Gravel Grinder News: Lazer Introduces KinetiCore – by MG
With the goals of producing safer, lighter, better ventilated helmets that use less plastics to produce, Lazer has introduced KinetiCore technology. The new impact management technology is featured in six new Lazer helmet models for 2022, which will be sold alongside the company’s extensive line of MIPS-equipped helmets.
What is KinetiCore?
KinetiCore is a new integrated impact management technology that protects the head from both direct and rotational impacts, much the same as a MIPS-equipped helmet would. The difference is that, because KinetiCore is an integrated technology (and not an additional liner), it doesn’t add weight, affect comfort, or impede ventilation. Developed in-house, KinetiCore is found exclusively on Lazer helmet models.
KinetiCore uses crumple zones molded into the EPS foam liner. When an impact is encountered, these raised EPS zones easily deform and/or crush to absorb the energy of the impact. The crumple zone design enables KinetiCore to protect the head from both linear and rotational forces, without the need for a secondary liner.
Lazer optimizes the KinetiCore technology in each of its six helmet models based on the type of use the helmet is expected to encounter.
How is KinetiCore better?
Because KinetiCore is an integrated technology, it’s simpler and lighter than add-on rotational impact mitigation systems such as MIPS. Despite the design’s simplicity, it provides a very high level of impact protection. In fact, three of the adult models earned five-star safety ratings in Virginia Tech University tests, while the fourth earned a four-star safety rating. That’s impressive, but perhaps not surprising since Lazer has more 4- and 5-star rated helmet models than any other manufacturer in Virginia Tech’s testing to-date. Safety is a very high priority for Lazer.
Furthermore, since KinetiCore is molded into the EPS foam helmet liner, it results in a lighter, better fitting helmet. The molded-in channels are also claimed to increase ventilation and breathability, which makes sense since there are more pathways for air to flow through.
Finally, Lazer says that KinetiCore is manufactured using less plastics than helmets made with traditional manufacturing methods. Today more than ever, that’s something to consider.
Riding Gravel’s first take on KinetiCore
In developing KinetiCore, Lazer took a fresh approach to impact mitigation. The result is a simpler, lighter, more integrated system that really could raise the bar for both helmet safety and comfort. If that’s the case, we’re all the winners.
We have a sample of Lazer’s new KinetiCore-equipped Strada model in for review, and will post our findings soon. Our initial impression is very favorable though, so we’re excited to get it out onto the road.
In the meantime, head over to the Lazer website to learn more about KinetiCore technology and the helmets that utilize it.
Images and information for this story was provided by Lazer Sport USA.
