has not yet demonstrated significantly better laboratory results in older models.

The additional AURA Ring construction and NTA 8776 certification instil confidence in the helmet’s high level of safety, but they also add to its weight. Combined with the extensive range of features, the weight of 453 grams for size M is indeed quite high. Only a detailed practical test will reveal whether the much-touted ventilation and comfort hold up in everyday use. Given such a high price tag, Giro really cannot afford to make any mistakes. Stefan Frey, BIKE editor